THIS SUNDAY
Sunday, May 26
6th Sunday of Easter
Preacher: Rev. Taylor Fuerst
Scripture: Acts 7:51-8:1
Sermon: "Martyrs"
Renegades Worship Series
Renegades: The unbelievable stories of the earliest Christians
Back before Church people got so “churchy,” they were outlaws. Everything they did was experimental; they challenged social and political norms; persecution and arrest were a way of life. They followed God, and in the process, they turned the world upside down.
Contemplative Worship Service
Sunday, May 26, 9:00-10:00 a.m., EDU Murchison Chapel
These services are offered to beginners and experienced practitioners of mindfulness meditation. The service typically lasts 30-to-40 minutes.
ASP Stock Sales
Sundays, May 26-June 16, 9:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Church Sidewalk
FUMC’s Appalachia Service Project (ASP) team is raising funds for this year’s mission trip to Kentucky, June 21-July 2, 2019. Stop by to learn more about ASP, meet team members, and purchase stock in our ASP trip and the youth of our church. Purchase stock online at fumcaustin.org/aspstock .
FAITH IN ACTION
ASP First Timer
By Caroline Greene
I am looking forward to the ASP trip because of what it means to my family and my church. 30 years ago my mother served on ASP with her youth group when she was in high school, and many of my friends went with FUMC last summer. They have both spoken to me about the wonderful experiences they have had on the trip.

From the ASP workshops I have done so far, I really enjoy working on houses and I am even more excited to go on ASP. I look forward to coming closer to God and making new connections with people in communities very different from mine. I enjoy meeting new people and helping them live in a safer environment.

For me, ASP means an opportunity to bond with my family, youth group, God, and people I have never even met before.
NEWS AND EVENTS
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 want to 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 .
FUMC Seeks Director of Operations
As part of staff restructuring, FUMC seeks to hire a new Director of Operations. This full-time staff position is tasked with the ministry of administration, making the finances and facilities of the church useful for our mission and problem solving with staff and lay leaders to enable the church to carry out its mission. If you or someone you know is interested in applying for this position, please see the full job posting at fumcaustin.org/hiring .
Welcome Pastoral Intern, Brad King!
We celebrate and welcome Dr. Brad King to the FUMC Staff as Pastoral Intern beginning May 28 . Having recently completed his Ph.D. in Religious Studies at UT, Brad is now exploring a call to ministry and preparing to complete the necessary seminary courses to pursue that call. For the next year, Brad will serve among us, exploring the many facets of pastoral ministry. In addition to teaching, pastoral care, and worship leadership, Brad will oversee ministry with young adults and coordinate the rental and use of FUMC facilities. Welcome, Brad!
The Green Team
Sunday, June 2, 10:00 a.m.
EDU Murchison Chapel
We are building a Green Team to work on environmental best practices at FUMC and plan educational and awareness opportunities with our congregation and community. Interested in learning more? Join us for this information session. Please contact Caroline Jones at [email protected] with questions or for additional information.
Marriage Equality Town Halls and Churchwide Vote
Over the last two months, the "Moving Forward" Task Force has developed a resolution to welcome all couples for marriage at FUMC. On Sunday, May 19, the Administrative Board unanimously recommended the resolution to the congregation for a churchwide vote. FUMC members are invited to participate in one of three Marriage Equality Town Hall Meetings. The three meetings will cover the same information.

Marriage Equality Town Hall Meetings
June 2, 12:15 p.m., Sanctuary Main Floor
June 16, 10:00 a.m., Sanctuary Main Floor
June 23, 12:15 p.m., Sanctuary Main Floor
 
