First Press Magazine June 2021

JUNE 2021

first press

Mission South: Biblicus México Scholarship Program awards four seminary students.

[See Global Missions article pages 8-9]

STCH Ministries, Bridges to Care, and our new mental health ministry.

[See article page 7]

175th Anniversary History: The Reformation Comes to Texas.

[See article pages 10-11]

National Day of Prayer Walk:

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16 [See featured article pages 12-15]

PASTOR’S ARTICLE

100 YEARS AGO, THE PASTOR OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WAS DR. ARTHUR GRAY JONES. church sanctuary. 110 years ago, Dr. Jones led the congregation from Houston and North Flores streets to our current home here at the corner of Fourth and Alamo.

Dr. Arthur Gray Jones Senior Pastor (1895 - 1921)

D

r. Jones was known as a preacher and scholar. Donald Everett, First Presbyterian’s late church historian has reported that Arthur Gray Jones may have been the most learned minister in the history of First Presbyterian Church. Although he was a known as a “theologian’s theologian,” Dr. Jones believed that the Presbyterian tradition of Calvinism was built on the idea of making plain the great mysteries of our faith. The messages he preached made Presbyterian clear to both the capitalist and the cowboy.

100 years ago, in 1921 he retired as pastor of this church to accept a call as a teacher of systematic theology at Austin Theological Seminary.

Dr. Jones led First Presbyterian Church from an era of survival into an era of influence in the City of San Antonio. One of the most significant events of Dr. Jones’ ministry was the building of the

The building—designed by renowned architect Atlee B. Ayers—drew critical attention and acclaim. It was reported to be the “finest church in San Antonio.” People took notice, and Dr. Jones became one of the most celebrated and influential ministers in the city.

But such attention was not the kind of notice that Dr. Jones wanted. Dr. Jones’ dream was not to build a building but to build the temple — the Body of Christ — and from there to build God’s Kingdom.

In a sermon called “Temple Builders,” Dr. Jones said: Out of the quarries of earth and sin the raw materials are being gathered for this spiritual temple and the voice of the Master-builder comes to the people today. “Who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?”

Dr. Jones first made a call for Personal Commitment. The first material you should gather for God’s temple is yourself, your own soul.

Bring that stone, rough and FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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unhewn though it be, that the hand of the divine Workman may dress it and make of it a stone living and precious for an honourable place in His spiritual temple. This is the highest privilege of your life, that is the primal duty which you owe to yourself, to bring yourself, as material for the great Builder; to surrender your heart and life to Jesus Christ that His blood may cleanse you from your sin; that His power may protect you in times of temptation and danger; that His grace may comfort you in trial; that His Spirit may cheer you in days of disappointment and sorrow; that His hand may work in you the image and glory of God; that His promise may arch your future with light and hope….

The building of God’s Kingdom begins with us. He asked: “Who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?”

But while God’s Kingdom building requires personal commitment; faith is not a private endeavor. Dr. Jones continued that There is other material that must be gathered. There are places in this temple which must be filled by stones which are yet unquarried. Stones which lie buried deep in this

mine of sinful humanity…

It is very plain that the spirit of Christ expects of you something more than your personal salvation. Today there comes from God the call to this ministry, this personal work among our fellow-men for their salvation, a call to dig and dig hard for these unquarried stones that they may be made ready for God’s great temple….“Who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?”

Who are these “unquarried” stones, and who is willing to gather them in 2021? Indeed, “Who is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?” It was a question Dr. Jones was asking 100 years ago, and it is a question we must be asking ourselves today.

Dr. Jones’ vision stretched far beyond his own congregation and generation. He believed that the mission of the church was to spread the good news of Jesus Christ with power and clarity. At the dedication of the sanctuary, he declared, May the shrine of worship which we today consecrate to God, continue to be a place of rest for the soul, a haven of a mortal hope, a temple of brotherly kindness, and altar of eternal salvation, the very gate of heaven to the men and women who shall come after us.

GRACE AND PEACE, - REV. DR. BOB FULLER

contents 4

Save the Date: COVID Reopening Guidelines Update; Sunday Services; Sunday Classes; Summer Mission Trips; Virtual Prayer Room, Love Reboot; YA/Umin Summer Kickoff; Global Leadership Summit; Prayer Training, GriefShare; Summer Youth Fellowships; "Red, White, and Blue Day"; Literature Circle Reading List; Children's City Scavenger Hunt, RESET Gathering, Sanctuary Choir, VBS, KRL, Job & Volunteer Opportunities

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Loving One Another: STCH Ministry Provides Mental Health Support to FPC Community

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Loving the World: Biblicus México Scholarship Program - Mission South

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175th Anniversary: History - The Texas Reformation

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Feature Article: National Day of Prayer 2021

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Loving One Another: Global Leadership Summit

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Loving One Another: WOC - A Time for Everything Loving the City: Loving Our Teachers Project - School Connect Serves & Encourages Local Teachers & Staff

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Loving One Another: KEYS

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Loving Christ: First Cup Readings

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Loving Christ: First Cup Prayer List

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Loving One Another: New Covenant Partners First Press is published monthly by the First Presbyterian Church San Antonio Communications Team. Deadline to submit content: the 15th of the previous month.

Hank Cherry: Director of Communications Dorothy Hecimovich: Graphic Designer Ross Brown: Media Coordinator Questions? Contact:

FIRST PRESS 3 HankMAGAZINE Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org)

SAVE THE DATE

COVID Reopening Guidelines

Summer Mission Trip to YPM

YA/Umin Summer Kickoff

As of Monday, May 10, 2021 our Session approved updated COVID-19 Reopening Guidelines for our church.

