First Press Magazine August 2024

New FPC Website: Our New Front Door (Pastor's article, pages 2-3 & article page 9)

AUGUST 2024

Kickoff Sunday 2024 (See pages 10-11)

Celebrating the July High School Mission Trip to YPM

See Save the Dates for August & September at FPC!

(See pages 14-15)

(See pages 4-8)

Learn about FPC LEAD training Young Adults as Christian Leaders (See pages 12-13)

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FIRST PRESS

Pastor’s Article

New FPC Website: Our New Front Door REV. DR. BOB FULLER

In 1517, Martin Luther, the German professor and provocateur of the reformation nailed his 95 Theses to the church door of Wittenberg, Germany. These 95 arguments were posted to invite people into a debate and engage them in a conversation about the truth of the gospel and the problems of medieval religion. And it worked!

The debate became the spark that began a revolution in the church.

Ever since, the Wittenberg church door has been a symbol for the beginning of Reformation.

But the 95 Theses were not the only document posted on the Wittenberg door. If we could step back and view that moment in real time, we would see that the Wittenberg church door was probably covered with notifications of all kinds.

Wittenberg was a university town, and the door of the church was frequently used as a bulletin board for a variety of notifications. It would not have been unusual to see different types of messages pasted to or nailed to the door. Next to the 95 Theses would have been ordinary announcements about rooms for rent, about meetings, lectures of special speakers, and advertisements about items for sale. There, people could read royal proclamations and notices from town council. The Wittenberg door was the place where people got their news.

Edwin Stephens, Robynn Amy, Wendy Garcia, Bob Esquenazi, and our church staff have spent months working with Fishhook, a well-respected church website design firm. With lots of input from professionals and covenant partners, they have designed a site that we will all enjoy. Thank you all for your creative and diligent work. Wow!

Today, August 1, 2024, First Presbyterian Church is getting a new “Front Door.” Just in time for our Fall ministry season and Kickoff Sunday (August 18), our Communications team is launching a brand new, beautiful, and functional FPC website.

It has been over 10 years since we upgraded our website and I believe everyone will be excited about what they see.

This new site has been under construction for almost a year.

It is easy to use. It is very “clean” (meaning uncluttered). It is very intuitive (meaning that it is easy to figure out), and it is easy to keep up to date.

This new website is brought to us by our Communications Team and our Connections Ministry. Hank Cherry, Dorothy Hecimovich,

The new website is our virtual “Front Door” (our “Wittenberg Door”). It is a place where people from all over the world can learn about FPC. For people who are looking for a church home, or who are new to San Antonio, it will be a friendly and engaging source of information and connection. For all of us, it will be a way to stay connected with news and resources where people can access worship services, music, and sermons; Bible studies and Sunday school classes; podcasts, newsletter articles, calendars, and financial information. Through our social media platforms, it will also provide a way for visitors, mission partners, and covenant partners to connect with one another.

Of course, even though the website is the front door of the church, we don’t want people to stop there. We want them to come in and discover FPC in a personal, hands-on, face-to-face way.

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August 2024

CONTENTS The website is a valuable tool, but the real power of the gospel comes from personal contact. We really want to encourage people to open the door of the church and come in.

SAVE THE DATE 4-8

August & September Dates

MINISTRY ARTICLES

We all know people who are asking questions, who need community, and who have gifts to share. Our job is to help them find those answers and share those gifts by connecting them to our church family and to Jesus Christ. This fall, make it your goal to direct people to the website, and most importantly, bring them to church.

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A New Era for FPC Online

10-11

Fall 2024 Kickoff Sunday & New Sermon Series

12-13

FPC LEAD: Empowering the Next Generation of Christian Leaders

14-15

A Journey of Service & Growth: High School Mission Trip to YPM

16

KEYS Older Adults August & September

Luther took advantage of the communication tools available to him in his day. First by posting his thoughts on the church door, then by taking advantage of the newly popular printing press.

Through Luther’s movement, the Holy Spirit used technology to change peoples’ lives and to change the world.

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Alpha Class & Pathways to Hope Conference

Check out the new website, use it, and then show other people this new “front door” to our church. Our prayer is that the Holy Spirit will use our new front door to open the way to Jesus.

So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. … 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. (John 10:7, 9)

FIRST CUP 18-19

Readings and Prayer List

BACK COVER 20

Literature Circle 2024-2025

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Grace and peace,

First Press is a monthly publication from the FPC Communications Team.

Want to be featured in FIRST PRESS? Deadline to submit content: the 15th of the previous month.

Hank Cherry: Director of Communications Dorothy Hecimovich: Graphic Designer Edwin Stephens: Media/AV Manager Robynn Amy: Media/Production Specialist Nona Hall & Jack Maguire : Volunteer Photographers Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org)

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

Save the Date FALL MINISTRY GUIDE COMING SOON!

Many ministries are still finalizing fall dates. Stay tuned at bit.ly/fpcsa-ministry-guide for the updated copy coming mid-August! You can also check out the new Event Calendar online at fpcsanantonio.org/events.

