FirstPress Magazine December 2024

Celebrate the Season this December (See event pages 4-7)

DECEMBER 2024

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS AT FIRST! (See pages 10-12)

CHILDREN SERVE THROUGH OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD (See page 9)

CHRISTMAS IS A SEASON OF GIVING DECEMBER MISSION OPPORTUNITIES (See page 8)

"THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER!" EXCEPT OURS (See Pastor's Article pages 2-3)

2

FIRST PRESS

Pastor’s Article

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” – Except Ours!

REV. DR. BOB FULLER class, the eighth graders, who serve as our readers and narrators for the pageant.

There is a new movie out this Christmas, based on a wonderful old book. The movie "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is based on the classic 1971 children’s book of the same name by Barbara Robinson.

The story revolves around the unruly Herdman kids, known as "the worst kids in the history of the world," who unexpectedly take over the annual church Christmas pageant.

With plenty of chaos, snacks stolen from the church kitchen, and a fair amount of fire safety violations, they somehow bring more heart and honesty to the Christmas story than anyone expects. Think of it as the holiday pageant version of "The Bad News Bears"—complete with a hilariously chaotic rehearsal process, a scandalized church congregation, and a final performance that manages to be both a disaster and a miracle. It turns out, sometimes the best way to tell the story of Christmas is to let it get a little messy.

The book and movie are beloved for their humor, heart, and the reminder that even the most unexpected people can teach profound lessons about love and grace. But I take issue with the title of the movie and the book. I understand that the title is meant to be ironic. Nevertheless, I actually believe that we have “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” and we do it every year.

On December 8th, at 9:30 a.m., our Children’s Ministry will present the annual FPC Christmas Pageant. www.fpcsanantonio.org

A lot of people love the Christmas pageant for sentimental and nostalgic reasons. When you have a long-standing tradition in the church, people want to be a part of it. Many people remember fondly when they or their children were angels, shepherds, wise men, sheep, donkeys, or even mice in the play.

There are others who say, "I helped make the costumes," "I helped teach the music," and "I helped wrangle the children." I know that my son Bo joined a distinguished list of church members who have served as half of the camel—and it always seems to be a matter of distinction whether a person served as the front half or back half.

It’s always fun to talk about the new babies born that year and who might play the baby Jesus. We always wonder and worry if there will be a boy to play Joseph, a girl to play Mary, and a fifth or sixth grader who is confident enough to learn and deliver all the lines necessary to be the angel Gabriel. There is always a special role for the confirmation

We all have to admit that the pageant is pretty cute. Seeing these little people dressed up like mice, sheep, and angels. All the little ones, the youngest ones, fidgeting and giggling and sometimes wandering around, while the older ones are so serious, so dedicated, so focused on the special role they’ve been called to fulfill. They really do take this seriously. And it’s even okay when something breaks down, or something unexpected happens— like two angels chasing each other around the chancel. Sometimes the bloopers are the best part, and the part people remember because it all reminds us that the real Christmas story was messy, complicated, and full of unexpected surprises.

I love the Christmas Pageant. I know that it is a lot of work, and we are so grateful to Pastor Becky and Mrs. Rebecca and Mrs. Cynthia and the children’s committee and the parents for all the work that goes into it. We also appreciate that it is a lot of fun.

It is precious. It is sometimes goofy.

But, we also understand that aside from all of that, it is important.

For those of us who grew up in the church, the Christmas story is so familiar that we almost take it for granted. But there are a lot of people who have never heard this story and have no idea what Christmas is all about, or how it

3

December 2024

CONTENTS started. The pageant is one of our best opportunities to tell people the real story of Christmas—to some people for the first time. It is a cute, non-threatening, and engaging way to get back to basics and explain who Jesus is and why we should trust him with our lives.

Our Christmas pageant is the best because we remember why it is important. We have to use this time to tell the story—not just the story about the angels, the shepherds, the wise men, and the baby in the manger, but the personal story of the real God and how He makes a difference in our lives—now and forever. Please come and join us for the Best Christmas Pageant Ever (ours!), on December 8th, and bring a friend.

Grace and peace, Bob Fuller

SAVE THE DATE 4-7

Upcoming Events

7 Form for Poinsettia Honorariums & Memorials MINISTRY ARTICLES 8

December Missions Highlights

9

Operation Christmas Child: A Heartfelt Mission

10-11

Christmas at First!

