CONTACT: Rev. Mark Taylor mtaylor@fccedmond.org or 405.341.3544
It’s that time of year again - Super Bowl football and super good eats! Support the Youth of First Christian Church and order your Super Bowl Sub Sandwiches for Super Bowl Sunday, February 2. Enjoy 6-inch submarine sandwiches for just $8 each. Choose from ham, turkey, roast beef, cheese, and all the fixings! And what’s a sub without a bag of chips, a canned soda and a delicious homemade brownie? Order forms available now or stop by the Rotunda table and place your order on January 19 or 26. Proceeds from Sub sales support youth mission trips. Thank you for your support!

CONTACT: Rev. Dr. John Regan jregan@fccedmond.org 405.341-3544
As we begin a new year and the spring term of UNITE there is a lot of organization going on at the Church. New leaders are meeting with staff to plan areas of ministry, the Finance Committee is reviewing the year-end financials, and the Church Board will soon recommend a budget plan for 2020. I want to thank all our leaders who shared their time and talent to serve our congregation in 2019! As part of the free church tradition, we are radically committed to democratic governance and shared leadership. This way of being church only works when people are willing to lead and to serve. Thank You!    

Earlier this week I was putting the manger that we use at the Children’s Christmas Eve service into long term storage in an upstairs closet. I found a spot on the floor and plopped it on the carpet without much thought and then stepped back. It was then I realized that I had placed the manger right next to the large wooden cross that we will use later this spring during Lent. It was a weird and shocking moment for me. Maybe it would be a little like going on a first date with someone and they show up in a hearse. Or being invited to a birthday party at a cemetery. See, you are feeling weird now aren’t you?  But maybe we have to see a paradox before we really understand some of the depth of our faith. 

On Sunday in worship, we will celebrate the first Sunday after Epiphany. You will notice that Christmas greenery has disappeared, but some green has been added by the green paraments. The green represents the earth that will soon be coming to life again after the winter. 

Maybe you find yourself struggling to break out of the glum of winter this year. Or maybe your life has been stuck in winter for longer than a calendar season. The new year offers new beginnings. Now is a time to try something new. Find a place to serve in the community or the church. Attend a different worship service to meet new people, find another pew, and confuse your ministers. Try something new on Wednesday evenings. Come to UNITE where you can serve, learn, eat, and make new friends (and avoid laundry, paying bills, cleaning your own house, and those pesky door to door salespeople won’t find you at home.) See you at church, “Church.” 

CONTACT: Rev. Dr. John Regan jregan@fccedmond.org 405.341-3544
Come hear what's NEXT at First Christian at our NEXT 90 presentation, Sunday, January 19. There are two sessions planned. Join us at 9am or 10am in the Fellowship Hall.

Our Finance Committee will present the proposed 2020 ministry budget and will share results of our 2019 budget and outreach giving. We’ll also provide updates on capital improvements from the Moving Forward Strategic Campaign, where we are with our Here For Good capital campaign projects, and share what’s coming next in family ministry, hospitality, and the season of Lent. Don't miss what's NEXT!

CONTACT: Rev. Dr. John Regan jregan@fccedmond.org 405.341-3544
All members are encouraged to attend our January 26, 2020 Congregational Meeting at 12:00 noon in the Sanctuary where we will consider the 2020 General Fund Budget. 

Following the Church Board meeting on Sunday, January 19th copies of our proposed budget will be available at the welcome desk, the pastoral office, or can be sent via email upon request.

CONTACT: Jennifer Humphrey jhumphrey@fccedmond.org 405.341.3544 
Make a New Year’s resolution to have more fun and connect with friends old and new at FCC! Join us for the Spring Session of UNITE as we gather Wednesday evenings starting January 15. Come enjoy delicious meals, share meaningful conversation, and experience faith development in one of our classes or small groups. See www.fccedmond.org/unite for a complete list of activities, dates, and fees. 