AUGUST SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 KINMART FOR FOSTER FAMILIES Time: Location: Contact:

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM FPC San Antonio Lindsay Selli, lindsays@fpcsat.org or Marianne Ryan, marianner@fpcsat.org

Description: FPC is one of the host sites for KinMart, an event designed by FPC partner, The Alliance, to help local foster and kinship families as they go back to school.

Volunteer the day of the event at bit.ly/kinmart24-serve.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6 MOMS IN PRAYER SUMMER Time: Location: Contact:

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Room 228 Debbie Taylor, rpdstaylor@gmail.com

Description: We welcome you to join our community of moms as we praise God and pray scripture over our children. If you require childcare, please contact Debbie Taylor. A weekly group will begin September 10 on Tuesdays from 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM. More info at bit.ly/ moms-in-prayer.

AUGUST CONTINUED SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 YOUNG ADULTS TUBE THE RIVER Time: Location: Contact:

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Meet at FPC Ave. E Parking Lot 210-782-2687

Description: Float the river with FPC young adults! Text 210-782-3687 to be added to the group text for details.

Invite your friends! Don't forget the sunscreen!

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 BACK TO SCHOOL BLESSINGS Time: Location: Contact:

9:30 AM & 11:00 AM All Worship Services Rebecca Sweet, rebeccas@fpcsat.org

Description: Children, teachers & staff going back to school, join us for a special blessing at all services. Kids, bring your backpack for a tag reminding you that God and the FPC family love you.

2ND SUNDAY FPC FAMILY LUNCH Time: Location: Contact:

12:30 PM Make Ready Market Chris Roper, christopherdavidroper@yahoo.com

Description: Gather with other Young Adults and families for lunch after worship!

BACK TO SCHOOL PRAYER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

AT THE FLAGPOLE

MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH

Time: Location: Contact:

AT ANDRETTI’S GO KARTS Time: Location: Contact:

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Andretti Indoor Karting & Games (5527 N Loop 1604 W, 78249) Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org or Preston Miller, prestonm@fpcsat.org

Description: Middle Schoolers, get ready to have a blast at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games. We'll race gokarts and hang out with friends. www.fpcsanantonio.org

5:00 PM Your Local School Campus Flagpole Jeannie Dullnig, jdullnig@att.net

Description: Join us to pray for students, teachers, and staff at schools citywide. Mark your calendar, gather at your school's flagpole, and bring family and friends.

For more info and to add to your calendar, visit bit.ly/ back2school-prayer.

AUGUST CONTINUED

AUGUST CONTINUED

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

FRIDAY - SATURDAY, AUG. 23 & 24

KICKOFF SUNDAY

PATHWAYS TO HOPE CONFERENCE

Time: Location: Contact:

Location:

8:30 AM - 12:00 PM FPC Campus Wendy Garcia, wendyg@fpcsat.org

Description: Save the date for our yearly celebration of kicking off the fall semester at FPC. More information on pages 10-11.

CONFIRMATION MEETING Time: Location: Contact:

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM FPC Student Center Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org Preston Miller, prestonm@fpcsat.org Savannah Schatte, savannahs@fpcsat.org

Description: The 2024-2025 Confirmation Class Informational Meeting is today; parents must attend with their students. Confirmation is for 8th grade and up and classes run Sundays, August-May. Save the dates for: Confirmation Day Retreat: Sept 28; Confirmation Weekend Retreat: October 4-6.

Tobin Center

Description: Pathways to Hope is a FREE, city-wide conference, hosted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Greater San Antonio, bringing together the community to help improve the mental health care system. Go to www.pathwaystohope.net to register (1/2 price through Aug. 15). More information on page 17.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25 MEN'S QUARTERLY DINNER Time: Location: Contact:

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Chris Madrid's Carter Ray, 210-875-1003 Ryan McLoughlin, 210-383-9225

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22

Description: Join us for a gathering of men of all ages with food, fellowship, and an inspiring guest speaker.

Strengthen your relationships with the Lord and others in a powerful evening of camaraderie and faith. RSVP at fpcsanantonio.org/men. Don't miss out!

TRIBE MEN'S BIBLE STUDY

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27

Dates:

PIZZA & CAPRI-SUNS

Time: Location: Contact:

Aug 22; Sept 5, 19; Oct 17, 31; Nov 14, 21; Dec 5, 12 6:45 AM – 8:00 AM Paloma Blanca Caleb Barber 281-660-7373

Description: Read and discuss scripture and how we can be Biblical men.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23 FPC LEAD RETREAT Time: Location: Contact:

6:00 PM - 9:30 PM Offsite & Westminster Hall Marianne Ryan, marianner@fpcsat.org

Description: Come join us as we gather for our annual retreat and enjoy great food, fun, fellowship, worship and teaching. Register today at bit.ly/2024LEADRetreat.

Learn more about FPC LEAD on pages 12-13.

