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Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | E-News | Vol. 7, Issue 22

“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen” 
– Romans 11:36

A Life of Abundance or an Abundant Life?

In the recent stewardship letter and email sent to members, Gary and Cindy Johnson share how an early lesson in stewardship shaped their lifelong joy in giving. As First Church celebrates 140 years of faithful generosity, we’re reminded that each generation carries the torch forward.

Practically, your estimate of giving for 2026 allows the church to plan and steward its ministries wisely for the year ahead. But spiritually, pledging nurtures gratitude and reminds us that every blessing comes from the Lord. Whether you’ve pledged before or are taking this step for the first time, join us in the simple act of faith that brings deep joy and purpose.

♦ Worship ♦ Events ♦ Classes ♦ Give & Serve ♦ Connect

Worship

Sermon series: Christ the True and Better

Through November 23

In this sermon series, we are looking at the lives of Old Testament figures and the ways God worked through them, seeing how each one, through their life and work, ultimately points us to Christ. This series pairs an Old Testament passage with a Gospel reading, offering a theological reflection on how that figure’s story connects to Christ.

Events

Book Table Annual Sale

Sundays, November 9 and 16, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.; Atrium

Autumn is a great season to curl up with a cup of coffee and a great book on theology, Christian living, prayer or spiritual formation. Visit the book table in the Atrium and choose from an array of titles on sale for $1 to $5.

November Lunch & Learn

Monday, November 10, 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Room E104

The November Lunch and Learn will be led by nutritionist Patty Lawson, who will share practical ways to stay healthy as we age through good nutrition. This program is part of a continuing series focused on topics of interest to those in or approaching retirement. To register and reserve lunch, contact Kathy Wilson at kwilson@firstchurchtulsa.org or 918-301-1029. You may also register and prepay the $7 lunch online, or pay at the door.

Seasons Women’s Gathering

Monday, November 10, 6:30-8 p.m., Miller Library

Women of all ages are welcome to join us in this new semester as we explore the profound practice of prayer. Through monthly teachings and conversations, we will uncover the beauty and essential role of prayer in our faith journeys. Whether you are a first-time visitor, or long-time member, we hope to see you there!

Presbyterian Women Thanks Offering Lunch

Thursday, November 13, 12 p.m.; Room E104

Presbyterian Women Circles invite you to their annual Thanks Offering Lunch, featuring Meg Garver-Hamilton, moderator for the Synod of the Sun, as guest speaker. All women of the church are welcome, even if you are not currently part of a PW Circle. To RSVP, please contact Kathy Wilson by Monday, November 10. Lunch is $10, payable at the door.

Spiritual Retreat with Rev. Julia Metcalf “Becoming New”

Saturday, November 15, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The Lodge at Camp Loughridge

Isaiah 43:19 — “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”

Join Rev. Julia Metcalf for a reflective retreat exploring how God brings renewal in our lives–often beginning quietly, beneath the surface. Through Scripture, prayer, and discussion, we’ll consider the image of grapes pressed into new wine and how God's grace transforms us even through seasons of pressing and waiting, and in the most challenging in-between seasons. $10 fee includes breakfast and lunch. Register here.

Chancel Choir Fall Concert

Sunday, November 16, 5 p.m.; Sanctuary

Enjoy an evening of inspiring music in the Sanctuary as the Chancel Choir, joined by a professional orchestra, presents The Five Solas, featuring Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria.

The Five Solas are five Latin phrases that emerged during the Protestant Reformation to express the core convictions of the reformers about the foundations of the Christian faith and the means of salvation:

• Sola Scriptura – Scripture alone
• Sola Fide – by Faith alone
• Sola Gratia – by Grace alone
• Solus Christus – through Christ alone
• Soli Deo Gloria – to the Glory of God alone

The concert’s first half will illuminate the first four Solas through a series of choral anthems, accompanied by acclaimed local pianist Cathy Venable. The evening will culminate with Soli Deo Gloria—to the glory of God alone—as the choir and orchestra perform Vivaldi’s beloved Gloria. Following the concert, a reception will be held in the Atrium.

Tulsa International Fellowship Worship Night

Friday, November 21, 7-11 p.m.
Great Hall, Bernsen Community Life Center

In thanksgiving for God’s abundant blessings, Tulsa International Fellowship invites all to a special evening of worship, led by the TIF and contemporary worship team.