12

Midday Noels

13-15

WOC Circles, Letter from the President, and November Photos

16-17

KEYS Upcoming

FIRST CUP 18-19

Readings and Prayer List

BACK COVER FEATURE 20

New Covenant Partners & Year-End Giving Information

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: Volunteer Photographer Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org) www.fpcsanantonio.org

4

FIRST PRESS

Save the Date NOW - THURSDAY, FEB. 27, 2025

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 - 8

RUN FOR CLEAN WATER OR DONATE TO THE FPC TEAM

LOVE REBOOT: MARRIAGE REPAIR WEEKEND

Dates:

Time:

Contact:

Training Days now through Feb. 27, 2025 Race Day: Sunday, March 2, 2025 Gordon Smith, gordons@servicetitlesa.com

Location:

Friday – Saturday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday | 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM FPC Student Center

Description: Run to raise money for clean water projects around the world through World Vision. Join FPC’s Team for the Run the Alamo Marathon (run only) or Half Marathon (may be walked.) Training plans, on your own, take you from “couch” to race. Each Saturday morning there is an optional group run with other teams. To find out more, register, or donate, go to bit.ly/fpc-run-team.

Description: Rekindle love and intimacy with your spouse by investing in a weekend specifically designed for couples facing distance and conflict, offering the best opportunity to mend what is broken. Visit growinglovenetwork.org/lovereboot for registration and more information.

DECEMBER

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 & 8

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

DOWNTOWN ROAD CLOSURES

COFFEE HOUSE (COLLEGE MINISTRY)

Description: Roads in downtown will be closed for the Rock N’ Roll races on Saturday & Sunday. We encourage the congregation to use Highway 281 to enter and exit the area and to avoid the lower Broadway area. View the map at bit.ly/fpcsat-roads.

Time: Location: Contact:

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

Description: Come and find out! Details will be revealed at Tuesday night gatherings leading up to the event!

Coffee & food provided!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 MIDDAY NOELS CONCERT #1: Seasonal Songs for Two Pianos Time: Location: Contact:

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM Sanctuary Tom Dooling, 210-271-2717 tomd@fpcsat.org

Description: Celebrate the season with FPC’s “Gift to the City!” Enjoy a variety of creative musical performances.

Free Admission! Paid lunch options to follow each concert. For more details, see page 12.

The first concert in the series will feature our own pianist, Dr. Jae Ha, and Dr. Ara Koh, member of the piano faculty at the University of the Incarnate Word. Don’t miss this extraordinary two-piano showcase of their immense talent! www.fpcsanantonio.org

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 CHRISTMAS PAGEANT Time: Location: Contact:

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Sanctuary Rebecca Sweet, rebeccas@fpcsat.org Cynthia Bocanegra, cynthiab@fpcsat.org

Description: A Savior has been born! He is Christ the Lord! Come hear the story of God’s love told through our FPC children. Join the Children’s Christmas Pageant in the 9:30 AM traditional service (only one 9:30 AM service, both 11:00 AM services will meet); Rehearsal Saturday, December 7. (Be aware road closures will affect both rehearsal & pageant.)

5

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

CALLED CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

LOCAL MISSIONS SERVE: PAY IT FORWARD CHRISTMAS PARTY

Time:

All Three Services

Description: A Congregational Meeting will be held at the end of each morning service (9:30 AM Christmas Pageant and 11:00 AM Traditional & Modern Services).

The meeting will focus on approving members for the officer nomination committee and discussing the possibility of purchasing property.

CELEBRATE REV. BECKY PRICHARD Time: Location:

10:30 AM- 12:30 PM McCullough Room

Description: Join us in celebrating Rev. Becky Prichard’s 10 years of service as Associate Pastor for Children and Youth Discipleship; contribute monetary gifts to First Presbyterian Church, memo “Becky Prichard Gift,” and bring cards of gratitude to honor her impact and dedication.

DEADLINE FOR POINSETTIA HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS Description: Remember loved ones, honor individuals, or celebrate an occasion with a $15 poinsettia plant. Forms available to download at bit.ly/fpcsat-poinsettias or in the church workroom. Return with payment to the Sanctuary Flower Committee mailbox in the workroom.

“SOO-NAH-GO” (COLLEGE) Time: Location: Contact:

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm 417 Canterbury Hill St. Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: Specifically for students who attend Trinity University (though, all are welcome!), “Soo-Nah-Go” is highly impactful night of vision casting, gathering, and prayer. Let’s strengthen the Body of Christ at Trinity University! Come hungry (both physically as well as spiritually)!