WITH COLLEGE MINISTRY Time: Location: Contact:

8:30 PM - 9:45 PM Trinity University Sand Courts Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: Sand Volleyball Smackdown! Join us for an epic evening of sand volleyball, great food, and even better company! Enjoy delicious pizza and refreshing Capri-Suns while making new friends and having a blast.

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FIRST PRESS

MUSIC MINISTRY RESUMES

SEPTEMBER

SANCTUARY HANDBELLS

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Time: Location: Contact:

STEPHEN MINISTERS INFO MEETING

Wednesdays, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Room 309 Jae Ha, jaeh@fpcsat.org 210-271-2729

Description: Handbell ringing is fun, therapeutic and develops musicianship and teamwork. Handbell ringers should have the ability to read music, as well as basic hand/eye coordination. For more information, please contact Dr. Jae Ha.

SANCTUARY CHOIR Time: Location: Contact:

Wednesdays, 7:00 PM – 8:45 PM Room 318 Tom Dooling, tomd@fpcsat.org 210-271-2717

Description: The Sanctuary Choir sings at our traditional Sunday worship services, prepares music for major liturgical events, and presents community concerts. Open to adults, college students, and advanced high school students, some music reading and choral experience are helpful. Join us and share your musical talents!

FRIDAY SINGERS Time: Location: Contact:

Select rehearsals: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

12:15 PM St. Andrew's Room Rev. Scott Simpson, scotts@fpcsat.org

210-271-2712

Description: Stephen Ministers are members of FPC who are trained to care for others in times of deep personal need for as long as needed. This meeting will provide info for anyone interested in joining this ministry. Learn more at bit.ly/fpc-stephen-ministry.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR NEXT-LEVEL SUNDAY SCHOOL Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

Sundays, Sept. 15 - Nov. 3 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Room 226 Dr. Jonathan King, zjking59@gmail.com

Description: An 8-week Next-Level Class on the Gospels & Acts offered by the Zbinden Center this Fall 2024.

Each participant must review the weekly lesson module (video, audio, or manuscript) before class. Sessions start with a review, then case studies, and open dialogue.

Register by Sept. 1 at fpcsanantonio.org/zbinden-center.

Performance Fridays: 9:30 AM & 10:30 AM

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Room 318 for rehearsals Charlotte Hains, charlotteh@fpcsat.org 210-271-2730

RUN TRAINING BEGINS FOR

Description: Join the Friday Singers to spread joy through song in San Antonio’s retirement and rehab communities. No experience needed—just enthusiasm!

Rehearsals start mid-August, featuring popular tunes.

Sign up for the 2024-2025 year soon and help make a difference through music!

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28 CHILDREN'S CHOIR BEGINS Time: Location: Contact:

Time: Location: Contact:

5:00 PM - 5:45 PM Assembly Room (136) Kathy Jamison, kathyj@fpcsat.org

Description: Children’s Choir is an exciting way for your kids, Pre K - 5th Grade, to get involved, make friends, learn fun lessons, and get the opportunity to perform! A light dinner is served after choir in the Nutrition Center.

Register online at bit.ly/childrens-choir-2024. www.fpcsanantonio.org

TEAM WORLD VISION Training: Race Day:

Sept. 2, 2024 - Feb. 27, 2025 March 2, 2025

Description: Join FPC’s Team World Vision for the Run the Alamo Half Marathon or Marathon! No experience needed—training plans take you from couch to race, with optional Saturday group runs. Prefer walking? Walk the Half Marathon. Our goal is to raise funds for clean water worldwide. Learn more and register at bit.ly/fpcrun-team25.

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SEPTEMBER CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER CONTINUED

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

THE WELL (COLLEGE MINISTRY)

FALL WOMEN’S RETREAT DEADLINE

Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

Dates: Location:

Sept 3, 10, 24; Oct 8, 22; Nov 5, 12 8:30 PM - 9:45 PM Trinity University Fiesta Room Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: Dive into The Well - Fall 2024! Join us on select Tuesdays on Trinity Campus for food, games, fellowship, worship, and an inspiring gospel message.

Dates and locations may vary, so join GroupMe or contact Ben for the latest details.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 ALPHA CLASS Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

September 4 - November 13 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM FPC Student Center Elizabeth Crites, 713-822-0222 crcrites@aol.com

Description: Alpha is a safe place to talk openly about life’s big questions, connect with others, and talk about God. Alpha is for everyone regardless of background or beliefs. Nonbelievers, believers without a church, new believers, and mature believers will benefit from this course. Each week, we’ll have a meal, watch a video, and talk in small groups. Learn more on page 17.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 LAY LEADERSHIP CLASS: HOLY HERETICS THE DISCIPLES OF THE REFORMATION Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

Wednesdays | Sept. 4 - Nov. 13 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Covenant Hall Sheila Figueroa, sheilaf@fpcsat.org

Description: Join Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller for a lay leadership class on the 16th-century Reformation offered through the Zbinden Center. Explore the 16thcentury Reformation, a revolutionary time for the European church alongside evolving science, politics, and education. Learn how reformers like Wycliffe, Hus, Luther, and Calvin, through deep Bible study, challenged church dogma and authority, yet were branded as heretics by the church they sought to renew.

