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First Cup

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 22:53:24 GMT

First Cup Daily Bible Reading

Dear Family in Christ,

First Cup is designed to assist you in the habit of daily Bible reading and prayer. The name is to remind you that as you reach for your first cup of morning coffee or tea, reach also for your Bible and prayer list. The prayers at the beginning of each week are taken from hymns, sometimes found in obscure hymnals in my library. They are intended to be read as your beginning prayer, to focus your mind on the daily readings that follow. May this spiritual discipline strengthen you as you face each day.

2026 Daily Readings

Click below to download the full 12 months of readings and a prayer list.

Download 2026 Readings (PDF) Prayer List (PDF)

Download Previous First Cup Readings

2025 Readings (PDF) 2024 Readings (PDF) 2023 Readings (PDF)

August 2026

1 Luke 8:22-25; 2 Samuel 22; Jonah 2; Psalm 3:5; 4:8; 73:23-26

“Take up thy cross,” the Savior said, “If thou wouldst My disciple be; Take up thy cross with willing heart And humbly follow after Me.” Take up thy cross; let not its weight Fill thy weak spirit with alarm; His strength shall bear thy spirit up, And brace thy heart, and nerve thy arm. Take up thy cross, nor heed the shame; Nor let thy foolish pride rebel; Thy Lord for thee the cross endured, To save thy soul from death and hell. Take up thy cross and follow Christ, Nor think till death to lay it down; For only he who bears the cross May hope to wear the glorious crown. (The Hymnbook, #293)

2 Deut. 18:9-13; Psalm 106; Luke 8:26-39; James 4:7

3 Luke 8:40-48; Leviticus 15:25-27; Mark 3:10; 6:56; Luke 8:49-55; Hebrews 11:6

4 Luke 9:1-9; Matthew 14:1-12; 17:9-13; Matthew 10:17-31

5 Exodus 16; Luke 9:10-17; Mark 11:22-25; Proverbs 30:7-9; John 6:48-51

6 Luke 9:18-27; Matthew 10:32-33; 16:24-28; Philippians 1

7 Luke 9:28-36; Isaiah 42:1-9; Matthew 3:16-17; 5:17; 2 Peter 1; Psalm 119:105

8 Luke 9:37-45; Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 21:21-22; James 5:15-16

Our Father in heaven, we hallow Thy name; May Thy kingdom holy on earth be the same; O give to us daily our portion of bread; It is from Thy bounty that all must be fed. Forgive our transgressions, and teach us to know that humble compassion which pardons each foe; Keep us from temptation, from evil and sin, And Thine be the glory forever! Amen. (Baptist Hymnal, #343)

9 1 Kings 19:19-21; Luke 9:46-62; Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 10:17-31; Matthew 6:33

10 Luke 10:1-24; Matthew 4:10; Rev. 9:1-11; 12:7-12; 13:5-10; Daniel 12:1-4

11 Luke 10:25-37 Deut. 6:5; Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 19:16-30

12 Luke 10:38-42; Matthew 6:25-34; Romans 12:1-13; Psalm 27:4; 119:97-112

13 Luke 11:1-13; Matthew 26:31-46; 69-75; 1 Cor. 10:1-13

14 Luke 11:14-28; 2 Peter 2; Hebrews 6:4-6

15 Luke 11:29-32; Jonah 3; 2 Chronicles 9:1-12; Matthew 12:38-45; John 3:18-21

Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ, Wealth that can never be told! Riches exhaustless of mercy and grace, Precious, more precious than gold! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Who shall their greatness declare? Jewels whose luster our lives may adorn, Pearls that the poorest may wear! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Who would not gladly endure Trials, afflictions, and crosses on earth, Riches like these to secure! Precious, more precious, Wealth that can never be told! Oh, the unsearchable riches of Christ! Precious, more precious than gold. (Worship in Song, #52)