Time: Location: Contact:

6:30 PM 1 Haven for Hope Way Lindsay Selli, lindsays@fpcsat.org

Description: FPC is invited to join in serving the Pay It Forward residents at their annual Christmas Dinner. This is a wonderful time to provide a warm meal and allow for a time of connection, compassion, and hope during what may be a difficult time of year for many of those Pay It Forward serves. To volunteer, please sign up at bit.ly/ PayItForward24.

COLLEGE MINISTRY CHRISTMAS PARTY ON DEVINE Time: Location: Contact:

8:30 PM – 9:45 PM 300 Devine Rd, San Antonio, TX 78212 Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: Christmas games, Cabo Bob’s, and candlelight worship!

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 PIZZA AND REDBULLS WITH COLLEGE MINISTRY Time: Location: Contact:

5:30 PM Trinity University; outside the entrance to Coates Library Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

Description: Finals season is tough! Come grab some pizza and Redbull to help you through! Get there quick!

Supplies often run out in roughly half an hour!

www.fpcsanantonio.org

6

FIRST PRESS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16

MIDDAY NOELS CONCERT #2:

DONATION DEADLINE FOR CAM EMERGENCY CHRISTMAS STORE

Holiday Harmonies: A Choral Celebration Time: Location: Contact:

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM Sanctuary Tom Dooling, 210-271-2717 tomd@fpcsat.org

Description: Save the dates for this beloved holiday concert tradition and join us for our musical ‘gift to the city’ during Advent. Our FPC Chamber Singers are thrilled to team up with the Booker T. Washington Elementary School Choir from San Antonio. Enjoy an enchanting program of seasonal choral pieces, culminating in a joyful performance of Christmas carols.

For more details, see page 12.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 FPC STUDENT MINISTRY CHRISTMAS PARTY Time: Location: Contact:

6:00 PM-8:00 PM Student Center Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org Savannah Schatte, savannahs@fpcsat.org

Time: Location: Contact:

Mon-Thurs 8:30 AM -3:00 PM, Fri 8:30 AM-12 PM 110 McCullough Ave. Sylvia Garcia, 210-223-4099 sgarcia@cam-sa.org

Description: Share the love of Christ with the families of 1,700+ children in San Antonio by donating new, unwrapped toys and gifts for kids aged 0-18. Donations are accepted at CAMpassion Warehouse just down the street from FPC. Sign up online at bit.ly/CAMchristmas to make sure there are enough gifts for each age group.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 MIDDAY NOELS CONCERT #3: Joyful Jingles with the Dirty River Jazz Band Time: Location: Contact:

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM Sanctuary Tom Dooling, 210-271-2717 tomd@fpcsat.org

Description: Celebrate the end of the Fall semester and kick off the holiday season by joining us for our Youth Christmas Party! Students will share a Christmas dinner, play games, and participate in a White Elephant gift exchange.

Description: Join us for the debut performance of the Dirty River Jazz Band in the Midday Noel concert series.

Featuring talented musicians from across San Antonio, many band members were mentored by the legendary Jim Cullum Jazz Band. Don’t miss this joyful jazz experience! For more details, see page 12.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20

DONATION DEADLINE FOR WOMEN OF THE CHURCH CHRISTMAS DIAPER DRIVE

Serve with CAM/Corazon Christmas Party

Location: Contact:

Box in Mauzé Lobby Nancy Scheifele, 210-315-1618 bbnn.scheifele@gmail.com

Description: Donate diapers, sizes 4-7, by Dec. 15 in Mauzé Lobby to support the House of Neighborly Service.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

Time: Location: Contact:

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM CAM - 110 McCullough Ave, 78215 Mary Henderson, mhenderson@cam-sa.org

Description: Help CAM host 200 of their clients during the CAM/Corazon Christmas Party for people experiencing homelessness. We will be celebrating on Friday December 20 and want to share the love of Christ with folks who might not otherwise get to celebrate. If you would like to help donate items or help with getting this setup and orchestrated on the day of the party, visit bit.ly/CAMchristmas-party to sign up to volunteer or donate!