* Adult's Schedule
5:00 Book Discussion Group - Led by Rev. Dr. John Regan, Rm #130
This group will study two books over the spring semester. The first is If Grace is True by Phillip Gulley and James Mullholand. This book explores the role of personal experience as a means to receive God’s revelation. Books will be available on the first night of class for $10. They are also available in the pastoral offices during the week. This discussion will last 7 weeks. Beginning March 1, the group will discuss Soul Repair, by Rita Nakashima Brock. 
6:00 All Church Dinner - Fellowship Hall 
6:30 Adult Bible Study - Led by Rev. Chris Shorow, Rm #116
The Earliest Versions of Jesus: Early Christianity has many stories and books related to Jesus and our Bible contains only a few of them. What do those other writings have to say and what can they teach us about some of the early views of Jesus? We’ll look at the four Gospels as well as some of these other documents to learn more about these early Christians.
6:30 Book Discussion Group – Led by Rev. Dr. John Regan, Rm #130 (a repeat of the 5:00 option, see description above)
6:45 Chancel Choir - Led by Diane Ball, Sanctuary
Choir meets Wednesday nights to practice for services and special events. Through the Choir, you can offer your musical gifts through the year in the 11am worship service and on special occasions. Come share your gift of song!

* Children's Schedule Children - 3 years old through 5th Grade (Nursery available, from 5pm until 8pm, for those under 3 - Room E11 in the Children's Hallway)
5:00 Music (Kindergarten-5th Grades) - Music Room
5:30 Cherub Choir (3 yrs old-PreK) - Room 115
6:00 Check-in/Dinner - Fellowship Hall
6:30 Small Groups - Children's Hallway
7:15 Large Group Worship - Chapel
7:30 Check-out/Pick-up - Chapel

* Student's Schedule Youth - 6th Grade through 12th Grade
5:15 Youth Ensemble - Room 131
5:45 Dinner - Family Life Center
6:30 Chapel
7:10 Small Groups
7:45 Pick-up - Rotunda

Spring 2020 Dates: 
January 15, 22, 29; February 5, 12, 19, 26 (Ash Wednesday); March 4, 11, 25 (No Unite March 18, Spring Break); April 1 (no UNITE April 8, Holy Week) 15, 22 (Children and Youth Party Night)

CONTACT: Jenny Wiechmann unibrow1948@aol.com 405.340.3816
Ladies – Join us at First Christian Church for a great opportunity to study God’s word, grow spiritually and fellowship with one another. Our women’s CONNECTIONS Bible Study for spring will utilize the book “Job: A Story of Unlikely Joy” by Lisa Harper. This 7-session study explores the life of Job, a godly man, who suffered devastating loss. Yet, in the midst of his darkness, light peeked through, hope stayed the course, and unlikely joy emerged. Join us to experience healing and a deeper connection to God, know that He sees your hardships, learn to prize the reality of God’s love and goodness, and witness your pain being transformed into a conduit for God’s glory.

Connections Dates: Monday 7pm classes will meet January 27; February 10 & 24; March 9 & 23; April 6 & 20. Thursday 9:30am classes will meet January 30; February 13 & 27; March 12 & 26; April 9 & 23. 

Books are $16 and available in the Pastoral Office. Make checks payable to FCC and note Connections on the memo line.

CONTACT: Susan Huffer, Camp Coordinator susan.huffer@outlook.com 405.623.2185 
Each year a group of people from FCC travel to Estes Colorado for a week of family fun. This year's adventures will be held July 12 through July 18. Family Camp is held at YMCA of the Rockies. We stay in a lodge and each room has 2 queen beds, a sleeping mat, private bathroom and a private deck. There is something for everyone! We plan activities as a group but there are many more you can do on your own. You can visit YMCArockies.org for more information. Signup begins Sunday, January 12 and information packets can be picked up in the Rotunda.

January 12 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow, Scripture: Exodus 3:1-17; Children Worship & Wonder: Jesus is Baptized
January 19 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: I Kings 19:12; Children Worship & Wonder: Jesus in the Wilderness
January 26 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: Psalm 28:1-2; Children Worship & Wonder: Parable of the Mustard Seed
February 2 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: Jonah 1:1-4; Children Worship & Wonder: Parable of the Leaven

CONTACT: Jennifer Humphrey jhumphrey@fccedmond.org 405.341.3544
Thank you to everyone who participated in helping others in need by selecting an angel (or two!) from our Angel Tree! This holiday, First Christian Church served 14 families in need - 38 children & youth for a total of 185 gifts brought in. That's just amazing! Thanks to all for the kindness, generosity, and love shared during the holiday season. It is truly appreciated! 