Contact:

Friday - Sunday, October 4-6 T Bar M Camp & Retreat, New Braunfels, TX Becky Prichard, beckyp@fpcsat.org

Description: Nurture your faith at a women’s retreat weekend filled with fellowship, worship, and reflection.

Pause, recharge, and connect away from daily chaos at T Bar M Camp in New Braunfels, TX. Regular registration ($210-$475) will be from June 1 - September 4. ($185 - $450 depending on room occupancy) at bit.ly/womensretreat-2024. Deposit due at time of registration. Full payment due by September 4.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY CLASS Time: Location: Contact:

4:00 PM- 5:00 PM Zoom Morris Camp, morriscamp@gmail.com

Description: Join our FREE Financial Peace University (FPU) nine-week Zoom class to learn how to manage money. FPU grads typically become debt-free within two years. Begin registration at bit.ly/fpu-fpcsa then follow the steps emailed to you before the first session. Invite others to this transformative journey!

FAMILY BAPTISM SEMINAR Time: Location: Contact:

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Room 108 Heather Beltrame, heatherb@fpcsat.org

Description: Discover the beauty of baptism and the enduring grace of God at our upcoming baptism seminar, mandatory for parents of infants or children seeking to be baptized at FPC. Visit bit.ly/baptism-classsept24 to register for this class & fpcsanantonio.org/ baptism-and-the-lords-supper for more information on baptisms and communion at FPC. To schedule a baptism, or for more information about infant, child, or adult baptisms, contact Heather Beltrame.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

SEPTEMBER CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER CONTINUED

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY

INTERESTED IN JOINING? DISCOVER FPC!

Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

Time:

September 10 – November 20 9:30 AM -11:45 AM Covenant Hall Catherine Miller, grcjmiller@sbcglobal.net 210-394-2045

Description: Join us for our next Bible study, "Jen Wilkin's Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom."

In this 10-session study, we'll explore how Revelation provides assurance and a call to endure for the Church.

Women of all ages welcome; childcare available upon request.

MOMS IN PRAYER WEEKLY Time: Location: Contact:

Tuesdays | 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Room 228 Debbie Taylor, rpdstaylor@gmail.com

Description: Join us as we come before God to worship Him and pray a provided scripture and concern over one child or grandchild each in small groups every week. We will also be praying for their schools.

PRAYERS FOR FPC Time: Location: Contact:

Tuesdays | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Room 228 Becca Price, beccaprice@satx.rr.com

Contact:

12:15 PM- 2:00 PM (Light lunch included) Sheila Figueroa, sheilaf@fpcsat.org

Description: Want to learn more about FPC or ready to join as a Covenant Partner (member)? Attend a DiscoverFPC! class, and if ready to commit, follow with a KnowFPC! class. The two classes are held quarterly with the fall session of DiscoverFPC! on Sept. 22, and KnowFPC! on Oct. 13. Sign up or get notifications for future classes at fpcsanantonio.org/join.

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27-29 LONEHOLLOW RANCH COLLEGE WEEKEND Location: Contact:

Lonehollow Ranch; Trinity University pick-up and drop-off Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: An exciting weekend of faith and fun in the Texas Hill Country!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 CONFIRMATION RETREAT

Description: Come join Prayer Ministry in praying for our church, its missions, ministries, leadership, staff and community.

Time: Location: Contact:

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Description: Day-long retreat reserved for the FPC Confirmation Class.

MUSIC WITH FAMILIES CLASS Dates: Time: Location: Contact:

September 11 – November 20 5:15 PM- 5:45 PM (Light dinner at 5:45 PM) Room 139 Rebecca Sweet, rebeccas@fpcsat.org

Description: "Music with Families" is a class for parents and children aged 8 weeks to 3 years. Enjoy a musical setting where you and your child can sing, rock, listen, bounce, and play instruments, nurturing their musical aptitude. Register at bit.ly/music-with-families.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Offsite Savannah Schatte, savannahs@fpcsat.org Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 COMMUNION WORKSHOP Time: Location: Contact:

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Room 108 Rev. Becky Prichard, beckyp@fpcsat.org

Description: This workshop is designed for children in 1st-5th grade and their parents. Families will be led in activities and conversations to help teach children about the Lord's supper. (You do not need to attend if you have already been through the workshop).

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A New Era for FPC Online With the new school year comes a major new presence for First Presbyterian Church…online!

After months of diligent planning and effort, FPC just launched its brand new website, ushering in a new era for the church on the world wide web.

You will immediately see the impact and quality of the presentation and imagery, with care taken in graphic style, spacing, and font usage, as well as color and textures that reflect who we are in person.

We set out on this initiative back in late 2023. After reviewing candidate vendor partners, we selected the one we felt most qualified, and set some goals for the new website. As the online hub and front door to newcomers, the website would: 1. Accurately represent the life of FPC, online 2. Be more intuitive for both users and administrators 3. Streamline internal efforts and make it easier for users to take next steps 4. Reflect our mission, vision, and values (Loving Christ, Loving one another, Loving the City), and 5. Help reflect that FPC is a church for everyone!