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025 Church Offices Closed for Holidays Description: First Pres church offices will be closed from Christmas Day through New Year’s Day. One Sunday Worship Service will be held on Sunday, December 29 at 11:00 AM in the Sanctuary. Office hours will resume Thursday, January 2, 2025.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 One Worship Service

11:00 AM FPC Sanctuary

Description: We hope to see you, your family & friends during this most wonderful time of the year. Reserve free childcare for ages 8 weeks-3 years by emailing childcare@ fpcsat.org.

JANUARY FRIDAY – SUNDAY JANUARY 10-12 Men’s Retreat Time: Location: Contact:

5:00 PM Friday – Sunday morning LoneHollow Ranch, Utopia, TX Jacob Cole, 210-885-4327 Bobby Mickler, 210-284-1496

Description: Our retreat is meant to help men grow in community and sharpen each other through scripture and fellowship. Register at bit.ly/fpcsa-mensretreat.

Poinsettias

Time: Location:

ADDRESS

Worship services in FPC's Sanctuary at 2:30 PM (Lord’s Supper), 5:00 PM (Family), and 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM (Candlelight). More information on pages 10-11.

PHONE

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

EMAIL

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24

IN MEMORY OF (30 Character Limit)

Description: Come celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior! He has made His dwelling among us! Dinner, games, fellowship, and candlelight worship!

IN HONOR OF

6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 521 Ridgemont Ave. Ben Henderson, benh@fpcsat.org Join our Group Me! / 210-845-3845

(CHECK ONE)

Time: Location: Contact:

GIVEN BY (30 Character Limit)

College Christmas Dinner

$15 PER PLANT - PLEASE PRINT WHEN FILLING OUT FORM

MONDAY, DECEMBER 23

Each year during the Advent season the congregation has an opportunity to remember a loved one, honor an individual or recognize an occasion by purchasing a poinsettia to be placed in the Chancel by the Sanctuary Flower Committee. If you would like to participate, the cost is $15 to reserve a plant for one individual or one couple.

Proceeds have enabled the Sanctuary Flower Committee to make many special gifts to beautify the church over the years. Your check should be made payable to the Sanctuary Flower Committee. Mail to First Presbyterian Church, c/o Sanctuary Flower Committee, 404 North Alamo, San Antonio, 78205-1918, or place in the Sanctuary Flower mailbox in the workroom. Requests received later than December 8, 2024 will miss the insert printing deadline.

7

www.fpcsanantonio.org

8

FIRST PRESS

DECEMBER MISSION HIGHLIGHTS

MISSION TRIPS AND SUMMER MISSION INTERNSHIPS

Are you exploring God’s purpose for your gifts or seeking to grow in what it looks like to live your life on mission?

Consider serving in a cross-cultural summer mission mentorship/internship with one of our Global Mission Partners, or leading a summer mission trip opportunity!

For more information about this or any of our Global Mission Partners contact Lindsay Selli (lindsays@fpcsat.org)

Tuesday, December 10 2024, 6:30 pm

SERVING AT PAY IT FORWARD

Pay It Forward Christmas Party 1 Haven For Hope Way

FPC is invited to join in serving the Pay It Forward Residents at their annual Christmas Dinner. This is a wonderful time to provide a warm meal and allow for a time of connection, compassion, and hope during what may be a difficult time of year for many of those Pay It Forward serves. To volunteer, please sign up here: https://bit.ly/PayItForward24

December 2024

CHRISTMAS SERVING

CAM invites several ways to serve the unhoused and under resourced through December. From donating items to and/or serving at their emergency Christmas Store to serving at the Christmas Party on Dec. 20, there is a place for everyone. Please visit christianassistanceministry.org to learn more or contact mhenderson@cam-sa.org The GoodHood is also hosting their annual Affordable Christmas Market for families on the East Side of our city. They are in need of items for their market. Visit www.thegoodhood.org/affordablechristmas for more details or to access their Amazon wishlist.

For more information about these, or other ongoing service opportunities, please visit fpcsanantonio.org/serve, or contact Lindsay Selli (lindsays@fpcsat.org)

9

Operation Christmas Child: A Heartfelt Mission November 17th marked a special day for our community as we gathered for Operation Christmas Child. On this joyous mission day, we packed over 60 Christmas boxes, contributing to FPC's grand total of 153 boxes this year. Woo hoo!

For me, this tradition began in 1994 with my four grown children. It's a cherished memory, one that's even passed on to my son and his family. Together, they continue a similar project, making a lasting impact and spreading the love of Christ to others. It's truly heartwarming to witness this legacy of compassion and kindness being handed down to the next generation.

