1st United Methodist Church Weekly Update - December 17, 2021 |
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FOLLOW US & JOIN US THIS SUNDAY FOR WORSHIP LIVE AT 9:15 & 11 AM
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This Sunday: December 19, 2021 |
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Message: "The Upheaval"
Pastor Mike Loomis
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Christmas Eve, December 24:
10am – 12pm, Petting Zoo, Gilchrist Park
12pm, Children & Family Service, Gilchrist Park
3:00pm, Contemporary Service, Gilchrist Park
6:00pm, Traditional Service, Life Center
8:00pm, Traditional Service, Life Center
Sunday, December 26:
We will have one service at 10am in the Life Center
No Sunday School, Connect or Youth will meet on Dec. 26
Nursery care will be available for the 10am service
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Help Wanted - Christmas Eve in the Park |
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See the Joy of Christmas through the eyes of a child! We are in need of 10 volunteers to enjoy crafts with children on Friday morning, December 24 from 10am - 12pm at Gilchrist Park.
No experience needed! All supplies provided!
(Crafts may be previewed in Lenox Hall)
To volunteer, please contact:
AJ Rilat: 281-910-8594 or Gail in the church office: 941-639-3842
We are also seeking a couple of shepherds. Costumes provided. Thank you!!
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Youth Sunday School & Youth Group will not meet on December 19, 26 or January 2. Youth will resume all activities on January 9, 2022. |
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Mark your calendar for 2 Town Hall meeting opportunities - Sunday, January 9 or 16 at 2pm - 3:30pm in the Sanctuary. Join Pastor Mike for a short presentation and discussion on the future of the United Methodist Church. |
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Merry Christmas from the Bargain Boutique |
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Before the holidays we want to thank our friends who shop here, and our donors. In the last 12 months we have donated a bit under $20,000 to the following all who serve those in need. In addition we donate in kind goods to many others.
- Macedonia First Baptist Church
- Crossroads Hope Academy
- Jesus Loves You
- Young Life
- Homeless Coalition
- Veterans Gift Cards
- Valerie's House
- Meals on Wheels
- Cuba RX meds
We are grateful to those who donate to us. Your clothing, household items are good examples of your generosity. To our shoppers, thank you. What you do goes a long way to helping others. It is not all about the Bargain Boutique. The three of us are a team. We provide the space, you donate, others shop here. Quoting "what more can be said than He hath said'*, "Love one another"*. That is what we do here at the Bargain Boutique.
Holiday Schedule: We will close on December 23 and reopen December 27; will close December 31 and reopen January 3, 2022.
Our Staff of Volunteers wish all of you a Merry and Blessed Christmas, and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
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Just a reminder that Today Matters is taking the month of December off. We hope you will join us on January 15th for our next amazing speaker. Andrea Wilson Woods adopted her sister at the age of 8 and she herself was in her early 20s. Her story is one of courage, perseverance and the resolve to help others. Andrea is a well known speaker and has many accomplishments as you can see from her bio below. Please mark the date of January 15th at 4:00pm.
ANDREA WILSON WOODS is a writer who loves to tell stories, and a patient advocate who founded the nonprofit Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association. Andrea is the CEO and co-founder of Cancer University, a for-profit, social-benefit, digital health company. With Cancer U, Andrea synergizes her talents of coaching, writing, teaching, and advocacy. For over ten years, Andrea worked in the education field as a teacher and professor for public and private schools as well as universities. Andrea obtained her master’s degree in professional writing from the University of Southern California; her nonfiction writing has won national awards. Her new book, a medical memoir titled Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, is a #1 Bestseller on Amazon in multiple categories.
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Supernatural, Begins January 11 |
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Supernatural by Carolyn Moore officiated by Pastor Mike will begin January 11th in the Life Center
There’s no substitute for the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit in your life. Maybe you’ve grown dissatisfied with the weak distractions offered both by our culture and, oftentimes, our churches. When it all sinks in, spirituality and ministry without the Holy Spirit is hollow.
Join Carolyn Moore in rediscovering the supernatural! With a biblical basis and practical application, you’ll learn how to work alongside the Spirit, and you’ll become watchful for the powerful in-breakings of God’s kingdom all around you.
Moore takes us through Luke 9, examining Jesus’ commission to his disciples to cast out demons, cure diseases, proclaim the kingdom, and heal the sick. With down-to-earth language, she unpacks tricky topics, including:
- Praying for healing
- Experiencing miracles
- Encountering demons
- Sighting moments of glory
- Fighting unholy hesitation
With a journaling prompt after each of the forty readings, you’ll process what God’s supernatural ministry looks like for your life, and maybe even experience a spiritual awakening. Before you know it, you might just start to see the Spirit break in around you, advancing the deep wholeness that only God’s kingdom can bring.
The cost of the Supernatural book is $15. Sign up for Supernatural HERE.
