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Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 Newsletter
For Sunday
9:00 a.m.: Holy Ground Contemporary Worship Service
(in person in Fellowship Hall)
11:15 a.m.: Traditional Worship Service
(in person in the Sanctuary, and livestreamed on Facebook and website)
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A MESSAGE FROM REV. LINDSEY ALTVATER CLIFTON:
WORKING AS COMMUNITY
Greetings friends,
We have much to look forward to this Sunday! Rev. Dr. Ginny Smith will be preaching, and I’ll be leading worship alongside her. Her sermon, “Faithing Our Fears,” will be timely and meaningful, I know.
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Rev. Sue Pizor Yoder will also be with us in both services to offer a Minute for Mission, sharing more about Blank Slate, the spiritual community which she facilitates. After worship, you’ll have an opportunity to sample and order the Italian Wedding soup that they are selling to support their ministry (see link to the order form, below).
Speaking of soup! We’ll gather after the 11:15 a.m. service for the Souper Bowl of Caring: a fundraiser and fellowship event to gather donations for local partners working to address food insecurity and hunger in our community. We have some delicious soups to share, so I hope that you’ll attend!
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Finally, a reminder that next Sunday, Feb. 15, we’ll gather for one Combined worship service and a congregational meeting in Fellowship Hall at 10:00 a.m. As we worship and meet, you’ll hear and vote on a recommendation from the Strategic Mission Steering Committee, and we’ll have a fellowship lunch (provided) to follow.
Church members who are unable to attend in person may request a Zoom link for the service/meeting by contacting us at info@fpc-bethlehem.org, preferably before that Sunday morning. (If you are a member who is unable to attend and want the recording afterwards, you can request that using the same email address.)
God is faithful, dear ones, and we are so blessed to have one another as we seek to love others and serve Christ well! It is a gift to be called to do that work together in community.
Blessings,
Lindsey
SOUP ORDER FORM (Note this is a two-page form)
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FOR THIS SUNDAY, FEB. 8
We look forward to worshiping with you on Sunday!
Between the two worship services, gather in Fellowship Hall for a Hospitality Time. After the 11:15 a.m. service, we’ll meet in Fellowship Hall for a simple Souper Bowl Sunday luncheon to raise awareness about local hunger relief efforts and to collect funds for our area nonprofit partners. All are welcome!
The meal will consist of soup and bread/crackers (and dessert, of course!) – thanks to those who have volunteered to bring these items!
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After lunch, you’re invited to stay in Fellowship Hall to attend a special Storytelling Concert presented by Jim Stahl, “The Joseph Saga and Origin Stories”.
He’ll be weaving some of his own origin stories (family history and such) with stories from Genesis 35-45. He will add Psalm 105 (the part about Joseph and Jacob) and Matthew 20, the parable of the landowner and the laborers.
| | | The concert is part of Jim’s course, Master (Certificate) at the Academy for Biblical Storytelling, which is part of the Network of Biblical Storytellers. The program will last about two hours, with a short intermission – all are welcome! | | |
ANNUAL MEETING AND BYLAWS UPDATE
This past Sunday we met for the Annual Meetings of the Congregation and Corporation. Please contact us at info@fpc-bethlehem.org or 610-867-5865 if you would like to receive:
1. The link to the recording of the Annual Meeting
2. A copy of the proposed bylaws
3. A copy of the Annual Report
You can also view the Annual Report, below.
A brief presentation was made on the proposed bylaws changes and the reasoning behind them. Questions and suggested changes can be directed to bylaws@fpc-bethlehem.org.
A Town Hall has been organized for Sunday, Feb. 22 immediately following the 11:15 a.m. service to answer questions, etc. On Sunday, March 1 immediately following the 11:15 a.m. service, Session has approved another meeting of the congregation and corporation for the specific purpose of a second read and vote on the bylaws.
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HEARTS N MINDS: BACK ON SUNDAY
Our adult ed class, Hearts N Minds, will gather at their regular time of 10 a.m. in the Parlor on Sunday, Feb. 8. All are welcome! (NOTE: The class will not meet on Sunday, Feb. 15 because of our special schedule, and will return on Feb. 22.)
They will conclude the discussion of the book How Then Shall We Live, by Wayne Muller. Participants do not need to purchase the book unless they desire.
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In these classes the book’s four simple questions that more fully enable us to “find the wise and ready spiritual guide that is alive in all of us” will be explored.
