March 19, 2023
Welcome to Worship
We’re so glad you’re here. Whether you are joining us in-person or online we are excited to spend the morning with you.
Today’s Message from Pastor Nathanael
Whole Children in a Broken World
New Birth, Living Hope Part II: I Peter 1:3–5
In his first epistle, the apostle Peter wrote to mostly gentile Christians who had been scattered around Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Many of these people had been driven away from their homes through religious persecution, and Peter writes to them for two reasons: the first is to make sure they understand that though they may be far from home and family, they nonetheless fully belong to the family of God. The second reason for which Peter writes to these exiles is to show them how to live godly lives even while suffering under intense persecution. The title of this sermon series is “Whole Children in a Broken World.” Come along with us as we listen in on Peter’s encouragement to our forefathers in the faith and apply his message to our lives in 2023.
Featured Events & Church News
Baptism
Sunday, April 23, during both services. If you are interested or would like more information, please call or email Nancy at 330-966-2800 or [email protected] The baptism class will be on Wednesday, March 29, at 6pm.
The True Story of the Whole World
Wednesdays from 7–8:15pm in L-41, 42, taught by Scott Calhoun and Dan Hanny. Join us as we learn how God’s story continues in our lives here and now, and how to discover our meaning and place in it. Books can be purchased in class for $8.
Our communion elements are gluten, dairy, and nut-free.
Hospital, Rehab, Procedures
Mary Yost, Linda Donaldson, Charlotte Henderhan, Mike Manoff, Theresa Maxin
Intergenerational Missions Trip to Aliquippa, PA., July 27–30 Packets are available at the Welcome Desks. Sign up today to save your spot. Contact Lucas Shroades at [email protected] for more information.
Camp Gideon Work Day
April 15, 9am–5pm. Help get Camp Gideon’s property ready for another summer! Lunch is provided. Please RSVP at campgideon.org under the “Registrations” Tab.
Children
Kids’ Worship Songs
Do you want to listen to the songs your children are singing in chapel at home? We now have a dedicated Spotify playlist for all the kids’ worship songs. Click HERE to save this playlist now!
VBS 2023
Mark your calendars! It’s not too early to be thinking about Vacation Bible School. June 26–30, 9am–noon. Start praying now to see what part you might play in “Keepers of the Kingdom–Standing Strong in Today’s Battle for Truth.”
Women
Wednesday Morning Bible Study–Spring Study
March 15–May 17 we will begin “Better: A Study of Hebrews.” In this verse-by-verse study of the book of Hebrews, we will explore how God “provided something better for us” in the person of Jesus Christ (Heb. 11:40). Sign up online now!
Youth
HS: Spring Break Fun Night Wed. March 22, 6:30–9pm. Join us for Laser Zone and DQ, cost $15.
HS: Serve Saturday March 25, 7:30am–2pm. Bring a signed permission form and money for lunch!
HS: Student Led Sunday (SLS) March 26, 6–9pm
MS: 7th Grade Adventure Day March 31, 5:30–9pm. Bring permission slip. Dinner provided. Cost $5.
HS: Camp Echoing Hills Service Project April 1, 8:30am–5:30pm. Lunch provided; bring work gloves, a permission form, and wear work clothes.
MS: Saturday Serve April 15. More info coming soon.
MS/HS: Spring Retreat at Camp Y-Noah April 21–22, $40. Mark your calendars!
Sports
Registrations Now Open For:
Youth Soccer: Age 7–9, 10–12, and 13–16, April 8–June 16
Youth Soccer: Age 4–9, April 22–June 16
Co-ed T-ball: Age 5–6, April 11–June 10
Co-ed Coach Pitch Baseball: Age 7–8, April 13–June 10
Men’s Softball Bring Your Own Team: April 24–July 31
Visit www.firstfriendssports.com to register.
Volunteer Opportunity
We’re looking for volunteers during the volleyball celebration on March 10. For more information or to sign up, contact Risa at [email protected]
Missions
Pray For Our Honduras Mission Team
Pray for the Honduras Mission Team, March 21–28, as they serve at Bridge Ministries with our FFC missionaries, the Saurers family. Our team: Scott Calhoun, Kathleen Dungan, Delores Frazier, Chuck Goldy, Billy Krills, Jerry & Tammy Ledgerwood, Glenda Ross & Hannah Thoenen. Thank you for your prayers.