Visit fpcsanantonio.org/reunion to read the letter from our Senior Pastor and our Clerk of Session and also for detailed information about worship, ministry, and meetings at FPC.

Family Trip | July 20-26

Sunday, June 6 | 4:30 - 6:30 PM Ray's Farm

Sunday Services Each Sunday | 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, & 11:02 AM We have resumed our in-person Traditional worship service at 11:00 AM. We continue having and streaming the 9:00 AM Traditional & 11:02 AM Contemporary services live on our webpage fpcsanantonio.org/ media. A recorded version of these two services will be available online immediately following the close of service.

9:00 AM - Traditional Service 9:45 AM - 12:00 PM - Fellowship in McCullough Room & Courtyard 10:00 AM - Sunday School hour 11:00 AM - Traditional Service (not recorded) 11:02 AM - Contemporary Service

Sunday Classes Adult Sunday Class Information fpcsanantonio.org/adult-sundayclasses Youth Sunday Class Information fpcsanantonio.org/youth-sundays Children's Sunday School Information Children’s Ministry is offering oncampus options for Nursery – 5th Grade.

Fathers & Sons as well as families are invited to serve with the YPM through a construction project and sports ministry from July 20-26, 2021.

The cost is $300 plus airfare (per person). The registration deadline is June 17 with a $150 deposit.

Register online at fpcsanantonio. org/ypmtrips2021. Contact Downie Mickler for more information at downie@ankoledesigns.com.

Virtual Prayer Room Wednesdays | June 2 & July 7 11:00 AM | Zoom Meets Monthly on the first Wednesday of the month to pray together for our city and each other. Visit fpcsanantonio.org/virtual-prayerroom to sign up for the Zoom meeting details and to join the email list.

Love Reboot Marriage Weekend Friday - Sunday | June 4-6 Embassy Suites Airport 10110 US Hwy 281 N Whether your marriage could just use a good boost or needs a complete do over, Love Reboot is proven to be the most effective tool you can find.

Marriage is not easy...get the help and support you need now! To register and for more information visit www. growinglovenetwork.org/love-reboot.

Contact Bobby Mickler 210-284-1496 or Downie Mickler 210-284-1497.

Scholarships are available through FPC.

Summer Children's Church begins June 6 from 10:00 - 11:00 AM for 1st - 5th Grades in the Assembly Room with Ms. Rozlyn. fpcsanantonio.org/children-sundays FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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Come enjoy a time of fellowship and food to kick off the summer of 2021!

This event is for university students and young adults of all stages single, married, or young families!

Bring your friends, your kids, your significant other, or just yourself!

This event will be held off campus at the Ray's farm. Contact Mitchell Moore, mitchellm@fpcsat.org, or Carrie Everson, carriee@fpcsat.org, for more information.

Global Leadership Summit Thursday - Friday | August 5-6 First Presbyterian You have influence, and your leadership matters! On Thursday - Friday, August 5-6, 2021 join a worldwide audience of curious, growth-minded, change-driven men and women like you for the premier leadership event of 2021—The Global Leadership Summit. See pages 16-17 for additional information.

Prayer Training Opportunity Thursday, June 8 | 6:00 - 9:00 PM Room 224 Connect with God through prayer.

Compliments of the Prayer Ministry Committee, learn to pray with and for others effectively with Cayce Harris, Director of ONE Ministries at a training opportunity. Register by emailing Lisa Snow at lisas@fpcsat. org. Contact Downie Mickler for more info at downie@ankoledesigns. com. Visit fpcsanantonio.org/prayerministry for a full calendar of prayer events.

SAVE THE DATE

NEW Online Session of GriefShare Wednesdays | 6:30 PM | June 2 August 25 GriefShare is a 13 week video based grief support group. We are offering this online support group Wednesday evenings beginning June 2. Although the series focuses on personal loss of a loved one, it can be very helpful to friends or family coming alongside those who have experienced loss.

We all have and will experience loss: GriefShare can speak into our lives.

Everyone is welcome to participate in GriefShare. For more information connect with Joe Moore joem@fpcsat. org or go to GriefShare.org.

Summer Youth Fellowship Dates: Tuesdays, June 22, July 13, July 27, & Sunday, August 22 Times & Locations: TBD Ages: 8th - 12th Grades Contact: Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat.org, 210-777-2433 Be on the lookout for this fellowship opportunity this summer with our Student Ministry! We will be meeting for a meal and having a socially distanced outdoor gathering with fun fellowship on various Tuesday evenings each month. Check our Instagram, contact Alex for more information or visit fpcsanantonio. org/youth-events.

Red, White and Blue Day in Children’s Ministry

Literature Circle Summer Reading List fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle Join the FPC Literature Circle in the fall on Tuesdays at 1:30 PM in Westminster Hall. The list of new book selections for your summer reading is also available at fpcsanantonio.org/ lit-circle.

September 14 - Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell, Reviewed by Martha Smith October 12 - Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson, Reviewed by Rev. Mitchell Moore November 9 - But He Doesn’t Know the Territory by Meredith Wilson, Reviewed by Bill Hensley December 14 - The Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie Benedict, Reviewed

by Martha Smith January 11 - The Resurrection of Fulgencio Ramirez by Rudy Ruiz, Reviewed by Rudy Ruiz February 8 - A Stranger Among Saints

by Jonathan Mack, Reviewed by Hank Cherry March 8 - Princess by Jean Sasson, Reviewed by Jane Hanson April 12 - Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan, Reviewed by Rev. Mark Doty, Phd. May 10 - The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline, Reviewed by Ann Smith

Date: Sunday, July 4

Kick-Off Sunday

Show your spirit as we celebrate the Fourth of July at FPC! Wear red, white and blue and come ready to celebrate!