16 Luke 11:33-36; Psalm 101; Psalm 18:25-29; Titus 1:15-16

17 Luke 11:37-54; Genesis 4:1-16; 2 Chronicles 24:17-22; Acts 13; Romans 2

18 Luke 12:1-12; Acts 6:8-7:60

19 Luke 12:13-34; Ecclesiastes 5:10; Isaiah 57:14-21; Ephesians 5:1-20

20 Luke 12:33-48; 1 Thess. 4:13-5:11; 2 Thess. 2:1-16

21 Luke 12:49-53; Mark 10:28-31; 13:3-13; Matthew 10:17-42

22 Luke 12:54-59; Matthew 16:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 2 Peter 3; 1 John 2:18-27

There were ninety and nine that safely lay in the shelter of the fold, but the one was out on the hills far away, far off in the dark and cold. Away on the mountains, wild and bare. Away from the tender Shepherd’s care. “Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine; are they not enough for Thee?” But the Shepherd made answer: “This of mine has wandered away from Me; and although the road be rough and steep, I’ll go to the desert to find My sheep.” And all through the mountains, thunder driven, and up from the rocky steep, there arose a cry up to the gate of heaven, “Rejoice, I have found My sheep!” And the angels echoed around the Throne, “Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!” (Trinity Hymnal, #187)

23 Luke 13:1-9; Isaiah 5:1-10; John 15:1-17

24 Exodus 20:8-11; Matthew 4:23-25; 12:1-14; Luke 13:10-35

25 Luke 14:1-24; Matthew 22:1-14; Zachariah 3

26 Luke 14:25-35; Philippians 3:7-4:1

27 Luke 15; Proverbs 20:9; 21:17, 25, 26; 22:6; Psalm 51; Hebrews 12:4-13

28 Luke 16:1-18; 12:33-34; Matthew 6:19-34

29 Luke 16:19-31; 6:17-26; Matthew 25:31-46

30 Luke 17:1-10; Matthew 6:9-15; 18:21-35

31 Luke 17:11-19; Leviticus 13:29-37; Acts 14:8-10; James 5:13-16

July 2026

1 Jeremiah 31:27-34; Romans 11

2 Lamentations 1; Isaiah 1; 2 Chronicles 7:13-14

3 Lamentations 2; Matthew 23; 2 Timothy 4:1-5

4 Lamentations 3:1-36; Matthew 5:39; 2 Cor. 6:1-10; Psalm 123

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God, my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow—blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! (Hymns for the Family of God, #98)

5 Lamentations 3:37-66; Job 30; Psalm 37

6 Genesis 19:1-29; Lamentations 4; Jeremiah 19:9; Matthew 24:1-35

7 Lamentations 5; Isaiah 49; 1 Thess. 4:13-5:11

8 Luke 1:1-25; John 1:1-34

9 Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-56; Genesis 17:19; Psalm 132:11-18; Galatians 3:16

10 Luke 2:1-20; Colossians 1:15-23; Isaiah 43:1-3; 45:22

11 Leviticus 12; Luke 2:21-40; Isaiah 42:1-9; 8:13-17; John 10:11; Psalm 23

Come, Thou long expected Jesus, Born to set Thy people free. From our sins and fears release us; Let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s Strength and Consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear Desire of ev’ry nation, Joy of ev’ry longing heart! Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and yet a King, Born to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious kingdom bring. By Thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone; By Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne. (Worship in Song, #181)

12 Micah 5:1-5; Matthew 2

13 Luke 2:41-52; Proverbs 3:1-6

14 Luke 3:1-22; Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-11; 16:15-16; Acts 1:5, 2:38-41

15 Luke 3:23-4:13; Deut. 6:13-19; Hebrews 2:10-18; 4:14-16; 1 Peter 5:5-10

16 Isaiah 40:1-11; 52:7; 61:1-3; Luke 4:14-21; John 16:13-15

17 Luke 4:22-30; 10:13-16; John 1:9-14; 15:18-16:4

18 Luke 4:31-37; Deut. 32:17; Isaiah 14:12-15; Luke 10:18; John 12:27-50

Out in the highways and byways of life, Many are weary and sad. Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife, Making the sorrowing glad. Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love; tell of His power to forgive. Others will trust Him if only you prove True every moment you live. Give as ‘twas given to you in your need; Love as the Master loved you. Be to the helpless a helper indeed; unto your mission be true. Make me a blessing: Make me a blessing. Out of my life may Jesus shine. Make me a blessing, O Saviour, I pray. Make me a blessing to someone today. (Worship in Song, #342)

19 Luke 4:38-44; Psalm 103

20 Luke 5:1-11; John 12:20-26; 1 Peter 2:11-15; Psalm 32

21 Numbers 12; 2 Kings 5; Luke 5:12-26; Psalm 147:3

22 Luke 5:27-32; John 15:18-27; 2 Cor. 5:16-21; James 4:4; 1 John 3:13-15

23 Luke 5:33-39; Leviticus 16:29-31; Joel 2:12-14; Nehemiah 9:1-3; Matthew 6:16-18

24 Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 16; Deut. 5:12-15; Matthew 5:17-20; Luke 6:1-11