Since its inception, Operation Christmas Child has delivered over 220 million boxes, with more than 20 million children professing their faith as a result. These simple acts of giving have created meaningful differences in the lives of FPC families and children worldwide.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated by packing boxes, sending WOW gifts, and helping in numerous ways. Seeing our confirmation class guide younger children in this endeavor was a great joy.

As I delivered the boxes to the drop-off center, a sign caught my eye: "We don't give to the church, we give through the church." Thank you for allowing our children to glorify God through their giving.

Blessings,

Rebecca Sweet

Director to Children and their Families www.fpcsanantonio.org

10

DEC. 8 - CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

9:30 AM Traditional Service Sanctuary & fpcsanantonio.org/live A Savior has been born! He is Christ the Lord! Come hear the story of God’s love told through our FPC children during the 9:30 AM Traditional Service. One service only at 9:30 AM. Will have both 11:00 AM Traditional & Modern Worship Services.

DEC. 5, 12, & 19 (THURSDAYS) MIDDAY NOELS

12:00-12:45 PM | Sanctuary

We offer our holiday “gift to the city” with three free concerts followed by a choice of a hot lunch ($15) in our Westminster Hall or “Grab & Go” ($5). Concerts also streamed live at fpcsanantonio.org/live.

Dec. 5 “Seasonal Songs for Two Pianos,”

featuring FPC pianist Dr. Jae Ha and Dr. Ara Koh, University of the Incarnate Word faculty

Dec. 12 “Holiday Harmonies: A Choral Celebration,” featuring FPC Chamber Singers & Booker T. Washington Elementary School Choir

Dec. 19 “Joyful Jingles with The Dirty River Jazz Band,” debut performance of San Antonio band with many members mentored by the Jim Cullum Jazz Band.

Email childcare@fpcsat.org to reserve free childcare for ages 8 weeks-3 years.

11

DEC. 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP Our services are open to everyone, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey, as we gather to reflect on the hope and joy offered to us through Christ. We hope to see you, your family, & friends during this most wonderful time of the year Reserve free childcare for ages 8 weeks-3 years by emailing childcare@ fpcsat.org.

Christmas Eve & Lord’s Supper Service 2:30 PM in the Sanctuary

Join us for our afternoon Traditional Christmas Eve Service, featuring beautiful music, heartfelt carols, and readings of the Christmas story. We will celebrate the birth of Christ with a special message and partake in the Lord’s Supper, welcoming all who seek to follow Jesus.

DEC. 29 - ONE SERVICE

Family Christmas Eve Service 5:00 PM in the Sanctuary

Join us in celebrating with joyful carols, inspiring readings from the Bible, the lighting of the Advent candles, and a meaningful Christmas message.

We’ll also have a moving candlelight ceremony (with fun, battery-operated lights) during “Silent Night” and opportunities to join in prayer and reflection.

Candlelight Christmas Eve Services

7:30 PM & 10:00 PM in the Sanctuary

Join us for one of our Candlelight Christmas Eve services filled with music, scripture, and candle lighting.

The service will include readings from the Christmas story, the lighting of the Advent candles, and a special message from Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller. We’ll end by lighting candles inside and then walking together to the front steps of the church, symbolizing how we take the light of Christ into the city and the world.

11:00 AM | Sanctuary One traditional worship service. No Sunday School, free childcare for ages 8 weeks-3 years.

SCAN WITH YOUR CAMERA APP TO VISIT

FPCSANANTONIO.ORG/CHRISTMAS

12

FIRST PRESS

www.fpcsanantonio.org

13

WOMEN OF THE CHURCH

Dec. 2024 Circle Meetings (Circles meet September through May, except for Circles 18 & 20, who provide service all year) Circle 1/12 Suzanne Thomas, Chair (210-846-3240) December 16, Third Monday, 11:30 AM, Geneva Room (lunch optional, contact the Circle Chair to reserve a meal) Circle 5

SHAWL MINISTRY Kay Weber, Co-Chair (210-288-5290) Mary Fruge-Medford, Co-Chair (210-823-7054) December 18, Third Wednesday, 1:00 PM, Room 228

