Connect@First Newsletter

Feature 


Mending.png

Sunday Worship

August 31, 2025

8:30am in the Sanctuary

10:45am in the Worship & Arts Center

11:00am in the Sanctuary

WATCH LIVE

Sermon 

Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons
Sermon Series: ““Sustaining Faith”
Scripture: Genesis 13:1-15

Sunday Education

8:30am Nursery
9:30am No Children’s Sunday School
9:45am No Student Life Groups

9:45am Adult Life Groups
10:30am Kids Church

Sunday Life Groups

Member News

BAPTISMS • August 24, 2025

Carolyn Mae Harvin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Harvin (Lauren)


SYMPATHY • The pastors and congregation extend sympathy to

Rev. and Mrs. Kenneth Hicks (Tina) in the death of her mohter, Ms. Frances Curtis, on August 22, 2025.who were married in the Sanctuary on August 16, 2025.


MEMORIALS & HONORS


CHURCH MEMORIAL FUND
In memory of Jerry Chapman by Lee and Bonnie Powell

MUSIC MINISTRY FUND
In memory of Claire Brittain by The Agape-Fellowship Life Group
In memory of Olive McCord by Dr. Alex Patrick

TRANSFORMING THE HEART OF THE CITY FUND
In memory of Richard Tapp by Dane and Stephanie Pierce

TURNER MEMORIAL FUND
In memory of Harold Gallivan by The Covenant Life Group

FPC FOUNDATION

In memory of Liza Bentley by Lisa Van Riper
In memory of Larry Freeman by Robert and Marion Austell
In memory of Fred Gilmer by Robert and Marion Austell
In memory of Dick Tapp by Louise and Diane Smith; R. Bates and Sarah Kennedy; FPC Prime Time Sunday Life Group


PRAYER LIST • Bold = New Italics = In Hospital

Bill Anthony, Nancy Adams, Sandra Banks, Keren Clay, Joyce Corley, Brantley Daniel, Debbie Davidson, Peggy Denny, Bud Fant, Liz Fuqua, Martha Gallivan, Larry Goodwin, Darst Guest, Danette Hanks, Richard Hanks, Anna Hewitt, Tina Hicks, Harry Hightower, Don Hobbs, Amy Hunter, Charlie Hutton, Stephanie Johnson, John Kylin, Mary Kylin, Tom Lide, Anne Lybrand, Paul McGahee, Mozelle Moore, Rachel Mullinax, Jim Nance, Martha Nance, Charles Nickles, Chloris Norman, Becky Powell, Carolyn Rice, Thom Robelot, Louise Robinson, Bill Rogers, Tom Seay, Clifford Selby, Rhody Taber, Lewis Tollison, John Volpe, Jocelyn Williams, Beryl Wickcliffe, Jan Zimmerman


PRAYER RESOURCES

Congregational Care: For emergencies, upcoming surgeries, or hospital information, call Don Feuerbach, 864.565.0928.
Prayer Appointments: To schedule a confidential appointment with our Healing Prayer Team Members, call 864.565.0960.
Prayer Requests: For general prayer requests, call 864.565.0970.
Healing Prayer Services: Every Tuesday at 6:30pm in Harper Chapel
For Pastoral emergencies, please call 864.235.0496.


militarym.jpg




Announcements

FAMILY NIGHT SUPPER SEPTEMBER 3

Join us on Wednesday, September 3, for a special Family Night Supper at 5:30pm in Fellowship Hall. Our pastors will be in attendance as we enjoy an evening of good food, warm fellowship, prayer, and a fun round of Bible trivia for all ages. Bring your family, invite a friend, and be encouraged as we grow together in faith and community! See the menu and meal prices under WEDNESDAYS.


CLOSINGS FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Sunday, August 31:
No Sunday School for children– There will be a nursery (8:15-9:30am) and Kids Church (10:30-12:10pm).
No Sunday Life Groups for Youth

Monday, September 1:

Church Office Closed


SIGN UP FOR COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES

Parents and students, please complete a college information form for your new or returning college student. Click here or find the forms in the literature racks around the church. Send your completed forms to Autumn Clark (aclark@firstpresgreenville.org). Thank you for your partnership in ministry to our college students during this significant period of their lives.


HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE TOUR

Are you interested in First Pres architecture, history, symbols, and true stories of real people from 1848 to the present? A guided tour of the church campus will be conducted on Thursday, September 11, 1:30–3:00pm. Meet in the reception area at the Washington Street entrance and wear comfortable shoes. RSVP to Linda Slash (lslash@firstpresgreenville.org).



OFFERING ENVELOPES

First Presbyterian has a number of ways for covenant partners to give in support of the ministry budget. These include placing cash or checks in the offering plates on Sunday, online giving, mailing or dropping off your gifts at the church office, gifts of stock, and gifts from foundations or retirement accounts. We happily provide personalized offering envelopes to those that request them, which means we pay for the printing and mailing of these each month. So if you have changed your method of giving and no longer use the envelopes, please contact Bobby Hoffman at 864.565.0962 or bhoffman@firstpresgreenville.org; he can take you off the envelope mailing list to reduce this cost.


LOOKING AHEAD

SEPTEMBER
5Mending a Heart Exhibit Opening Reception
11–History & Architecture Tour
12–Daddy Daughter Dance
13An Evening at the Piano with David Nevue
16–Radiance Kickoff
17–Above All Kickoff
19–DR Band Concert
21–Missions Sunday

OCTOBER
2: Fearfully & Wonderfully Made
3–5: Pursuit Men’s Retreat

For more events and details click here.


Discipleship

Discipleship, Claire Ripley
GROW@FIRST FALL SEASON

Get connected this year and grow in your faith! In our new Fall Grow@First schedule, you’ll find details on Sunday morning worship and classes, weekday studies, and music opportunities for all ages. Pick up a booklet from the literature racks or click here.


Grow@First, Richard Gibbons
PASTOR'S WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY: “THE SUPREMACY & SUFFICIENTY OF CHRIST”

On Wednesday, September 10, at 12:30pm and 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall, Dr. Gibbons will begin a new study series on the epistle of Colossians. Whether you’re new to the faith or have walked with Christ for years, this time in Colossians will encourage you to deepen your trust in Him and live with confidence in His supremacy. Come ready to grow in your understanding, connect with others, and be reminded of the unmatched glory of Jesus Christ.


Men’s Ministry, Charlie Buchanan
CHRISTIAN MEN’S FELLOWSHIP SUMMER SERIES:
“What Happens One Minute After I Die?”

Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) will continue to explore this important question on Thursdays, August 28, and September 11 and 18, at 12:00noon in the Formal Dining Room. All men who are retired or nearing retirement are welcome. No registration is required. Lunch reservations ($10) may be made by contacting Charlotte Joye at 864.565.0956. Come join us for fellowship, thoughtful discussion, and biblical insight on one of life’s greatest mysteries. Check FirstPresGreenville.org/Events to view the weekly discussion led by Rev. Bob H. Jones.


Men’s Ministry, Charlie Buchanan
PURSUIT 2025 MEN’S DISCIPLESHIP WEEKEND RESCHEDULED: OCTOBER 3–5

The Men’s Discipleship Weekend at Carolina Point YoungLife Camp has been rescheduled for October 3–5, following the spring wildfires at Table Rock. Registration is now open at 3GenMinistries.org. The weekend costs $275 and includes two nights of lodging, five meals, access to top-notch facilities, and a custom weekend journal. Use the code FPC75 for a $75 discount! Financial assistance is also available—contact Charlie Buchanan at 864.565.0937 or cbuchanan@firstpresgreenville.org. This weekend promises spiritual growth, hearty laughter, outdoor adventure, and meaningful connection. For more details, contact Michael Trotter at trottermichael1@gmail.com or Russell Guest at russellguest@charter.net. Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to grow deeper in your faith alongside other men.


Missions, Eric Swofford
MISSIONS WEEKEND—COMBINED SUNDAY LIFE GROUPS SEPTEMBER 21

All Sunday Life Groups are invited to gather for a special Missions Weekend session as we welcome Grant Haynes, founder of Global Frontier Missions in Clarkston, GA. Join us at 9:30am in Fellowship Hall as Grant shares how God is moving among the unreached in our own communities and how we can engage in reaching them. GFM exists to mobilize, train, and multiply disciples and churches to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the world’s least-reached people groups. For more details, contact Autumn Clark at aclark@firstpresgreenville.org.


