THIS SUNDAY
Sunday, July 21
6th Sunday after Pentecost
Journey with God Series
Preacher: Rev. Taylor Fuerst
Scripture: Luke 10:25-37
Sermon: "A Journey Interrupted"
The Bible and Progressive Christianity
Sundays, July 21-August 4
10:00 a.m., SAN Wesley Hall
Many progressive Christians struggle with how to read and interpret the New Testament in the face of its apparent contradictions and challenges to our modern values. These lectures and discussions are designed to promote a better understanding of the Bible’s place in progressive Christianity and to provide you with the tools and knowledge to pursue a deeper, personal relationship with these ancient texts.

July 21 -“Why Religious Disaffection and Antipathy Are on the Rise”
Join special guest, Dr. Josh Urich, for a discussion of the ways that critical, thoughtful interpretation of the New Testament can help to connect believers with those who are disaffected or even antagonistic toward Christian ideals and communities. Don’t miss this one!
Vacation Bible School Launch Party
Sunday, July 21, 12:15-2:00 p.m. SAN Wesley Hall
Lunch and launch! Start the Mars and Beyond adventure early with our VBS party. Come enjoy lunch and activities to get ready to GO BEYOND during a fun week of exploring God’s power. Free registration helps us plan for food and games. Register now .
Mobile Loaves & Fishes Third Sunday
Sunday, July 21, 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. SAN MLF Kitchen
MLF serves daily, but this day is for individuals and families who want to try face-to-face service working with experienced volunteers. Join the Make-Ready Team from 4:00-5:00 p.m. (preparing food and loading truck) and/or the Truck Team from 5:00-6:30 p.m. (delivering food around Austin). Signup at fumcaustin.org/mlf .
Journey with God
At First Church, we believe every person is a beloved child of God, on a journey to God, with God. This summer, as we journey to places near and far, we invite you and your families to capture what God is doing beyond our walls and beyond our city. Mail us your travel postcards or jot a note on the mock postcard found in a pew and we’ll display them in the Sanctuary Foyer for all to see the ways you’ve seen God while on your journey. Read question prompts at fumcaustin.org/journeywithgod.
NEWS AND EVENTS
Churchwide Vote Result
On Sunday, July 14, during a churchwide vote in the Sanctuary, a new marriage resolution was passed by 98% of the 299 members present. The resolution affirms God's blessing of both same-sex and opposite-sex marriages by allowing the use of church facilities for all weddings. With this vote, the congregation supports our clergy to officiate any marriage.
Fall Worship Series
We need your help! This fall in worship we are asking the question "Do I really have to believe this stuff?" Each week we'll take a look at a belief or aspect of Christianity that people struggle with. For instance, many Christians have trouble believing that Creation happened in six days, or that there really is a hell. What are the beliefs that you struggle with? Which claims leave you wondering? We need you to share those so we can craft a meaningful and helpful worship series for the fall. Fill out our online form and join us for the series beginning August 18!  
FUMC is Hiring a Children's Ministry Assistant
We are looking to hire a Children’s Ministry Assistant to start at the beginning of September. The position is 20 hours/week, part-time, salary, and reports directly to the Director of Children’s Ministries. This role will assist the Director in planning, preparing, and leading programs and ministries that will help teach our children ages infant through 5th grade to become life-long disciples of Christ. Pay is commensurate with experience. For more information or to apply, please contact Lara Greene at children@fumcaustin.org .
Sign Up for Table for 8
Our first season of Table for 8 went really well. It's time to shake things up and sign up for new groups! Table for 8 is a fun way to connect with people from First Church in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Singles, couples, and families of all ages are welcome. Sign up in July in the foyer or online. This time, you may select whether you want to be grouped by geography or schedule availability. Then you will be placed with others in a dining group. From this group, an initial “lead host” will contact all the other members to decide the date and time of your first gathering. Tables are encouraged to meet three times in the fall and three in the spring. The group can meet at a home, restaurant, park...it is up to you! Questions? Visit our FAQ at fumcaustin.org/tablefor8 or email Emily Buchanan at emily@fumcaustin.org.
Habitat Build Dedication
Saturday, July 27, 10:00 a.m.
7229 Boyle Dr, Austin TX 78724
All are invited to celebrate Habitat for Humanity's Spring Builds! In March-May, 17 amazing FUMC volunteers helped frame rooms, sheath a roof, hang doors/windows, paint trim, and much moreto provide a home for the Rosales family. Donations are also still needed to meet our goal of $10,000 to cover materials and other build costscontribute through the offering plate or online (mark "Habitat Build"). For more info about the Habitat 2019 Methodist Build: https://www.austinhabitat.org/methodist-build .

