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Sunday Worship & Communion Service
Epiphany
January 4 | 10:30 a.m.
"Where Do We Stand?"
Matthew 2:1-12, 16-18
Rev. Julio Peña, Guest Preacher
In person and online!
Download Bulletin
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Sunday Morning
The doors to the FPCE building open at 8:30 a.m.
Prayer for the Church - 8:45 a.m. Room 102.
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Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
ADULT EDUCATION
No Adult Education classes this Sunday!
CHILDREN'S/YOUTH CLASSES
No Nursery and no classes this Sunday!
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Worship Service - 10:30 a.m. - Sanctuary
No Children's Worship.
Connections Fellowship Hour- 11:30 a.m.
Join us in the Dining Room for fellowship. Light refreshments will be served by the Deacons.
| | There are no nursery, children and youth classes before this Sunday's service, and no Children's Worship during the service. | |
FPCE 'Mad-Libs', Pastor Tassie Edition #2
Final thoughts from
Rev. Dr. Tassie Green
Former FPCE Interim Senior Pastor
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Dear friends –
First Pres, you have lived through a huge amount of transition in the last 2 ½ years, with the Revs. Hylton's and Golbek's leaving and other friends walking in and out of the sanctuary doors. Thanks to good leadership, caring small groups, active deacons, friends, and family you have grown strong as a united community of faith through it all. Way to care for one another!
Pastor Derek and Sonia will arrive in town next week, and he will begin as your pastor on Monday, January 5, 2026. Yes, FPCE will have much to celebrate at the next Agape meal-- the Chili Cook-off on Feb 1. The long-awaited day is nearly here!
Do you remember the party game Mad-Libs? Here’s a church version to fill-out today:
Now (pronoun) might be tempted to start asking, “When will it all get back to (adjective)?” Or “When can I go back to the way I prefer to (verb) at the 10:30 a.m. service?” Or you might think, “When the pastor arrives, he will certainly solve the problem of (noun) and (verb). He will fix the church (adverb) and (verb). Then FPCE will (verb). (Positive exclamation)!”
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FPCE Building Closed New Year's Day
The First Pres building will be closed on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in recognition of New Year's Day. Please note that while the office will be open on Friday, January 2, most staff will not be present.
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No Men's Breakfast This Saturday
Men’s Breakfast will not be meeting this Saturday, January 3.
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Our Guest Preacher: Rev. Julio Peña
Our guest preacher on Sunday morning will be Rev. Julio Peña, Director of Faithful Innovation with the Chicago Presbytery of PC(USA).
In 2015, Julio founded Spirit of Love Community Ministry, a new worshiping community that welcomed the unchurched and de-churched into worship, Bible study, and fellowship. Although the ministry faced challenges and limited institutional support, the experience gave Julio firsthand insight into the struggles and opportunities of new ministries. He served as moderator of the Presbytery of Chicago in 2013. We are excited to welcome him to First Pres Evanston this Sunday!
Officer Installations this Sunday!
Officers elected in October 2025 will be ordained (if serving for the first time) or installed (if already previously ordained) during this Sunday morning's worship service. They are:
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Elders:
To Be Ordained:
Jide Nzelibe
Installed:
Betsy Newenhuyse
John Powell
Chris Smith
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Deacons
To be Ordained:
Katie Bowen
Brian Cox
Installed:
Joan Borg
Alyce Claerbaut
Bonnie Kath
Theresa Nissen
Amy Powell
Sharon Smith
Jack Stewart
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Video Interviews with Pastor Derek Zeyl
We recently interviewed Rev. Derek Zeyl to ask him more about himself and his family. During the weeks leading up to his arrival on January 5, 2026, we are sharing some of these
This week: Why FPCE?
Why did Pastor Derek give an enthusiastic "Yes!" when the FPCE Pastor Nominating Committee offered him the position of senior pastor back in November? Here's his response:
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Wednesday, December 31
Our Children, Our Families Open Gym - Roy Hall, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday, January 1, 2026 -
New Year's Day
BUILDING CLOSED
Friday, January 2
Our Children, Our Families Open Gym - Roy Hall, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, January 3
Our Children, Our Families Open Gym - Roy Hall, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Souper Saturday - Outdoors, Room 21, 11:30 a.m.
Eat, Knit, Laugh, Pray - Room 206, Noon.
Sunday, January 4
Prayer for the Church - Room 102, 8:45 a.m.
Worship Service - Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
Connections Fellowship - Dining Room, 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, January 6
Book Club – Room 102, 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 8
Nourish - Room 213, 9:30 a.m.
Women's Bible Study - Room 213, 5:45 p.m.