CONTACT: Jennifer Humphrey jhumphrey@fccedmond.org 405.341.3544
Our community of faith supports parents as their children make the developmental transition to adolescence by offering what we call the “Pastors’ Class.” This course is an important part of a student’s journey as they explore Christian beliefs and the decision to follow the ways of Jesus. Pastors’ Class students are usually 5th graders, but 6th graders who have never participated in Pastors’ Class are also welcome. Each student is paired with a youth and an elder mentor who provide support during their journey. Pastors’ Class begins with an overnight retreat followed by six Sunday morning sessions taught by our ordained staff.

To answer any questions parents may have, there is a Parent Information Meeting on Sunday, January 26 at 12:15pm in Fellowship Hall. Please contact Jennifer Humphrey to let us know your child will participate or with any questions.

CONTACT: Rev. Mark Taylor mtaylor@fccedmond.org or 405.341.3544
It’s that time of year again - Super Bowl football and super good eats! Support the Youth of First Christian Church and order your Super Bowl Sub Sandwiches for Super Bowl Sunday, February 2. Enjoy 6-inch submarine sandwiches for just $8 each. Choose from ham, turkey, roast beef, cheese, and all the fixings! And what’s a sub without a bag of chips, a canned soda and a delicious homemade brownie? Order forms available now or stop by the Rotunda table and place your order on January 19 or 26. Proceeds from Sub sales support youth mission trips. Thank you for your support!

Chris and Connie Westhof are celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary and all are invited to the celebration!
When: Saturday, January 25, 2-4pm
Where: FCC's Fellowship Hall
In lieu of gifts, you are invited to make a donation to FCC's Capital Campaign.

THOSE IN NEED OF PRAYER  Ed & Mary Walker, John & Dot Hammond
OUR SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS TO Chris & Cheryl Gibson on the passing of Cheryl’s brother, Fred Salwesser on November 23. Service were held on December 7 in WA; AND TO Robert & Melissa Hendricks on the passing of Melissa’s brother, Jason Frazier on December 2. Services were held on December 7 in OKC; AND TO Bruce & Cindy Hammett on the passing of Cindy’s father, Ralph Gregory, who passed away on December 6. Services were held December 12 in OKC; AND TO Bob Grant & Michael Grant & Family on the passing of their son and brother, Robert Grant, on December 14 in MO, services pending; AND TO Demaris Burleson on the passing of her sister, Revanelle Earnest on January 1, services pending.
WE WELCOME NEW MEMBER Beatrice Wesseh who joined on December 15, 2019.

Please share your prayer requests with us so we can pray for you. Contact Pastoral Assistant, Iris Muno Jordan at ijordan@fccedmond.org or 341-3544, ext. 110.

1/12  Cherrie Steele
1/13  Gifford Parkhurst
1/14  Erin O’Donnell, Vicki Snow
1/15  Kayla Clark, Bill Hof, Karen Killackey
1/16  Richard Bernard, Nay Griffith, Jo Jackson, Seth O’Hagan, Joshua Riester, Emily Tompkins
1/17  Carole Fields, Willa Hill
1/18  Stephanie Anderson, Justin Hoppe, Joy Quinn
1/19  Amy Hepler, Luanne Howell, Linda McElvany, Karen Perrin, Natalie Rychecky
1/20  Marian Bates
1/21  Garry Dowell, Amber Jones, Logan Loucks
1/22  Kaitlyn Palmer
1/23  Mike Moore
1/24  Bernie McNickle, Melissa VanOsdol
1/25  Jacqueline Gregory, Jackson Moffett, Jenny Wiechmann
1/26  J.B. Foster, Evelyn Kelley, Frank Moore, Bettye Sherwood
1/28  James Albee, Paula Bailey, Peggy Cornelius, Charles Stout
1/29  Sam Roberts
1/30  Patsy Corrigan, Tracy Hastings
1/31  Doyle O’Hagan, Dian Sill
2/3   Robyn Ellison, Avery Hendricks, Joe McDonald, Lucas Peterson, Luke Wilkinson
2/4  Angie McFall, Jennifer McGrew, Guinnevere O’Hagan
2/5  Nancy Gaines, Lincoln Sutch
2/6  Reagan McCormick, Audrey Stanley, Leonard Wallace
2/8  Oliver Bowen, Sara Riester

