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Church Family,
Do you enjoy powerful vocals, lively worship, or gospel music? You’ll want to be at one of our two services this Sunday.
This week, we’ll welcome Dr. Raymond Wise, Professor at Indiana University, and Dr. Alonza Lawrence from University of Illinois, at both services on Sunday. Drs. Wise and Lawrence are exemplary musicians, vocalists, and composers. We’ll be blessed and inspired by their musical gifts and leadership. Make plans to be at the 9:00 or 10:30 a.m. service this week.
See you Sunday!
Blessings,
Pastor Kellen
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A Greeting from Dr. Raymond Wise | |
5th Sundays – Fall Concert | |
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Hymns, Psalms, and Spiritual Songs:
The Vocal Music of Raymond Wise
Sunday, September 29
4:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Also livestreamed
Join us to enjoy the vocal music (solo, ensemble, and choral) of Raymond Wise, featuring a 60-plus voice mass choir comprised of local area churches!
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September Sermon Series
Community: The Power of Relationships in the Local Church
"Inviting Together”
Acts 2:47
Pastor Kellen is sharing the four-part sermon series “Community: The Power of Relationships in the Local Church.” The church is the people. Forming faithful relationships in the church is at the core of what it means to be the church. We’ll focus on what it looks like to worship together, serve together, grow together, and invite together. As we take steps on the path of discipleship, we follow Jesus’ vision for his people.
9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Services
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In case you missed
last week's worship,
you can watch here.
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Adult Education – Series Conclusion | |
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Adult Education
Final Class in Series this week
7 Disciplines of a Joyful Life
Led by Dr. John Armstrong
Sundays through September 29 at 10:30 a.m. in Stewart Hall
Most Christians do not seem to be “fully alive.” We know we should be kind, generous, open and loving but how? Could it be that there are ancient faith practices that can help us? In this class we will look at seven classic theological riches that are psychologically sound and practically powerful in helping to be fully alive. If you desire more joy and hope then the wisdom of these approaches will prove wonderfully helpful.
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Sunday, October 6
during the 10:30 a.m. service
Join us on Preschool Sunday, where we thank God for the ways children and families in our community and church have been blessed by the preschool. The morning will include programming for children, refreshments, and a service of celebration!
All children are invited to attend Sunday School at 10:30 and will join their families in the Sanctuary for the preschool portion of the service.
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Connect Class for New Members | |
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Interested in Membership or Learning More?
Connect Class for New Members
Sunday, September 29
11:30 a.m. in the Living Room
Would you like to explore First Pres a little deeper? We would love to share our mission and tell you about our congregation. Whether you are new to our church, attending livestream worship, exploring faith, or want to become a member, our Connect Class is an ideal place of learning.
Refreshments will be provided and childcare is available.
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2025 Nominating Committee | |
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The Nominating Committee is accepting submissions for consideration for the offices of Deacon, Elder and 2025 Nominating Committee.
Do you know someone who exhibits the skills, compassion and drive to serve in one of these positions? You can submit names of members and/or your own name by filling out a Nomination Form online or a printed form, found in the pews or in the office. Nominations are due by Sunday, September 29.
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The Table Starts October 2 | |
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Welcome to The Table at First Pres!
We look forward to seeing you for a catered, buffet-style meal starting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning October 2. You’ll enjoy seeing old friends and making new ones around the table. We’ll be celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, be led in song, and have a brief teaching. There will be activities for children and a Toddler Corner for kids two and under.
NEW THIS YEAR:
- The Kids Table! During the adult devotional time after dinner, kids will be invited to experience an age-appropriate lesson each week.
- You will now be able to pay online when you register.
- Receive text reminders! When you register, you'll have the option to opt in to weekly text reminders, so you won't forget to RSVP each week.
Share this information to invite a friend or neighbor to join us for midweek refreshment!