Date: Sunday, August 22 Save the date for this fun Sunday where we come back to Kick-Off the Fall semester at FPC.

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Children’s City Scavenger Hunt Thursday, July 15 | 9:00AM 11:00AM Contact: Rozlyn Miller Cline, rozlynm@fpcsat.org Join other FPC families as we head out on a scavenger hunt exploring our great city of San Antonio! Don’t miss this amazing time of fun and fellowship.

RESET Gathering Young Adult Community Dates: Mondays, June 28, July 26, & August 23 Time: 7:00-8:15 PM Location: Student Center Contact: Rev. Mitchell Moore, mitchellm@fpcsat.org Join other Young Adults for a time of worship, Biblical teaching, fellowship, and prayer. The RESET Gathering is a chance for us to reset our hearts, minds, and lives on knowing Jesus personally, following Jesus wholly, worshipping Jesus corporately, and serving Jesus globally. Please come check it out and visit fpcsanantonio. org/reset for more information and to sign up for a small group.

Sanctuary Choir Rehearsals Resume Time: 7:00pm Dates: Select rehearsals in June, no rehearsals in July Contact: Tom Dooling, tomd@fpcsat.org Join us as we seek to glorify God through our Sanctuary Choir this summer. Our regular weekly rehearsals will resume in mid-August.

SAVE THE DATE

KRL Summer Support Thank you for your support of The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) at FPC. Help fill the food and clothing pantries with necessities for our under-resourced neighbors in their journey to becoming self-sufficient. Please donate summer weather clothes, as we do not have storage for off-season clothing.

CURRENT NEEDS: • Men’s and/or Women's underwear (must be new)

Vacation Bible School Dates: Monday - Friday, June 21-25

Vacation Bible School will be offered both in-person and virtually this year. We’ll have Bible stories, music, games, crafts and snacks both in-person and online. Online VBS is done through videos and with the purchase of a VBS kit that will be available for pick up upon payment and registration.

Registration is $10 and open to children 4 years old to 5th grade. VBS shirts are separate and are $10 each.

Want to volunteer for VBS videos or prep? Kids' and volunteer registration now available at fpcsanantonio.org/vbs2021. Contact Rozlyn Miller Cline for additional information at rozlynm@fpcsat.org.

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Men's and/or Women's jeans/ casual pants

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Casual shoes (for both men and women)

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Reading glasses, wallets, and belts

Additional items can be donated by shopping the Amazon wish list at http:// tiny.cc/KRL-support (link is case sensitive), created by our partner, SA Hope Center. All of the items that you purchase are shipped directly to the KRL. If you are interested in volunteering for our KRL ministries, contact Lindsay at lindsays@fpcsat.org.

Job & Volunteer Opportunities Sunday Audio/Visual Tech Volunteers Needed

Do you enjoy audio/video production or tech gadgets?

Are you good with computers? We could use your help on Sunday mornings to support those worshiping the Lord, both in-person and online. Volunteers are welcome for all services. Please contact Ross Brown at rossb@fpcsat.org if you are interested and able to help.

Welcome Team Needs You!

The Welcome Team is in need of Greeters for in-person and online worship services. We also need Ushers to serve in our on-campus Worship Services. Help us extend FPC's greatest hospitality to those God sends through our doors. Please contact Wendy Garcia at wendyg@fpcsat.org to sign up.

Hiring Assistant Director to Youth & their Families First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio is accepting applications for an Assistant Director to Youth and their Families. Potential candidates should have a heart for family ministry and a desire to work with a team to see students grow in their walk with Christ. Resumes can be sent to Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat.org, and visit the church website at fpcsanantonio.org/jobs for more information.

FPC Children's Center Hiring Teachers & Subs The FPC Children's Center is currently hiring one full-time lead teacher, two afternoon teachers, and subsititutes. Contact Midea Marez Leija at 210-2712788.

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Mental Health Support for FPC STCH Ministry Provides Mental Health Support to FPC Community

REV. A. MITCHELL MOORE

Associate Pastor for Young Adults and Missions

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personally struggled with mental health during the last year and I know I was not the only one who sought professional help. During the pandemic, I personally referred dozens of people and couples to professionals for help with anxiety, addiction, depression, suicidal thoughts, and trauma related mental health battles.

With a marked increase of people requesting help for mental health, I am excited to announce increased access to counseling as a resource for our FPC family and community.

FPC is partnering with South Texas Children’s Home (STCH) ministries to offer “pay as you are able” counseling

to our congregation and community. Elizabeth Henry is a STCH counselor now on the FPC campus one day a week. Our FPC family is also able to utilize other counselors within the STCH network virtually throughout the week. Anyone can set up an appointment by email at Ehenry@stchm.org, OR call 210-339-7576.

STCH ministries is a nonprofit that has been caring for children and families in South Texas since 1952. We are excited our FPC mental health team has brought their expertise to our FPC family and hope you will take This tremendous mental advantage of the counseling health resource for our FPC they offer. family is a result of the hard To make an appointment: work of our FPC Mental email Ehenry@stchm.org OR Health team. Through the FPC Redeeming the Crisis call 210-339-7576.

