Featured Events
Guest Lunch
Sunday, September 13 at Noon
If you are new to our church and looking to get connected to our ministries, this is a great first step. Meet Pastor Nathanael and other staff members as you get acquainted with our First Friends Family.
Please register online below so we can plan accordingly.
Alpha
Wednesday Nights, Starting September 9
Led by: Pastor Shawn Yost
In Room: L-41
You’re invited to the Alpha, a program for adults of all ages. Join us every Wednesday from September 9–December 9, 2026, from 6:30–8:15pm. Bring a Bible and come ready to explore what it means to follow Jesus.
What is Alpha?
Alpha is a welcoming space to explore the basics of the Christian faith through meaningful conversations. Whether you’re new to faith, curious about Jesus, or looking to grow deeper, Alpha is for you.
What to Expect Each Week
A shared meal – Connect with others over food.
A thought-provoking video – Learn about faith, Jesus, and life’s big questions.
Small group discussion – Ask questions, share thoughts, and listen in an open, no-pressure setting.
Fill out the form below to register today!
Questions? Email Pastor Shawn Yost at syost@firstfriends.org
Family Nights
Wednesday Nights, Starting September 9 (Once a month)
(First Wednesday of every month)
Come join other families with children in the home for a time of food and fellowship from 6:15-6:45. Main entree and side will be provided. Please bring a dessert to share. At 6:45, Children’s Ministry staff will escort Jeremiah Club to their room and youth group will go to their respective rooms. Parents will remain for a time of teaching and small group discussions with dismissal at 8:15 for child pick-up. This is a great gathering for parents who are married, single or a blended family
We are providing pizza, salad, and water each month for dinner. If you’d like, bring a dessert to share. If you are unable to eat the food we are providing, please bring your own dinner.
For: Families with kids at home
Leaders: Gabriel & Sarah Hancock
Location: L-1 & 2
Time: 6:15–8:15 (see schedule below)
Topic: TBD
Schedule:
6:15–6:45: Dinner together
6:45: Miss Tammy comes and gets kids birth–5th graders, youth are dismissed
6:50–8:15: Teaching and discussion
Women Of Influence
Saturday, September 19, 10am–noon
We will hear from Hilary Bernstein, speaker and author. Her topic will be The Art of Hospitality.
Coffee and treats provided.
Men's Retreat
October 2–4, 2026
Location: Camp Gideon
Cost: $95 (Early Bird, by Sept. 13) OR $105 (After Sept 13)
Registration Deadline: September 30
Cost includes: Dinner on Friday, three meals on Saturday, breakfast on Sunday, and lodging (4-6 guys/room)
For Men 18+
Weekend Description: Join men of all ages for a weekend of fun, encouragement and inspiration as we explore God’s call for men to live wholeheartedly for Him.In addition to encouraging messages and times of worship there will also be opportunities to participate in some tournaments or just relax and enjoy some good food with the guys.
Any questions, contact:
Shawn Yost via email at syost@firstfriends.org
Adoption, Foster, and Kinship Mother's Retreat
Friday, Oct. 23– Sunday, Oct. 25
Held at: The Berlin Grande Hotel
4787 Township Road 366
Berlin, OH 44610
WEEKEND THEME: Wholeness for Every Heart
- Refreshment and fun
- Connection with other moms who understand
- Hope and inspiration
- Feeling valued and validated
- Healing and growth
OVERNIGHT COST: $240
Includes: All sessions, two nights in hotel (two mothers per room), Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Sunday Breakfast.
SEMINAR ONLY COST: $100
Includes: All sessions, Saturday breakfast and lunch.
Registration deadline is September 16.