Come join us as we “live the questions now.” (Rilke)
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BODY N SOUL: JOIN US ON SUNDAY
The Body N Soul Intergenerational Faith Formation class will meet this Sunday, Feb. 8 at 10:10 a.m. in Room 216. (NOTE: The class will not meet on Sunday, Feb. 15 because of our special schedule, and will return on Feb. 22.)
| | During the winter, BnS will continue the series Seeking God Together with a unit exploring the topic of “God Above Us.” Through bible study, crafts and interactive games, this set of lessons is a reminder of the greatness and mystery of God. | | | Our response to God’s greatness can take many forms. Sometimes we marvel at the incredible beauty of creation, or give thanks and celebrate joyfully. Other times we cry out to God to confess our sins. We will explore how our God responds with love and forgiveness. | | It’s that time to consider sharing your time and talent as a lector (reader) in our worship services. If this is something that interests you, please use this link for the online sign-up or put your name on the paper sign-up, available at each worship service. | | | |
1,510 ACTS OF SERVICE
During our 151st year of ministry at FPCB, we are aiming to complete 1,510 Acts of Service before Nov. 14, 2026. That may sound like a huge number, but with an average of 125 people in worship most Sundays, that’s basically one Act of Service per person each month. And we know that y’all are service-minded people of faith, so we’re confident that we can reach this goal!
It doesn’t matter how small or large each Act of Service may be, just that we’re intentional about serving others - holding the door for someone with their hands full, volunteering with a nonprofit partner, helping a neighbor, offering a needed ride, donating unused clothing or household items, etc.
Track your progress at home with THIS CHART, and using the Heart Chart at the church building, too (located in the main hallway off the South Entrance, by the library)!
Let us know if you’d like us to add your stickers to the Heart Chart each month if you’re unable to attend in person; contact us at info@fpc-bethlehem.org or 610-867-5865.
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FOOD DONATIONS: A YEAR-ROUND INITIATIVE
Thank you from the Hispanic Center!
Donna Taggart reports that January’s generous donation of 307 pounds of food has been delivered to the Hispanic Center, on Bethlehem’s SouthSide.
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Donna (center) is pictured with Lizzette Melendez, Operations Manager (left) and Kerine Palacios, Food Pantry Coordinator. They are extremely grateful for the donations!
With the need so great – and no discernable relief in sight – we are extending our food collection to a year-round initiative.
We will designate a different recipient each month – for February our donations will go to the HOPE Food Pantry at Northampton Community College’s Bethlehem campus.
| | | Collection carts are located in the North Link and at the south entrance. We can accept non-perishable food items (no glass, please – and pop top cans are welcome) as well as personal care items for all ages. Thanks for your support of these efforts to feed our neighbors! | | LOVE CHOCOLATE? SUPPORT THE PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER! | | |
Help support the Preschool staff to attend a national professional development opportunity this year by participating in their Gertrude Hawk Chocolate fundraiser.
You can participate online by visiting fundraising.gertrudehawkchocolates.com; the Preschool ID is 106182 (scroll to “I’m a Buyer”). You can place your order and have it shipped anywhere; the last date to order is Monday, March 2 and orders will be delivered by the end of March.
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SAFE PRACTICES FOR YOUR EMAIL ACCOUNT
Earlier this week, many of you received a fraudulent email from First Pres staffer Carol Burns’ church email account, asking you to sign a DocuSign document. Our apologies that this happened! Sadly, the hackers are getting ever more sophisticated so it pays to be extra vigilant.
Some tips for you, before opening any email:
| | - Always look at both the name and email address of the sender – even if it’s a familiar name. Hackers like to make very subtle changes in the spelling of names and/or the email, or use a completely unrelated email address (business emails should have a legitimate business email address, not a gmail account).
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Check the subject line – if they are asking for an action, or it sounds urgent, be extra cautious. If the request seems inappropriate (e.g. why would this person ask me to sign a DocuSign document?), it probably is.
- Contact the sender by phone or a trusted email address to verify that they indeed sent the email.
If in doubt, delete it and report it as spam!
Some tips for you, if you open it:
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If after opening the email you realize it’s fraudulent, don’t click any links, download any part of it or reply – delete it and report it as spam.
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If you do click a link, delete the email and report it as spam. DO NOT SHARE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION.
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If you did share personal information, notify your bank and monitor your bank account, credit card, and social media accounts for suspicious activity.
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You should also run a scan of your up-to-date antivirus software, and/or change the password on your email account.
In either case, contact the sender by phone or a trusted email address to let them know you received an email impersonating them.
Remember, our pastors or staff will never send you an email (or text) asking for your personal information or requesting money, gift cards, etc. It’s always best to contact us if you have a question – better to be overly cautious!
