Sunday, December 1

1st Sunday of Advent

Preacher: Rev. Taylor Fuerst

Scripture: Isaiah 2:1-5

Sermon: "Hope: God's Promised Day Can't Wait"

"What Can't Wait" Sermon Series

Advent is a season of waiting, but is idle waiting what God wants of us? In preparation for the coming Messiah, we wonder together—what things can’t wait? What demands our immediate attention? What requires our work and preparation? What is it that God can’t wait for? Is it our praise, reconciliation, and proclamation? Is it the end of suffering, isolation, and fear? This Advent, we invite you to join us in imagining, prioritizing, and preparing. As we wait, what can’t?

Sock Drive for Feed My People

Place sock donations for our Christmas Eve Breakfast in the collection bins of the Sanctuary and FLC Foyers starting this Sunday through December 22.

Advent Devotional

Sanctuary Foyer

Beginning with December 1, 2019, this daily devotional invites you to read, reflect, pray, and color your way through the end of 2019. Each day in the devotional offers something new, including: poetic prayers, original visuals inspired by scripture, written reflections, prompts for visual meditation, prompts for journaling, colorable pages, and active prompts.

Advent Visio Divina Study

Sundays, December 1, 8 & 15, 10:00 a.m., EDU Murchison Chapel

Visio Divina, latin for “divine seeing,” is a method of meditation, reflection, and prayer through a process of intentional seeing. Visio Divina extends the 6th century Benedictine practice of Lectio Divina by the use of visual imagery. Traditionally, Visio Divina was accompanied by Benedictine iconography and illuminations, however, different faith traditions have adapted the process over time, utilizing both secular and nonsecular images. This class, led by Cindy Walter, blends visual meditation with group discussion and Bible study. Register Here .

Conversations on Racial Justice

Sunday, December 1, 4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m., FLC Garrison Chapel

Join us as we work to be anti-racists, seeking to undo racism in ourselves and to recognize and understand our participation in systemic racism. Currently, we are listening to and discussing podcasts and articles from The 1619 Project from The New York Times. Childcare is available with reservations made to our Childcare Coordinator, Pam Coronado at [email protected] by the Thursday prior to the class. 

Book Study: Just Mercy

Tuesdays, December 3, 10, 17, 6:30-7:45pm

FLC Room 103

Before the movie is released in January, let’s read/re-read Just Mercy ! Bryan Stevenson’s book provides an opportunity to explore justice issues of race, poverty, and mass incarceration. This accessible book shares true stories of the potential for mercy to redeem us as well as a clarion call to fix our broken system of justice. There’s even a version for young adults. So grab a copy and join us! We have two options: 1. Join us in December to discuss as you read or 2. Read over the holidays and join us on January 19 for a Sunday morning conversation. You can even do both! Read More .

Cookie Collection

Begins December 15

We are collecting chocolate chip cookies (6 per bag, no nuts) to provide guests at the Christmas Eve Breakfast. Place in collection bins in the Sanctuary and Family Life Center Foyers December 15-22.

Christmas Choir Opportunity

Wednesdays, December 4 and 11

7:00-8:30 p.m. FUMC Choir Room, Colorado 3 Street Entrance

Have you thought about singing with our FUMC Choir but were not sure how to get started? Join us for our Christmas music program. Come to rehearsals on Wednesdays, December 4 and 11, and then sing at our 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. services on Sunday, December 15. To participate in this music program, you must attend both rehearsals and sing at both services.

Decorating and Holiday Stroll

Saturday, December 7, 4:00-9:00 p.m.

SAN Wesley Hall

Kick off your holiday by decorating spaces around the church and then offering hospitality to Austinites of all ages heading to and coming from the Holiday Stroll. We begin with decorating the Sanctuary, Murchison Chapel, Family Life Center, and outdoor spaces. Afterward, volunteers share a meal and then welcome guests on the front steps with hot chocolate and cookies and a welcome family-friendly pit stop. For parents/guardians who are volunteering during the decorating from 4:00-6:00 p.m., childcare for Infants-Preschool is available and fun activities are planned for elementary-aged children (Kinder – 5th grades). Sign up for our decorating team, hospitality team, and childcare at fumcaustin.org/stroll .