Circle 6 Nancy Kerr, Chair (830-535-4019) December 17, Third Tuesday, 1:30 PM, McCullough Room Circle 7 Mary Ellen Mauze, Co-Chair and Moderator (210-844-5549) Meredith Park, Co-Chair (210-373-8180) December 10, Second Tuesday, No meeting, drop off Christmas gifts at Mary Ellen’s Home, 203 Primrose Pl. Circle 8 CIRCLE FOR MOTHERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN Susan DeKoch, Coordinator (210-508-7127, may text) Sunday, December 8, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Home of Susan DeKoch, 207 Hillview Dr., 78209 Circle 9 Grace Clouse, Co-Chair (734-718-7057) Janice Wilson, Co-Chair (210-260-4157) December 17, Third Tuesday, 10:00 AM, Breakfast Room Circle 11 Jean Swanson, Chair (210-777-8966) December 16, Third Monday, 11:30 AM, Home of Jean Swanson, 122 Medford Dr. Circle 13 LITERATURE CIRCLE Grace Clouse, Chair (734-718-7057) December 10, Second Tuesday, 1:00 PM, McCullough Room "The Holy Spirit The Air We Breathe " Reviewed by the author: Gates Whitely Circle 14 Karen Carawan, Chair (210-213-4589) December 16, Third Monday, 12:00 PM, St. Andrews Room (lunch optional, contact the Circle Chair to reserve a meal)

Circle 18 CIRCLE OF CONCERN Shelley Bass, Chair (210-861-6996) Memorial reception volunteers

Circle 20 CIRCLE OF SERVICE Muffin Camp, Co-Chair (210-789-1808) Mary Anne Smith, Co-Chair (817-933-9124) Volunteers to make/take meals and snacks when needed www.fpcsanantonio.org

14

FIRST PRESS

WOMEN OF THE CHURCH

President's Letter Dec. 2024 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Greetings from the Women of the Church! That special time of Advent is upon us as we prepare our hearts and homes to celebrate the birth of our King. The month of December is filled with ways to share the love that Jesus pours into us.

The first opportunity is the Children’s Advent Festival on December 1st in Westminster Hall. I know many of you will be serving families with young children at this event by helping make Christmas decorations, handing out snacks, and sharing a laugh. What a great way to kick off the season!

The Gift of Christmas committee of Judy Kruger, Susie Patterson, Sarah Bonn, Heidi McDonald, and Kelsey Smith have now connected 17 families, who have been referred to us by our ministry partner, HNS, with many excited covenant partners throughout the church.

The Sunday School classes, circles, small groups, and individuals are now selecting a variety of gifts, including clothing and food, or donating gift cards for families in our community who are in need. Covenant Partner Cynthia Robinson, who exhibits Christ’s love so beautifully, has donated English/Spanish Bibles again this year. These gifts will be delivered and stories exchanged, as we share the good news of great joy that is for all people! Thank you for taking the time to love our neighbors!

Kathy Scruggs, Joy Fuhrmann, Marianne Ryan, and Kelly Strange are helping to bring Christmas cheer to the Christmas parties for seniors and children at the House of Neighborly Service Center (HNS Center) in the Westside Community. They are providing Christmas books in English and Spanish and diapers for the children, and a beautiful Christmas card as well as a booklet "¿Por qué Jesús?" plus other treats for the seniors. On top of that, 25 “wellness packs” are wrapped and ready to pamper the HNS staff. Thank you for the thought and prayer that has gone into this ministry.

Through PCHAS’s Angel Tree program, Suzanne West, Morgan Fuller, and Sallie Guy have paired over 20 children living with their parent(s) as well as young adults transitioning out of foster care, with covenant partners who will be providing much-appreciated Christmas gifts.

We will also be celebrating Christmas with the PCHAS families, making crafts and wrapping gifts the children www.fpcsanantonio.org

are able to select for their parents at the PCHAS campus on December 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join us for this special event. It is such a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas and a great opportunity for FPC students to serve and get to know others in our city.

Mary Medford, Kathy Serrano, and Karla Keahey are loading up the children from the FPC Children’s Center, dozens of delicious cookies and beautiful crafts prepared by circle members, and Rev. Scott Simpson and Rev. Joe Moore to fill the gathering space at Morningside Manor with singing, a lesson, and warm fellowship with the residents. You are welcome to participate – there will be two parties, December 5th and 12th. Just let us know if you need more info.

