March 26, 2025

For All Generations Update


"Dwell in possibility."

~ Emily Dickinson 


Church Family,


Every once in a while, you experience something so profound and powerful that can only be described in a single word. Last Sunday was one of those days for me in our church life and my response is: Extraordinary! A few of the highlights included:

 

  • Members of the Symphony Orchestra provided stirring, Spirit-filled music under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Klemme.
  • Melissa Coyne, lifelong member and Preschool Director, shared a message about the generational impact of the church. 
  • Kids Ministry passionately led worship by singing "Big House" and reminded us of the future of the church. 


Throughout the For All Generations Campaign, we've been casting a vision for a God-sized dream, which by definition is beyond our ability, beyond our resources, and beyond our education. We can't do it ourselves, but God can. Jesus said, "For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible."


I want to offer deep appreciation to all who call our church home. Thank you to the many who have made a sacrificial, over and above gift for the future of our church. May God make our vision possible. 


Blessings,

Pastor Kellen


P.S. If you were unable to attend Commitment Sunday, you can mail in your commitment card or simply respond online ahead of Reveal Sunday on April 13. 


Sunday's Services


Sunday's Message:


LENT The Practice of Preparation

Moved with Compassion

Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32


It’s been said that today’s preparation determines tomorrow’s outcome. We could say the same truth applies to how we intentionally grow in our faith. The season of Lent is a time of preparation for the significant gift of Easter. Through the lens of the Gospels, we will explore how to prepare ourselves to make the most of celebrating Christ’s resurrection. Looking to Jesus’ parables, teachings, and prophecy-fulfilling actions, we will be drawn into preparing our hearts, minds, and souls.


9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Services


In case you missed 

last week's worship, 

you can watch here.

Adult Education at 9:00 This Sunday


“A Long Obedience in the Same Direction”

Sundays through April 13

10:30 a.m. in Stewart Hall

Led by Dr. David Lauber, Dean of Humanities and Theological Studies and Professor of Theology at Wheaton College

 

In a world of rapid acceleration, patience is scarce. In fact, impatience is often celebrated. Constant change, the quest for immediate gratification, and persistent distraction have become the norm. The season of Lent provides us with an opportunity to slow down, reflect, take stock, and thoughtfully approach Holy Week, the Cross, and Easter Sunday. With Eugene Peterson as our guide, we are exploring together how the Psalms of Ascents (Psalms 120-134) teach us to deepen and grow in worship, service, joy, happiness, perseverance, hope, humility, and faith, and equip us for the slow and steady journey of following Jesus. 

Spring Concert This Sunday

Sunday, March 30

4:00 p.m in the First Pres Sanctuary

Free and open to all; childcare provided


"Oh, Elijah! Excerpts from Mendelssohn's Elijah" featuring FPW and FPGE Choirs, Soloists: Stephanie Choidras, Soprano; Denise Gamez, Mezzo-Soprano; Chris Lorimer, Tenor; Jamal Sarikoki, Baritone; Narrator, Mark Lewis; Accompanist, Marianne Kim; Conductors: Donté Ford, Luke Hochstetler, and Emma Ware


Come enjoy this musical and narrative pastiche as we reclaim the lenten practice of oratorio performance. This performance features Mendelssohn's Elijah, along with music by Moses Hogan, Tony Payne, and Kenneth Louis, and a telling of the Elijah story from 1 Kings. 


Artist Reception Sunday

Community Art Gallery 

Artist Reception

Sunday, March 30 Between services from 10:00-10:30 a.m.

Stop by to say "hi" to Donna!


Peak into Miniature Rooms

By Stan and Donna Boyd


Come enter into the wonderful world of Miniature Rooms created by Stan and Donna Boyd, First Presbyterian Church members since 1992. This is a hobby of theirs that started well before they moved to Wheaton. These miniature rooms will take you to another world complete with all the furnishings, from home libraries and a jewelry store to a Parisian bakery.


Their collection of photos will be on display on The Link through end of April.

WF Mission Trip Coffee Fundraiser

WF Mission Trip Coffee Fundraiser

Sunday, April 6


Orders for I Have a Bean coffee can be placed before and after the 9:00 and 10:30 services 

in the Rotunda. 


Orders may be picked up on Sunday, April 27. (Additional orders may be placed from April 6-23).

Lenten Worship Night

Lenten Worship Night

Wednesday, April 9

Following The Table, 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Living Room

Led by Wheaton College Chapel Band Leaders 


Join us for a night of worshipful reflection through contemporary worship songs of prayer and praise. 

Kids Ministry


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.


VBS 2025!

"ROAD TRIP" – June 9-13


Registration for VBS 2025 is currently at capacity. Please contact Stacey Chvatal to have your name added to the waiting list. As more volunteers sign up, we will be able to move children from the waiting list onto the camper list.


Youth Ministry

Genesis Middle School Ministry and WF High School Ministry are on spring break this Sunday, March 30.


Men's Spring Breakfast

Save the Date

Men of First Pres ... mark your calendar for Friday, April 25 for the Men's Spring Breakfast.


Calendar and Office Hours

Check the First Pres calendar regularly for updates.

________________


Regular Office Hours

Monday through Thursday – 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Friday – 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon




First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton firstpreswheaton.org
Phone 630-668-5147  
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