25 Psalm 7; Luke 6:12-36; Proverbs 16:7; Romans 12:17-21

Come, ye sinners, poor and needy, weak and wounded, sick and sore; Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, love, and power; He is able, He is able, He is willing; doubt no more. Let not conscience make you linger, nor of fitness fondly dream; All the fitness He requireth is to feel your need of Him: This He gives you, this He gives you; ‘Tis the Spirit’s glimmering beam. Come, ye weary, heavy laden, bruised and mangled by the Fall; If you tarry till you’re better, You will never come at all; Not the righteous, not the righteous; Sinners Jesus came to call. (The Baptist Hymnal, #241)

26 Luke 6:37-45; Romans 2; 14; James 4:11-12; Matthew 18:15-35

27 Luke 6:46-49; James 2:14-26; John 15:1-17

28 1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 4:1-37; Luke 7:1-17;Jeremiah 32:17-27; Psalm 107:20-22

29 Psalm 38; Luke 7:36-50; Psalm 32

30 Luke 8:1-18; Psalm 119:1-16; 89-112;James 1:22-25

31 Psalm 119:33-88; Luke 8:19-21; John 14:15-21

June 2026

1 Luke 11:29-32 ; Jonah 1:1-17; Psalm 89:9 ; 107:29

2 Jonah 2:1-10; Jeremiah 10:1-16 ; Psalm 88:1-18

3 Jonah 3:1-10; Jeremiah 18:1-11 ; Isaiah 29:16 ; Romans 9:19-26

4 Jonah 4:1-11; Joel 2:12-14 ; Psalm 72:1-20

5 Jeremiah 1:1-10 ; 5:14 ; Exodus 4:10-12 ; Isaiah 51:12-16 ; Mark 10:17-20 ; John 12:47-50

6 Jeremiah 1:11-19 ; Micah 4:1-7 ; Romans 2:5-16 ; John 4:27-42 ; Matthew 9:35-38

If my people’s hearts are humbled, if they pray and seek my face; if they turn away from evil, I will not withhold my grace. I will hear their prayers from heaven; I will pardon every sin. If my people’s hearts are humbled, I will surely heal their land. Then my eyes will see their sorrow, then my ears will hear their plea. If my people’s hearts are humbled, I will set their nation free. (Australian Hymn, No. 278)

7 Jeremiah 2:1-13 ; 2 Kings 17:1-23 ; Isaiah 44:6-23 ; Romans 1:18-22 ; Psalm 51:1-17

8 Jeremiah 3:6-25 ; Psalm 16:1-11; Colossians 1:9-23 ; Romans 1:28-2:16 ; 1 Peter 1:3-9

9 Jeremiah 4:1-31; Amos 5:1-27; Malachi 4:1-6

10 Genesis 6:1-8 ; Genesis 18:16-33 ; Jeremiah 5:1-19 ; 1 Peter 3:8-22

11 Jeremiah 5:20-31 ; Isaiah 59:1-15 ; Ecclesiastes 7:27-29; Psalm 94:1-23; Hebrews10:26-31

12 Jeremiah 6:1-30; Deut. 32:1-47 ; Isaiah 42:18-25 ; 2 Timothy 4:1-5

13 1 Kings 9:1-9 ; Jeremiah 7:1-20 ; Ezekiel 18:29-32 ; Romans 7:1-8:4

O God, our Help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Our Shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal Home: Under the shadow of Thy throne, still may we dwell secure; Sufficient is Thine arm alone and our defense is sure. Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame, From everlasting Thou art God, To endless years the same. O God, our Help in ages past, our hope for years to come, Be Thou our Guide while life shall last, And our eternal Home. (Worship in Song, No. 14)

14 Jeremiah 7:21-8:3 ; 2 Kings 21:1-15 ; 2 Kings 23:1-25 ; I Cor. 3:16-17

15 Jeremiah 8:4-9:6 ; Isaiah1:1-20 ; Matthew 21:18-22 ; Mark 11:12-17 ; Matthew 7:15-20

16 Jeremiah 10:1-16 ; Isaiah 40:21-31 ; John 1:1-14 ; Colossians 1:15-23

17 Deut. 29-30 ; Jeremiah 11:1-17

18 Exodus 20:1-21 ; Deut. 12-13 ; Jeremiah 13:1-27

19 Jeremiah 14:1-22; Jeremiah 17:1-10; Deut. 28:15-24 ; Ezekiel 34:20-31

20 Jeremiah 16:10-21 ; 1 Kings 9:6-9 ; Psalm 106:40-45 : Psalm 107:1-43

Before the Lord we bow, the God who reigns above, And rules the world below, boundless in power and love. Our thanks we bring in joy and praise, our hearts we raise to heaven’s high king. Earth, hear thy Maker’s voice, thy great Redeemer own. Believe, obey, rejoice, and worship Him alone. Cast down thy pride, thy sin deplore, and bow before the Crucified. (Lutheran Worship, No. 500)

