eNEWS - Apr 28, 2025

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Spring Choral Concert: Giuseppe Verdi's Requiem

Sat. May 3 | 4 - 6 PM | Sanctuary & Online | Free Childcare

Join us for the last event in the 2024/25 Cultural Events Music Series, featuring a new transcription of Giuseppe Verdi's Requiem! This transcription sharpens focus on the choir voices supported by pipe organ and select percussion instruments! Concert will be performed by Masterwork Chorale and First Church Chancel Choir, with Brian Woods-Lustig, conductor.

Coffee Chat With the Pastors

Sun. May 4 | 10:15-10:45 AM | Linder Patio

If you've been visiting FUMCSD and have some questions, we invite you to join the pastors for a chat over coffee on Linder Patio! This is a great opportunity to connect and learn more about the church. No registration is necessary, just meet us on the patio after service. 

Sankofa Pilgrimage Pre-study Class

Weds. May 14 - May 28 | 6 - 8 PM | Linder Lounge & Zoom | RSVP

Prior to embarking on the Sankofa pilgrimage, we'll prepare through a 3-week study. The pre-study is free and open to anyone interested (even if you're not joining the pilgrimage). Register for details including Zoom link.

san diego padres logo

Padres Faith and Family Night

Sat. May 17 | 5:40 PM | Petco Park | $49.50/ticket

We have a block of seats for this year's Faith and Family Night with the Padres. Have fun with your church family, watch the Padres take on the Mariners, and then stick around for a postgame concert with Rhett Walker. Email Nick Hubsmith to purchase a ticket!


VBS is Coming & We Need Volunteers!

Register to help: Sundays, July 13 - August 3

We're going on a Road Trip, and you're invited! VBS will take place across four Sundays from 12 to 3 PM each day. We're packing it full of fun, helping our kids embark on an adventure with God. But we need your help to make it a success.

 

Parents: Registration is also open for kids! You can get all the details online. Share the info with your friends and be sure to register by June 30!

GROW

woman in nature with book

Reflect, Learn, Discuss

Join us each week as we uncover new understandings of scripture, theology, and life. We hope you join us!

REFLECT: Tapestry Worship Service | Sundays in Trotter Chapel

Gain a fresh perspective as you question, listen, and see God through non-traditional and interactive worship.

LEARN: Perspectives Podcast | Sundays

Featuring two of our pastors talking theology, life, and faith.

Listen Now

DISCUSS: Convergence | Sundays at 12 PM in Trotter Chapel

Join our in-person or online Convergence Discussion Groups to talk about the themes from Tapestry and Perspectives. This is our reimagined Pastors Bible Study.

Perspectives Podcast: Live Q & A with Rev. Hannah

Mon. May 19 | 4 PM | Patreon Gold Members | Sign Up

Grab your favorite snack and drink and join Rev. Trudy for a live "Ask Me Anything" Perspectives Podcast Happy Hour. This is your opportunity to ask her about everything and anything – what has been her favorite Perspectives episode, what is her favorite Bible verse, how did she get into ministry, what would be her dream vacation?

 

This event is for our Patreon Gold-level subscribers as a thank you for supporting our digital Bible study ministry. You can learn more and join when you visit patreon.com/fumcsd.

Patreon Channel

Become a Patreon

Join for free or upgrade to Silver / Gold

Enjoy our Perspectives Pastors Podcast? Want to discuss it with others online? Then we invite you to join us on Patreon at patreon.com/fumcsd, where you can discuss the ideas from each episode, access some additional resources, and help support our digital ministry.


When you become a free member, you’ll unlock the ability to discuss answers posed in each week’s podcast episode. There is also an option to unlock some extras by becoming a paid supporter at $5 or $10 per month.

Prayers of the People

Pray for church family

Weds, 9:30 AM | Zoom

Email Rev. Brittany

Heart of Christianity

Member-led book study

Sundays, 11 AM | Zoom

Register for Zoom

SERVE

Support UMC of Tanzania

Join our Global Missions Task Force in prayer and support.

During the month of April, the Global Missions Task Force is holding up our two missionaries in Tanzania, Mutwale Ntambo Wa Mushidi and his wife, Kabaka Ndala Alphonsine, in prayer and support.


Since they were here in March of 2024, they have continued starting and growing congregations in several cities. They have built or completed three large churches using the funds we raised for them last year. Mutwale writes, "Gospel campaigns, crusades and seminars are being organized in all districts." Kabaka is training groups of women in their rights and in self-sufficiency. They are using the guest house for these trainings and many Bible studies, so people can come for a few days. They expect the guest house to bring in income now. Young people are encouraged to go to school; some of the mission funds help them with tuition. Five Tanzanians have been sent to the Africa University in Zimbabwe to study theology; they need funds for computers and transportation. The preschool for orphans still does not have a minibus to bring the children to school.


Please lift Mutwale and Kabaka in your prayers. Consider contributing to the Tanzania Mission fund; donations can be made online or by check. Have questions? Look for members of the Global Missions Task Force in the coffee hour during April!

