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Friday, September 19, 2025 | E-News | Vol. 7, Issue 19

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms” –1 Peter 4:10

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

Worship

Fall 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 live and work, ultimately points us to Christ. This series pairs an Old Testament passage with a Gospel reading, while an epistle offers a theological reflection on how that figure’s story connects to Christ.

Events

First Church Tulsa's 140th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

Docent tours and Bell Tower tours, 10 a.m. - noon

Tours will be running concurrently and continuously

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5

Festival Sunday / World Communion Sunday, 11 a.m., Sanctuary
Contemporary, Traditional and TIF are combined in one service

140th Anniversary Lunch, 12:15 p.m., Stephenson Hall
Celebrate with lunch and fellowship right after worship.

Ron Pearson's 52nd annual organ concert, 4 p.m.

This special program will include Tulsa’s first performance of Pater Noster (Our Father), a set of eight pieces by Canadian composer Denis Bedard, based on the ancient chant sung to the words of The Lord’s Prayer. The chant will be sung by Gretchen Bashforth, Associate Director of Music. Also included will be the first-ever Tulsa performance of the Symphony no. 1 for Organ and Orchestra, by the French composer Alexandre Guilmant, with the University of Tulsa Orchestra, conducted by Rick Wagner. This piece is often played as a Sonata for organ alone, but it has never been performed in Tulsa as a collaborative work with orchestra. Come enjoy this special afternoon of music!


Serve-A-Palooza is here!

Called to serve. Created to belong.

Sunday, September 21 and 28, Atrium and Courtyard

Join us in Miller Atrium and the Courtyard on Sundays, Sept. 21, and 28, before and after worship. Come explore what it means to “serve the Lord with gladness” and discover how serving can be the key to connection and belonging at First Church. Spin the wheel for inspiration, enjoy games and treats, and see how your gifts, skills, and interests can shape your walk as a disciple of Christ. Learn more here.

Lunch & Learn

Monday, October 13, 12 - 1:30 p.m., Room E104
Optional tour of the church will follow

Our topic for the October session is “The Building Tells the Story.” Josie Whitley and Mary Anne Marberry will share how the church building reflects our faith and our First Church history, thanks to the talents and gifts of past church members and leaders. Following the presentation, those who are able to stay are invited to join Josie and Mary Anne for a building tour that brings this story to life. Please RSVP for the $7 lunch. You may pre-pay online or at the door.

GriefShare grief recovery program

13-week course each Wednesday from Sept. 10-Dec. 10

1:30-3 p.m.; Room E104

Registration is open throughout the entire 13-week cycle.

GriefShare is a Christ-centered grief recovery program for people who have lost a loved one. Led by First Church members, Rick Priest and Kathy Wilson, each session consists of a video presentation, a review of the workbook lesson for that week, and facilitated group discussion. While it’s most helpful to attend every session, the videos are available online for participants who can’t attend every class. Cost is $20 which includes the required workbook. Register online, email Kathy Wilson or call 918-301-1029.

Chancel Choir back to full strength

Good news! The Chancel Choir is back to full strength! You’re welcome to stop by a rehearsal any Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Choir Room to see us in action—or even better, consider adding your voice and singing with us!

Last call! Join our Next Gen Music Ministry

Registration closes September 30!

Kids and students have a special place in worship through music. Whether singing, ringing, or leading praise, there’s a group for every age to grow in faith and musical skill. Registration is open so sign up today!

First Church Choristers (K–4th)

Sing in worship 2–3 times each semester and take part in the Christmas Eve Nativity. Rehearsals are Sundays, 9:15–9:45 a.m. in the 3rd Floor Music Suite, beginning mid-September. Sign up for Choristers here.

Rejoice Ringers (3rd–8th)

Learn handbell skills and music reading while ringing in worship 1–2 times each semester. Meets Sundays, 8:45–9:15 a.m. in the 3rd Floor Music Suite, beginning mid-September. Sign up for Rejoice Ringers here.

Celebration Singers (Middle & High School)

Lead worship for youth events and Sunday services, collaborating with the Youth Praise Band. Rehearsals are Wednesdays, 5:00–6:00 p.m. in the Powerhouse, beginning late August. Sign up for Celebration Singers here.

Youth Praise Band (Middle & High School)

Support worship at youth events and gatherings. Meets Wednesdays, 5:00–6:00 PM in the Powerhouse, beginning late August. Contact Eric Baird at ebaird@firstchurchtulsa.org.

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

Begins September 22, 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.

Seasons Women’s Gathering

Second Monday of each month

6:30 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!

Wednesday Night Downtown Fall 2025

You're invited to a rejuvenating time at Wednesday Night Downtown at First Church Tulsa! New adult classes have begun and the kids and youth programs are in full swing! We hope to see you there! Scroll for the adult classes and details.

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 as we explore the literary works of C. S. Lewis, beginning with the Chronicles of Narnia. Stories have a unique ability to shape our hearts and minds, and perhaps nowhere do we see this more profoundly than in the works of Lewis. Together, we will explore the thought and theology of Lewis and the power of stories to convey these great truths. No prior knowledge of his books required!

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, we’ll explore 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; Room E100

A five-week course covering end-of-life planning: wills, directives, healthcare decisions, and care for loved ones—with an eternal perspective in Christ. Speakers include Bob Farris, Dr. John Frame, Kathy Wilson, James Munuhe, Denise Rounds, and Rev. Wally Johnson.

Awana 2025-2026

Wednesdays, 6 p.m., Children's Area

Sign up for Awana! It’s a fun, Bible-centered program where children learn God’s Word, build lasting friendships, and enjoy games and activities each week. Awana helps kids find God’s truth in their hearts while growing in their faith and love for Jesus. For more information, contact Director of Children’s Ministries Sarah Savage.

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

Petra Kids Fundraiser

Wines From Around the World

Friday, September 26, 6-8 p.m., AMC Mortgage, 7211 S. Yale Ave.

Petra Kids Ministries presents Wines From Around the World, an evening of global flavors, delicious pairings, live music, and community. Proceeds from the event will support Petra Kids Ministries in providing education, healthcare, housing, spiritual development, nutrition and hope to students in Uganda. Tickets are available Sept. 14 and 21 in the Atrium or anytime at petrakids.org. Petra Kids Ministries is a 501(c)(3) organization.

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.

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.

Helping Hand wish list

Here's a simple way you can support the ministry

The food pantry at Helping Hand is busier than ever. So far this year, 2,235 family members have received groceries and toiletries, and we expect to serve more than 1,000 additional people by year’s end—thanks to your generosity. To make giving easier, we’ve created an Amazon wish list of urgently needed toiletries. When you place your order, make sure to select Helping Hand Ministry from the address and the items will be shipped directly to the church. Thank you for supporting this vital ministry.

TV Ministry Team opportunities

Gain valuable video and broadcast experience while helping us reach thousands of TV and internet viewers each week. We’re looking for students and adults to volunteer in this important ministry. For more information, email Alex Pennell, TV/Video Manager, or call 314-607-1032.

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.

Connect

Pastor Nominating Committee update

The Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) continues to prayerfully and diligently move forward in the search for our next senior pastor. Over the past several months, the committee has contacted more than 70 trusted leaders across the country for recommendations and recently completed a week of online interviews with several promising candidates. While the process is still ongoing and requires patience, the committee is greatly encouraged by the progress and remains focused on keeping Christ at the center of every step. Thank you for your continued prayers and support as this important work continues. Click here to watch members of the PNC update the congregation during worship on August 24.

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.

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