Digital Newsletter

January 20, 2023 - January 27, 2023

New Sermon Series

"Breath of Fresh Air”

This powerful series will revive your spirit and show you how to live a life empowered by God. Your spirit will be renewed and you will find joy-filled purpose for your life. 

January 22nd

The Prayer of Jabez

1 Chronicles 4:10

Choir Tour Parent Information Meeting - January 22nd at 6:00pm

All Genesis Singer Parents are asked to attend a meeting THIS Sunday, January 22nd at 6:00pm in the Sanctuary. Information will be shared about our destination, registration, and cost for Choir Tour. All youth will go to youth group during this time.

Children's Sunday Night Special Event - Roller Skating: January 22. Leave FUMC at 5pm and return at 7:30pm.

Blood Drive: January 29th from 9:00am - 12:30pm at Prattville FUMC

UMW Soup Supper: January 30th at 6:00pm

Senior Adult Lunch: February 2nd at 11:30am @ Chicken Salad Chick

Children Winter Retreat: Children leave on Friday, February 3rd and will spend Friday and Saturday at Blue Lake before returning to FUMC on the 5th! Please be in prayer for our children as they enjoy a fun weekend with each other growing in their knowledge and love of God!

Relationship Sermon Series starts February 5th

Youth Bible Club: February 5th @ 2:30pm

Mother Son Dance: February 7th from 6:00 - 8:00pm (Pratt Hall)

Father Daughter Dance: February 9th from 6:00 - 8:00pm (Pratt Hall)

Burning of the Palms: February 15th @ 6:15pm

Worship Night: February 26th @ 6:00pm in Pratt Hall

Youth Bible Club: March 5th @ 2:30pm

Upcoming Children's Activities

2023 Mother Son Dance

The 2023 Mother Son Dance will be held on Tuesday, February 7. This event will be a time where Mothers and Sons of all ages spend a special evening together! Held at Prattville FUMC, the night will include dancing and dinner. Tickets are $15.00 per person and will be available until January 30 or capacity has been reached.

2023 Father Daughter Dance

The 2023 Father Daughter Sweetheart Dance will be held on Thursday, February 9. This annual event is a time for Dads and Daughters of all ages to spend a special evening together! Tickets are $15.00 per person and will be on sale now through January 30 or until capacity has been reached.

Youth Winter Retreat Photo Recap:

REVIVAL

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

2022 FUMC Financial Recap

Total Funds Received: $1,435,926

Total Expenses: $1,469,477 

Net Shortfall for Year: - $33,521

Prayer Challenge

Thursdays in January

6:30-7:15am (Pratt Hall)

The Prayer Challenge is designed to help prioritize our relationship with God and focus our attention on what matters most. Whether you have a great prayer life or no prayer life at all, this challenge is a powerful way to start 2023!

IMPORTANT Church Discernment Process Update!

RESOURCES TO HELP WITH CHURCH DISCERNMENT

REMINDER:

CHURCH-WIDE VOTE ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19TH AT 2PM (SANCTUARY)

You must be a member of FUMC Prattville and

BE PRESENT to vote!

As we move towards a church-wide vote on Sunday, February 19th @ 2pm (in the sanctuary), you are encouraged to continue in your personal discernment process to seek God's will for FUMC Prattville. Below are two links that may help you in this process. The first is an extensive list of websites, videos, articles and letters written on this topic that provide a broad view of the issues facing the UMC from diverse perspectives. This page will offer you valuable insight into the discernment process and also offer links and a place to ask questions.

A message from Mike Renegar (Church Council Chair):

"Many of you have asked my position on church disaffiliation. This is my position:

Pray earnestly for guidance from our Lord. Do your own research. Do not be swayed by the opinion of others. Make up your own mind. Show up on February 19, 2023 ready to vote. My vote is between the Lord and me. Don’t ask me how I am going to vote. I will not tell you, because I do not want my decision to influence you."

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ACTIVITIES!!

Wednesday Night Dinner and Activities:

• Dinner @ 5:15 – 6:15 pm (Pratt Hall), Adult Meal: $8, Youth & Children: $6, $30 MAX/family

• Adult Studies –
• The Chosen - Season 3 Study, led by Rev. Chris McCain (Wesley 202) at 6:15pm
• Bible study led by Cathy Latham (Wesley 104) at 6:00 pm
• Parenting study 6:00pm led by Jennifer Aughtman (Wesley 208)

• Youth @ 6:00– 7:30pm with worship, discipleship & games (Youth room - Epworth Hall)

• Children’s Ministry – 
• Children’s Choirs @ 5:45 – 6:30pm (PreK4-1st in Wesley 102, 2nd-3rd in Wesley 204, and 4th-6th in Sanctuary 203)
• Children’s activities @ 6:30-7:30pm (gym and Epworth)



• Chancel Choir @ 6:30-8:00pm (Choir suite)

Bible study

led by Cathy Latham (Wesley 104) at 6:00 pm.