Children's Christmas Giving

December 8-January 5

In the spirit of Christmas giving, our Children’s Ministry Team invites children to bring toiletry items for the children and their families living at Casa Marianella. This is the only homeless shelter in Austin dedicated solely to immigrants. 65% of shelter residents, including children, are asylum seekers, many coming from immigration detention. Full size items needed: children—toothbrushes, toothpaste and tearless shampoo and adults—shampoo; conditioner; razors; and soap. Donations can be placed at the Children’s Christmas Tree in the Sanctuary Foyer. 

Calling All Women

Sunday, December 8, 2019, 12:15 p.m.

FLC Garrison Chapel

Join the United Methodist Women of First Church for a Holiday Round-Up informational meeting. Not an “official” United Methodist Woman? No worries! We’ll introduce ourselves and share an overview of who we are and what we do, so you can find a circle that fits—or maybe even create your own. The UMW has been advocating for women and children for 150 years—you can help make the next 150 even better. We’ll have a light lunch; children (and men) welcome! Register your attendance so we can plan for lunch. Register Here .

Christmas Poinsettia Sale

Order by Sunday, December 8

Poinsettias on the communion rails, around the trees, in the foyers...a great way to celebrate someone you love or who is now in God's hands. Cost is $12 per plant. Plants are florist quality and great for replanting. Plants can be picked up after worship on Sunday, December 22 and Christmas Eve, December 24.  Order Online .

Kids' Day Out

Saturday, December 14, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

EDU Room 102

While parents enjoy a morning out, children play, eat pizza, make holiday crafts, decorate gingerbread houses, and watch a movie with our trained childcare staff. We accept infants through fourth graders. The cost is $25 for the first child and $10 for siblings. Register Now .

FUMC Choir Presentation

Sunday, December 15, 9:00 & 11:00 a.m., Sanctuary

Come sing praise to God and celebrate through the gifts of others with a special musical offering by our FUMC choir during worship.

Children's Choir Presentation: Carriers of the Light

Sunday, December 15, 10:15 a.m.

Sanctuary

The Children’s choir presents their Christmas musical, “Carriers of the Light”, on Sunday, December 15th at 10:00 am. This creative Christmas musical is inspired by scriptural passages focusing on Jesus as the Light of Salvation. Through traditional carols and original music, it celebrates the passing of God's light from Mary to Joseph to the animals in the manger; from the shepherds in the countryside to the Wise Men in the East. We hope you can join us!

Civil Rights Pilgrimage Meeting

Sunday, December 15, 12:15 p.m. EDU Murchison Chapel

Our Civil Rights Pilgrimage is set for March 15-21, 2020. This seven-day trip for adults, youth, and families will take us through Jackson, Selma, Montgomery, Birmingham, and Memphis. Those interested in participating should attend this meeting to hear final details and participate in logistics. Register for the trip at fumcaustin.org/pilgrimage . A $250 deposit per person is due January 1. For more information, Pastor Cathy Stone at [email protected] .

FEAST

Sunday, December 15, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

FLC Garrison Chapel

FEAST is a monthly dinner gathering for young adults (roughly ages 20–45) to build community and dig into the more difficult side of faith together. Come join us for a special HOLIDAY FEAST and dive into a discussion of your favorite Christmas myths and traditions. We'll have some great conversation with a side of ham and mashed potatoes. Crazy holiday attire is encouraged! Register Here .

Blue Christmas Service

Thursday, December 19, 7:00 p.m.

EDU Murchison Chapel

How come I don’t feel it? In the midst of the wonder and expectation of Advent, many of us might feel out of step with the joy and excitement of Christmas. Some of us have lost loved ones or face the “happy” holidays feeling blue with grief or depression. Senior Pastor Taylor Fuerst leads this special worship service on the longest night to acknowledge our grief and longing for hope.

Wait! That's Not the Christmas Story

Sunday, December 22, 10:00 a.m.

SAN Wesley Hall

Join Dr. Brad King for a deep dive into the Christmas story that we all know and love. While the popular versions of this story are, in Brad's words, "a mess of mixed up myths," he also insists that a more accurate version of the story is just as beautiful and even more relevant to Christian life and love. In addition to riveting conversation, we’ll have plenty of hot cocoa and cookies to keep everyone’s spirits high! Register Here .