Task Force, God raised up a Questions about the mental health team to serve FPC mental health team: the mental health of our FPC family. God’s timing and jennborges@hotmail.com provision are amazing!

Jenn Borges and her team of FPC Covenant Partners has launched our mental health ministry with enthusiasm and effectiveness. The team has participated in training through Bridges to Care, developed a referral list, connected us with a mental health hotline, and hosted two trainings.

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Additional mental health resources online at fpcsanantonio.org/ mental-hope

LOVING THE WORLD

Biblicus México Scholarship Program

MISSION SOUTH For the mutual encouragement of those serving Christ together in Mexico and South Texas.

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Presbyterian Seminary of Sureste in Villahermona, Tabasco, Mexico

s our church celebrates its 175 years of ministry, we will have opportunities to learn more about the connections that were established in the 19th and 20th centuries, with our brothers and sisters in Christ of Hispanic descent on both sides of the Rio Grande. Many Presbyterian churches in south Texas were planted by the National Presbyterian Church of Mexico. In recent months, we have been getting to know these ministry partners through the efforts of Mission South, a ‘champion team’ of the Global Missions Committee. Serving together in this endeavor are: Covenant Partners Rick Lane, Cassie McMillan, Candy Wagner, Cynthia Robinson, Jeannie Dullnig, Jacob Gray, and Kathy Scruggs; FPC Missionaries Chris McReynolds and Antonio Álvarez; and Staff members Sr. Pastor Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller, Lindsay Selli, and Rev. Dr. Ron Scates (former Sr. Pastor).

Mission South founded a project, “Biblicus México,” to strengthen the Presbyterian Church of Mexico and South Texas through prayer, networking, and scholarships. Currently we have held bilingual zoom meetings for prayer, church revitalization, education, mentoring workshops and scholarship applicant interviews, and for the mutual encouragement of those serving Christ together in Mexico and South Texas. Many of those we are connecting with are teaching the AMO program (chrysalisinternational.org).

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So far, we have awarded scholarships to four outstanding young people. Aarón Noh is a husband and father studying in his third year at the San Pablo Presbyterian Seminary of Mérida, Yucatán. His wife is Mayan and speaks Cholul, as well as Spanish. Toribio Reyes is single and has a degree in industrial food. He is in his third year at the Presbyterian Seminary of Sureste in Villahermosa, Tabasco.

Isela Oramas is in her third year at the same seminary in Tabasco.

She has a degree in radio production. After seminary, she hopes to share the gospel and extend the kingdom of God through podcasts or a Presbyterian radio station. Our fourth student, Raquel Cahuich, is a graduate of the Presbyterian Pan American School in Kingsville.

Raquel’s sister is deaf, and God has called her to seek a master’s degree in Special Education in order to minister to families with children of special needs. Each of our students has a mentor and a prayer partner who have monthly communications with them. Each is part of a Christian community, is supported by their Presbyterian churches, and is learning to make disciples for Jesus.

Watch the videos from our scholarship recipients at fpcsanantonio.org/missionsouth

Raquel Cahuich is a graduate of the Pan American School and has been accepted to an online graduate program at Calvin University. Raquel feels deeply called to family ministry of special needs children and to be a teacher in the AMO program.

The scholarship she is receiving will allow her to pursue her unique calling from the Lord.

Aarón Noh is a husband and father of five year old Raquel. Aarón studies at San Pablo Presbyterian Seminary in Mérida. He is now in his fourth semester, out of six. He is discipling a small group of neighborhood men and working in a church. His wife speaks Mayan. We are in need of an FPC Prayer partner for Aarón! Please contact Kathy Scruggs (kathyscruggs@me.com) for more information about the Scholarship Program, or to connect with a student as a prayer partner.

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Torobio Reyes lives in Tabasco with his widowed mother and seven other family members. He is in his fourth semester at the Sureste Presbyterian Seminary. He has a heart for discipling youth and is currently teaching a communicants class.

Our hope is that this fall, during Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15), we will bring some of these friends to share during our Sunday Schools and worship. You will be blessed to meet them! Please pray for these ministry partners. They are all precious brothers and sisters in the Lord and inspire us to live with joy and humility.

by Kathy Scruggs

History: The Texas Reformation

by David B. West Part 2: The Revolutionary Period.

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hen Moses Austin obtained his land grant from the Spanish Crown in 1820, he agreed that the American colonists would be loyal to Spain, adhere to the Roman Catholic faith and prohibit slavery. Austin never saw his colony come into fruition, however. On the long trip back to Missouri, a fellow traveler stole his horse and supplies, leaving him alone in a wilderness in winter.

This was essentially a death sentence at that time. Despite catching pneumonia and nearly starving, Austin got back to Missouri, but died shortly thereafter. On his deathbed, he asked his son, Stephen, to assume the land grant.

not immune from the war. Most of the clergy and all of the Spanish military left San Antonio, and the Spanish missions were abandoned.

In 1821, however, Mexico declared its independence from Spain. The revolution lasted three years, causing enormous damage to the economy of Mexico. The Spanishsupported military and clergy left the country, as did the Spanish elite, who took their wealth with them. Texas was

There is little evidence of American colonists’ interest in religion. As Col. John Hawkins stated, “I can be as good a Christian there (Texas) as I can here (Missouri). It is only a name anyhow.” Austin requested that authorities send a priest to his colony to christen children, legalize marriage contracts and perform various other services expected in a Catholic country. He was put off with promises and excuses, however.