21 Jeremiah 17:19-27 ; Exodus 20:2-17 ; Isaiah 56:1-12; Matthew 12:1-14 ; Hebrews 4:1-13

22 Jeremiah 18:1-11 ; Isaiah 29:13-16 ; 64:8-12 ; Romans 9:14-21

23 Jeremiah 22:13-23 ; Jeremiah 33:14-16 ; Zechariah 9:9-17 ; Matthew 7:15-25

24 Jeremiah 23:1-8 ; Isaiah 53:1-7 ; Acts 7:51-53 ; Psalm 43:1-5

25 Jeremiah 23:9-15 ; Micah 2:6-11 ; Ezekiel 13:1-23; 1 John 4:1-6 ; 2 Peter 2:1-3

26 Jeremiah 23:16-40 ; 2 Timothy 4:1-5 ; 2 Peter 2:1-22; James 3:1

27 Jeremiah 24:1-10; Romans 9:1-33; James 2:14-26

Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Thou art the Potter; I am the clay. Mold me and make me After Thy will, While I am waiting, Yielded and still. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way! Search me and try me, Master, today. Whiter than snow, Lord, Wash me just now, As in Thy presence Humbly I bow. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own Way! Fill with Thy Spirit Till all shall see Christ only, always Living in me! (The Hymnbook, No. 302)

28 Jeremiah 25:1-14 ; Psalm 28:1-9; Psalm 94:1-23

29 Jeremiah 25:15-38 ; Psalm 44:1-26; Psalm 71:1-24

30 Jeremiah 29:1-14 ; Romans 10:1-21

May 2026

1 Colossians 1:1-14 ; Ephesians 5:1-20

2 Genesis 1:1-31; John 1:1-4 ; Colossians 1:15-23

Living for Jesus a life that is true, striving to please Him in all that I do, Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free, This is the pathway of blessing for me. Living for Jesus wherever I am, Doing each duty in His holy name, Willing to suffer affliction or loss, Deeming each trial a part of my cross! Living for Jesus thro’ earth’s little while, My dearest treasure, the light of His smile, Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem, Bringing the weary to find rest in Him! I own no other Master; My heart shall be Thy throne. My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone. (Worship in Song, No. 333)

3 Colossians 1:24-29 ; Romans 16:25-27 ; Ephesians 3:2-6

4 Colossians 2:1-23 ; Ephesians 2

5 Colossians 3:1-17 ; Ephesians 4:17-5:20

6 Colossians 3:18-4:18 ; Ephesians 5:21-6:20

7 Romans 1; Leviticus 18; Psalm 106

8 Romans 2; James 1:19-25 ; Matthew 7:1-5

9 Romans 3; Psalm 14; 5; Ephesians 1:3-14

Holy Spirit, truth divine, dawn upon this soul of mine; Word of God, and inward light, wake my spirit, clear my sight. Holy Spirit, love divine, glow within this heart of mine; Kindle every high desire; perish self in Thy pure fire. Holy Spirit, power divine, fill and nerve this will of mine; By Thee may I strongly live, bravely bear, and nobly strive. Holy Spirit, right divine, make my conscience wholly Thine; Be my law, and I shall be firmly bound, forever free. (The Presbyterian Hymnal, No. 321)

10 Romans 4; Ephesians 2:8-9 ; John 6:28-40

11 Romans 5:1-11 ; Colossians 1:21-23 ; 1 Peter 4:12-19 ; James 5:10-11

12 Romans 5:12-6:23 ; 1 Thess. 3:11-4:8

13 Romans 7; 2 Samuel 11; Mark 14:26-38 ; 51-72 ; Psalm 32

14 Romans 8:1-17 ; 2 Cor. 5:1-10 ; Isaiah 25:6-9 ; 1 Cor. 15:35-58

15 Romans 8:18-39 ; Deut. 31:6 ; Joshua 1:5 ; Psalm 118

16 Romans 9; Jeremiah 18; Isaiah 29:13-16 ; 64:5-9

A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify; A never dying soul to save, And fit it for the sky. To serve the present age, My calling to fulfill; Oh, may it all my pow’rs engage To do my Master’s will! Arm me with jealous care, As in Thy sight to live; And, oh, Thy servant, Lord, prepare A strict account to give! Help me to watch and pray, And on Thyself rely, Assured if I my trust betray I shall forever die. (Worship in Song, No. 190)