Roots Student Ministry, Mason Simmons
“UNBOUND” ROOTS FALL RETREAT

Join Roots Student Ministry for our annual Fall Retreat at Look Up Lodge in Traveler’s Rest, SC! Open to both Jr. and Sr. High students, this weekend is designed to deepen friendships and faith through camp activities, worship, and teaching. This year’s guest speaker, Charlie Buchanan, will share on the theme “Unbound” from John 17:13–19. The retreat runs September 26–28, and spots fill quickly—so don’t wait! Registration opens August 28 at 6:00pm. Questions? Contact msimmons@firstpresgreenville.org or crockness@firstpresgreenville.org.


Women’s Ministry, Claire Ripley
RADIANCE WOMEN’S SMALL GROUPS

Women in their 20s to mid-30s are invited to join us each Wednesday for dinner and Bible Study in leaders’ homes throughout downtown Greenville. Small groups meet September 16–December 3, 6:30–8:00pm. Our study, Philippians: At His Feet Studies, begins with a special kickoff event (see announcement below). Register for a small group at FirstPresGreenville.org/Events. Contact Diana at dianaschmittorders@gmail.com for more information or details about being placed in a small group


Women’s Ministry, Claire Ripley
RADIANCE KICKOFF SEPTEMBER 16—FREE TICKETS

“Hope Heals” author, Katherine Wolf, brings her inspiring story of true faith and healing in a relatable way that women will not want to miss. Join us on Tuesday, September 16, 6:30pm, in the Worship & Arts Center. Tickets are required and available at FirstPresGreenville.org/Events..


Women’s Ministry, Claire Ripley
ABOVE ALL KICKOFF SEPTEMBER 17

Above All Ministries is excited to announce their kickoff with a “A Morning with Katherine Wolf” on Wednesday, September 17, in the Worship & Arts Center. Doors open at 9:30am and tickets are available at FirstPresGreenville.org/Events. Join us afterward for “LaCroix and Linger,” where we’ll continue the conversation and Katherine Wolf will hold a book-signing.


Worship & Music Ministry, Susan Messer
MUSIC MINISTRY FALL OFFERINGS

The Music Ministry invites preschoolers, children, students, and adults to participate in the Fall music offerings beginning Wednesday, September 10. Click here for details and times. Questions? Contact Susan Messer (smesser@firstpresgreenville.org) or Dustan Chevalier (dchevalier@firstpresgreenville.org).


Events

Children’s Ministry, Tina Jones
FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE

Join us Thursday, October 2, at 6:30pm in the Worship & Arts Center for an evening of food, fashion, fellowship, and fun as we celebrate our friends with special abilities! This year’s event features Tanner Smith—ClemsonLIFE graduate, Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum” Season 2 cast member, and passionate advocate for joy and inclusion. Purchase tickets and learn more at FirstPresGreenville.org/Events.


Fine Arts Ministry, Chelsea Fraser
OPENING RECEPTION FOR NEW ART EXHIBIT

Our next community exhibition, Mending a Heart: One Brushstroke at a Time, demonstrates “painting through tragedy, tears, illness, despair, regrets, fear, forgiveness, courage, survival, joy, hope, and healing. It is amazing how creative grief and love can be,” says artist Suzanne Accetta. The opening reception will take place on Friday, September 5, 6:00–8:00pm in the Sturgis Gathering area. All are welcome to come and see the exhibition and meet the artist! The exhibit will be located on the 1st and 2nd floors of the Galleries at First Pres.


Fine Arts Ministry, Chelsea Fraser
AN EVENING AT THE PIANO WITH DAVID NEVUE

Join pianist/composer David Nevue on Saturday, September 13, at 7:00pm for an inspiring evening of music and storytelling! Nevue is recognized internationally as a remarkable force in contemporary piano music. His musical portfolio consists of 17 albums, with his most recent, In the Soft Light of Grace, debuting at #1 on iTunes and Amazon in its genre and breaking into the Top 5 on the Billboard music charts. For this evening’s performance, David will play a selection of his most popular works, personal favorites, and unique arrangements of popular hymns. Tickets are available now at FirstPresGreenville. org/Events.


