Rev. Glen Miles, Senior Minister

In less than two weeks, Holy Week, one of the high holy seasons in the church, will begin. It starts on Palm Sunday, the day we recall Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. 

I love the beginning of the worship services on Palm Sunday. It feels like the start of a huge celebration. It feels like a day to pull out all the stops, blow the roof off the place, and shout HOSANNA! You may not even know Hosanna means GOD SAVE US, but it feels like a good word, a big word, a word full of hope, passion, joy, and YES!

Things change quickly in the story, though. The shouts of acclimation fade with the setting sun. As Jesus gets closer to Jerusalem, he weeps, saying, "If you, Jerusalem, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace!"

Luke records his words. The moment must have been stunning. Think of the questions in the minds of his followers, especially the disciples. Why the tears? Are you overwhelmed? Everything about the day has been perfect, but it seems as though you are worried or even frightened. Are you?

Jesus knows the cheering will stop. I don't know how he knows, but he knows. The crowd calling him King Jesus today will disappear later this week. Jesus will be arrested as a political prisoner, tortured, and put to death by the state. Why? Because those in power are afraid of love. They've lost the dream of peace. Most especially, they are afraid of the dreamer named Jesus. They are afraid of losing power and control.

After the crucifixion and resurrection, the disciples will finally understand that following Jesus doesn't have much to do with cheers and applause. The real questions Jesus asks us are, "What do you do when the cheering stops? Does your life reflect love, grace, hope, and joy, whether anyone notices you or not? 

Maybe the problem is our dreams. Perhaps they are too small. What about our dreams? When are they going to be changed?"

Are we ready to dream of a congregation built on faith in a God who loves everyone? Are we ready to dream of a church willing to go anywhere in the name of Jesus Christ with a cup of water for the thirsty, a bit of food for the hungry, clothes for the naked, and a welcome for the outsider?

Are we ready to dream of a church whose halls are filled with young and old, gay and straight, black and white, rich and poor? Are we ready to dream with God, to allow the dreams of heaven to become our dreams, too?

This year, during Holy Week, let us dare to dream with God.

You're Invited to Worship this Sunday!

Join us this Sunday at 9, 10, or 11 AM as we come together for an inspiring morning of worship. Rev. Glen Miles will continue his sermon series, Everything in Between, with this week’s message: Righteousness and Mercy.

We will partake in the Lord’s Supper in each service, sharing in this sacred moment as a faith community.

There is much to celebrate!

• Moment for Mexico Mission Trip – Watch a special video highlighting the incredible work of our mission team building homes in Mexico.
• A Special Visit from Ashlesha Onawale – Hear an update on Deep Griha.
• Welcoming New Members – Help us celebrate those who are joining our church family!

After each service, stick around for cookies and coffee as we enjoy fellowship together. This is a Sunday you won’t want to miss—bring a friend and be part of this special day at First Community!

See you Sunday!

This Week in K-5

• The K-2nd class at 9 am will continue our Bread of Life Lenten series by hearing the story of Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus was not liked by his community. When Jesus came to his town, Zacchaeus was so excited, he climbed up a tree to make sure he could see.
• The 3rd-5th grade class at 9 am will hear the Godly Play story, Jesus and the Man who was Paralyzed. A man who was paralyzed wanted to see Jesus. The man’s friends carried him to where Jesus was, but here was no room left. They made a hole in the roof and lowered their friend, so he was right in front of Jesus!
• The K-5th grade class at 10 am will explore the Parable of the Dinner Party. Jesus taught his disciples they should sit in less important seats when they arrive at a dinner party because someone more important may arrive later. Jesus taught the host of the dinner party; he should invite people others would not include.
• All grade levels at 11 am will meet a special guest from Deep Griha in India. Ashlesha Onawale, the Director of the Deep Griha Society, will talk to the group about the work they do. Deep Griha provides life-changing programs for thousands of residents from infants to seniors in the slums of Pune, India.

Generosity Matters: Making Holy Week Worship Possible

At First Community, Holy Week is a sacred time of reflection, reverence, and renewal. From Palm Sunday’s joyful procession to the solemnity of Good Friday and the triumph of Easter morning, each service invites us to walk alongside Jesus in his final days. These moments of deep spiritual connection don’t happen by chance—they are made possible through the generosity of our congregation.