Feed My People Christmas Eve Breakfast

Tuesday, December 24

6:30 a.m., FLC Great Hall

Breakfast will be held from 6:30-8:30 a.m. Our guests enjoy coffee and Christmas music beginning at 6:30 a.m., breakfast will be served at 7:00 a.m. Volunteers are also needed to prepare food and decorate on Monday, December 23. Many in our congregation have made these volunteer opportunities a significant part of their Christmas season. Spaces fill fast. Sign Up Now .

Christmas Eve Noon Service

12:00 p.m., Murchison Chapel

This traditional service features carols, Scripture reading, and Holy Communion and is ideal for those who wish to celebrate early and for those whose plans make it impossible to participate in our later services.

Christmas Eve Family Service

4:00 p.m.*, Sanctuary

Experience the traditions of Christmas carols, the Nativity story, Holy Communion, and a candlelit "Silent Night" in this 45-minute worship service especially designed for families with young children.

Christmas Eve Candlelight & Communion

6:00*, 8:00* & 11:00 p.m., Sanctuary

These traditional services feature carols, Scripture, Holy Communion, and candle lighting to celebrate Christ’s birth.

*Childcare is provided during the 4:00 p.m. Family Service and 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. Candlelight Services.

Service Project Sunday

Sunday, December 29, 10:00 a.m.

SAN Wesley Hall

Let’s end the year caring for our neighbors! All ages and stages are invited to gather for conversation and projects that will make a difference in the world. All Sunday School classes are invited to participate. There will be no regular Sunday School for children or youth. 

Epiphany Party

Sunday, January 5, 10:00 a.m. FLC Great Hall

Start your new year with joy by celebrating Christ’s light in the world with your church family. Families, individuals, children, and adults all are welcome! Children and youth will not have regular Sunday School class that day, so bring the whole family to the party!

Becoming a Better LGBTQ+ Ally

Saturday, January 11, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

SAN Wesley Hall

Ally training provides a basic framework of understanding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ+) persons and the unique challenges they often face. This training is designed to create dialogue regarding what it means to be an effective ally. Participants are encouraged to explore their own biases, build their knowledge and understanding and develop empathy. Whether you already consider yourself an ally, or want to become one, this training can help each of us learn how to be a better neighbor to those within the FUMC-Austin community and beyond. A $15 donation at registration is requested. Please register at fumcaustin.org/ally .  

Coffee with the Pastors

Sunday, January 12, 10:00-10:45 a.m.

SAN Parlor

Come visit with the pastors and lay leaders in this periodic series of coffee and conversation. The emphasis of this gathering will be our spring discipleship offerings. New and long-time members are welcome. Register at fumcaustin.org/coffee .

Baby Brunch

Sunday, January 12, 10:00-11:00 a.m., SAN Wesley Hall

Have a newborn or child under 18 months old? Our Children’s Ministry invites you to come enjoy this fun event filled with fellowship and food. We are excited to partner with you as you begin this incredible journey with your child. Please RSVP to [email protected] .

VBS 2020 Save the Date

Attention families and volunteers! Winter is coming to next year’s VBS with Knights of the North Castle. Mark Monday-Thursday, July 20-23, on your calendars now so you can join the fun! Our kick-off party will be Sunday, July 19. Registration and volunteer sign up will be available in January.

Christmas Offering - Family Life Center Kitchen

Each Christmas, we have an opportunity to provide transformation through our Christmas Offering, a gift to which we contribute, beyond our regular church giving. This year, the transformation we hope for is right at the corner of 13th and Lavaca Street: our Family Life Center Kitchen. The kitchen is a crucial part of our ministry and integral to the Feed My People Breakfast, our youth ministry dinners, First Steps, a variety of leadership meetings, and by other groups renting our facility. Several critical components of the kitchen are non-functioning or out of code. Working with architects and designers, we estimate the cost of renovation to be $315,000 of which grants will cover a portion. We need to raise $100,000 to fund the rest of the project and a lead donor has already committed $25,000 to help us get there. We need everyone's help to make this new kitchen a reality. Please mark your check or gift with "Christmas Offering" in the offering plate or online. Give Now .