Understanding the struggles and hardships of displaced people is at the heart of heeding our call to help our siblings in Christ with compassion and support. The books below are poignant reminders of how each of us can help ease the hardships of others.
Desert River: Stories of Pain & Provision in Myanmar - This is a compilation of testimonies by displaced Christians from Myanmar. Prepare to be humbled and encouraged as you read of their faithfulness amidst immence hardships. Funds raised, by the way, from the book sales are sent back to Myanmar in support of humanitarian assistance.
Not Forgotten: Stories of a Refugee People – This testimony of God’s love for the Sahrawi people will remind you of Revelation 12: 11, “They gained the victory over him on account of the blood of the Lamb and the word of their witness. Love for their own lives didn’t make them afraid to die.” It is our hope that this book will bring greater awareness of the challenges facing the Sahrawi people.
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Image by A Sanctified Art | sanctifiedart.org | |
Star Words
You’ve been sitting with your star word for a month. What struggles, challenges, and/or uncomfortable growing areas have you encountered through your word?
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Be a Flower Patron
Only 4 slots are left for sanctuary flower sponsorships: April 6, May 4, August 3, and September 7. If you’d like to sponsor one of these Sundays, let the office know which one. The cost is $45 per Sunday. Please write “sanctuary flowers” in the memo line of your check when making payment or use our only payment option. Sponsorships are on a first come, first serviced basis.
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First Pres is proud to be a collection site for "Help for the Homeless".
Beginning February 23rd, look for the collection bin at the hospitality table by the church office. Or just drop off your donations at Festival Foods or Walgreens.
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Bad Weather Closure Info
In case of inclement weather, please check the following for closure information:
- First Pres Facebook page
- First Pres website
- Your email inbox (if you’ve provided the church office with an email address)
- Your mobile phone text messages (if you’ve opted in to receive texts from the church)
- WBAY-TV (ABC 2) (Green Bay - Fox Cities)
- WBAY website
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Brown Bag Bible Exploration
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 | Noon – 1:30 p.m.
Magnolia Hall at First Pres
We cordially invite you to come join us as we gather to glorify God and study God’s Word, the bible. You will simply enjoy a warm, friend atmosphere where God’s Word is explored and Jesus Christ is honored! So, bring your Bible, bring your lunch, and bring your thirst for God’s Word.
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Community Breakfast
Saturday, February 22, 2025 | 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. | Magnolia Hall at First Pres
It’s time – Community Breakfast is coming soon! Come on out with your family and friends for wonderful conversations and delicious food. Meet old friends, make new friends.
And if the Spirit so moves you, we wouldn’t say “no” to your lending a hand for a bit while you’re there. We’re asking for support of all kinds – setup, cooking, cleaning, bussing, serving, odd jobs, mingling with guests, etc.
So, give it some thought to see how we can make this a win-win together! Whether you’re there for a meal, to volunteer, or both, it’s a win-win just to see you and spend time with you!
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Bridging Past and Present: Exploring Native American Cultural Heritage
Sunday, February 23, 2025 | 2:00 p.m. |Oshkosh Convention Center | 2 North Main Street, Oshkosh
Registration Required: Call 920.232.5306 or Register Online Here
Are you curious about the archaeological work done in Menominee Park that revealed a significant historical site dating back to 900-1600 CE? The findings drew attention from the local community and national audiences, further fueled by efforts to preserve the cultural heritage site.
This free public event opening of a series of workshops, lectures, and informational opportunities to help understand the region’s indigenous communities, both past and present. It begins with the recent Menominee Park archaeological work viewed through the lens of our neighboring Tribal Nations and archaeology professions. It will continue with program offerings of Native American Artists celebrating their vibrant cultural heritage of the past through their art.
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Donations Needed! Closing the Hair Equity Gap
Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services
206 Algoma Boulevard, Oshkosh
Schedule Donation Dropoff: 920.235.5998
Did you know that Christine Ann has a huge need for textured hair products such as twist & loc gel, shampoo/conditions, curl cream, leave-in, scalp oil, etc.? Too often, we forget that we are unique individuals with unique hair care needs. So, the next time you’re at Sally’s Beauty Supply or Target, pick up some of the product brands listed below and drop them off at Christine Ann. It will go a long way to help abuse survivors while they are in and out of the shelter!
Taliah Waajid * Bonnets & Durags * Mielle Organics * Carol’s Daughter
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Make Your Voice Count!
From the PC(USA) Washington Office
February 11, 2025
With concerns for the world, nation, and neighbors growing every day, now is the time to make your voice heard! One of the most effective ways to shape public policy is to CALL your elected officials today. Share your appreciation for their work and let them know what’s impacting your community. Your voice, your personal stories, and your connection matter more than ever. Affirmations AND constructive feedback can change the hearts and minds of policymakers to serve the common good. Together, we can make a difference!
6 Tips for Contacting Your Elected Officials
- Start with stories that impact your community directly. Share how your faith calls you to create spaces of belonging for both neighbor and stranger where human needs are met and all people are treated with dignity.
- Know which committees your policymaker is on and what power they hold within Congress.
- Understand what positions your specific policymaker has taken and how to leverage that into your ask.
- Have a specific ask. Be brief.
- Randomly asking what a representative “is doing” about any subject is not quite useful. Do some research on what the best courses of action are from a policy perspective first.
- If you have the time, put together a specific ask on paper and have constituents sign the petition(s). then email it or hand-deliver it to their office to show wide community support of a specific policy perspective.
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Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. † In-Person † Facebook † YouTube | | | |
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First Presbyterian Church is a member of More Light Presbyterians, a coalition of churches whose mission is to work for the full participation of the LBGTQ community in the life, ministry, and witness of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and in society. | | | | | | |