Your giving ensures that every detail of Holy Week worship is thoughtfully prepared. The music that stirs our souls, the sacred spaces transformed with beauty, the candles lit in remembrance, and the message of hope shared from the pulpit—all of it is a direct result of your commitment to this faith community.

Beyond Easter, your generosity continues to sustain the worship life of First Community throughout the year. Every Sunday service, every special gathering, and every opportunity for spiritual growth is supported by the gifts of those who believe in the power of this ministry.

As we journey toward the cross and the empty tomb, consider how your giving can be an act of faith, gratitude, and participation in something greater than ourselves. Your generosity brings the story of Holy Week to life, reminding us all that love, grace, and renewal are always within reach.

Faith & Finances: A Commitment to Ministry and Growth

Rev. John Girard, Executive Minister

As a faith community, we recognize that our financial resources reflect our shared commitment to our mission. Rather than simply presenting numbers, we focus on how our giving supports ministry, outreach, and spiritual growth.

This update provides an overview of what to expect in future editions of Faith & Finances. Some information will be shared monthly, while other updates, such as quarterly reports, will align with the Governing Board’s review process.

Giving & Financial Overview

Each quarter, we will share key financial trends and insights to keep our congregation informed and engaged. The 2025 updates will be available in May, August, and November.

Financial Trends & Updates

• Estimate of Giving Commitments (as of April 1):
• 2025: $1,921,433
• 2024: $1,770,415
• 2023: $1,836,906
• Year-to-Date Giving (through February 28):
• 2025: $779,718
• 2024: $626,986
• Total Giving from Estimate of Giving Commitments:
• 2024: $1,835,057
• 2023: $1,867,456

Ministry & Community Impact

• Early Childhood Programs:
• Enrollment remains strong, with full toddler and preschool rooms projected for the coming school year—an increase in preschool enrollment from last year. Summer class openings are still available.
• New Member Growth:
• Total New Members (as of April 6):
• 2025: 31
• 2024: 28
• 2023: 23
• Total New Members (Full Year):
• 2024: 89
• 2023: 60

Quarterly Capital Debt Updates

Updates on capital debt will be provided in March, June, September, and December, with additional communications as needed.

Faith in Action: Stewardship Reflections

Each month, we will share messages on generosity, gratitude, and the impact of our collective giving. This section will highlight ways to give and stories of how financial stewardship supports the church’s mission.

By providing clear, faith-centered, and consistent financial updates, we aim to inspire confidence, engagement, and continued generosity within our church family.

Season of Lent, Season of Spring

Rose Konrath, Governing Board Chair

It has been such a joy to experience the intermittent warm, sunny days that have recently graced Central Ohio. This time of year often brings multiple seasons in just a few days—spring today, fall tomorrow! I’m also loving the longer daylight and how it stretches further into the evening. Spring is definitely in the air.

I hope you were able to attend WinterSong on March 9 and enjoy the beautiful service featuring our amazing, combined choir. I had the privilege of attending both services, where we also introduced our newest Governing Board members—a true blessing.

During March, the Governing Board gathered for a retreat on Saturday, March 15—a day filled with learning, listening, and fellowship. There was so much energy, enthusiasm, and creativity as we discussed topics such as finance, the future, and our goals for the year. With February marking the start of the Governing Board’s (GB) year, one-third of the board is new, making this retreat an ideal opportunity to build relationships and set the stage for the work ahead. I’d like to share a thoughtful reflection from one of our members:

I feel comfortable in the dark with a little bit of light shining in. It is like having neither, with the promise of both. Both bring something different, and both bring hope.

A special thank you to Glen Miles for sharing his goals and insights, to John Girard for providing a detailed orientation for our new GB members, and to our new treasurer, Mark Hollinger, for an excellent finance overview. I’m grateful to all our members for devoting their time and talent to this important work.