God's Plan is Bigger than Yours

Jeremiah 29:11

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

This study explores how God uses every circumstance in our lives to prepare us for what we are called to be and do. God has a plan and will encourage and equip each of us with everything we need to carry out His plan. 

Parenting study

6:00pm led by Jennifer Aughtman (Wesley 208)

Do you long to be the parent God created you to be but find yourself frustrated and worn out? Come be encouraged and learn how to better equip yourself as a parent in 2023.

Join our Executive Administrator, Jennifer Aughtman,

for a five-week parenting class.

Sign up today by emailing Jennifer at [email protected]

Nursery is provided.

Upcoming February Sermon Series

"Relationship Status"

starting February 5th

Are you interested in joining the photography team?

God has given us eyes to see and a heart to capture it. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then every photo we take has the ability to speak thousands of words into the lives of people we will never know. Photos Tell A Story. You can show the stories of what God is doing in, and through our church, through them.

If you have your own gear and experience, that’s awesome! But of course we take anyone with a willing heart and a passion to learn photography.

LEGACY PRAYER TEAM!!

Sundays @ 8:20am in Sanctuary 202!

Have you felt The Lord calling you to do something that is bigger than yourself? Come be a part of our Legacy Prayer Team!!

Matthew 21:13 "And Jesus declared to them, It is written: My house will be called a HOUSE OF PRAYER!"

If you feel called to this team and would like to learn more information please contact our executive administrator, Jennifer Aughtman.

Sunday morning Life Group for Young Adults!

SUNDAY NIGHT ACTIVITIES @ FUMC

Genesis Singers (Youth Choir) - SUNDAYS

(Rehearsals resume January 22)

Where: Choir Suite

Sunday Night Small Groups

Sunday Night Youth - 6-7:30pm 

All youth, grades 7th-12th, are invited to join us for a fun night of food and small groups! Following youth choir, come to the youth room for this exciting new aspect of youth ministry. Invite a friend!

Sunday Nights @ 5pm

Wesley 104

Led by Chris McCain

2023 MUSIC MINISTRY UPDATES

Handbell Choir

• Tuesdays
• 5:30-6:30 pm
• Sanctuary 204

Fifty Forward Choir

• Wednesdays
• 11:00-12:00
• Choir Suite

Children’s Choirs

• Wednesdays
• 5:45-6:30 pm
• Various Classrooms

Chancel Choir (Adults)

• Wednesdays
• 6:30-8:00 pm
• Choir Suite

Genesis Singers (Youth)

• Resumes on Sunday 1/22
• 5:00-6:00 pm
• Choir Suite

Many have asked about church membership, either by profession of faith or by transferring your membership from another congregation. If it fits in your schedule, Pastors Tony or Chris would like to set up an appointment to meet with you; please email or call them at the church. They will also send you a membership form with general questions so we can get to know you better. There are two primary ways to join. Some prefer to walk forward and join the ministers at the altar rail during the closing song at either the modern or traditional service. Others have been introduced to the congregation in a brief video Q&A that is played in the modern service. 

Baptism marks the beginning of our lifelong journey as disciples of Jesus Christ. Adults and youth older than 6th grade who have never been baptized will receive the sacrament of baptism before becoming members. Children are considered preparatory members and their membership becomes official when they participate in confirmation class in the 6th grade. For more information or to set up a meeting with our ministers regarding membership, please contact the church office.

From the app, you can watch services live, get access to our digital newsletter, safely give your offerings to the church, check the full prayer list, read the Bible, and check on upcoming events and so much more! Right from your cell phone!

Download it today from Apple or Android app stores and type “First Methodist Prattville.” It only takes a few seconds, but will keep you better connected to all that is happening at the church whether at home or on the go!

This past fall there was a change to how we refer to our adult small groups and Sunday school classes. This ministry area is being rebranded to better communicate our desire to have adult groups where people can share their lives, grow spiritually together, and encourage each other through the highs and lows of life. Life Groups will gather on Sunday mornings, Sunday nights, and throughout the week in church classrooms, homes, coffee shops, and other places where people love to connect. We encourage everyone to find a life group!

Sunday Mornings -

COLLEGE AND CAREER 

(LOCATION: WESLEY 206)

Starting soon!

YOUNG ADULTS - Couples and Singles - David Lewis

(LOCATION: WESLEY 102)

A class for singles, couples, and young families in their 20s and 30s.

YAMS - Robyn and Stephen Davis  

(LOCATION: WESLEY 204)

A class for singles and couples in their 30s and 40s, this class studies topics relevant to life experiences. They invite all adults to join them as they learn and grow together.