Churchwide Vote
July 14, 12:15 p.m., Sanctuary Main Floor

Visit fumcaustin.org/marriageequality to view the full marriage resolution.
VBS Volunteer Training and Luncheon
Sunday, June 2, 12:00-2:00 p.m., Wesley Hall
This training and orientation is for all adult volunteers new and returning for VBS 2019. (Youth will receive their own training on July 10). Come learn everything you need to know so you are ready to serve July 21-25. We will reflect on the scripture, explain roles and expectations, get a sneak peak at the special plans our area leaders are working on, and see the new changes we have made to the schedule (4 days) and kick-off party. Lunch is provided with registration at fumcaustin.org/vbs-volunteer-training .
Conversations on Racial Justice
Sunday, June 2, 4:30-6:00 p.m., FLC Garrison Chapel
Join us as we work together on racial justice, seeking to undo racism in ourselves and recognize systemic racism, while working for and supporting work being done to end racial oppression. This group meets on first Sundays to discuss topics through videos, podcasts, and articles. Register at fumcaustin.org/conversations.
ASP Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, June 9
Celebrate the ASP legacy at First Church!   For 40 years, we have been participating in the Appalachia Service Project, sending youth and adults to serve alongside families in the Appalachian Mountains to make their homes warmer, safer, and drier. We want your help to mark the occasion! On Sunday June 9, we've got big plans, so save the date, and help us out in four ways:

  1. Upload your favorite ASP photos to social media using the hashtag #FUMCASP40 or email them to [email protected] by June 1.
  2. Upload a short video (one minute or less) sharing what ASP means to you or recounting a memory using that same hashtag by June 1. 
  3. Wear your work clothes or ASP t-shirt to worship on June 9! ASP alums from across the years will share the impact these trips have had on them personally and on the life of this church.
  4. Join us on June 9 for a churchwide luncheon at 12:15 p.m. in the FLC Great Hall. Proceeds from the meal will support future ASP teams by establishing a permanent long-term tool fund. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Or, for just $20, you can get your meal ticket plus a limited edition commemorative lapel pin! Register online at fumcaustin.org/asp40 by June 1.
Alternative Gifts for Father's Day
Due by June 10
An alternative gift is a perfect way to show appreciation for the men in your life. The items "purchased" will support the ongoing work of Church World Service, a United Methodist-related international ministry, to families across the globe. Recognition of your gift(s) will be in the bulletin insert on Father's Day, June 16. Order online at fumcaustin.org/fathers .
Laurie Barr's Retirement
Assistant Business Administrator Laurie Barr will retire on June 11. We celebrate Laurie’s 15 years of service to the church. Laurie began working as the front desk receptionist in 2004, became the Membership Secretary managing our membership database, and then transitioned into the Assistant Business Administrator position in 2012 by learning how to process payroll, payments, and deposits. Laurie is moving to Missouri to live with her daughter’s family. Help celebrate Laurie’s ministry by sending a note of thanks or by giving a love offering. Gifts and notes can be given directly to Laurie or through FUMC marked “Laurie Gift” by placing in the offering plate, sending to the church office, or given online. (Please note that this type of gift is not considered tax deductible).
Book Study: You Are My Brother
Tuesdays, June 11, 18, 25
6:30-7:30 p.m.
FLC Room 104
Join us as we read and discuss You Are My Brother: Lessons Learned Embracing a Homeless Community . Judith D. Knotts is an educator and consultant who has delved deep into the world of homelessness in Austin. Her book is a collection of true stories about her encounters with homeless people and the lessons she learned from them. Judith will be with us in person on Sunday, June 30, at 10:00 a.m. for our 5th Sunday Mercy & Justice Presentation to talk about her experiences on the streets of Austin and share her wisdom with us. View reading assignments and register at fumcaustin.org/bookstudy .
Reception for Pastor Michael
Sunday, June 16, 12:15 p.m. 
FLC Great Hall
Beginning July 1, Rev. Michael Mumme will serve as Senior Pastor at Canyon Lake UMC. Please join us for a reception to celebrate Pastor Michael and his four years of service to FUMC. Want to help? Do you have a photo of Pastor Michael in his element at FUMC or serving outside the church? Please send your favorite photos to Katie Kaighin at [email protected] by May 24 to help us commemorate his service. Help celebrate Michael’s ministry by sending a note of thanks or by giving a love offering. Gifts and notes can be given directly to Michael or through FUMC marked “Michael’s Gift” and placed in the offering plate, sent to the church office, or given online . (Please note that this type of gift is not considered tax deductible.)
Courts & Ports: Faithful Witness on the Texas-Mexico Border
Sunday-Wednesday, June 16-19
The Texas Interfaith Center for Public Policy/Texas Impact invites you to participate in Courts & Ports: Faithful Witness on the Texas-Mexico Border . This two-day immersion experience engages people of faith to witness first-hand the legal and law enforcement processes related to immigration, detention, and deportation occurring in South Texas. FUMC will send a team Sunday evening, June 16-Wednesday morning, June 19. Register by Sunday, May 26 , with Pastor Cathy Stone at [email protected] or 512-478-5684 (ext. 215). Learn more about Courts & Ports at texasimpact.org/project/courts-ports .
Vacation Bible School Registration
July 22-25 (4 Days: Monday-Thursday) 
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
For children 4 years-completed 5th grade.
VOYAGERS, come with us on a journey to Mars and Beyond this summer! The Starship Galaxion needs our help. It's going to be an out-of-this-world adventure as we explore where God's power can take us. Spots fill up quickly. Early bird pricing is $30 before June 1, then $40 until the registration cut-off on July 10. Plan to kick-off the fun at our Launch Party on Sunday, July 21 from noon-2:00 p.m. Register at fumcaustin.org/vbs .
Summer Sports Camp for Kids
Post-VBS Sports Camp
July 22-25, 12:30-4:30 p.m.
A multi-sport camp for ages 5-12 consisting of fun games like dodgeball, kickball, capture the flag, and other games revolving around classic sports like basketball, flag football, and soccer. The cost of the camp is $85 before June 1 and $95 after June 1. 