For those of you looking for one of the best places to spend Christmas Eve in San Antonio, the WOC provides dinner throughout the evening for our staff, musicians, and pastors in the McCullough room. It is a joyful time, and the food and fellowship are deeply appreciated by everyone spending Christmas Eve at church. Contact Shelley Bass (bass.shelley6@gmail.com) if you are interested in helping.

This month is certainly filled with opportunities to love others in the name of Jesus. However (I am talking to myself here), if we are trying to accomplish this in our own strength, we can end up overwhelmed and worn out.

As Rev. Emily Scates shared in her compelling discussion of discipleship at the WOC Fall Legacy Luncheon on November 4th, if we first go to God and His Word, we are filled with His Spirit. From that place of abiding in Him, we are able to serve others with His love and power, not because we have all the answers, but because we show up.

Less of me, Lord, and more of you.

I will leave you with some fabulous pictures from the Fall Luncheon. Thank you, Nona Hall, for capturing in your pictures what I could never express, even in a thousand words.

Merry, Merry Christmas,

Nancy Scheifele President, Women of the Church bbnn.scheifele@gmail.com

15

www.fpcsanantonio.org

16

FIRST PRESS

fpcsanantonio.org/keys KEEPING EVERYONE YOUNG IN SPIRIT

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” This powerful message from the Old and New Testaments proclaims the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

This year, we're excited to welcome the Cox Family Singers for our Christmas Party on December 6. Be sure to make your reservation!

Throughout the year on-site speakers begin at 11:00 a.m., with lunch served at noon. Birthday Lunches meet at the restaurant at 11:30 a.m. or take the shuttle from FPC at 10:30 a.m. All lunches cost $15.

For those interested in staying active, Friday Fitness will continue via Zoom. Send an email to request the link if you wish to participate.

Elf Louise Wrapping reservations are full for groups, but if you'd like to go as a small group of 5, you can show up without reservations between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. from December 1 to December 6. Please bring your own scissors and tape. The warehouse address is 333 Morris Witt.

We will take a break for the rest of the month of December and kick off the New Year with music by our own Jae Ha on January 10. The January Birthday Lunch will be held on the 17th. Gardner Peavy from the Texas Cavaliers will join us on January 24, and the San Antonio Rodeo Ambassadors will be with us on January 31.

Rev. Dr. Joe Moore

Assistant Pastor for Older Adults and Congregational Care

www.fpcsanantonio.org

To RSVP for KEYS Meetings and/or Lunches: Contact the church front desk at (210) 226-0215 or email keys@fpcsat.org.

17

Special Music Programs in the New Year: January 10 Dr. Jae Ha February 7 Blake & Jenna Bolerjack February 14 Elvis (Michael McMullen) April 4 Miles Pike

Friday Fitness Friday Fitness continues 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 joem@fpcsat.org. You will be sent a link to join the Zoom Meeting.

Mahjong & Bridge Mahjong & Bridge meet on the 2nd and 4th Fridays at 1:00 PM in the Geneva Room. If you want to join in on the games call Suzanne West at 210-525-1499 or email Nancy Black at whythere@icloud.com for more information. Looking for bridge players! 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.

www.fpcsanantonio.org

18

FIRST PRESS

FIRST CUP READINGS DECEMBER 2024

Blessings and love in Christ,

Sandy Sturch

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.

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

1

Isaiah 40; Matthew 3:1-3; Mark 1:4

Lift up your heads, ye mighty gates, Behold, the King of Glory waits; The King of Kings is drawing near; the Savior of the world is here! Fling wide the portals of your heart; make it a temple, set apart from earthly use for heaven’s employ, adorned with prayer, and love, and joy. Redeemer, come! I open wide my heart to Thee; here, Lord, abide! Let me Thy inner presence feel; Thy grace and love in me reveal. (The Hymnbook, no. 152) 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Matthew 24 1 Thessalonians 4-5 2 Peter 3 2 Thessalonians 2; 1 Corinthians 1:18; John 3:16-18 Luke 1:37-80; 3:1-6 Matthew 3; 11:1-19 Mark 6:6b-29; Luke 14:26-27; Matthew 10:17-23

“Thy Kingdom come,” on bended knee the passing ages pray; and faithful souls have yearned to see on earth that Kingdom’s day. And lo! Already on the hills the flags of dawn appear.

Gird up your loins, ye prophet souls, proclaim the day is near!