Pictured Left to Right: April Howe, Past Chair; Mark Hollinger, Treasurer; Jennifer Short, Vice Chair; Lois Zook; Mandy Levell; Martha Livingston; Dwayne Ackley; Dr. Dan Davis; Jim Hutchins; Rose Konrath, Chair; Charlie Boltwood; Kristyn Anderson

(Not pictured: Chris Dusseau, Randy Rocke)

April will be a busy month for the GB as we refine our goals to best support our clergy leadership, staff, and congregation. We’ll also continue working on the best ways to share financial information and engage with updates on the South Assessment. Look for more GB updates next month.

Looking forward to sacred Lenten services and the joy of Easter Morning, lifted by the voices of our musicians.

Blessings to all,

Rose

Direction 2025

The First Community South Location Task Force Small Group Meetings have officially begun! These gatherings provide an opportunity to share what we’ve learned and hear your valuable feedback.

If you have any questions about this process, please email Direction2025@FCchurch.com.

Thank you for your engagement—we look forward to these important conversations.

Warmly,

Ginny Barney

This exciting program is for children who have completed kindergarten through those entering 3rd grade. Our weekly adventures include fun-filled field trips around the city every Tuesday and exciting trips to the Upper Arlington Library on Wednesdays. On school days, children enjoy plenty of outdoor playtime and water activities to keep them engaged and active.

For more details, please contact Leigh Anne Easterling at LEasterling@FCchurch.com.

We can’t wait to welcome your child to a summer of fun and learning!

Saturday, April 12 | 11:30am | Wing Grace Hall

Hosted by the Women’s Guild

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, APRIL 7

Location: Grace Hall, First Community South

You're invited to a joyful spring gathering of women, food, music, and meaningful connection! Join us on Saturday, April 12 at 11:30am in Grace Hall for the 2025 Women’s Spring Luncheon, hosted by the Women’s Guild of First Community.

Enjoy a delicious menu that includes:

🧀 A charcuterie board by Martha Livingston

🥗 A catered lunch from Paul Panzera (formerly of Paul’s on Fifth)

🍰 Assorted desserts from Metro Cuisine and more

All women are welcome—bring a friend and make it a special day!

🎶 Featured Speaker: Rev. Becky Sunday, Associate Minister at Dublin Community Church

Rev. Becky Sunday brings her unique voice and spiritual insight to this year’s luncheon through her program: “My Life Flows On in Endless Song: A Hymn Pilgrimage”

In 2018, Pastor Becky received a prestigious grant from the Lilly Endowment’s National Clergy Renewal Program. Her sabbatical journey took her across the globe, exploring the roots of beloved hymns that have shaped her faith and ministry. With a background in historical musicology and a passion for sacred music, Pastor Becky invites us on a musical pilgrimage, weaving together history, storytelling, and song—with many moments of live music and reflection.

Come ready to be inspired and uplifted by her voice, her story, and the timeless hymns that connect us all.

Don’t miss this afternoon of fabulous food, inspiring fellowship, and soulful music!

Register online now: shelbygiving.com/App/Form/8f48760b-4902-4ef9-a4c2-622e90563a28

Questions? Contact Jane Torbica in the Pastoral Care Office

📞 (614) 488-0681 ext. 235

📧 jtorbica@fcchurch.com

Services at 9, 10 & 11 am

We begin Holy Week with a joyful and triumphant celebration. Children and musicians will lead us in waving palms as we remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Dr. Glen Miles continues our Lenten sermon series, Everything In Between, with a message titled "Shouting & Silence" based on Luke 19:29–40. Our musicians will lift our spirits with powerful anthems of praise as we move together into the sacred days ahead.

Maundy Thursday |April 17| Dinner at 6 pm | Service at 7 pm | Wing Grace Hall

On this holy night, we remember the meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his betrayal and arrest. This year’s Maundy Thursday gathering will take place around dinner tables in Grace Hall. We'll share a simple meal of soup, salad, and bread—followed by a meaningful service of communion, reflection, and candlelight. All are welcome at the table as we enter the heart of the Passion story together.