Mexico provided a military garrison in San Antonio and continued the land grant system as a means of colonizing Texas. It approved Stephen F. Austin’s request to honor his father’s land grant, in hopes the colony would provide a barrier against the Comanche. When Austin was made the empresario, he agreed to the same terms his father had accepted from Spain: loyalty to Mexico, prohibition against slavery, and adherence to the Roman Catholic faith.

"The Fall of the Alamo" (1903) by Robert Jenkins Onderdonk, depicts Davy Crockett wielding his rifle as a club against Mexican troops in the Battle of the Alamo in Texas in 1836.

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In 1827, Sumner Bacon, a Cumberland Presbyterian evangelist, wrote to Austin offering to preach the Protestant faith in Texas. Austin, however, saw no place for trouble-making Protestant preachers. He believed that if his people remained quiet, there would be “free toleration for all religions.” When Bacon later came to

175th Anniversary San Antonio to preach, the Mexican authorities arrested him and escorted him to the border.

Once the American migration started to the Austin colony, Mexico could not control the growth. Illegal immigration flooded areas outside the colony. This alarmed the Mexican government which, in 1830, passed the Law of April 6. The law closed the border, established the collection of taxes, directed construction of military outposts in east Texas, and reinforced restrictions against slavery in the colonies. Tensions between the Mexican government and colonists grew. In 1835, Texas had a census population of 21,000 people. Of these, 17,000 were of AngloSaxon descent.

With the new immigrants came several Protestant preachers. In 1833, Henry Wilson became the first ordained Presbyterian minister to come to Texas.

In 1833, The Rev. Benjamin Chase, sponsored by the Synod of Missouri, visited Texas as an agent of the American Bible Society. The sale or distribution of Bibles had been illegal in Spain, France and now Mexico. Men who sold or distributed Bibles were called “colporteurs” and could be arrested. In 1834, the American Bible Society made a grant of Spanish Bibles. 1835, Chase met Bacon and commissioned him as the American Bible Society’s first regular agent. Bibles and testaments were distributed to residents in both Spanish and English.

The year 1836 brought Spain’s recognition of Mexico’s independence.

It also brought revolution in Texas. On March 2, 1836, a group of delegates met at Washington on the Brazos and declared Texas’ independence from Mexico. The government of Mexico quickly sent an army to protect its northern territory. Bacon offered his services to General Sam Houston and served as a combination chaplain and courier, carrying dispatches to the Alamo, Goliad, Victoria and other points.

Whenever Bacon left on a mission, Houston reportedly would gently chide him with the words: “Now, Brother Bacon, long rides and short prayers!”

Small militias, consisting mostly of volunteers, took up positions at forts in Goliad and San Antonio and were massacred by Santa Anna’s army.

Prior to this event, there had been little public support in the U.S. for the Texas revolutionary effort. The brutality of the massacres, however, turned public opinion in favor of Texas independence.

Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna at the battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836.

Despite this fact, the United States did not recognize Texas’ independence. The issue: slavery.

Sumner Bacon Picture courtesy of Trinity University, San Antonio.

Next: Texas Independence & the Texas Reformation.

This is a multi-part series written in connection with the 175th anniversary of First Presbyterian Church. Special thanks to Rick Lane for his knowledge and contributions on this important history.

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NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER 2021

“… The Lord was moved by prayer for the land …”

- 2 Samuel 24:24, NASB

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he National Day of Prayer, May 6, 2021, was the perfect backdrop for our Prayer Walk beginning at First Presbyterian Church. A rousting and winsome welcome by the Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller reminded the crowd of about 50 people that our prayers are not a last resort, but our best “go-to” in all times, whether in great need or in great joy. Bob Fuller opened the day with: “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” James 5:16, and discussed the righteousness of God that was given to us by the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Just one year ago, we experienced a world-wide pandemic and more recently a devastating freeze, that brought the people of God to their knees. This National Day of Prayer was an opportunity for people of all ages and races to turn their hearts to the Lord in humble repentance and fervent prayer.

Eva Eckburg stated, “As we gaze upon this beautiful building that is the First Presbyterian Church, it represents 175 years of obedient worship to our Lord. Today, we can’t help but reflect upon what has FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 12

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happened in this past year and are reminded it is His people who God calls to repentance as we are the light that shines in the darkness.

Billy Graham once stated, “The Bible commands it, our wickedness demands it, justice requires it, Christ preached it and God expects it.

The divine, unalterable edict is still valid: God commands all people everywhere to REPENT.” Bobby Mickler and Marianne Ryan added prayers that tugged at our hearts.

Rozlyn Miller, Director of Children’s Ministry enlisted our own William Kridel who read: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” Psalm 33:12 & II Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear, from heaven and forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Rozlyn’s daughter Maggie, representing all the FPC teens, led a unison prayer to begin our walk.

William Kridel representing all the children at FPC, led the walkers to Travis Park where the Reverend Ann Fraser from St. Mark’s Episcopal Church nourished our time with prayers from the Book of Common Prayer. Rick Lane, Kathy Biedenharn, and onlookers from Travis Park participated in the prayers and responsive readings. The Reverends Eric Vogt and Gavin Rogers followed in a powerful spirit of unity and prayer. Gavin told the crowd a story from 175 years ago: Presbyterian Pastor, John McCullough and Methodist Preacher Wesley DeVilbiss