Young Adult Friendsgiving Potluck

Sunday, November 23, 7 p.m.
Hutchinson home: 4043 East 48th Street

Come enjoy an evening of good food and great company as we gather for our annual Young Adults Friendsgiving! It’s a relaxed time to celebrate our community, share stories, and give thanks together. Bring a favorite dish or drink to share. Click here to RSVP.

Thanksgiving Day Worship and Luncheon

Thursday, November 27

11 a.m. worship in Kerr Chapel, lunch following in Stephenson Hall

Those who find themselves without family nearby during the holidays are invited to come for worship and a free Thanksgiving meal hosted by the Deacons. Please RSVP to help the kitchen plan and prepare accordingly.

Sing with the Choir at Christmas

Rehearsals on Wednesday, Dec. 10 and 17, 6:30 p.m., Choir room

You are invited to add your voice to the Chancel Choir for our services on Christmas Music Sunday, December 21, and Christmas Eve. For a modest investment of your time, you'll be blessed by this experience. Join us for rehearsals on Wednesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. on November 19, December 3, 10, and 17. For details, email Ron Pearson or call 918-301-1013. 

Register your child for the Christmas Eve Nativity!

Registration is open until November 16

Children and youth ages 3 and up are invited to take part in this beloved tradition, presented during the 5 p.m. Christmas Eve service. There are many ways to participate, from Biblical characters and animals to angels, acolytes, and liturgists. Every child can find their place in the story! Rehearsal schedules vary by role and age. The children’s and youth choirs will begin learning Nativity songs and carols in mid-November during their regular rehearsals, and all who wish to sing are encouraged to attend.

Register your child here before Sunday, November 16.

Classes

At First Church, discipleship is more than a class—it’s a way of life. Through fellowship, learning God’s Word, and living with an outward focus, you’ll grow deeper in faith and share Christ’s love in our church, our city, and beyond. Whether you’re new or a longtime member, there’s a place for you to connect, belong, and grow in Christ.

Click here to see the full lineup of discipleship offerings.

Your Hope in Jesus: How to Share It!

10-week practicum led by Jerry McCoy
Sundays, 12:15 p.m., Room E313

Explore how to develop your testimony and gain a biblically-based motivation for sharing your faith. Email Elizabeth DeVore if you are interested.

Men’s Monday Bible Study - The book of Luke

Mondays, 12 - 1 p.m., Room E103

Join us for an informal men’s fellowship over lunch as we read and study God’s Word and grow together. Reserve and prepay for your lunch here.

Precept Bible Study - 1, 2 and 3 John

Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Room E100

Led by Denise Rounds, this class explores what it means to be holy and to know and love God deeply while focusing on the fundamentals of Christian beliefs.

Courage, Dear Heart…Stories of Heroic Sacrifice and Surrender to Jesus

Wednesdays, 11:30 – 1:00 p.m., Room E102, led by James Estes

This class will journey through the stories of men and women who cried out to God – and followed Him when He answered. Their lives, drawn from the Christian Heroes Then and Now series, are testimonies of contagious courage and sacred surrender. Reserve and prepay for your lunch here. This class is also offered in the Wednesday Night Downtown adult curriculum.

Hearts for the Lord

Thursdays, 10 a.m., Room E313

This class will be studying None Like Him. 10 Ways We are Different From God by Jen Wilkins. The study strengthens disciples to live faithfully, understand their beliefs, and communicate them with clarity—firmly anchored in God’s Word.

Adult classes meet through November 19, then take a break for the holidays.

Adult classes include:

C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia (and other fictional works)

Led by Rev. Dan Hutchinson, Miller Library 

Join Rev. Dan Hutchinson for a look at the stories and theology of C. S. Lewis including The Chronicles of Narnia. Explore how timeless stories can illuminate lasting truth—no prior reading needed. This class is not meeting Wednesday, November 5 but will resume November 12.

Seekers Bible Study: Esther  

Led by Rev. Wambugu Gachungi; Room E104 

Walk through the book of Esther, discovering how God’s providence empowers one woman’s courageous stand to save her people. We’ll see how He works behind the scenes, using ordinary lives and moments for His purpose. 