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RSVPs are requested by the Sunday prior to each Wednesday gathering. | |
New WOW Women's Bible Study | |
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NEW – Women’s Bible Study:
"Women of the Word"
Wednesdays, October 2 - November 6
6:30-8:00 p.m. in the Living Room
– Childcare Available –
Looking for some connection with other women at First Pres? Coming in October, this group is for both career and stay-at-home women who are looking to deepen their faith and form friendships. Each week we’ll dive into Scripture, share in discussion, and pray for one another. Please let us know you're coming here.
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Blessing of the Animals
~ Celebrating God's Love For All Creatures ~
Sunday, October 6 at 4:00 p.m. on the church lawn
As caretakers of God’s creations, we are hosting a Blessing of the Animals service on October 6. Saint Francis first blessed animals early in his ministry sometime between 1210-1215, and First Pres Wheaton will carry on this tradition. All animals … and humans … are invited to attend this special service, where we will be witnesses to God’s love and concern for his cherished creations. A short group service will be held, followed by a blessing line for those who would like their pet to receive a personalized blessing.
Note: Animals must be on leash or in appropriate carriers for the safety of all.
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Save the Date – Women's Ministry Event | |
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Women’s Ministry Program: Cultivate Calm
Saturday, October 12
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at First Pres
Details and RSVP here
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Sunday School at 10:30 a.m! Sunday School is for children age 3 by September 1 through 5th grade. Register here.
- Preschool 3's and 4's meet in LL102
- Kindergarten and 1st grade meet in LL105
- 2nd and 3rd grade meet in LL106
- 4th and 5th grade meet in LL107
Childcare is available during both services in LL103 for children ages 3 years and younger. For more information, contact Stacey Chvatal.
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Upcoming Kids Ministry Events:
302 Family Night – Monday, September 30 – 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join us at 302 in downtown Wheaton for a family night out! Grab a burger, let the kids play, and get an opportunity to meet and visit with other First Pres Kids Ministry families! Come and go as you please. No RSVP necessary.
Fall Fest – Sunday, October 20 – 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - You don't want to miss Kids Ministry's annual Family Fall Fest! Join us after church on the lawn for a perfect fall afternoon. Bring your friends and enjoy food, fellowship, games, family activities, crafts, a bounce house and more!
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Genesis Middle School Ministry meets on Sundays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
WF High School Ministry meets on Sundays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. (Please note new time)
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Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:
- Sunday, October 20: Family Fall Fest
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Sunday, October 27: Distinguished Preacher Sunday, with Rev. Dr. Luke Powery
- Monday, November 11: 60+ Luncheon
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Interested in serving refugees in collaboration with Exodus World Service? Opportunities are available to mentor or tutor local students, shop for household items for refugee families, or set-up an apartment for a newly arriving family in Chicagoland. Let the Mission Committee know how you'd like to be involved by clicking here.
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Early Christmas Sharing Fundraiser – Oct. 3 | |
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You can help get Christmas Sharing off to a great start this year at the Panera fundraiser.
Thursday, October 3 from 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Danada Panera, 167 Danada Square East
In Cafe • Drive-Thru • Pick-up • Delivery
Enter promo code FUND4U at online checkout
25% of sales benefit Christmas Sharing of Wheaton/Warrenville
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Scout Troop 23
has kicked off its wreath sales!
– Sales end October 28 –
If you are so called, church members are welcome to support our home troop by purchasing Christmas greenery, a fundraiser the church troop has been offering since 1966. We will also be taking orders for our “Fallen Heroes Wreaths.”
Contact Carrie Olso, carrieolson1@gmail.com or Rick Busse, bussephoto95@icloud.com with any questions or to express your interest in purchasing greenery. We will connect you to a scout who will be happy to help. We appreciate your prayers and support of our church's largest youth outreach.
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First Pres Preschool and Carlton Avenue Parking Notes | |
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The 2024-2025 Preschool year has begun! There will be no parking on Carlton Avenue on school days until after 3:30 p.m.
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Calendar and Office Hours | |
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Check the First Pres calendar regularly for updates.
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Regular Office Hours
Monday through Thursday – 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday – 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon
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