We successfully navigated a rigorous half year, involving three phases: Discovery, Planning and Development. Most recently, the Website team has dedicated the past couple of months to editing, modifying and optimizing content for our August 1 launch.

The top “meta navigation” focuses on key subjects for newcomers – New Here, Events, Home (FPC logo), Give, and a link to the Children’s Center page – while the right hand main menu pulldown provides access to our numerous offerings for patrons.

Also, the homepage provides easy access to watching Live Services, getting informed about upcoming Events, and opportunities to Get Involved serving with our various outreach initiatives and partners.

The Communications Team will provide ongoing support and guidance for users, including a dedicated email address – websupport@fpcsat.org – that goes to the communications team members and will be active for as long as necessary.

FPC has grown in so many areas as a center-city church. Our new website reflects this growth as a vital, crucial, online hub and resource for the church, promoting who FPC is, and helping us to continue to spread Christ’s word at 4th and Alamo.

We hope you take the time to go through it, become familiar with it, and determine the many ways where you can get plugged in at FPC! - Hank Cherry, Director of Communications www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

KIC K OFF SU ND AY FAL L 20 2 4

As the new school year approaches, FPC San Antonio is excited to invite everyone to join us this Fall for our "Make Us One" sermon series. This series will provide a profound opportunity to discover our unity in Christ.

We will also be launching new classes and gatherings for children, youth, and adults.

Over the last couple of months we have been studying the Lord’s Prayer, and Jesus’ response to the Disciple’s request that Jesus teach them to pray. (Luke 11:1-3). The Lord gave them a template that we still use and love today. But how did Jesus pray, and what did He pray for? We often read that Jesus went off to pray by himself.

What was in his heart, and on his mind when He was alone with the Father.

Beginning Kickoff Sunday, August 18, our sermons will turn to one of the prayers of Jesus captured in the Gospels. It is found in John 17 and often referred to as the “High Priestly Prayer” of Jesus. In this prayer, offered the night before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed for his followers— both the disciples and those who would follow after them. He prayed for our faith, for our courage, and especially for our unity in Him and in the Father.

This prayer is particularly important for us right now. We are entering a very divisive political season in our country. Politics can bring out the best and the worst in people. The rhetoric of the moment can divide friends, family and churches. So how can we at FPC join Jesus in praying for the unity of the Body of Christ, and how can our unity be an example and an inspiration for all the rest of our relationships in our communities? Can we show them a way of peace in a time of toxicity? Can we pray for an agenda that transcends politics, and devote ourselves to a savior over any particular candidate? Can we pray that God would put us back together when we are so fractured?

Join us as we study the prayer of Jesus and join Him as He prayed that we may be “one” just as He and the Father are one (John 17:21).

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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Mark your calendars for an extraordinary morning of worship and fellowship on KickOff Sunday, August 18, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Whether you're new to FPC or a regular attendee, KickOff Sunday is the perfect chance to dive into our faith community and explore all the fresh opportunities awaiting you this Fall.

Event Schedule: • •

8:30 AM -- Adult Classes and Mauze Lobby Coffee Bar 9:15 AM – 11:00 AM -- Light Bites and Fellowship in the McCullough Room, Nowlin Tower, and Patio

•

9:30 AM -- Children, Youth, and Adult Classes and Small Groups

•

9:30 AM & 11:00 AM -- Modern and Traditional Worship Services

These events are tailored to foster growth, connection, and service among our church family. We look forward to welcoming you with open hearts as we embark on this enriching journey together.

BEAUTIFULLY BROKEN AND MADE ONE Our Kickoff and Fall sermon series designs are based on the Japanese art technique known as "kintsugi" (金継ぎ). The word means 'golden joinery' in Japanese and uses resin and powdered precious metals, usually gold, to repair damaged ceramic items. This repairs the brokenness in a way that makes the object more beautiful, and even more unique than it was prior to being broken. Instead of hiding the scars it makes a feature of them.

"Yobitsugi" is one of the kintsugi repair techniques, and it literally means "a calling together." “Yobi” means to call and “tsugi” means to connect. Rather than only using pieces from the original ceramic object, Yobitsugi uses pieces from visibly different broken objects that are then put together, patchwork-style, to form one whole one.

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” - 2 Corinthians 4:7

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

Calling all young adults, from college-age to those in their late 30s! Are you ready to grow as a leader and deepen your faith? Welcome to FPC LEAD, a transformative program designed to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders within our church and city.

What is FPC LEAD?

FPC LEAD is a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering leadership development within the Young Adult Communities (YAC). Through FPC LEAD, we aim to create a G.O.S.P.E.L. culture that celebrates the authority of God's word, encourages sacrificial service, and supports multiplying missions.

Key Activities •

August Seminar: Kick-start your leadership journey with a comprehensive annual seminar.