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went from place to place in San Antonio and surrounding towns, to preach Jesus and his Gospel to what was then a sin-filled part of the world. They both settled in San Antonio and became the first pastors of First Presbyterian church and what would become Travis Park Methodist church, initially meeting together in the building known as created us. We asked that our eyes “Old Adobe” 175 years ago. be opened and that we may see God provided so many blessings along the walk: The cool, crisp breezes others through our Heavenly and portions of shade as we walked to the Park, the built-in walls at Father’s eyes. Lastly, we prayed Travis Park were perfect seating for all of us and reminded us of those for our military, first responders, police, firefighters and medical without homes who often slept on these walls/benches. personnel in harm’s way. Then, we Prayers were lifted for the leaders of our nation, the city of San headed for the citywide program, Antonio, the court systems, state legislatures and municipalities. our last stop. Shuttle drivers Prayers were offered for our religious freedom, and for compassion Becky Prichard, Lindsay Selli and and reconciliation among God’s people as it is He who uniquely Alex Clary took folks to and from all the prayer places. Eva and Jim Eckburg kept everyone cool and satisfied with ice chests full of cool water, juices and snacks.

Walking up Soledad street to Main Plaza awoke our senses with the joyous music and excitement.

No one was a stranger, all were brothers and sisters in Christ.

Students, teachers, young, old, business men, legislators, the Mayor and the homeless took part in honoring and humbling ourselves before God. Unified in a mighty way, our group joined hundreds in Main Plaza. We were surprised to find FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 14

that 30 chairs were set up in the shady areas designated for those from the FPC Prayer Walk. Suzanne Dollar, the event coordinator for many years, acknowledged publicly that our prayer walk was a first for the National Day of Prayer in SA and hoped we will do it again.

It is our sincere hope that we can take the Spirit from that day and remember how much we benefit from prayer time with other believers. Of course, we have differences in many parts of our doctrine, but we can come together on all we share in common, to praise God the Father, Christ, the only son of God, crucified, dead, buried and resurrected on the third day, and the pouring out of God’s Holy Spirit for all believers.

For video of the program at Main Plaza, see this link:

fpcsanantonio.org/prayer-videos

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FPC to Host GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT in August FPC is a host site for the next Global Leadership Summit (GLS), to be held August 5-6. GLS is a yearly world-class, two-day leadership empowerment conference hosted at hundreds of locations in North America and around the world, which join together to broadcast this live event featuring world renowned faculty members who deliver a unique blend of vision, inspiration, and practical leadership skills.

The Summit is open to individuals, churches, schools and businesses who seek to renew and refresh their perspectives.

FPC offers the following for those who join us for the Summit: • Free event parking • Designated private tables (for 8 or 10 registered members) in the venue to encourage follow-up conversations within your group between keynote addresses.

• Opportunity for a private break-out room for your team to continue your conversations and teambuilding over lunch.

• Food Trucks on site for easy lunch options with on-site courtyard seating or a brief walk to the many downtown restaurants.

To learn more about the Summit and to register for the event, go to GlobalLeadership. org/Summit. To secure your spot at FPC be sure to select FPC San Antonio as your site of choice. If you are registering a team and would like to be seated together and/or to reserve a breakout room, contact Wendy Garcia at wendyg@fpcsat.org once your online registration is complete. Event tables and breakout rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

SPECIAL COVENANT PARTNER PRICING As a Covenant Partner or attender of First Presbyterian Church, we welcome you to use the exclusive discount code 21HSFAMILY by July 13, 2021 to get your tickets for only $99 and $129 thereafter!

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LOVING ONE ANOTHER

WOMEN OF THE CHURCH

A TIME FOR EVERYTHING BESTY ZACHRY

President, Women of the Church

M

y final entry as President of Women of the Church. What an amazing year for so many good and challenging reasons. I have met some truly exceptional women this year that I have only known from afar. I have seen and experienced firsthand the best in human care and support. It inspires me to be better and to seek God’s will in a more prayerful manner.

To love more deeply and unconditionally. The women I have been surrounded by this year have shown me such grace.

Since the beginning of May, God has repeated the verses to me from ‘A Time for Everything’ in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; and it is so true, a time must end and yet a brand-new beginning starts filled with hope. We just celebrated the installation of a wonderful group of committed Christian women, who love and serve God and their sisters in Christ. I look forward to the new year with Janet Wernli and her Council members.

They, together, by the Lord’s leading, will do great things.

I want to thank the WOC 2020 – 2021 Council members who accepted their jobs and managed them efficiently or took my request to revamp

an event and create a new ‘normal’ version in its place. We managed to do a great deal this year and found great joy in doing them!

Still, there are things that I hope will come to fruition in the year ahead … I pray that individuals will join existing Circles or groups of women will consider starting a Circle. Women of the Church depend on their members to support the work of the Church. When God is involved in the planning and creation of an entity that honors and serves Him—He miraculously expands your time—I have seen it time and again this year.

Think of the example of the jar filled with walnuts (Prayer, Study, Service, Time Spent with God) and plain old M&M’s (exercise, errands, cleaning house, working, luncheons, meetings, etc). When you place all the everyday “to-dos” (M&M) in the jar first—there is little time for God. But when you place the walnuts (God-time) in first, the M&M’s just naturally filter down and it all fits perfectly! Let God expand your time as only He can!

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In closing, thank you Women of the Church for the gift of this year. The grace shown to me has been extraordinary. This has truly been the best “job” I’ve ever said “yes” to!

May God Bless You Richly, Betsy

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LOVING THE CITY

Loving LovingOur Our Teachers Teachers MProject Project ay was a busy month! We learned about Bibliotech, the digital library of Bexar County, and they will be scheduling a future tutoring session to help us get connected. The Cox Family presented a Memorial Day Concert, and we were introduced to the history of the Urrutia family in San Antonio. There was an outreach opportunity as we assembled “Snack hanks to the generosity of our FPC Family and our ministry Bags” for SA Heals, to be distributed partnership with School Connect, we were able to serve to students to carry them through the the teachers and staff of three schools in San Antonio with weekend. boxes!