JOURNEY - Dave Dageforde

(LOCATION: WESLEY 208)

This class, composed of single and married individuals in their 40s-50s and focuses on finding Christ in all aspects of life. Dave Dageforde teaches this class and invites you to join the journey.

LIFE 101 CLASS - Wayne Lambert  

(LOCATION: WESLEY 207)

With a versatile group of singles and couples (30'-50's, this class studies social topics of today from a Christian perspective. Wayne Lambert teaches this class and uses contemporary resources to study God’s word in today’s world of challenges.

NEW AGAPE - Jennifer Humphrey, John Story, Brad Robbins (LOCATION: WESLEY 202) 

A melting pot of ages, backgrounds, and ideas forms the membership of this class. This discussion-based class has a strong emphasis on Church and Community Service. The doors of the class are always open to anyone who is seeking to begin a journey to a closer relationship with God.

JOHN WESLEY CLASS - Billy and Michelle Taylor  

(LOCATION: WESLEY 203)

A newer class for adults is the John Wesley class. Anyone who is not currently attending another class is invited to join them. They study different topics based on scripture for today’s world. They are taught by Billy Taylor.

FRIENDSHIP CLASS - Cathy Latham

(LOCATION: WESLEY 210)

The Friendship Class has a relaxed atmosphere made up mostly of empty nesters of all ages. The class format is discussion style and includes fun, fellowship, and friendship. Interactive studies focus on living the Christian life in today's world.

CARE AND SHARE CLASS - Susan Poteat  

(LOCATION: WESLEY 101)

This eclectic group of women meets to share concerns and care for each other through their studies which revolve around Biblical applications to the trials of life.

DAVID R. WHITE CLASS - Karen Powell 

(LOCATION: WESLEY 212)

The David R. White Sunday School Class was named for a former Methodist minister and member of this class. It is composed of singles and couples in their 50s & 60s. This class is informal with lots of discussion and participation. Topics are centered around current issues based on biblical scriptures with insights and thoughts of popular, present-day authors such as J. Ellsworth Kalas and James W. Moore.

POWELL FELLOWSHIP CLASS - Carol Risher 

(LOCATION: WESLEY 104 and also ONLINE THROUGH ZOOM)

A mixed group of active retired (or soon to be retired) members who love learning of all types, but especially learning the Word. They share concerns, pray about and act on them, sing traditional hymns, and study the Bible. Leaders expand the prepared material with historical background and current relevance.

Sunday Nights -

YOUNG ADULTS - Pastor Chris

(LOCATION: SANCTUARY 202)

This group meets at 6 pm on Sunday nights for fellowship, sometimes dinner, and growing together in faith.

MOMS STUDY

(LOCATON: WESLEY 102)

This group meets at 5 pm on Sunday nights. Today’s girls face a number of challenges we never dealt with at their age. From skyrocketing anxiety rates to bullying on social media, the Enemy’s lies are everywhere. Prepare your daughter for the difficult challenges she’ll face in the world today.

Prayer Concerns

Church Family:

Mike Harris, Carlyn Howell, Frank Lamar, Cathy Latham, Joan McCloskey, Louise Moody, Wayne Perry, Eddie Pope

Extended Family:

Jan Baker, Ben Calvert, Jonathan & Beverly Howell, Mable Little, Kim Miers, Hunter Nanney, Deborah Sturdivant

(new prayer needs) Terrell Moorer, Liles Family

Deaths: 

Rev. Leonard Howell - member of our church family

A memorial service will be held for Rev. Howell on Sunday, January 22nd at 2:30pm in the sanctuary at FUMC Prattville. Visitation will also be held in the sanctuary from 2-2:30pm.

The flowers on the altar have been placed to the Glory of God

Sanctuary Altar

Flower Calendar

THERE ARE SUNDAYS AVAILABLE EACH MONTH FOR YOU TO HONOR OR MEMORIALIZE SOMEONE IMPORTANT IN YOUR LIFE!

Contact Freda Clark ([email protected]) or (334-365-5977) in the church office to reserve your date on the calendar for the upcoming weeks and months.

WEEK OF 1/15/2023

Worship Services (In-person & On-line): 478

Sunday School: 176

• Adult: 143
• Youth: 9
• Children: 24

Add the Instant Church Directory App Today!

Our church directory is available to view on your mobile device! Instant Church Directory - the program we use to build our church directory - has a free app for church members to download. Go to the App Store on your phone. Search for Instant Church Directory. Download the app. Sign in with your email address and create your own password (you don’t need an administrative password to access the directory). Anytime updates are made to the directory, they will update on your device too. In the app, you will be able to search for church members' photos, and can call, email and text right from the app! Please check your information on the app and make sure it is correct. If any of your contact info has changed, please call or text Carmen McCullough at 334.301.4641. The online directory is separate from the church database, so call Carmen with any edits/changes to your contact info, or if you would like to update your photo in our online directory.