Good Friday | April 18 | 12 pm | Sanctuary at North

On this solemn day, we gather to remember the passion and sacrifice of Christ. The Marble Cliff choir leads this powerful service, with poignant music and sacred readings. Music includes:

• He Never Said a Mumbalin’ Word (Traditional Spiritual)
• O Sacred Head Now Wounded (Passion Chorale)
• Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs / And With His Stripes We Are Healed – G.F. Handel
• Crucifixus – J.S. Bach
• And Can It Be? – Dan Forrest
• Ach Herr, lass dein lieb’ Engelein – J.S. Bach

Clergy will guide us in word and prayer, with a sermon offered by Rev. Dr. Glen Miles.

Easter Eggstravaganza

Hop on over for a morning of fun at the Children and Youth Team’s annual Easter Eggstravaganza—a special celebration for our preschool through 5th grade families!

📅 Saturday, April 19

🕙 10:00 am

📍 Outside the Rose Wing at First Community North

Get ready for:

🌟 A festive egg hunt

💃 Dance-for-candy fun

📸 A springtime photo opportunity

This family-friendly event is free and open to all children—toddlers through 5th grade—and their parents. We'll be outside, so please dress your kids for the weather. (We’ll only cancel in case of extreme conditions.)

🎟️ Please register HERE by Thursday, April 17 to reserve your spot. Registered families will receive a reminder email with event details a few days before.

We can't wait to celebrate with you!

The Mission and Community Justice teams have begun meeting monthly to share updates, resources, and ideas. Our March 18 meeting was packed with valuable information.

We discussed responses to recent team surveys and introduced changes, including a new quarterly meeting rotation. The first month of each quarter will focus on individual team updates and sharing. The second month will feature Darkness 2 Light sexual abuse prevention training, available to any Mission or Community Justice volunteer working closely with children. The third month will include a guest speaker.

March’s guest speaker was a highlight. Ms. Ashlesha Onawale, from Pune, India, shared the work of the Deep Griha Society, founded by her parents 50 years ago. The society aims to improve the lives of low-income communities in Pune through education, healthcare, child development, and women’s empowerment.

In addition to the guest speaker, each Mission and Community Justice team continued planning for ongoing and upcoming projects, observances, and celebrations in the year ahead. The Mission Teams focus on long-term projects and include the Heart 2 Heart food pantry, Tri-Village Trading Post, Refugee Ministry Team, and Veterans and First Responders Team. The Community Justice Teams focus on seasonal programs and include the Environmental Justice Team, Racial Equity Team, LGBTQ+ Team, and Gun Violence Prevention Team.

April is Earth Month, and the Environmental Justice Team has planned a series of weekly events and resources for you and your family to participate in and care for Creation. Weekly focus topics will be displayed in the Sunday slides before and after worship. Be sure to read the Environmental Justice Team’s article on Earth Month in this edition of firstnews.

The Racial Equity Team will take part in the 2nd Annual Columbus Health Department Health Fair in May. The LGBTQ+ Team is planning various events, activities, and a Pride Worship service in June. The Gun Violence Prevention Team will host a panel discussion and presentation in September.

The year ahead is full of opportunities to engage with and support the Mission & Community Justice teams. For more information or to get involved, email missions@FCchurch.com or socialjustice@FCchurch.com.

Click below to read the On a Mission! monthly news. In this month’s news you can find these stories:

• This year’s Easter Sunday Special Offering will be matched by the Mission Grants Team up to $15,000. We encourage you to give generously to the offering which will support two worthy organizations.
• The Deep Griha dinner is Friday, April 4. Registration is closed.
• Current events prevent our Refugee Ministry Team from actively resettling new refugee families, through CRIS’s Welcome Team program. However, the team found alternative opportunities to support local refugees.
• Exciting news from Heart to Heart food pantry! The Generosity Match-a-thon concluded March 31, and contributions totaled over $30,000. The team made a video to accompany the announcement!
• As spring begins, new activities bloom, including work at the Share and Learn Garden, and the opportunity for Mission & Justice teams to collaborate with participation in a community event. The Trading Post is also stocked with Spring items and ready for shopping!
• Rev. John Girard recaps the guest presentation at the March Mission & Justice meeting and outlines what we can expect from those meetings in the months ahead.