Rookies Camp
July 29-August 1, 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
For ages 2.5-6 years, younger children will learn the basics of basketball, indoor soccer, and lots of other fun & goofy games. The cost is $75 before June 1 and $85 after June 1.

Register through Triumph Sports at TriumphSports.com/FUMCAustin .
SERVING OPPORTUNITIES
Women's Care Program
On May 23, we are launching a new ministry with women experiencing homelessness. This ministry will immediately follow the “Feed My People” Breakfast, providing a safe and welcoming environment away from the streets from 7:00-11:00 a.m. Opportunities will include showers, snacks, arts and crafts, computer access, coffee and fellowship, along with assistance connecting with resources. We invite you to support this new ministry with your prayers and through financial donations marked “Thursday Morning Ministry.” For more information or to learn how to volunteer, contact Pastor Cathy Stone at [email protected] .
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 .
Volunteer with Children and Youth
June 2-August 11
We give our regular teachers the summer off, which gives our parents and other church members a wonderful opportunity to build relationships with these amazing young disciples. Just a few hours of your time can make a big difference. Curriculum is provided and classrooms prepared. Caution: the more you serve, the more fun you have! Prayerfully consider how you can support our children and youth. Sign up at fumcaustin.org/teachers .
ASP 40th Celebration Volunteers
Saturday, June 8, 12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 9, 10:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (in shifts)
On June 8 and 9, we are looking for some helping hands to get things ready for our ASP 40th celebration. Saturday, June 8 from 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., we’ll be meeting in the Family Life Center to help decorate the room and prepare for the lunch. We need help beyond the capabilities of this year's team. In addition, our ASP team will be commissioned during the 11:00 a.m. worship service, so we need some help with last-minute food preparation in our absence. If you are available to help serve, please sign up at fumcaustin.org/asp40helpers .
Day of Service at Marbridge
Thursday, June 27, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
2310 Bliss Spillar Road
Come make a difference as we interact with residents through games, crafts, and other activities planned by the Marbridge staff. This event is family friendly for all ages. Children under the age of 10 years should be accompanied by an adult. Marbridge is a non-profit residential community that offers transitional and lifetime care to adults with a wide range of cognitive abilities and provides them opportunities to learn, experience, and achieve a whole new life. Space is limited, so please register online . For more information contact Pastor Cathy at [email protected] .
Vacation Bible School (VBS) Work Day
Friday, July 19, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Help us transform our Sanctuary and hallways for VBS week! Please join us for fellowship and fun as we gather to paint, cut, and assemble decorations for our upcoming Mars and Beyond VBS. Whether or not you consider yourself creative, we have a job for you! Sign up at the link below for the day(s) you can help. Childcare is provided and we will go out to lunch after.
Vacation Bible School (VBS) Volunteers Needed
Monday-Thursday, July 22-25, 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
For a safe and fun VBS, we need over 50 adult and youth volunteers! We look forward to going on this adventure "To Mars and Beyond" with all of you and our awesome participants!
Vacation Bible School (VBS) Workday
Friday, July 26, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Help take down decorations from VBS. Childcare provided and we will go out for lunch after. 
To sign up to volunteer, first you will need to fill out a one-time profile form in our volunteer management platform at  fumcaustin.org/vsp . Once submitted, you will receive a login and then you can view all available jobs and signups. If you have already created your profile, you can access the signup at fumcaustin.org/vbsvolunteers .
CALENDAR
Thursday, May 23
Women's Care Program Begins