Courage, Dear Heart...Stories of Heroic Sacrifice

and Surrender to Jesus

Led by Rev. James Estes; Room E103

This evening class, offering the same study as the lunchtime session, explores the lives of men and women who cried out to God—and followed Him when He answered. Drawn from the Christian Heroes Then and Now series, their stories reflect deep courage and sacred surrender. From privilege to poverty, each person reached a point of desperate dependence on God, where true bravery was born and faith became contagious.

Planning for the Inevitable

Led by legal, medical, and pastoral experts

This class has ended, but the videos are available on YouTube: Watch class videos here.

Awana Children's Programming

Wednesdays through November 19, 6 p.m., Children's Area

Mark your calendars:

• Jammies for Jesus: December 3
• Nativity Rehearsal: December 10 & 17

Pathfinders on Wednesday (P.O.W.)

Wednesdays, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Powerhouse

AMASS Exodus

Wednesdays, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Powerhouse

Chancel Choir rehearsal

Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Choir Room

Give & Serve

Become a mentor to new First Church members

Help new members feel welcomed and connected to First Church! We’re launching a mentorship program, pairing each new member with someone to walk alongside them for six months.

As a mentor, you’ll:

• Greet new members on Sundays so they feel seen and valued.
• Connect once a month—coffee, a call, or an invite to an event.

It’s a simple way to make a big impact! Learn more by watching our video here, and sign up online.

Be a First Friend in the Pews

Meet us Sunday mornings before worship in the Atrium

This simple but meaningful Sunday morning outreach invites you to be intentional with your hospitality—praying for newcomers, offering a warm welcome, and making space for connection. Join us for a brief prayer each Sunday at 7:45 or 10:45 a.m. in the Atrium (just north of the coffee bar). Then head to worship ready to greet someone you haven’t met before, offer a guest card, and extend the kind of hospitality that makes First Church feel like home. To learn more, contact Emma Myatt at (918) 857-5652 or Jerry McCoy at (918) 982-5843.

Share a Smile, join the greeting team

Have you been looking for an easy way to get more connected at church? Serving on the First Church greeting team is a simple, meaningful way to get involved and meet people. Greeters help create a warm, welcoming environment while getting to know others in the church family. Connect with Emma Myatt, and she'll help you find a spot and schedule that works for you—even if it's just one Sunday to start. Show the love of Christ with a handshake and a smile. Try greeting this Sunday! Sign up here.

Connect

Pastor Nominating Committee update

On Sunday, November 2, Joel Donohue, chair of the Pastor Nominating Committee, shared an encouraging update on the ongoing search for First Church’s next senior pastor. The committee continues to meet faithfully each week, reviewing candidates, listening to sermons, and discerning God’s direction with optimism and unity.

Joel noted that the PNC is now exploring candidates throughout the PC(USA) and beyond, engaging with pastors from across the broader Presbyterian family. He emphasized the team’s commitment to maintaining the high standards that have long defined First Church’s ministry and leadership.


While the process takes time, the committee remains confident in God’s faithfulness and asks for your continued prayers for both the team and the pastor whom God is calling to serve.


Watch the video of Joel's update on our YouTube channel here.

To hear in-depth insights into the PNC's role in the transition process and to discover ways to pray for the committee during this pivotal time, listen to the Transition Podcast hosted by Rev. Julia Metcalf.

• Episode 16: Joel Donohue Watch on YouTube
• Episode 17: Kate Swan Watch on YouTube
• Episode 18: Jacob Thompson Watch on YouTube

Stay connected with First Church - Join realm today!

Haven't signed up? Learn how here.

First Church members, have you joined Realm yet? This powerful tool helps you stay connected, update your profile, find church events, give online, and engage with your groups—all in one place. Watch this short video with Kathy Wilson and Emma Myatt as they explain how Realm makes church life easier and more interactive.

Update your contact information

Have you moved or changed your phone number or email address recently? Please take a moment to update your information on your profile in the Realm Connect app, or contact Kathy Wilson at 918-301-1029 to share your new details. Keeping our records current helps us stay connected and serve you better.

Reporting births, marriages and hospitalizations

Since most hospitals are no longer providing information to the church about our members who are hospitalized, you can help us. Please call the church at 918-584-4701 or email Kathy Wilson to report hospitalizations, births and marriages. To directly request prayer by the Guild of Intercessors, call Paula Peterson at 918-296-5548 or text her at 918-688-2163.

Important links:

• Linktr.ee
• Calendar
• E-News
• Tidings magazine
• Bulletins