The day in whose clear-shining light all wrong shall stand revealed; when justice shall be clothed with might and every hurt be healed; when knowledge, hand in hand with peace, shall walk the earth abroad; the day of perfect righteousness, the promised day of God. (The Hymnbook, no. 484) 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Isaiah 9:1-7; 11-12; Micah 5:2-5 Psalm 23; 28:6-9; Ezekiel 34:1-16; Zechariah 13:1-7; John 10:1-18 Psalm 46; Psalm 91 Psalm 143; 121 Isaiah 7:13-14; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38; Hebrews 11:6 Psalm 89 Hebrews 1-2

Come, Thou long-expected Jesus, born to set Thy people free.

From our fears and sins release us; let us find our rest in Thee.

Israel’s Strength and Consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear Desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart.

Born Thy people to deliver, born a child and yet a King. Born

to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious Kingdom bring. By Thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone; by Thine all-sufficient merit raise us to Thy glorious throne. (The Hymnbook, no. 151) 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Hebrews 3-5:10 Hebrews 5:11-7 Hebrews 8-9 Hebrews 10 Luke 1:38-56; Psalm 138 Luke 1:57-80; Joel 2:28-32; Jeremiah 31:27-34 Romans 10-11

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie; above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light; the hope and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel.

(The Hymnbook, no. 171) 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Romans 12 Luke 2:1-20; Colossians 1:15-23 Psalm 47; Colossians 1:24-2:5 Isaiah 55 Isaiah 9:2, 6-7; Luke 2:21-40 Luke 2:41-52; Proverbs 3:1-6 John 1:1-34; Ephesians 1:1-14

Rejoice, the Lord is King! Your Lord and King adore! Rejoice, give thanks, and sing, and triumph evermore.

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice! Rejoice, again I say, rejoice! His Kingdom cannot fail, He rules o’er earth and heaven. The keys of death and hell are to our Jesus given. Lift up your heart, lift up your voice! Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

He all His foes shall quell, shall all our sins destroy, and every bosom swell with pure seraphic joy. Lift up your heart, lift up your voice! Rejoice, again I say, rejoice! (Hymnbook, no.

140) 30 31

John 3; 5:24; 1 John 3 Psalm 90; 2 Corinthians 5:1-10

19

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

www.fpcsanantonio.org

New Covenant Partners!

Joined us in November

Loving CHRIST. Loving ONE ANOTHER. Loving THE CITY. Mary Anne & Carson Smith

Helena & Matthew Smith

Abigale & Kyle Van Haselen

Year-End Giving & Holiday Office Hours As the year ends, consider your year-end charitable giving to ensure it counts for this tax year.

Gifts from retirement accounts, stocks, or mutual funds require extra processing time. Typically, stock gifts take a few days, while mutual funds can take up to a month to process. Delays during the holiday season could lead to missing the year-end deadline.

Please inform the finance office if you're making such a gift to ensure timely processing. Check with your broker regarding their availability during the holidays and reach out to us for any necessary information. We're here to help!

Please note that the church offices will be closed from December 25, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

However, someone will be available by phone in the finance office from December 27 to 29, 2024. Due to holiday closures, we encourage you to start processing these gifts promptly.

For Stock and Mutual Fund Gifts - Broker: Morgan Stanley DTC#: 0015 - Account #045105157-026 Primary Broker Contact: Sandra Deskin, 210-271-6186 (not available Dec. 25 - 29, 2024)

404 N. Alamo Street San Antonio, Texas 78205 210-226-0215 fpcsanantonio.org

@fpcsanantonio

First Presbyterian Church SATX

@First Pres & @fpcsanantonio

Secondary Broker Contacts: Alan Pearson: 210-271-6100 (not available Christmas Day) Stephen Scott: 210-271-6161 (not available Christmas Day) For Retirement Distributions and QCDs - TAX ID: 74-1175837 Make checks payable and mail directly to First Presbyterian Church at 404 N. Alamo St., San Antonio, Texas 78205 to ensure the gift is received for the appropriate tax year.

Feel free to reach our team at: Christi Burrell: 210-271-2755 or christib@fpcsat.org Hector Flores: 210-271-2756 or hectorf@fpcsat.org

We thank you for your generosity in supporting First Presbyterian and its ministries.

CONNECT WITH US! Interested in receiving the First Press magazine digitally? Want to get the weekly newsletter email?

Sign-Up at:

www.fpcsanantonio.org/ comm-connect Download the free FPC San Antonio App