Learn More & Register at bit.ly/fpc-lead-retreat

•

Monthly Meetings: Regular sessions that allow participants to learn, share insights, and grow together in faith and leadership.

Empowering Young Adults

FPC LEAD collaborates with the Young Adult Communities (YAC) leadership, both formal and informal leaders within our FPC family, various committees, local and global ministry partners, and other Christian groups. Together, we aim to deepen our understanding of our identity in Christ, foster our primary community as part of God's family, and engage in our mission through the Spirit.

FPC LEAD: Launch, Leaven, and Lift

FPC LEAD empowers discipleship through the facilitation of young adults in discovering, developing, and deploying God’s gifts of grace (1 Peter 4:10) given by Christ (Ephesians 4:8) to empower their LAUNCH into established adulthood, to LEAVEN Christ’s Kingdom by LIFTing abundant life and love through servant leadership in and through our FPC family.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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Our LEAVEN Leadership Strategy

The LEAVEN leadership strategy within FPC LEAD aims to cultivate holistic disciples who steward all aspects of their lives for the glory of God. The objective is to integrate mature disciples into FPC leadership teams, committees, officer classes, and mission partners. We accomplish this through collaborative partnerships and several core activities: •

Committee Roles: Foster relationships between young leaders and opportunities for active participation within FPC teams.

•

Leadership Gatherings: Quarterly events to celebrate and equip both emerging and established adults, driving inspiration and faithful service in the church.

•

Monthly Trainings: Strengthen YAC leaders with the tools and knowledge to develop a G.O.S.P.E.L. culture and holistic leadership skills.

•

Mission Participation: Engage in community service, mirroring Jesus' love by giving and serving, ultimately advancing God's glory in our church and city.

Why We Need FPC LEAD

First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, is a historic congregation that recognizes the necessity of robust leadership training for both current and future leaders. Addressing this need ensures the faithful and fruitful execution of ministry work within our congregation and community, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:12-14.

Rooted in Theology

Leadership at FPC LEAD is grounded in Theology, emphasizing the profound influence of God, His Word, and His actions. Our service is shaped by the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as we aspire to embody their teachings in our leadership journey.

Join Us!

Join FPC LEAD today to deepen your faith, discover your unique abilities, and make a lasting impact in your church and community. Together, we can lift abundant life and love through leadership, inspired by the Gospel.

Stay tuned for updates on our FPC LEAD Retreat, August 23-24, and monthly meetings, and embark on this transformative journey of faith and leadership with us! Visit http://bit.ly/fpc-lead-retreat www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

A Journey of Service & Growth

High School Mission Trip to YPM Howdy Friends!

We are ecstatic to share the incredible experiences we had on our High School Mission Trip to YPM in Leona Vicario, Mexico. Our journey began with a safe landing in Cancun on July 13, 2024, where we were warmly welcomed by YPM directors Wilian and Erly. A swift bus ride brought us to the YPM base house, thankfully undamaged by the recent hurricane. We settled in and enjoyed a wonderful dinner followed by our first devotion time on the rooftop patio, reflecting under the moon and stars. Our focus was on Micah 6:8, thinking about how God encourages us and the good work He has planned for us.

Day 2: Worship and Baptism

On July 14, after a hearty breakfast, we journeyed to Tres Reyes for a church service at one of the many churches supported by Wilian and Erly. Although we couldn’t understand every word of Wilian’s sermon, the impact of his message was deeply felt. The highlight of the service was the baptism of a young girl named Leah. We celebrated with her family, who generously gave us freshly cut guaya fruit to try—a delightful experience for us all.

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After a quick lunch at the YPM base, we headed to Puerto Morelos to enjoy the beach and a delightful dinner with Wilian and Erly. We ended the evening with another devotional, diving deeper into Micah 6:8 and reflecting on how to walk humbly and become more childlike in our faith, inspired by Matthew 18:1-4 and Philippians 2:5-11.

Day 3: Service and Community

July 15 marked the start of our hands-on work at YPM’s University. The day began with a meaningful breakfast prepared by the YPM staff, where we enjoyed Mexican-style eggs and fellowship with Wilian and Erly. Energized, we walked to YPM’s campus to begin our project: constructing sound-

reducing panels to decrease echo in classrooms.

Each student eagerly took on different tasks— cutting wood, gluing and screwing pieces together, covering frames with fabric, and adding insulation.

The morning was filled with laughter, fun conversations, and spiritually uplifting moments.

After our work session, we returned to the YPM base for lunch and enjoyed a traditional Mexican siesta. In the afternoon, we savored some incredible fried chicken, visited the main square of Leona Vicario, and treated ourselves to authentic Mexican popsicles from a local shop. We even had the opportunity to play basketball with local kids, which was an absolute blast.

Our day concluded with another devotional session focused on Micah 6:8. We reflected on what it meant to walk humbly and serve others, sharing personal stories about encouragement and the importance of listening.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We are deeply grateful for your prayers and support, which meant the world to us. Please continue to pray for renewed minds, softened hearts, and excitement for our upcoming VBS. It was a privilege to walk alongside these students in humility and service to one another and this beautiful community.