Saturday, January 10
Men's Breakfast - Room 213, 8 a.m.
Souper Saturday - Outdoors, Room 21, 11:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 11
Prayer for the Church - Room 102, 8:45 a.m.
Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
Worship Service - Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
Connections Fellowship - Dining Room, 11:30 a.m.
Family Small Group - Room 213, 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, January 13
Quilting with a Mission – Room 206, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, January 14
Zoom Prayer Gathering - Online, 7 p.m.
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Thursday, January 15
Nourish - Room 213, 9:30 a.m.
Women's Bible Study - Room 213, 5:45 p.m.
Saturday, January 17
Men's Breakfast - Room 213, 8 a.m.
Souper Saturday - Outdoors, Room 21, 11:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 18
Prayer for the Church - Room 102, 8:45 a.m.
Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
Worship Service - Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
Connections Fellowship - Dining Room, 11:30 a.m.
Monday, January 19
Martin Luther King, Jr., Day
BUILDING CLOSED
Walk for Warmth – 11 a.m., Methodist Church, 516 Church Street, Evanston
Saturday, January 24
Men's Breakfast - Room 213, 8 a.m.
Souper Saturday - Outdoors, Room 21, 11:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 25
Prayer for the Church - Room 102, 8:45 a.m.
Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
Worship Service - Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
Connections Fellowship - Dining Room, 11:30 a.m.
OVERNIGHT SHELTER BEGINS
Tuesday, January 27
Quilting with a Mission – Room 206, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, January 28
Zoom Prayer Gathering - Online, 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 31
Men's Breakfast - Room 213, 8 a.m.
Souper Saturday - Outdoors, Room 21, 11:30 a.m.
Sunday, February 1
Prayer for the Church - Room 102, 8:45 a.m.
Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
Worship Service - Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m.
Connections Fellowship - Dining Room, 11:30 a.m.
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FPCE has opening for Director of Youth and Family Ministries
First Presbyterian Church of Evanston is seeking to hire a full-time Director of Youth and Family Ministries. The Director of Youth and Family Ministries will provide dynamic leadership and oversight of children, youth, and family ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Evanston, helping to accomplish the church’s vision of knowing Christ, following Christ, and serving Christ. The person in this position is tasked with putting into action the mission of the Our Children, Our Families (OCOF) council — the steering committee for children’s, youth, and family ministries — to be a vibrant intergenerational community that supports and prepares children, youth, and families for a lifetime of Christian faith. More details about this 40-hour-per-week position are available by downloading the employment description here.
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Special Kohl Children’s Museum Outing on January 5
Join us for a fun outing at the Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview, IL 60026, on Monday, January 5, 2026! This event is designed especially for children ages 0–5, with older kids welcome to attend as helpers. We’ll explore the museum together and enjoy some special time set aside just for our group. Please fill out the registration form at https://firstpresevanston.org/kohl-event by January 3 to let us know you’re coming! NOTE: This is a free event, but no transportation will be provided. We will all meet at the museum at 12:30 p.m. and we should be finished by 2:30 p.m.
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FPCE Book Club to discuss 'Someone Else's Shoes' January 6
The FPCE Book Club will discuss the best-selling novel, Someone Else's Shoes, by Jojo Moyes. The story intertwines the lives of two women—the struggling Sam and the wealthy Nisha—who accidentally swap gym bags in London. The ensuing consequences put each of them on journeys of self-discovery and unlikely friendship. The book club will meet on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in Room 102 at First Pres.
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New Adult Education Classes Begin January 11
Engaging Questions with Jesus Leading up to Easter
We celebrate this Christmas God's greatest gift to us--the sending of His Son. We will celebrate this Easter God's greatest sacrifice--His Son dying for us. Starting January 11, join us in a new Adult Ed class, "Engaging Questions with Jesus Leading up to Easter," to understand the Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love that God's sacrifice brings us. And if you would like to co-teach this class or just fill in for Dave on a Sunday when he is traveling, please contact him at davidivaska@yahoo.com. Inexperienced teachers are especially welcome! Dave would be very happy to work with you. This class will meet in the Parlor on Sunday mornings at 9:15 a.m.
Understanding Islam
Over 2 billion people around the world are followers of Islam, and yet Christians are generally uninformed about it. Being an effective witness to Muslims requires an understanding of their beliefs and practices. This Adult Education course uses a series of recorded lectures by Dr. James Anderson, professor of theology and philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary. Each lecture will be followed by discussion. This class will meet in Room 213 on Sunday mornings at 9:15 a.m.
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Walk for Warmth is January 19
Save the date, January 19, for “The Walk for Warmth” supporting the work of the overnight shelters in Evanston. First Pres Evanston is one of the faith communities that serves as a shelter every year.