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LOOKING AHEAD…
Sunday, Feb. 15
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Combined Worship service, Fellowship Hall (in person and via Zoom; you will need to request the Zoom link from info@fpc-bethlehem.org) – this service will include an update from the Mission Steering Committee
12 – 1:30 p.m. – Luncheon (provided), Fellowship Hall
Wednesday, Feb. 18 – Ash Wednesday
7 p.m. – Ash Wednesday Service, Fellowship Hall – in person and livestreamed
Sunday, Feb. 22
9 a.m. – Holy Ground worship service, Fellowship Hall
10 a.m. – Hearts N Minds adult ed class, Parlor
10:10 a.m. – Body N Soul intergenerational class, Room 216
10:15 a.m. – Hospitality Time, Fellowship Hall
11:15 a.m. – Traditional worship service, Sanctuary (in person and livestreamed)
12:15 p.m. – Town Hall, Sanctuary (to address questions about the bylaws)
Sunday, March 1 – Communion Sunday
9 a.m. – Holy Ground worship service, Fellowship Hall
10 a.m. – Hearts N Minds adult ed class, Parlor
10:10 a.m. – Body N Soul intergenerational class, Room 216
10:15 a.m. – Hospitality Time, Fellowship Hall
11:15 a.m. – Traditional worship service, Sanctuary (in person and livestreamed)
12:15 p.m. – Congregational Meeting, Sanctuary (second read of the bylaws and vote)
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PRESCHOOL SWEETHEART DANCE
Enjoy these images from Sunday’s Sweetheart Dance!
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Send us your news and photos to share:
info@fpc-bethlehem.org
**Deadline for the next newsletter:
WEDNESDAY at noon**
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And follow us on Facebook: @FirstPresBethlehem
Your likes / comments / shares help us spread the word about First Pres!
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TO JOIN OUR LIVESTREAM WORSHIP SERVICE
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Visit our Facebook page and look for the post with our live feed
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If you don’t have a Facebook account, go to our website to view the service - click on "Watch" at the top and then the "Watch the Service" button
- Please check in with a comment so we know you’ve joined us!
- Captions are available on our livestream, for those who would like to use that feature
To watch a video – available after the services have aired: Visit our website archives
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FOR SUNDAY’S IN-PERSON WORSHIP:
Child care will be available from 8:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. this Sunday morning; please ask an usher for directions.
Your children are a joy in our worship services, and should the need arise, “kid bags” are available for their use while they are visiting. They are in the Narthex.
We offer nametags for folks to wear – these are for everyone! You can pick up as you enter the worship space; please clearly PRINT your first name.
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THIS SUNDAY
- 8:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. – Childcare available (ask ushers to direct you to location)
- 9 a.m. – Holy Ground worship service, Fellowship Hall
- 10 a.m. – Hearts N Minds adult ed class, Parlor
- 10:10 a.m. – Body N Soul intergenerational class, Room 216
- 10:15 a.m. – Hospitality Time, Fellowship Hall
- 11:15 a.m. – Traditional worship service, Sanctuary (in person and livestreamed on website and Facebook page)
- 12:15 p.m. – Souper Bowl Luncheon, Fellowship Hall – all are welcome!
- 1:30-3:30 p.m. – Storytelling Concert by Jim Stahl, Fellowship Hall – all are welcome!
WEDNESDAYS: 7 p.m. - Overcomer’s Outreach Christian 12 Step Recovery Group weekly meeting, via Zoom.com (meeting #: 868 2214 2960; passcode: OO-Beth)
CHURCH OFFICE AND BUILDING INFO:
Regular office hours are Monday - Thursday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Many of the office staff are working remotely for some of the time, so please make an appointment if you need to see someone specific. The answering service (610-778-7003) can take your urgent pastoral concerns, 24 hours a day.
IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER: Look for updates on our website (fpc-bethlehem.org), Facebook page, and WFMZ (channel 69 and wfmz.com). We will also put the info on our church phone message, 610-867-5865.
CARE CONCERNS AND HOSPITAL VISITS: If you are hospitalized, please tell the hospital our church code is 724. Also, please call the church office at 610-867-5865 to let us know as the hospitals do not always collect this information. After hours, for emergency pastoral concerns, call 610-674-0005.
PRAYER REQUESTS: Send to prayer@fpc-bethlehem.org or call 610-867-5865 and leave a message.
| | FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF BETHLEHEM | |
First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem, 2344 Center Street, Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-867-5865 | info@fpc-bethlehem.org
Rev. Karen Kinney, Transitional Pastor/Head of Staff; KKinney@fpc-bethlehem.org
Rev. Lindsey Altvater Clifton, Associate Pastor for Justice and Community Impact; LClifton@fpc-bethlehem.org
David Macbeth, Director of Music Ministries; ext. 202; DMacbeth@fpc-bethlehem.org
David Crook, Director of Church Administration; ext. 210; DCrook@fpc-bethlehem.org
Kevin Konczyk, Facilities Manager; KKonczyk@fpc-bethlehem.org
Carol Burns, Communications Manager; ext. 238; CBurns@fpc-bethlehem.org
Lisa Todd, Preschool Director; phone: 610-867-2956; LTodd@fpc-bethlehem.org
Brenda Robinson, Office Manager: ext. 211; BusinessOffice@fpc-bethlehem.org
Website: www.fpc-bethlehem.org
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