We Did It... or rather, YOU did it!

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we met our $20,000 fundraising goal and then some! Of the $30,897 raised (as of March 27), $20,000 is matched by Duke Thomas in loving memory of his wife, Jill, who served as Heart to Heart's first director. While March 31 is the official end date for our fundraiser, please consider making a donation to Heart to Heart at any time. There is no way to adequately express our gratitude for your gifts, but we made a video anyway

Click PLAY to see just a few faces, representing the hundreds who are grateful for your generosity.

Celebrate Earth Month, April 2025

The First Community children enjoy showing their love of nature and our world through their art so much that they participated in the UCC national Climate Art Contest. One of our Midweek Missions kids was even a finalist a few years ago.  

You can join us in celebrating “Earth Month” during the five weeks of April. The FC Environmental Justice Team has identified weekly action-items for the month of April, so everyone can participate in Earth Month. 

Show your love for mother earth by engaging in sustainability, keeping paper out of landfills, composting, Big River Clean-up, and supporting Camp Akita. 

Let’s join all the First Community children in loving nature and our world during Earth Month in April.

Thanks from the Environmental Justice Team. 

UCC National Climate Art Contest submission Finalist, by FCC Midweek Missions participant.

Minute for Mission: Easter Sunday Special Mission Offering 

by Rick Greene, Mission Grants Team Member

Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other. Zechariah 7:9-10 

Currently, there is a lot of discussion in the world news about refugees and those who are victims of war. Helping others not only shines our light in a dark word but can sometimes open doors to a Christian presentation. 

The Bible never mentions the term “humanitarian aid,” but it does speak of compassion. Humanitarian work is the practice of improving human life. The word compassion depicts more a stance of love and care, rather than supplying the outward physical needs of innocent refugees and those ordinary citizens who are victims of war. 

In light of this, the Easter Offering at First Community for 2025 will be split between Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) and Razom for Ukraine. Additionally, the Mission Grants Team had approved a matching gift up to $15,000 for the total offering. 

Click here to read the April issue of On a Mission! newsletter for more information about these respective organizations and how to contribute to the Easter Special Offering. 

ElderWisdom

New Date This Month!

Hey Brunch Bunchers! Because Easter falls on the third Sunday of April, we’re shifting our monthly gathering to the fourth Sunday — April 27 at 11:30 a.m. We’ll be meeting at Cornerstone Deli & Café (3296 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202), a cozy spot perfect for great conversation and even better coffee.

Whether you’ve joined us before or you’ve been meaning to check it out, we’d love to see you there. Bring a friend, grab a bite, and connect with other young adults in their 20s and 30s from the First Community family.

Please RSVP to Kristyn Anderson at kmanderson76@gmail.com so we can save you a seat!

Let’s pack the table this month—we missed some of you last time!

Blood Drive

Saturday, May 3 | 9 am – 3 pm

Spring has sprung—and it’s time to clean out those closets!

Join us for the Women’s Guild Mini Garage Sale, held in conjunction with the Grandview Community Garage Sale on Saturday, May 3, from 9 am to 3 pm in the South Parking Lot.

Donation Drop-off:

Bring your gently used items to the South Parking Lot on:

• Friday, May 2 | 4 – 8 pm
• Saturday, May 3 | Early Morning (before sale starts)

Please note: We cannot accept donations before 4 pm on Friday.

Donors are encouraged to assist with unloading and setting up their items.

Sale Details:

• Most items will be sold by donation only
• Special items may be individually priced
• Unsold items will be donated to the Trading Post or Volunteers of America
• If you’d like to keep any items, please retrieve them by 3:00 pm

🙌 Volunteers Needed!

Many hands make light work! We need help with:

• Set-up
• Sales
• Tear-down & clean-up

This is a great way to connect with others and help us reset for Sunday worship.

🛍️ Come shop, rain or shine!

You never know what treasures your neighbors might be parting with.

Cash and checks accepted.

Questions or ready to volunteer?

Contact Kitty Rohrer at kfrohrer@gmail.com or call/text (614) 282-3932.

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*Some content in this newsletter was generated with artificial intelligence.