Vaya con Dios!

The YPM Team www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST PRESS

Older Adult Ministry KEEPING EVERYONE YOUNG IN SPIRIT

fpcsanantonio.org/keys

This summer, we have enjoyed wonderful birthday lunches at Milano’s on Wurzbach and Chris Madrid’s. We are now looking forward to our next lunch at Paloma Blanca, a longtime favorite for KEYS lunches, on August 16th. The cost is $15. Please meet at the restaurant at 11:30 AM or take the shuttle from FPC at 10:45 AM.

KEYS Upcoming:

Our first regular meeting for the fall semester will be on September 6th. Our speaker will be Rev. Paul Kacsur, a Covenant Partner of FPC who frequently teaches in the Bridges class. He was originally scheduled for last May but had to reschedule due to a heart attack. We are so thankful he has recovered and will get to share with us.

Sept. 20 - Birthday Lunch at Bubba Gump's Shrimp House

Blessings,

Summer Mahjong

Joe

Speaking Sept. 27

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Friday Fitness Friday Fitness will continue this Summer via Zoom. Join Jacqueline Crow at 9:30 AM. Jacqi has been a champion for us and everyone loves the time with her. If you want to be included on the email notifications, send your email address to keys@ fpcsat.org. You will be sent a link to join the Zoom Meeting.

Aug. 16 - Birthday Lunch at Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine Sept. 6 - Rev. Paul Kacsur Sept. 13 - Stuart Seal History of the architecture & stained glass of FPC

Sept. 27 - Sichan Siv Retirement of the only civilian plane flying over New York on 9/11

Mahjong & Bridge will meet this Summer on various Fridays in the Geneva Room from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. If you want to join in on the games email Nancy Black at whythere@icloud.com for more information. You don’t have to be a seasoned player and if you have a game you would like to play, let us know and we will make room for you!

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Date Time: Da te & tim e: Da te &&tim e: Starts 9/4 Wednesdays | 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Location: Student Center Ad d ress: Ad d ress:

FPC San Antonio, 404 N. Alamo http://bit.ly/alpha-fpcsa

URL:

URL:

Contact: Elizabeth Crites crcrites@aol.com | 713-822-0222

Friday, August 23 | 9:00 AM - 4:40 PM and Saturday, August 24 | 8:00 AM - 2:45 PM Pathways to Hope is a FREE conference bringing together mental health professionals, social workers, educators, the judicial system, law enforcement, faith community leaders, caregivers, and individuals living with a diagnosis to help improve the mental health care system. Go to www.pathwaystohope.net to register and for more information.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

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FIRST CUP READINGS AUGUST 2024

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.— Psalm 143:8

Online at https://bit.ly/1st-cup

Dear Family in Christ, First Cup is designed to assist you in the habit of daily Bible reading and prayer. The name is to remind you that as you reach for your first cup of morning coffee or tea, reach also for your Bible and prayer list. The prayers at the beginning of each week are taken from hymns, sometimes found in obscure hymnals in my library. They are intended to be read as your beginning prayer, to focus your mind on the daily readings that follow. May this spiritual discipline strengthen you as you face each day.

1 2 3 4

Luke 8:22-25; 2 Samuel 22; Jonah 2; Psalm 3:5; 4:8; 73:23-26 Deut. 18:9-13; Psalm 106; Luke 8:26-39; James 4:7 Luke 8:40-48; Leviticus 15:25-27; Mark 3:10; 6:56; Luke 8:49-55; Hebrews 11:6 Luke 9:1-9; Matthew 14:1-12; 17:9-13; Matt. 10:17-31

“Take up thy cross” the Savior said, “If thou wouldst My disciple be; Take up thy cross with willing heart and humbly follow after Me.” Take up thy cross; let not its weight fill thy weak spirit with alarm; His strength shall bear thy spirit up, and brace thy heart, and nerve thine arm. Take up thy cross, nor heed the shame; nor let thy foolish pride rebel; Thy Lord for thee the cross endured, to save thy soul from death and hell. Take up thy cross and follow Christ, nor think till death to lay it down; For only he who bears the cross may hope to wear the glorious crown. (The Hymnbook, No. 293) 5