Showers of Blessings

Showers of Blessings

2nd Saturday: May 10 | St. Paul's Cathedral Courtyard | 2728 Sixth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 

 

You're invited to prepare a dish and serve OR drop off donations for brown bag lunch pack. Sign up as a group to take a month! For more information, contact Katherine Stone.

 

Donations can be dropped off at coffee bar on Sundays or during regular office hours (9 AM - 4 PM): Oatmeal, pancake syrup, brown sugar, raisins, protein bars, juice (apple, grape, cranberry), hot sauce, brown lunch sacks, individual apple sauce. 

Samaritan Store

It's time to restock the pantry!

We're seeking donations to help fill the clothing closet, food bags, and hygiene kits that we make available to our neighbors in need. Here are some items that would be especially helpful: Ramen noodles (Beef and Chicken), applesauce, peanut butter, soup, SpagettiO's, Chef Boyardee, tuna (can or packet), boxed mac & cheese, fruit cups, vienna sausage, bottled water. If you are donating canned foods, please look for pull tab tops for easy opening.


Donations can be brought to the church office on Sundays and during the week.

Cal-Pac Fire Update

Cal-Pac Fire Relief

Join us in prayer and relief efforts

We continue to pray for the congregations and communities recently impacted by fire. Cal-Pac is sharing updates and ways to support those in LA. You can find the most recent details online at: www.calpacumc.org/lafires2025/

Help at Cherokee Point Community Events

Find events and register to help online.

Cherokee Point is looking for community volunteers to help at fun events throughout the year. Sign up to help at one or many – it's a fun way to connect with families in the community!

CONNECT

Get Your Free Name Tag

Sunday | 9-10 AM | Linder Lounge

Our church members would love to get to know you – so they're offering free name tags to help with the process! Look for a table inside Linder Lounge (near the donuts) on Sundays after service. You'll find free name tags and volunteers who can help add your name. Questions? Contact Mike Sisson.

Get to know your church neighbors!

 

Water's Edge

Sat. May 10 | 10 AM | Daybreak Island Grill 2296 Bacon Street, San Diego CA 92107 | RSVP Tom Trujillo 


Senior Fellowship Group

Fridays | 12 - 3:30 PM | Linder Lounge

Potluck lunch followed by games! You may bring a food contribution serving 6. No RSVPs needed. No charge. Questions, call Ginger: 858-302-9592 (no texts).

New! First Friday Fellowship

Fri. May 2 | 8 AM | Lower Sanctuary Meeting Room (Library) & Zoom | RSVP

Join our First Friday fellowship group, designed for our church family enjoying their “silver” years! This new group will meet once a month for fellowship and to grow together in faith, celebrating birthdays and life events, discussing life’s challenging moments, laughing at our funny stories, and encouraging each other through prayer. Join us online via Zoom or meet with us in person. Questions? Contact Bruce Johnson (619-540-9997) or Nick Hubsmith (619-997-7120).

Book cover for Adventures In Missing The Point

Young Adult Book Study

Tues. May 6 | 5 PM | Zoom | Email Rev. Hannah or RSVP Online

We meet online on the 1st Tuesday of the month to discuss the book Adventures in Missing the Point by Brian D. McLaren and Tony Compolo.

 

In April, we'll discuss chapters on Sin and Worship. Email Rev. Hannah for Zoom meeting link. 

The River (LGBTQ group)

First Wednesday of the Month: May 7 | 5:30 PM | Online | RSVP 

Join us for a book study on the book Re-Claiming the Bible for a Non-Religious World. This book study is exclusively for our immediate LGBTQI friends only. Allies will have an opportunity to join us for future events and studies. Register online

Parents Forum

Sun. May 11 | 10:10 - 10:30 AM | The Cove (UMC building)

On the 2nd Sunday of each month, we gather to discuss Christianity and faith. Email Rev. Hannah with questions.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Childcare for infants to preschool is available during all services.

Reverend Trudy Robinson delivering a Sunday message

Lead Pastor

Rev. Trudy D. Robinson

Traditional Worship

Sunday | 9 & 11 AM | Sanctuary

Creation Care – Life After Death: The Need to Believe

Scriptures: Romans 1:20 and John 20:19-25


Join us in person or watch our Livestream


For our online viewers: Consecrated elements for communion are available for pick up Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, or can be mailed upon request.

Watch Live
Sermon Archive

Tapestry

Sundays | 11 AM | Trotter Chapel

Hope for Planet Earth: How can we believe?

Scripture: Romans 1:20


Let’s gather together to check out the resources of hope at our disposal and create a safe space with others to rest in that hope.

Altar Flowers  
Donating altar flowers on Sunday is a way to recognize significant events in your family’s life.  Bouquets are $65 each and anyone can donate one or two bouquets. If you are interested, please contact Demmie Divine in the church office about available dates. 

CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children and Youth Ministries Sunday Schedule


PRE-K, INFANTS, AND TODDLERS | Sundays 8:40 AM - 12 PM

This program offers a loving and nurturing environment in the Multipurpose Room located in the Children's Growing Center.

Kids First

Sunday School: K-5

Please sign your kids in in the Lower Sanctuary before the start of service.

We start in the Sanctuary for 9 AM Traditional Worship and then leave as a group immediately following A Time With Children. Parents pick up kids from The Cove immediately following service. No Sunday School on the 1st Sunday of the month – kids are encouraged to worship with their family and participate in Communion.

 

Middle School and High School students are invited to sit together in the Sanctuary every Sunday to worship as a group!

MUSIC PROGRAMS | SUNDAYS | REGISTER

Primary Choir (Grades K-5): 10-10:45 AM, Middle School Room (The Cove) with Ms. Dana

Secondary Voices (Grades 5/6-12): 10-10:45 AM, Children's Choir Room (Lower Sanctuary) with Mr. Brian

Youth Chimes (Grades 5-12): 11-11:45 AM, Children's Choir Room (Lower Sanctuary) with Ms. Dana


Contact Dana Zimbric for more info.

Now Enrolling Infants Through Pre-Kindergarten

CGC has openings! Call 619-295-1915 or visit fumcsd.org/cgc

Our school is accepting new students ages 0 - 5! Please share with your friends, family, and neighbors who have kids. Details about the school are available online at fumcsd.org/cgc or you can call 619-295-1915 to speak with the school staff and learn more.

ACOLYTES | Grades 4-12

Sign up to assist in Sanctuary worship service! Contact Demmie Divine.

CARE & PRAYER

Deaths: Check our website for weekly updates regarding deaths, memorial services, and funerals.

Request a Prayer

Would you like someone to talk to?

Our Stephen Ministers are ready to listen, care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support. You'll meet privately—by phone, video chat, or in person—for care and support. Contact Rev. Brittany for more information.

Prayers & Squares Quilt Prep & Fellowship

1st Sat. & 3rd Thurs. of the month: May 3 | 9 AM - 12 PM | Linder 2

Learn more about the Prayers & Squares Quilt Ministry or request a quilt for another person. To sponsor a prayer quilt for someone in need of prayer, be sure to ask for their agreement to be a recipient. 

Request a Prayer Quilt
Alzheimers Assoc

Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group

3rd Thursday of the month: May 15 | 11:30 AM - 1 PM | Free | RSVP

Providing care for someone with Alzheimer’s and Dementia can have severe emotional and psychological impacts. If you're a caregiver, we offer you a place to feel heard, connected and empowered with those who understand this unique struggle.

CHURCH BUSINESS & NOTICES

Church Office Hours

Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4 PM

Memorial Garden Hours
Monday - Friday - 8 AM - 6 PM
Saturday - 8 AM - 3:30 PM
Sunday - 8 AM - 4 PM

Giving: How to Give

  1. Deposit your gift in the offering plate during worship.
  2. Give online using your credit/debit card or ACH transfer from your checking account. Gifts can be one time or automatically recurring each week or month.
  3. TEXT to Give. Just text MYCHURCHGIFT to 73256 and see how easy it can be!
  4. Mail your check directly to the church via US postal service: First United Methodist Church of San Diego, 2111 Camino del Rio S., San Diego, CA 92108.


Contact Jason Tucker with your questions about giving and tithing to First Church.

Holy Week / Easter Attendance


4/17/25, Maundy Thursday in-person service

Number of attendees: 115


4/17/25, Maundy Thursday livestream

Unique viewers: 101

Avg. watch-time: 13:45


4/18/25, Good Friday in-person service

Number of attendees: 124


4/18/25, Good Friday livestream

Unique viewers: 107

Avg. watch-time: 12:56


4/20/25, Easter Sunday in-person services (9 & 11 AM)

Combined number of attendees: 906


4/20/25, livestreamed service - 9 AM

Unique viewers: 356

Avg. watch-time: 23:17


4/20/25, livestreamed service - 11 AM

Unique viewers: 133

Avg. watch-time: 14:02


First Church YouTube subscribers: 3,390


To subscribe, log in to your Gmail account, go to First Church YouTube channel, click the subscribe button. You can choose to be notified when we livestream.

David Patterson

Hosting an event? We have space available!

Contact David Patterson for details, including exclusive pricing.

Hi folks! I’m David Patterson, the Events Coordinator here at First Church. Throughout the year, we host an amazing variety of events—concerts, art shows, book presentations, and more!


As a First Church member, you can get exclusive deals on these wonderful spaces for your upcoming events. Whether it's a high school or family reunion, birthday celebration, or wedding anniversary, we’ve got the perfect space to bring your ideas to life.


Let’s make your next event unforgettable! Send me an email at dpatterson@fumcsd.org, and we’ll start planning together. I can’t wait to help you create something special!

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fumcsd.org

619-297-4366


2111 Camino del Rio South,

San Diego, CA 92108

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