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1st Steps Class, January 15 |
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Whether you are new to 1st Church or you have been a part of our family for years, you are invited to join us Saturday, January 15, 2022 from 10 am - 12 pm in Lenox Hall for our 1st Steps Class.
The 1st Steps class is in preparation of joining 1st United Methodist Church, Punta Gorda or to just learn about us and our core beliefs, vision and opportunities to join our small groups, bible studies and ministries. I welcome your interest and would love for you to be part of this group.
Please call the Gail in the office, (941) 639-3842, or email Kathy at admin@whatis1st.com by January 13 to let them know you are interested in joining in the fun. See you there!
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In 2022 we will be having a special event on campus. It’s being presented by Alpha on Saturday, January 22nd and called "A LEAP OF FAITH." How long have you wanted to be a witness for Jesus Christ? Pastor Mike’s messages these past few weeks have been calling us to this important step forward. It can be a very uncomfortable moment… what do I say?
Here’s an opportunity to learn the do’s and don’ts of witnessing
This will be a morning session on the steps to witnessing for Jesus to an individual or group. This is an opportunity to join with your fellow Christians and taking a leap of faith. Mark your calendar now… Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm.
Myrt Creigh
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Just a reminder than all donations need to be into the Church Office by December 30th at noon to be counted as a 2021 Contribution.
Also, 2021 Contribution Statements will be going out by email, so if The Church Office doesn’t have your email, please call the Church Office to update your information.
THANKS!!
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Greetings 1st Church friends,
Can you believe it's a few days until Christmas?! It always makes me think back over the year and think of all the things I didn't get done, and of course, look ahead to all the new possibilities that might be.
Please check The Bridge for information on the many events and opportunities that are available. I'm sure you know the schedule for Christmas Eve services; Outdoor services at Gilchrist Park at 12 noon and 3pm. Bring your chair and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather as we celebrate with music and a wonderful message. We have two Candlelight services in the Life Center building at either 6pm or 8pm. I am still in need of Advent candle reader and lighter at the 8pm service, and also need people to help greet and light congregational candles for the 6pm service. The duties are not difficult, but the blessings are huge!
On Sunday 12/26/21 there will be only one service at 10am in the Life Center. Please note there will be no Park service that morning and one worship service at 10 o'clock only.
Someone told me that they had heard we would no longer have worship at Gilchrist Park after December. This is not accurate. We have agreements signed to continue the 8am Park service through March 2022. FYI : this Sunday we will have the study books for Pastor Mike's Bible study "Supernatural" available for sale after each service. Cost is $15.
On 12/24/21 at the 6pm service we will celebrate the baptism of Marley Elizabeth Kaszuba. Proud parents are Nik and Haley Kaszuba. Paternal grandparents are Paul and Jacki Kaszuba and maternal grandparents are Christopher and Carmen Blake. Please join in welcome and prayers for this beautiful gift in our church family.
I know that this hectic time of year can sometimes be stressful and begin to overshadow the joy we should be feeling as we think about The Christmas story. No matter what time of year, when challenges seem to come at us from all sides, I am comforted to look at this as an opportunity to remember that I don't need to waste time wishing I could change things. God is always there for us, to take our hand and lead us through any difficulties. We only need to have trust to reach out, patience to wait for a resolution, and perseverance in continued prayer to help us grow. Roman's 12:12 says " Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
I pray you each have a blessed and Joyful Christmas. I'm praying for you!
Rosie Young
Worship Coordinator
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The Eighth Note – Music Ministry in a Minute! |
Greetings Everyone,
Here is a sneak peak at the program of Christmas music beginning 30 minutes before the 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM Services on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Christmas Eve Prelude Music
Organ Solo
Carol Rhapsody - R. Purvis
Harp Solo
Angels We Have Heard On High - B. Moses
O Come All Ye Faithful
Chancel Ringers
Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella - C. Moklebust
What Child Is This - J. Krug
A Wreath Of Carols - D. Wagner
Go Tell It On The Mountain
Joy To The World
Harp Solo
Hark The Herald Angel Sang - B. Moses
Chancel Choir
Ding Dong! Merrily On High - H. Hopson
Organ Solo
The Holly And The Ivy - H. Sumsion
Soli Deo Gloria!
David Bellows
Director of Music Ministries
This Sunday’s Music: December 19, 2021 - 11:00AM Service
Prelude: People, Look East – D. Wood
Opening Hymn: 218 It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
Offertory Anthem: Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming – M. Praetorius;Parker - Shaw
Closing Hymn: 230 O Little Town Of Bethlehem
Postlude: I Saw Three Ships – A.L. Page
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GriefShare Support Ministry |
Our 2022 GriefShare groups will be starting on January 4th at 6:30pm or January 5th at 10:00am in Room 13. If you have lost a love one and are struggling through this journey or know someone who is, please let them know about our 13-week GriefShare program. For more information about or to register, please contact Melodie Austin, 941-661-0842 or melharryaustin@yahoo.com.