Boxes provided by School Connect were June begins our 140 shiftcare to the summer filled with snacks, programming schedule. Bridge, Mahschool supplies, handwritten notes of encouragement Jongg, and Birthday Lunches will and con-other items provided by FPC members.

Boxes were delivered to Washington tinue. We are also planning a few spe- Elementary, IDEA Ewing Halsell and own and FPCservice Children’s Center. The schools were very appreciative of cialour outings opportunities. the support shown during this extremely arduous year. Please continue As the KEYS Leadership Committee to pray for teachers, administrators works hard over the summer to plan and school boards as they evaluate, make decisionsevents and educate the next generation. Also pray for students as future speakers, and Birthday they work to grasp the concepts lunches, we welcome your input and to information they need to learn under difficult conditions. help us bring a variety of programs that are helpful and informative.

BRIDGE AND MAH JONGG Bridge and Mah Jongg players will continue on the second and fourth Fridays of the month, however, for the summer, game time will be from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Bring a lunch and join in on the fun!! New players are welcome and someone will help you learn the game. If you have other games that we could play, then let us know and we will see that you have a place to play.

School Connect Serves & Encourages Local Teachers & Staff

T

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LOVING ONE ANOTHER

KEEPING EVERYONE YOUNG IN SPIRIT REV. DR. JOE MOORE Minister for older adults and congregational care.

W

e are excited for our first in person event in over a year. On June 18th KEYS will host a Fiesta Reception for King Antonio. We will meet in the Courtyard at 10:30 AM for Maurilio’s Fiesta munchies as well as a frozen treat from the margarita machine.

King Antonio and his court will arrive at 11:00 AM and spend a few minutes with us. We have missed this event for two years and are excited to have it back. At least for now all KEYS events are MaskRequired, so my suggestion is that you decorate your best Fiesta mask for the day. On June 11th we will hear from Jenn Borges. Jenn is a Covenant Partner and is the Lead for our Mental Health Team. She will be sharing what FPC has been doing to be better equipped to serve our congregation's mental health needs.

June 4th and 25th are still in the works, waiting for confirmation.

If you need help with Zoom feel free to contact me @ 802-734-2329 or joem@fpcsat.org.

Join the Email Mailing List Receive a weekly email update on who is speaking and a link to connect directly to Zoom by sending me, Joe Moore ( joem@fpcsat.org), your email address to be added to our list.

AARP Safe Driving Class If your AARP Safe Driving Class insurance discount is expiring, you can take the class online at www. aarpdriversafety.org.

Friday Fitness with Jacqi Crow Jacqueline Crow conducts a Zoom fitness program for us Fridays at 9:30 AM. We received her contact information through Morningside Manor and have enjoyed her teaching.

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6199532743?pwd=aHRoa WNZdWtpMXJFa3dHSWVCYkl1UT09 Meeting ID: 619 953 2743 Passcode: Strength

If you have recommendations for KEYS speakers please don’t hesitate to email joem@fpcsat.org, text or call 802-734-2329.

We meet on Fridays at 11:00 AM Zoom meeting ID 570 618 8075 Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5706188075 No Password Necessary.

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LOVING CHRIST

FIRST CUP READINGS JUNE, 2021

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.

Blessings and love in Christ, Sandy Sturch

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 2 3 4 5 6

Luke 11:29-32; Jonah 1; Psalm 89:9; 107:29 Jonah 2; Jeremiah 10:1-16; Psalm 88 Jonah 3; Jeremiah 18:1-11; Isaiah 29:16; Romans 9:19-26 Jonah 4; Joel 2:12-14; Psalm 72 Jeremiah 1:1-10; 5:14; Exodus 4:10-12; Isaiah 51:12-16; Mark 10:17-20; John 12:47-50 Jeremiah 1:11-19; Micah 4:1-7; Romans 2:5-16; John 4:27-42; Matthew 9:35-38

If my people’s hearts are humbled, if they pray and seek my face; if they turn away from evil, I will not withhold my grace. I will hear their prayers from heaven; I will pardon every sin. If my people’s hearts are humbled, I will surely heal their land. Then my eyes will see their sorrow, then my ears will hear their plea. If my people’s hearts are humbled, I will set their nation free. (Australian Hymn, No. 278) 7

Jeremiah 2:1-13; 2 Kings 17:1-23; Isaiah 44:6-23; Romans 1:18-22; Psalm 51:1-17 8 Jeremiah 3:6-25; Psalm 16; Colossians 1:9-23; Romans 1:28-2:16; 1 Peter 1:3-9 9 Jeremiah 4; Amos 5; Malachi 4:1-6 10 Genesis 6:1-8; Genesis 18:16-33; Jeremiah 5:1-19; 1 Peter 3:8-22 11 Jeremiah 5:20-31; Isaiah 59:1-15; Ecclesiastes 7:2729; Psalm 94; Hebrews 10:26-31 12 Jeremiah 6; Deuteronomy 32:1-47; Isaiah 42:18-25; 2 Timothy 4:1-5 13 1 Kings 9:1-9; Jeremiah 7:1-20; Ezekiel 18:29-32; Romans 7:1-8:4

