12:00 - 1:30 p.m.| First Pres Multipurpose Room (#103)
Come explore the scriptures with us in a warm and inviting setting designed for meaningful connection and reflection. Bring your Bible and lunch, and enjoy a relaxed session filled with thoughtful conversations that uplift both the community and the spirit. Whether you’re new to Bible study or have years of experience, your questions and insights are welcomed and encouraged. This meeting offers a friendly atmosphere where everyone’s perspective matters, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the scriptures. Join us to share, learn, and grow together in faith and fellowship.
Community Breakfast
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. | First Pres Magnolia Hall
The inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee blends perfectly with the joyful sounds of laughter and heartfelt conversation at the Community Breakfast. Here, every plate offers more than just food—it provides nourishment for both the body and soul. This welcoming space brings together familiar faces and newcomers alike, creating a relaxed atmosphere where stories are shared, advice is exchanged, and friendships blossom.
In today’s fast-paced world, the Community Breakfast offers a valuable chance to slow down and build meaningful connections. Whether you’re hoping to meet neighbors, find support, or simply enjoy a wholesome meal in good company, you’ll feel right at home. It’s more than a meal—it’s a moment to connect, refresh, and belong.
Worth
Mentioning
Tornado Recovery Update: Ways to Pray, Give & Act
Volunteer for Recovery Efforts
First Presbyterian Church Neenah is seeking volunteers for cleanup, yard work, meals, and other recovery needs. Sign up here. Volunteer Fox Cities is also coordinating regional recovery efforts. View current opportunities and updates.
Need Help or Want to Give?
Those affected by the tornado can request hands-on or financial assistance through the Disaster Response Request Form. Gifts to the First Presbyterian Church Neenah/Memorial Presbyterian Church Appleton Disaster Fund provide direct recovery support. Give online.
For additional help: Call 2-1-1 to connect with local resources for housing, food, financial assistance, cleanup, transportation, and other storm-related needs.
What Is World Communion Sunday?
World Communion Sunday is on the first Sunday of October each year. First adopted as a denominational practice in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.) in 1936, churches in other denominations were later invited to join. It wasn’t until 1940, when the Department of Evangelism of the Federal Council of Churches (a predecessor of the National Council of Churches) extended the celebration to several churches around the world, that the practice became widespread.
The idea originated with Dr. Hugh Thompson Kerr, pastor at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1933. Kerr first conceived the notion of World Communion Sunday during his year as moderator of the General Assembly in 1930. But this nascent idea came to fruition through the work of the Stewardship Committee at Shadyside. They dreamed of bringing churches together in a service of Christian unity to lift up the global Church and to remember that by virtue of our baptism, we are connected to a worldwide community. One congregation is connected to every other congregation, united in “one Lord, one faith, one baptism” (Ephesians 4:5).
The vision gradually caught on in the denomination and with our ecumenical partners. Ecumenism only emerged after the First World War as churches struggled to respond to the devastating humanitarian and theological crisis brought on by the war. Dr. Kerr’s son, the Rev. Dr. Donald Craig Kerr (who was a pastor emeritus of the Roland Park Presbyterian Church in Baltimore), shares that “the concept spread very slowly at the start. People did not give it a whole lot of thought. It was during the Second World War that the Spirit caught hold because we were trying to hold the world together. World Wide Communion Sunday symbolized the effort to hold things together in a spiritual sense. It emphasized that we are one in the Spirit and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Today, organized by the National Council of Churches, World Communion Sunday is celebrated worldwide, demonstrating that the church founded on Jesus Christ peacefully shares God-given goods in a world increasingly destabilized by global market economies based on greed.
This article was written by Ken Kovacs and reprinted from the September 2023 edition of The Messenger.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
With Survivors, Always
Awareness to Action
Domestic violence impacts millions of people each year, but it can be prevented. It requires the collective voice and power of individuals, families, institutions, and systems taking action to stand with survivors, always.
That is why this October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), groups are shifting from awareness to action. We invite you to join by taking collective action to end domestic violence.
Many people care and understand that domestic violence is a serious problem. They want to do something but aren’t sure where to begin. It feels overwhelming. But this current moment requires collective action on behalf of survivors and their families. When we work together, we can make a difference.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.1 Every day, advocates and local domestic violence programs are there to help. But across the United States, countless programs are currently facing funding shortages and operating at reduced capacity. Some have even had to close their doors.
Survivors deserve safety, support, and solidarity. That is why we need everyone — advocates, medical professionals, educators, survivors, researchers, policy makers, law enforcement, business owners, students — to take action. We must stand with survivors, always.
Everyone has a role to play. You can:
Be a caring and consistent adult in the life of a child
Talk to loved ones about healthy relationships, red flags, and domestic violence
Create a culture of consent in your home
Use social media to raise awareness among your peers
Donate time, goods, or funds to your local domestic violence program
Advocate for policies that support survivors and their families
Wear Purple:on October 15th (Purple Day), put on purple clothing or a purple ribbon as a visible show of support for survivors and a conversation starter to help end domestic abuse
This October, join us as we mourn for those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate the tremendous progress victim advocates have made over the years, and connect to meet our current moment. Together, we must stand with survivors. Always.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, free and confidential help is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or texting "START" to 88788. Local support is available at Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services (920.235.5998).
1Zhang Kudon, H, Zhu S, Chen B, Breiding MJ, Leemis RW, Zhang X, Schwank A, Basile KC. The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): 2023/2024 Intimate Partner Violence Data Brief. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control; 2026.
Community
Connections
Time of Your Life: Oshkosh Senior Expo
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Oshkosh Convention Center | 2 N. Main Street, Oshkosh
Enjoy free admission and free parking at this exciting expo designed to empower and inform. Whether you’re exploring retirement living options or seeking expert advice on healthcare, finances, or legal matters, this event has something for everyone.
Meet exhibitors from a wide range of fields, including retirement communities, home healthcare agencies, financial planners, insurance companies, medical centers, travel services, fitness and recreation, charities, government programs, and rehabilitation centers. It's a one-stop venue to gather valuable information and connect with trusted professionals.
Take advantage of complimentary health services such as free health screenings, hearing tests, and flu shots. This fun and informative expo is a great way to stay proactive about your well-being while discovering resources to enhance your lifestyle. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn, network, and take care of yourself—all in one place!
Traveling Oshkosh Memory Café
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Oshkosh Public Library | 106 Washington Avenue, Oshkosh
Join this Memory Café featuring the Oshkosh Historical Society and a fascinating presentation. “From Saloons to Storefronts.” Discover stories from Oshkosh’s past, explore how local businesses and neighborhoods have changed over the years, and share your own memories and experiences. Come enjoy good conversation, history, and connection with others in the community.
Leaf No One Behind: Yard Waste Clean Up
Sunday, November 15, 2026 | Starting at 10:00 a.m.
"Leaf No One Behind" is a community event in Oshkosh where volunteers rake leaves for seniors and others who may struggle with yard work, helping to prevent them from being left out due to the challenging task of yard cleanup. Residents must register for assistance by Monday, November 2nd, by calling Winnebago County Public Health at 920.232.3000 or registering online. Priority is given to people with disabilities or aging conditions that may make leaf and yard waste removal difficult. Residents receiving assistance are asked to be home and available during the morning of the cleanup.
Interested in being a volunteer? Call 920.232.3000 or sign up online!