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Discipleship Opportunities |
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View a complete list of groups at 1st Church HERE
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"How Shall We Live?" will not meet again until after the holidays. We will resume meeting January 2, 2022 at 4:00 PM.
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Beth Moore Study - Begins Jan. 6 |
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WE WILL BEGIN THE STUDY “BELOVED DISCIPLE.” THIS IS THE STORY OF THE BELOVED DISCIPLE JOHN.
John witnessed more miracles than he could count. He was with Jesus all the years of His ministry. He saw more displays of power than he could comprehend and experienced more love than he could comprehend.
This 11 week personal interactive study will tell us about his life with Jesus and his writings of the Risen Lord’s glorious revelation of victory and hope.
Join us in this study which begins Thursday, January 6 at 9:00 am and will go until March 17. You must register by Dec. 20 to attend as we have to order books. The cost is $20.00 paid on first day. You can register HERE or pick up a registration blank on tables outside Life Center and in Lenox Hall. If you have questions, please call Karen Grant 941-815-2929. Hope to see you in January. |
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The Harmony Bible Class will begin a new 10-week study on Sunday, January 2nd, "Where Do We Go From Here?" (How Tomorrow's Prophecies Foreshadow Today's Problems) by Dr. David Jeremiah. In this study, Dr. Jeremiah takes us on a tour of today's major issues, showing us where we are, what they mean, and what we should do now. We will look at ten major issues, threading our way through the problems Jesus predicted- and finding the solutions Jesus endorsed. Even as the world collapses, the Lord is building His Church. We can say something, do something, pray something, preach something, and live by the convictions of Christ. All are welcome to join us at 10:30 January 2nd in Lenox Hall. Study outlines will be provided. Books can be purchased online but are not required. If you are currently not a regular member of the Harmony Class, please call Debbie Harrington 941.380.0213. to reserve your seat! |
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The Discovery Bible Study will begin a new study, "The Truth Project" on January 17, 2022. Discovery Bible Study meets on Mondays from 10-11:30 am in Room 13.
"The Truth Project is a ground-breaking small group curriculum on the Biblical worldview. This video-based Bible study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Join Dr. Del Tackett, as he takes you through 13 engaging video lessons on the relevance and importance of living the Biblical worldview in daily life, featuring insights from biblical experts like R.C. Sproul, Os Guinness and Gordon Pennington."
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Every Thursday at 9:00 am in Fellowship Hall and by Zoom. |
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2021 Bible Reading Schedules |
We want to encourage you to join us as we once again read through the Bible. Reading calendars are available for download and printing on our website, whatis1st.com/bible2021, and hard copies are available in the Life Center. Start your new year off right by committing to read God's Word!
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Save The Date... ALPHA is coming in February! |
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ALPHA will be starting a new class on February 9th that will meet each Wednesday evening from 6 pm to 8 pm in Lenox Hall. This class will run until April 20th. There will be dinner, a video and discussion each week. Watch for more details to follow and we hope you will plan to join us. For more information, please contact Myrt Creigh at fumcpgmc@gmail.com. |
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Worship Service Information |
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NOTE: Sunday, December 26 we will have one service at 10am in the Life Center.
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If you are planning on attending our services please remember the following:
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Masks are now optional for those that are fully vaccinated.
- Social distancing is still encouraged. Families may sit together, but please leave three seats between you and others not in your family.
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If you are feverish or not feeling well, we ask that you stay home and join us online on our Facebook and YouTube channels.
At this time, you may only enter the Life Center through the main entrance facing the Fellowship Hall courtyard. All other exterior doors will be locked. We'll see you Sunday!
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NOTE: Youth Sunday School & Youth Group will not meet on December 19, 26 or January 2. Youth will resume all activities on January 9, 2022.
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Join us this Sunday at 8 am for Praise in the Park! Open to everyone, this is your opportunity to join us for "in-person" worship as we enjoy God's scenery from the lawn of the beautiful Gilchrist Park Pavilion, weather permitting of course. The rainy season is here! If it is or has been raining, Praise in the Park will relocate to our historic Sanctuary. Time may not always be sufficient to get the word out, so in case of inclement weather, please proceed to the Sanctuary.
Please plan to bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets, and, yes, we will be asking you to practice social distancing. Don't forget to join our "Praise in the Park" group on our Church App! As a reminder, our outside services are always subject to change due to the weather. Please make sure you are connected with us through the app, our email list, or social media to receive our updates concerning schedule changes. See you Sunday for Praise in the Park!
Praise in the Park is currently scheduled to continue meeting at Gilchrist Park through Easter 2022.
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FOLLOW US & JOIN US THIS SUNDAY FOR WORSHIP LIVE AT 9:15 & 11 AM
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Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9am - 4pm
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