First Presbyterian Church of Santa Barbara | 21 East Constance Avenue, Santa Barbara
ON-LINE SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE at 10:00 am
Dear First Pres Friends and Families,

This Sunday, March 22nd, is the Fourth Sunday in Lent. We will again be coming to you virtually and invite you to join us at fpcsb.org . Our scripture readings are Psalm 23 and Ephesians 5:8-14, with sermon entitled, "God, Our Shepherd," and you can find special Children's worship material here . During these different and difficult days, we are reminded that we, "fear no evil, for God is with us." What a comfort and hope that God is present in the world and our midst.

We learned that George Dubbels went to be with God over the weekend. George sang in our choir for decades, loved music of all kinds, and was singing into his 100th year! We praise God for the gift of George's long and blessed life, and will be communicating information about arrangements.

The congregational letter below details the information regarding the closing of our physical campus. But, our ministry continues! We're adapting, all the while spreading good news and hope in a world of change. So, we encourage you to send your prayer requests, tithes and offerings by mail or online, with information below, including a lovely video montage of our church and its ministry, featuring images from Susan Croshaw and music from our own Erin Bonski-Evans. Click here to watch!

Our online content will continue to grow over these days and week ahead. I'm pleased to invite you to view this devotional message by clicking here. And I'd invite you to join me this evening for Wednesday Evening Lenten Worship in the Chapel, at the time of your choosing by clicking here .

Lenten blessings as we gather around our phones and screens this Sunday at 10 am. It’s an honor and joy to serve you and our community.

Charles
THIS SUNDAY :
Sermon: Charles Svendsen
Join us online at 10:00 am
JOIN US ONLINE THIS SUNDAY
Sunday, March 22 | 10:00 am

We will continue to meet online this Sunday at 10 am for a sermon by pastor Charles Svendsen titled "God, Our Shepherd." More than ever, we need the hope we find in Jesus. Share the message that our weekend service will be a special online experience!


Join us by clicking here .
FPCSB COVID-19 LETTER TO THE CONGREGATION

Dear First Presbyterian Church of Santa Barbara Congregation,

As our world and nation faces a pandemic virus, God’s promises resound in fresh ways from familiar Scriptures: “I fear no evil; for you are with me.” And we believe that, especially at this time. God’s presence with us in the midst of difficultly is a foundation of our faith in Christ.


YOUR TITHES & OFFERINGS MATTER NOW MORE THAN EVER

 In this season of rapid change and adaptation, First Presbyterian continues to answer the call to be the body of Christ in the world. You can ensure that this ministry continues in health and strength. We would invite you to continue in your generous giving to these Kingdom efforts, by mailing in your tithes and offering envelopes, or giving online by visiting the tab on the top right of our homepage, or clicking here. Even though we are not physically receiving our tithes and offerings during in-person worship, we appreciate each gift of time, talents, and treasure being given in this season.

Indeed, as we are called to give generously, we are reminded that God has given us life and breath, and made the world in order and beauty.In Christ, God has given us a Savior to renew our lives. Through the Spirit, God gives us gifts, and opens our hearts with generosity.

Let us be reminded of the gifts God has given us by reflecting on these wonderful images from Susan Croshaw and music offered by Erin Bonski-Evans. Watch the video here!
WEDNESDAY EVENING LENTEN CHAPEL CONTINUES ONLINE

 We invite you to join us online this evening as we worship together in Spirit, but are physically distant. Pastor Charles leads this service of prayers, Scripture, and reflection in our Chapel.

Join us at the time of your choosing by clicking here .
STAY TUNED

As stated in the congregational letter above, we are working with our community partners on identifying how our current resources might be leveraged to help in community efforts. With widespread cancellations, there is much unknown. But we covet your prayers and your willingness to serve, and especially your creative ideas for service, during this time.

A WORD ON FELLOWSHIP GROUPS

All fellowship groups are strongly encouraged to find ways to connect virtually through phone or video conference. If you would like assistance in knowing what platform would work best for you, please be in touch!
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: The church office is closed in response to the covid-19 pandemic. Please give us a call at 805-687-0754 to make make arrangements for access.

COMMUNICATION & DEADLINES
Want to let our congregation know about a great opportunity? Please send your information
to  Denise Rodman  and keep these deadlines in mind:

Enews : Tuesdays, 12:00 noon - Life of the Church : Wednesdays, 12:00 noon
OUR VISION:
God calls us to worship faithfully.
God calls us to serve lovingly.
God calls us into community:
Sharing grace unconditionally
Seeing Christ in all people. 
FOLLOW US