Exodus 16; Luke 9:10-17; Mark 11:22-25; Proverbs 30:7-9; John 6:48-51 6 Luke 9:18-27; Matt. 10:32-33; 16:24-28; Philippians 1 7 Luke 9:28-36; Isaiah 42:1-9; Matthew 3:16-17; 5:17; 2 Peter 1; Psalm 119:105 8 Luke 9:37-45; Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 21:21-22; James 5:15-16 9 1 Kings 19:19-21; Luke 9:46-62; Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 10:17-31; Matthew 6:33 10 Luke 10:1-24; Matt. 4:10; Rev. 9:1-11; 12:7-12; 13:5-10; Daniel 12:1-4 11 Luke 10:25-37; Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 19:16-30 Our Father in heaven, we hallow Thy name; May Thy kingdom holy on earth be the same; O give to us daily our portion of bread; It is from Thy bounty that all must be fed. Forgive our transgressions, and teach us to know that humble compassion which pardons each foe; Keep us from temptation, from evil and sin, And Thine be the glory forever! Amen 12 Luke 10:38-42; Matthew 6:25-34; Romans 12:1-13; Psalm 27:4; 119:97-112 13 Luke 11:1-13; Matthew 26:31-46; 69-75; 1 Cor. 10:1-13 14 Luke 11:14-28; 2 Peter 2; Hebrews 6:4-6 15 Luke 11:29-32; Jonah 3; 2 Chronicles 9:1-12; Matthew 12:38-45; John 3:18-21 16 Luke 11:33-36; Psalm 101; Psalm 18:25-29; Titus 1:15-16

Blessings and love in Christ,

Sandy Sturch

17 Luke 11:37-54; Genesis 4:1-16; 2 Chronicles 24:17-22; Acts 13; Romans 2 18 Luke 12:1-12; Acts 6:8-7:60 Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ, wealth that can never be told! Riches exhaustless of mercy and grace, precious, more precious than gold! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Who shall their greatness declare? Jewels whose luster our lives may adorn, pearls that the poorest may wear! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Who would not gladly endure Trials, afflictions, and crosses on earth, riches like these to secure! Precious, more precious, Wealth that can never be told! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Precious, more precious than gold. (Worship in Song, No. 52) 19 Luke 12:13-34; Ecclesiastes 5:10; Isaiah 57:14-21; Ephesians 5:1-20 20 Luke 12:35-48; 1 Thess. 4:13-5:11; 2 Thess. 2:1-16 21 Luke 12:49-53; Mark 10:28-31; 13:3-13; Matt. 10:17-42 22 Luke 12:54-59; Matthew 16:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 2 Peter 3; 1 John 2:18-27 23 Luke 13:1-9; Isaiah 5:1-10; John 15:1-17 24 Exodus 20:8-11; Matthew 4:23-25; 12:1-14; Luke 13:10-35 25 Luke 14:1-24; Matthew 22:1-14; Zachariah 3 There were ninety and nine that safely lay in the shelter of the fold; but one was out on the hills away, far off from the gates of gold. Away on the mountains, wild and bare; Away from the tender Shepherd’s care. “Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine; are they not enough for Thee?” But the Shepherd made answer: “This of mine has wandered away from Me. And although the road be rough and steep, I go to the desert to find My sheep.” And all through the mountains, thunder-riven, and up from the rocky steep, there arose a glad cry up to the gate of heaven, “Rejoice! I have found My sheep!” And the angels echoed around the throne, “Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!”

26 Luke 14:25-35; Philippians 3:7-4:1 27 Luke 15; Proverbs 20:9; 21:17, 25, 26; 22:6; Psalm 51; Hebrews 12:4-13 28 Luke 16:1-18; 12:33-34; Matthew 6:19-34 29 Luke 16:19-31; 6:17-26; Matthew 25:31-46 30 Luke 17:1-10; Matthew 6:9-15; 18:21-35 31 Luke 17:11-19; Leviticus 13:29-37; Acts 14:8-10; James 5:13-16

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FIRST CUP PRAYER LIST

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.

(Romans 8:26).

DATE

NAME OF PERSON

REQUEST

GOD’S ANSWER

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Literature Circle 2024-2025

Next: Tuesday, September 10 The Literature Circle is open to all men and women and meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month September-May in the McCullough Room at 1:00 PM with a half hour of fellowship before the review begins at 1:30 PM. Reviews are recorded and posted to the church website at bit.ly/lit-circle-24-25.

Sept. 10 - Ordinary Grace

by William Kent Krueger Reviewer: Martha Smith Oct. 8 - Marshland by Alystair West | Reviewer: Author, Rev. Dr. Chris Scruggs Nov.12 - West With Giraffes

by Lynda Rutledge Reviewers: Suzie and Rev. Scott Simpson Dec. 10 - The Holy Spirit, The Air We Breathe | Reviewer: Author, Gates Whiteley Jan. 14 - The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese Reviewer: Rick Taylor

LOVING CHRIST. LOVING ONE ANOTHER. LOVING THE CITY. 404 N. Alamo Street San Antonio, Texas 78205 210-226-0215 fpcsanantonio.org

@fpcsanantonio

First Presbyterian Church SATX

@First Pres & @fpcsanantonio

Feb. 11 - The Fire Outside My Window by Sandra Millers Younger | Reviewers: Linda and Rich Delano Mar. 11 - Thirteen Moons by Charles Frazier | Reviewer: Jane Hansen

CONNECT WITH US!

Apr. 8 - Safely Home by Randy Alcorn | Reviewer: Debbie Taylor

Interested in receiving the First Press magazine digitally? Want to get the weekly newsletter email?

May 13 - Replenishing Our Hills: Protecting Lands in the Heart of the Hill Country Reviewers: Author, Brent Evans, and Photographer, John M. Freud

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