Thank you to our volunteers: Claire Kinchen, Seth Wagenblast, Gordon Wesley, Michael Render, Garry Merritt, Terri Purdy, Matthew Purdy, Amber Nichols, Kristi Kevern, Mary John Coats, Larry Peters, Becky Ratliff, Donna Shands, Joe Shands, Greg VerBeek, Daviss King, Sherry Clark. 
Manna Bags
Sunday, July 28, 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Worship
During Vacation Bible School, our children will assemble Manna Bags for the congregation to share the love of Christ to those in need. Bags contain nutritious snacks, socks, and a note of God's blessing. Manna Bags will be distributed after the 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services.
ASP Slide Show
Sunday, July 28, 12:15 p.m., Garrison Chapel
All are invited to a slide show of this year’s Appalachia Service Project trip. Come hear stories from our high school youth about the trip, the people they met, and the experiences shared in Harlan County. Register at fumcaustin.org/asp-slideshow.
Book Study: Queer Virtue
Tuesdays, July 30, August 6, 13, 20, 27, 6:30-7:45 p.m.
FLC Garrison Chapel
This five-week study will guide participants in reading Queer Virtue: What LGBTQ People Know About Life and Love and How It Can Revitalize Christianity by The Reverend Elizabeth M. Edman, which lifts up queer ethics as a model for progressive Christian practice. By paying attention to queer experience, Edman asserts, Christian communities can learn a great deal about how to live their faithhow to be the church more effectively and with greater consequence. Register online at fumcaustin.org/bookstudy
LGBTQIA+ Pride Interfaith Service
Sunday, August 4, 4:00-5:30 p.m.
Temple Beth Shalom, 7300 Hart Lane
This annual LGBTQIA+ inclusive event tradition is an official part of Austin Pride Week and features speakers from our LGBTQIA+ communities. This year’s featured speaker is Rabbi Sandra Lawson. FREE. Registration required at https://bit.ly/2xzejmf . All are welcome! 
Austin Pride Parade
Saturday, August 10, 7:30 p.m. 
Family Life Center
For those wishing to walk or ride in the 2019 Austin Pride Parade, we will plan to meet at the Family Life Center to walk over to our float starting position as a group. We hope to see you there!
Summer Book Club for All Ages
Now-August 11
Our Summer Book Club is as easy as 1, 2, 3! 
  1. Pick your book. 
  2. Read your book. 
  3. Bring your book and discuss.
Books to choose from: (1) The Universal Christ by Richard Rohr; (2) Inspired by Rachel Held Evans; (3) I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown; (4) Shameless by Nadia Bolz-Weber; (5) Torn by Justin Lee; (6) Beloved by Toni Morrison; (7) The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz (youth/young adult); (8) Who is My Neighbor? By Levine and Sasso or The Youngest Marcher by Cynthia Levinson (children).

Gather with other summer readers to discuss books and share responses on August 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Wesley Hall . All are invited to find a creative way to respond – a picture, poem, poster, button…Bring it with you on August 11 or give it to Pastor Cathy to share. For more information, contact Pastor Cathy Stone at cathy@fumcaustin.org or 512-478-5684 (ext. 215).
Civil Rights Pilgrimage Information Session
Sunday, August 11, 12:15 p.m.
EDU Murchison Chapel
Mark your calendars for March 13-20, 2020. This eight-day pilgrimage for adults, youth, and families will include visits to Birmingham, Jackson, Little Rock, Montgomery, Memphis, and Selma. As we begin planning this summer, it will be helpful to have an idea of interest. For more information, Pastor Cathy Stone at cathy@fumcaustin.org . If you are interested in this trip, register for the Information Session at fumcaustin.org/civilrightspilgrimage .
Back to School at the Pool
Sunday, August 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Balcones Woods Pool
11204 Alhambra Drive, 78759
Families of all ages are invited to join us for a fun Back-to-School Bash. Burgers and hot dogs will be provided by the church—you can bring a side (a bag of chips counts!) or dessert. Calendars and information about fall children’s ministry programming will be available, plus a sign-up for Children’s Choir. Register at fumcaustin.org/poolparty .
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES
There are many opportunities to do lots of good, in a variety of places, with many different people, throughout the summer! Please view our volunteer opportunities. Every helping hand makes a difference. Read More .
VBS Work Day
Friday, July 26, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Help take down decorations from VBS. Childcare is provided and we will go to lunch at Central Market on Lamar and 38th Street afterwards. Signup at fumcaustin.org/vbsvolunteers .
Caritas Community Kitchen
Thursday, August 7, 8:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Caritas of Austin, 611 Neches Street
FUMC adults and youth (12+) are invited to serve in the Community Kitchen at Caritas. Caritas of Austin provides a free, nutritious lunch—no questions asked—to over 300 individuals Monday through Friday. We have ten spots reserved to serve in this primarily volunteer-operated kitchen. Individuals and families must register online at fumcaustin.org/caritas .
Front Desk Receptionist
Duties for this position include answering the phone, greeting members and clients to make them feel welcome, providing information, and some light office work. We are looking for someone who is friendly and approachable. Shifts are Monday-Wednesday from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 1:00-5:00 p.m. and Thursday 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering in the church office, contact Marcia Houston at marcia@fumcaustin.org or 512-478-5684 (ext. 200).
Sunday Morning Front Desk Receptionist
This role is part of our Sunday morning hospitality and welcome. Duties include greeting members and guests, providing information and directions to classrooms and meetings, and other light office support. Shifts are 8:45-11:00 a.m. If interested, contact Tamra Golden at tamgol@yahoo.com or 512-632-7769.
CALENDAR
Friday and Saturday, July 19-20
VBS Workdays