Sunday, May 26
Contemplative Worship Service

Monday, May 27
Office Closed for Memorial Day

Tuesday, May 28
"Feed My People" Breakfast 4th Tuesday

Saturday, June 1
Registration deadline for ASP 40 Luncheon
VBS Early Bird Pricing Ends

Sunday, June 2
Conversations on Racial Justice

Wednesday, June 5
Wacky Wednesday: Aladdin & Barton Creek Mall 

Saturday, June 8

Sunday, June 9
ASP Commissioning

Monday, June 10
Youth Service Day at Partnerships for Children

Tuesday, June 11
Wednesday, June 12
Wacky Wednesday: Chickapig & Barton Creek Mall

Sunday, June 16
Manna Bag Sale
Reception for Pastor Michael

Friday, June 21
ASP Team Departs
Kids' Night Out

Sunday, June 23
Contemplative Worship Service

Tuesday, June 25
"Feed My People" Breakfast 4th Tuesday

Thursday, June 27

Sunday-Friday, July 14-19
Reach Beyond Mission Youth Trip

Sunday, July 14

Friday and Saturday, July 19-20
VBS Work Days

Monday-Thursday, July 21-25
Vacation Bible School

Friday, July 26
VBS Work Day
MAY MISSION EMPHASIS
Mobile Loaves and Fishes
The Mobile Loaves & Fishes’ (MLF) downtown Austin truck, based at FUMC, goes out nearly every day of the year to provide meals, clothing, and hygiene products to the homeless and working poor in our community. Last year, our Downtown truck provided over 26,000 hearty meals with the help of more than 350 dedicated volunteers. It will cost over $67,000 to fund this ministry for the next 365 days. Please give generously as we try to make a difference for our friends living on the streets. You may leave gifts, marked “Mobile Loaves & Fishes,” at the communion rail or you may send them to or bring them by the church office. Give Online .
SERMONS ONLINE
Missed last week's sermon?
Sunday, May 19
Preacher: Rev. Taylor Fuerst
Scripture: Acts 8:26-40
Sermon: "Outcasts and Those Who Meet Them"
Other ways to listen? Subscribe to our iTunes podcast or YouTube channel.
PRAYER CONCERNS
Within our Congregation
Stephanie Benold, Jim Bowen, Sandy Bowles, Gussie Fallon, Kathy Morales, Keely Nugent, Mari Perez, Weldon Wink, Dan Wood
Beyond our Congregation
Jan Ashmos’ mother, Mildred Spencer; Kerry Blackburn’s niece, Savannah Page; Fay Brown’s sister, Jo Rene Altenburg; Sammy Huffaker’s sister, Mandy Walsh; Jan Iverson’s friend’s nephew, Todd; Beth Peck Kerr; John and Fara McMullen’s friend, Dale Van Horne; Cindy Reidland’s friend, Carly; Crispin Ruiz’ sister-in-law, Gloria Ruiz; Debbie Shaw’s friend, Alice Flores; Danielle Thoma’s sister, Laura Weiss; Reverend John Wright’s cousin-in-law, Gary; 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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