Fine Arts Ministry, Chelsea Fraser
“THE NATURE OF US” 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR WITH JOEL ANSETT

Folk songs and stories are coming your way this fall as Joel Ansett celebrates with an anniversary tour of “The Nature of Us” on Thursday, October 9, at 7:00pm in the Student Ministry community room. Joel Ansett is an award-winning singer-songwriter whose blend of folk and R&B has been described as “soul therapy.” With over 40 million streams, a Lennon Award, and multiple film/TV placements, his grassroots approach continues to resonate widely. His latest album, Layers, explores the unseen barriers in our relationships with strangers, loved ones, and God. Ansett was the wonderful opening act for the Gray Havens’ concert last year and we can’t wait to have him back. The Songwriter Q&A session will begin at 6:00pm and concert will begin at 7:00pm.


Men’s Ministry, Charlie Buchanan
CALLING ALL GIRL DADS!

Mark your calendars for a memorable evening with your daughter at the 3GEN Ministries Daddy Daughter Dance! It’s all happening on Friday, September 12, 7:00-9:30pm, at the beautiful Larkin’s Sawmill Venue (22 Graves Drive, Greenville, SC 29609). We’re teeing you up for a fantastic night of fun, laughter, and connection, complete with yummy desserts, photo ops, and tons of dancing. Register at 3genministries.org or FirstPresGreenville.org/Events.


Missions, Eric Swofford
COMMUNITY WORSHIP WITH REVELACIóN MARANATHA FROM THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Experience an unforgettable night of worship with Revelación Maranatha, lovingly known as the DR Band, on Friday, September 19, 7:00–9:00pm in the Worship & Arts Center. Each summer, the DR Band tours the U.S. to raise support for El Hospital Buen Samaritano (The Good Samaritan Hospital), a ministry partner we’ve joined for more than a decade to provide life-changing medical care for those in need in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’ve served on a mission trip, supported through prayer, or simply want to enjoy an evening of vibrant, multicultural worship, this concert is for you! Free tickets are available now at FirstPresGreenville.org/events.


Sports Ministry, Caleb McKisic
CHURCH LEAGUE BASKETBALL REGISTRATION

Church league basketball season for K5–12th grade is approaching! Registration is open August 1–31. Late registration is open September 1–15. Learn more details and sign up at FirstPresSports.com. Questions? Contact Caleb McKisic at caleb@firstpressports.com.


Opportunities To Serve

Missions, Eric Swofford
ROOM PARENTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

As we enter our 16th year of partnering with elementary school Hollis Academy, our desire is to have a Room Parent in every classroom to help with reading, tutoring, hugging, listening, and encouraging. We have 12 openings for Room Parents in several grade levels and special education classrooms. For more information, please contact Edith Parks at hollisroomparents@gmail.com.


Special Needs Ministry, Tina Jones
CONSIDER BEING A BUDDY TO A CHILD OR YOUTH WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Do you have a heart for children and youth with special abilities? Did you know we have multiple families raising children with special needs who would like to attend worship on Sunday mornings? We are seeking a few more people to serve as buddies in this ministry. Training is provided. Contact Dr. Brenda Harper at bharper@firstpresgreenville.org for more information.

Worship & Music, Susan Messer
BECOME A GREETER ON SUNDAYS

A few greeters are needed for the 8:30am service on Sunday mornings. Please contact Kathi Daniel if you can help (864.630.2416 or kathi.daniel531@gmail.com).


Worship & Music, Susan Messer
JOIN THE CHRISTMAS@FIRST CHOIR!

Do you like to sing? You’re invited to join the Christmas@First concert choir! Rehearsals begin on Sunday, September 28, 4:00-5:30pm in the Choir Room. Questions? Contact Choral Director Susan Messer at smesser@firstpresgreenville.org.


Pastor of the Day

For Pastoral emergencies, please call 864.235.0496.