Week of October 18, 2020
Weekly Word
“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you. I give to you not as the world gives. Don’t be troubled or afraid. – John 14:27

High anxiety fills the air in so many of our lives these days. And Jesus offers peace.

Make time every day to pause and breathe the gift of peace that Jesus offers. John’s gospel records the risen Jesus offering the breath of peace to disciples huddled in fear. Time and again, Jesus instructs us not to fear.

Each of us can make a list of the things that fill us with fear or anxiety. Some days I find my personal lists overwhelming. This is when I need prayer most. Not so much when I am calm and clear. I need it most when things are wild and distracted. Pause. Pray. Find the peace that passes all understanding.

God has led people of faith through countless challenges across the ages. God can do the same for us in times of pandemic and election anxiety. Trust in God’s goodness and claim that peace that Jesus offers.
Sunday Morning Worship
Join us on Sunday at 10 a.m for online worship. The Rev. Amy Heinrich is preaching on the Birth of Hope.

The video will premiere on YouTube. You may also access the link on our website. Please sign the Fellowship Pad so we know you've join us in worship!
30 Good Minutes
Join us at 11 a.m after our Sunday worship for 30 Good Minutes of conversation and sharing.

In Person Worship begins Sunday, Oct. 25
We will be offering an "in person" worship service in our Sanctuary at 10 a.m. on Sunday, October 25. Registration is required, as seating will be limited to allow for appropriate social distancing. Please note that masks will be required at all times while you are in the building. The Rev. Dr. Brian R. Paulson is preaching and Charles Murphy will provide instrumental music.

Registration for the October. 25 worship service will open this Sunday morning (October 18) at 11 a.m. and we ask that you sign up by 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 24 so we can make sure we have our seating arranged appropriately.

Please call the church office at 847-362-2174 or email office@boxp.net if you have any questions.

We will continue to offer our online worship service at 10 a.m. each Sunday morning for those who don't feel comfortable attending worship in person.
Canceled: Picnic in the Parking Lot
The Oct. 18 Picnic in the Parking Lot is canceled due to the weather. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Faith Formation
There are several adult faith formation opportunities launching this month -- including Breakfast & Bible Study-- and we invite you to join in. Visit our website to
Breakfast & Bible Study

Jesus tells us, “Do not be afraid,” but with everything going on in the world, how is it possible not to be anxious?

Grab a cup of coffee and join Rev. Amy Heinrich on Zoom from 7 - 8:30 a.m., October 21—Nov. 18 for a discussion of the book Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times, by the Rev. Adam Hamilton.

We will open with prayer, watch a video featuring Rev. Hamilton, followed by facilitated breakout groups, exploring the worries and fears most of us experience. Your small group can learn to identify fears and discover practical steps for overcoming them; all in the light of Scripture and a faith that promises again and again that we can live with courage and hope.

Your Giving Matters
Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need - Acts 2:44-45



The early church in the book of Acts, prayed and worshiped together in order to have one heart and mind, the heart and mind of Christ. Their faith informed their actions, their giving, and their way of being together in community. The early believers were not followers of Jesus because of threats or penalties against them, but out of devotion to God and desire to meet the needs of others. Devotion to God: what does it look like in your life?

We are very grateful for your continued giving online. Check out the new Giving pages, and Stewardship updates toward the October 30thGiving Estimate due date on our website at  https://firstpreslibertyville.org/giving /. Thank you!

Endowment Giving
Did you know you can extend your financial support to future generations through the FPC endowment program? For a confidential discussion about legacy gifts and tax benefits, please contact Bill Chapman at 847-456-8647.

Giving by Praying 
Giving by praying is another way you can support the ministry and Mission of First Pres. God’s faithfulness has provided for us in the past, is present with us today, and will lead us forward. Please offer prayers this week for all church members, whatever their joys and concerns, the church staff as they facilitate ministry and worship, and our surrounding communities as we wrestle with current social, health, and economic situations.

Other Giving
In addition to donations of cash, the church is able to receive gifts of stock, bonds and mutual funds. Contact Business Administrator, Cynthia Churchwell at cchurchwell@boxp.net. to learn more.

Faith at Home Together
Since our kids won’t be gathering at church for Sunday School classes this fall, we’re bringing opportunities to engage faith to you at home.

Each week, we're providing a short, simple, interactive lesson each week that will help you engage your kids in meaningful conversations and activities that connect to our faith.
Children & Family Ministry Family Pods
This fall, we’re encouraging our First Pres families to join a “pod”—a small group of up to four First Pres families committed to keeping connected to each other. Email Pastor Ryan or Mrs. Boyce to get connected.
Gather Round
Calling all Kindergartners - 2nd graders (or anyone who likes a good story). Mrs. Boyce will be reading bedtime stories on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Sign up for the Children and Family Newsletter to receive the Zoom links.
Family Tunes & Tales
Join us Thursdays at 9 a.m. for Tunes & Tales. This program is appropriate for young children between the ages of 3 and 5. Older children are welcome as well. Sign up for the Children & Family Newsletter to receive the Zoom links.
After School Zoom Club
Students in 3rd -6th grade are invited to join Mrs. Boyce for After School Zoom Club on Thursday afternoons at 4:30 p.m. Sign up for the Children & Family newsletter to get the weekly Zoom links.
JHF and SHF Events
Sign up for the Youth Ministry Newsletter for updates on upcoming events!
This community is a great way to connect with the church while we are physically separated!

This is a Facebook group for parents, students, and families.

This Instagram page is a central location for information for our Senior High activities, plans, times, and more!
Your Realm account is ready for viewing

If you haven't received an invitation to join Realm or you're having problems getting access, please email office@boxp.net. Our administrative and program staff will be happy to help you!
Senior Ministry

Our Deacons are reaching out to seniors in our congregation who may need help accessing the technology needed to watch our Sunday worship services. If you or someone you know could use some assistance, please email office@boxp.net

The monthly Libertyville Senior Update is now available online.
How to contact us:
Phone: Call 847-362-2174 and leave a message. Your call will be returned between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Email: Office@boxp.net (emails go to a member of the administrative team).

Pastoral Emergencies: Please call 847-367-6460 and leave a message. A pastor will return your call as soon as they are able.