The walk will take place at 11am at the Methodist Church at 516 Church St. in Evanston. Follow this link to register and get more information. (There is no cost to sign up.)
REGISTER HERE!
First Pres always has a walking group, so join us!!
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FPCE Hosts Overnight Shelter Guests January 25 to February 22
The Overnight Shelter for our unhoused guests in Evanston will be at First Presbyterian Church of Evanston for four weeks this year beginning January 25. There will be plenty of volunteer slots to sign up for. Look for the google link the week before the shelter opens. Volunteers will be needed at night to help set up and pass out sheets and blankets as guests arrive. And they are needed in the morning to help folks get moving and the place cleaned up. About an hour and a half is needed at night. The morning shift takes an hour. Talk to Caryl Weinberg or Charlene Parris if you are interested or need information. Thank you!!
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‘Roads of the Holy Land’ Online Lecture Series begins January 3
Bethlehem Bible College is offering a new class/interactive lecture series, "Roads of the Holy Land," each Saturday, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m., starting January 3 through February 21. These zoom classes are wonderful opportunities to enhance your understanding of scripture, as well as to meet others from all over the world! No studying or prep required. Register at https://bethbc.edu/the-roads-of-the-holy-land-course/ or contact Cam Traut at camtraut@gmail.com for more information. It's a great way to support one of our mission partners, too!
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Give thanks and pray for the work of the Missions Council of First Presbyterian Evanston
Heavenly Father, As we enter this new year, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude and praise. You have been faithful through every season, guiding our steps, sustaining our ministries, and surrounding us with your protection and grace. Lord, open our hearts in this moment of prayer so that our thanksgiving may rise to you, and our prayers be heard by you. Amen.
Praises
- Thank you, God, for all our mission partners who visited our church and shared their messages, testimonies, and encouragement.
- We praise you, Lord, for the mission trips to Ukraine, Egypt, and Turkey—for safe travels, meaningful experiences, and the opportunities to serve.
- We praise you, Jesus, for our Syrian friends and their families, and we thank you for the donations that provided laptops, car repairs, emergency needs and more through the generosity of the church.
- We thank you, God, for the church’s support in rebuilding the library in Ukraine, and for allowing us to be part of bringing restoration and hope.
- We praise you, God, for the donations given to Facing Forward to End Homelessness on Palm Sunday, enabling us to extend care and assistance to those in need of housing.
- We thank you, Lord, for the First Friends Syrian Women’s Breakfast, held every first Saturday of the month. We praise you for all the volunteers and especially for Bridgette, who organizes and leads this ministry with love.
- We praise you, Jesus, for the volunteers who gather every third Wednesday to pray faithfully for our mission partners around the world, and we thank you especially for David Ivaska and his dedication.
- We praise you, Lord, for the Rebuilding Together North Suburban Chicago volunteering event, and all the volunteers who participate, many of them year after year.
- We praise you, Jesus, for all our other serving groups, their leaders and volunteers including Souper Saturday, Prison Ministry, the Overnight Shelter, Build Congo Schools, Quilting with a Mission, and the New Life Shelter. Lord thank you that we can be part of your mission in the world through all these amazing servants.
Prayers
- Lord, we pray for all our mission partners and their families. Guide them, guard them, and protect them from persecution. Strengthen them with your presence and peace and give them the wisdom and perseverance that will help them accomplish the mission you have set before them.
- We pray for the future mission trips, including the upcoming Bethlehem mission trip. We place every journey, every team, and every purpose into your hands.
- We pray for the Syrian families, especially those who have seen visions of Jesus in their dreams. May these encounters draw them and their loved ones into a deeper knowledge of your love and truth.
- We pray for all the wars and conflicts around the world. Jesus, stand in the midst of the suffering, bring peace, and work your healing among the nations. And please Lord use us as peacemakers and healers wherever we are.
- We pray for every volunteer who has served in any ministry or event. Bless them abundantly for their time, love, and sacrifice. And may they hear you saying to them each “Well done good and faithful servant.”
- Finally we pray for your guidance and blessing of the Missions Council. Help us to be discerning in all our decisions, generous with what you have given us in terms of resources, joyful in giving and serving, and humble knowing that everything we are able to do is because of your goodness to us and love for us and for all your people.
Lord Jesus, as we enter this new year, shine your light on our path and guide our steps.
Strengthen us to serve with love, faith, and courage in every mission you place before us. May your hope fill our hearts and your peace remain with us always. Amen.
“‘See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.’ ” They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the Lord; Isaiah 62:11-12 NIV
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