January 12 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow, Scripture: Exodus 3:1-17; Children Worship & Wonder: Jesus is Baptized
January 19 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: I Kings 19:12; Children Worship & Wonder: Jesus in the Wilderness
January 26 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: Psalm 28:1-2; Children Worship & Wonder: Parable of the Mustard Seed
February 2 - Minister: Rev. Dr. Chris Shorow; Scripture: Jonah 1:1-4; Children Worship & Wonder: Parable of the Leaven

CONTACT: Jennifer Humphrey jhumphrey@fccedmond.org 405.341.3544
Thank you to everyone who participated in helping others in need by selecting an angel (or two!) from our Angel Tree! This holiday, First Christian Church served 14 families in need - 38 children & youth for a total of 185 gifts brought in. That's just amazing! Thanks to all for the kindness, generosity, and love shared during the holiday season. It is truly appreciated! 

CONTACT: Jennifer Humphrey jhumphrey@fccedmond.org 405.341.3544
Our community of faith supports parents as their children make the developmental transition to adolescence by offering what we call the “Pastors’ Class.” This course is an important part of a student’s journey as they explore Christian beliefs and the decision to follow the ways of Jesus. Pastors’ Class students are usually 5th graders, but 6th graders who have never participated in Pastors’ Class are also welcome. Each student is paired with a youth and an elder mentor who provide support during their journey. Pastors’ Class begins with an overnight retreat followed by six Sunday morning sessions taught by our ordained staff.

To answer any questions parents may have, there is a Parent Information Meeting on Sunday, January 26 at 12:15pm in Fellowship Hall. Please contact Jennifer Humphrey to let us know your child will participate or with any questions.

Chris and Connie Westhof are celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary and all are invited to the celebration!
When: Saturday, January 25, 2-4pm
Where: FCC's Fellowship Hall
In lieu of gifts, you are invited to make a donation to FCC's Capital Campaign.

THOSE IN NEED OF PRAYER  Ed & Mary Walker, John & Dot Hammond
OUR SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS TO Chris & Cheryl Gibson on the passing of Cheryl’s brother, Fred Salwesser on November 23. Service were held on December 7 in WA; AND TO Robert & Melissa Hendricks on the passing of Melissa’s brother, Jason Frazier on December 2. Services were held on December 7 in OKC; AND TO Bruce & Cindy Hammett on the passing of Cindy’s father, Ralph Gregory, who passed away on December 6. Services were held December 12 in OKC; AND TO Bob Grant & Michael Grant & Family on the passing of their son and brother, Robert Grant, on December 14 in MO, services pending; AND TO Demaris Burleson on the passing of her sister, Revanelle Earnest on January 1, services pending.
WE WELCOME NEW MEMBER Beatrice Wesseh who joined on December 15, 2019.

Please share your prayer requests with us so we can pray for you. Contact Pastoral Assistant, Iris Muno Jordan at ijordan@fccedmond.org or 341-3544, ext. 110.

1/12  Cherrie Steele
1/13  Gifford Parkhurst
1/14  Erin O’Donnell, Vicki Snow
1/15  Kayla Clark, Bill Hof, Karen Killackey
1/16  Richard Bernard, Nay Griffith, Jo Jackson, Seth O’Hagan, Joshua Riester, Emily Tompkins
1/17  Carole Fields, Willa Hill
1/18  Stephanie Anderson, Justin Hoppe, Joy Quinn
1/19  Amy Hepler, Luanne Howell, Linda McElvany, Karen Perrin, Natalie Rychecky
1/20  Marian Bates
1/21  Garry Dowell, Amber Jones, Logan Loucks
1/22  Kaitlyn Palmer
1/23  Mike Moore
1/24  Bernie McNickle, Melissa VanOsdol
1/25  Jacqueline Gregory, Jackson Moffett, Jenny Wiechmann
1/26  J.B. Foster, Evelyn Kelley, Frank Moore, Bettye Sherwood
1/28  James Albee, Paula Bailey, Peggy Cornelius, Charles Stout
1/29  Sam Roberts
1/30  Patsy Corrigan, Tracy Hastings
1/31  Doyle O’Hagan, Dian Sill
2/3   Robyn Ellison, Avery Hendricks, Joe McDonald, Lucas Peterson, Luke Wilkinson
2/4  Angie McFall, Jennifer McGrew, Guinnevere O’Hagan
2/5  Nancy Gaines, Lincoln Sutch
2/6  Reagan McCormick, Audrey Stanley, Leonard Wallace
2/8  Oliver Bowen, Sara Riester