Sunday, July 21
Murchison Chapel Service
Vacation Bible School Launch Party

Monday-Thursday, July 21-25
Vacation Bible School
Triumph Sports Camp

Tuesday, July 23

Wednesday, July 24

Friday, July 26
VBS Workday

Sunday, July 28
Contemplative Worship Service
Manna Bag Sale

Monday-Wednesday, July 29-31
Tuesday, July 30

Wednesday, July 31
Summer Schlitterbahn Youth Trip

Sunday, August 4

Wednesday, August 7

Saturday, August 10

Sunday, August 11
New Kindergartner Gathering

Sunday, August 18
Back to School Sunday
6th Graders Parade
Fall Class Preview

Sunday, August 25
Manna Bag Sale
Administrative Board Meeting
JULY MISSION EMPHASIS
Click here to view video.
Mission Projects During Vacation Bible School (VBS)
During VBS, children participate in hands-on activities showing love to neighbors. They learn about and contribute to our main ministries with the hungry and homeless in the Austin community assembling Manna Bags for the congregation to distribute and Hygiene Kits for distribution at the Feed My People Breakfast. By the end of the week, the children will have a deeper appreciation of these ministries, the people we serve, and why these ministries are so important. How can you help? Monetary donations may be left at the communion rail, made online, or sent to or brought by the church office. Please indicate “VBS Mission Projects” on your gifts. Donate Now .
SERMONS ONLINE
Missed last week's sermon?
Sunday, July 14
5th Sunday after Pentecost
Preacher: Rev. Taylor Fuerst
Scripture: Joshua 4:1-8
Sermon: "Crossing the Threshold"
Other ways to listen? Subscribe to our iTunes podcast or YouTube channel.
PRAYER CONCERNS
Within our Congregation
Stephanie Benold; Sandy Bowles; Gussie Fallon; Buck Gary and Denise Christopherson; Curtis Higgs; Kathy Morales; Keely Nugent; Mari Perez; Karen Smith; Weldon Wink; and Dan Wood.  

Beyond our Congregation
Meridith Albright’s friend, Linda Hrncir; Curt Ashmos’ friend, Elissa Marek; Bob Block’s friend, Tim Sullivan; Fay Brown’s sister, Jo Rene Altenburg; Herb Canada’s daughter, Rita Canada; Tina Carter’s friend, Kevin Rayos; Carly Criscoe’s grandmother, Ann Williams; Marianne Gaston’s friend, Yolanda Pedraza; Howard Hartman’s brother, Lowell Hartman; Ken and Susan Hensley’s daughter-in-law, Kelly Hensley; Sammy Huffaker’s friend, Samantha Dwyer; Daviss King’s father, Hugh King, Sr.; Melanie Miller’s and Jen Stuart’s father, Doak Thomas; Chip Morris’ friend, Bob Reed; Mark Morris’ and Kathy Tullos’ friends, Rafael and Barbara; Larry Peters’ friends, Peter Barbour and Tim Shockley; Arthur Potts’ grandfather, Arthur Neale Potts; Cindy Reidland’s friends, Carly and Colton; Dianne Render’s sister-in-law, Penny Burns; Pat Rives’ friend, Julie Livingston; Barbara Ruth’s mother, Jewel Ruth; David and Shirley Sanders’ son, Riley; Ben Thoma’s father, Gary Thoma, mother, Margery, and sister, Heidi; Dale Van Horne; Sandy Wilkerson’s sister, Sharon West; and Dick Young’s nephew, Jeff Young.
Church Life enables members to connect, view giving history, schedule giving, and access the church calendar. Available in mobile app with same login. Read More .
Contact Us
1201 Lavaca St. Austin, TX 78701
(512) 478-5684 
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