O God, our Help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Our Shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal Home: Under the shadow of Thy throne, still may we dwell secure; Sufficient is Thine arm alone and our defense is sure. Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame, From everlasting Thou art God, To endless years the same. O God, our Help in ages past, our hope for years to come, Be Thou our Guide while life shall last, And our eternal Home. (Worship in Song, No. 14) 14 15

Jeremiah 7:21-8:3; 2 Kings 21:1-15; 2 Kings 23:1-25; I Corinthians 3:16-17 Jeremiah 8:4-9:6; Isaiah1:1-20; Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:12-17; Matthew 7:15-20

16 17 18 19 20

Jeremiah 10:1-16; Isaiah 40:21-31; John 1:1-14; Colossians 1:15-23 Deuteronomy 29-30; Jeremiah 11:1-17 Exodus 20:1-21; Deuteronomy 12-13; Jeremiah 13 Jeremiah 14; 17:1-10; Deuteronomy 28:15-24; Ezekiel 34:20-31 Jeremiah 16:10-21; 1 Kings 9:6-9; Psalm 106:40-45: Psalm 107

Before the Lord we bow, the God who reigns above, And rules the world below, boundless in power and love. Our thanks we bring in joy and praise, our hearts we raise to heaven’s high king.

Earth, hear thy Maker’s voice, thy great Redeemer own. Believe, obey, rejoice, and worship Him alone. Cast down thy pride, thy sin deplore, and bow before the Crucified. (Lutheran Worship, No. 500) 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Jeremiah 17:19-27; Exodus 20:2-17; Isaiah 56; Matthew 12:1-14; Hebrews 4:1-13 Jeremiah 18:1-11; Isaiah 29:13-16; 64:8-12; Romans 9:14-21 Jeremiah 22:13-23; Jeremiah 33:14-16; Zechariah 9:9-17; Matthew 7:15-25 Jeremiah 23:1-8; Isaiah 53:1-7; Acts 7:51-53; Psalm 43 Jeremiah 23:9-15; Micah 2:6-11; Ezekiel 13; 1 John 4:1-6; 2 Peter 2:1-3 Jeremiah 23:16-40; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; 2 Peter 2; James 3:1 Jeremiah 24; Romans 9; James 2:14-26

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Thou art the Potter; I am the clay. Mold me and make me After Thy will, While I am waiting, Yielded and still. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Search me and try me, Master, today. Whiter than snow, Lord, Wash me just now, As in Thy presence Humbly I bow. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own Way! Fill with Thy Spirit Till all shall see Christ only, always Living in me! (The Hymnbook, No. 302) 28 29 30

Jeremiah 25:1-14; Psalm 28; 94 Jeremiah 25:15-38; Psalm 44; 71 Jeremiah 29:1-14; Romans 10

LOVING CHRIST

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

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God’s Answer

L O V I N G ONE ANOTH E R

N EW CO V ENA NT PA RTNER S

1846 - 2021

Kathy Biedenharn

Kathy joins by Reaffirmation of Faith. Kathy is related to Abraham Lincoln on her mother’s side. She is looking forward to reconnecting with FPC where she was a member from 1985-1995.

John and Melanie Chaney

John and Melanie both join by Reaffirmation of Faith. John and Melanie are owners of Baird Foundation Repair. Their son, daughter, and son-in-law also belong to FPC. They are looking forward to fellowship, getting involved, and being a part of a community of believers.

David and Stephanie Borges

David and Stephanie both join by Reaffirmation of Faith.

David is VP of Sales with Polymer 80 and Stephanie is a Business Analyst with Fortis Solutions Group.

David is looking forward to assisting with the elderly and Stephanie is looking forward to continuing in the fellowship of FPC and continuing to grow towards sharing with truths and being a good steward.

Travis and Jade Owens

Travis and Jade Owens join

by Reaffirmation of Faith.

Travis is a Transportation Engineer with TxDot and Jade is Director of Operations with Baird Foundation Repair. They have three children under 3. Travis is looking forward to a church community and raising their children in the church, and Jade is look forward to getting involved and having a church community.

LOVING ONE ANOTHER. LOVING THE CITY. 404 N Alamo Street San Antonio, Texas 78205

Richard and Molly Ellwood

Richard and Molly join

by Reaffirmation of Faith.

Richard is President/Partner with Plaza Fiesta and Molly is in Sales with Penny Lane.

They have four children. As a member, Richard is looking forward to getting involved and serve in missions and to help people know Jesus and grow in a community of believers. Molly is looking forward to fellowship, serving, being a part of this church body, community, and grow in her own faith.

LOVING CHRIST.

Ross and Mary Stanley

Ross and Mary join by Reaffirmation of Faith. Ross is a Dentist (Oral Surgery Resident) with the US Military and Mary is a stay at home mom raising their three children. Mary is looking forward to making friends and having a church family and Ross is looking to grow in his relationship with God and realizing his full potential and his purpose.

210-226-0215 fpcsanantonio.org

@fpcsanantonio

CONNECT WITH US! Elizabeth (Betsy) Kernahan

Elizabeth joins by Reaffirmation of Faith. She is a retired teacher. She taught school in an oilfield camp in Libya from 1977-1978.

Elizabeth is looking forward to serving others, ringing handbells (again), and join a Sunday School class.

Pamela Young

Kleber Denny

Kleber joins by Reaffirmation of Faith. He is retired and enjoys quail hunting.

Pamela joins by Reaffirmation of Faith. She is self employed with Priority Builders, Inc. Pamela is looking forward to sharing her gifts of faith, admin, teaching, and serving as a prayer minister.

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www.fpcsanantonio.org/ comm-connect