17 Isaiah 65; Romans 10

18 Romans 11; Psalm 139

19 Romans 12; Leviticus 19:18 ; Proverbs 20:22 ; 1 Peter 2:11-25

20 Romans 13; Ephesians 5:11-13 ; 6:10-18

21 Romans 14; Psalm 34:14 ; Hebrews 12:14-15 ; 1 Cor. 8:9-13

22 Romans 15-16; Romans 12:10 ; 1 Peter 1:22 ; 1 John 4:7-21

23 1 Peter 1; Romans 12:1-2 ; Ephesians 4:17-5:21

O Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end; Be Thou forever near me, My Master and my Friend: I shall not fear the battle If Thou art by my side, Nor wander from the pathway If Thou wilt be my Guide. O let me feel Thee near me! The world is ever near; I see the sights that dazzle, The tempting sounds I hear; My foes are ever near me, Around me and within; But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer, And shield my soul from sin. O let me hear Thee speaking In accents clear and still, Above the storms of passion, The murmurs of self-will! O speak to reassure me, To hasten or control! O speak, and make me listen, Thou Guardian of my soul! (The Hymnbook, No. 307)

24 1 Peter 2:1-12 ; Romans 13:8-14 ; 1 Cor. 3:16-17 ; 6:19 ; Psalm 65:1-4

25 1 Peter 2:13-3:22 ; Ephesians 5:22-6:9 ; 1 Thess. 5

26 1 Peter 4; Philippians 1:27-30 ; Rev. 2:10

27 Jeremiah 10:21 ; 23:1-4 ; Matthew 9:36 ; John 10:1-18 ; 1 Peter 5

28 Matthew 17:1-8 ; 2 Peter 1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ;
Psalm 119:105 ; 2 Cor. 4:6

29 2 Peter 2; Hebrews 6:4-6 ; Jude

30 Matthew 24; 2 Peter 3; 2 Thess. 1:3-12

O Lord, my inmost heart and thought Thy searching eye doth see; Wher-e’er I rest, wher-e’er I go, My ways are known to Thee. Each spoken word, each silent thought, Thou, Lord, dost understand; Before me and behind art Thou, Restraining by Thy hand. From Thee, O Lord, I cannot hide, Though darkness cover me; The darkness and the light of day Are both alike to Thee. Search me, O God, and know my heart, Try me, my thoughts to know; O lead me, if in sin I stray, In paths of life to go. (The Hymnbook, No. 129)

31 1 Cor. 10:1-13 ; 1 Timothy 6:6-10 ; 1 John 2:15-17 ; James 1:13-15

April 2026

1 Mark 14:1-16

2 Mark 14:17-42; John 13

3 Mark 14:43-15:47

4 Matthew 16:21-28; 27:62-66; 28:11-15

I know that my Redeemer lives! What joy the blest assurance gives! He lives, He lives, who once was dead; He lives, my everlasting Head! He lives to bless me with His love; He lives, to plead for me above; He lives, my hungry soul to feed; He lives, to help in time of need. He lives, all glory to His name; He lives, my Savior, still the same; What joy, the blest assurance gives; I know that my Redeemer lives! (The Methodist Hymnal, #445)

5 Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-35; John 20:1-23

6 John 20:24-31

7 John 21

8 Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:1-11; John 14

9 Psalm 109:1-8 Acts 1:12-26

10 Acts 2

11 Acts 3; Deut. 19:15, 18-19; Romans 1:16

Holy Spirit, breathe on me until my heart is clean. Let sunshine fill its inmost part, with not a cloud between. Holy Spirit, breathe on me; my stubborn will subdue. Teach me in words of living flame what Christ would have me do. Holy Spirit, breathe on me; fill me with power divine. Kindle a flame of love and zeal within this heart of mine. Breathe on me, breathe on me, Holy Spirit, breathe on me. Take Thou my heart; cleanse every part. Holy Spirit, breathe on me. (Worship in Song, #272)

12 Acts 4:1-5:11; Leviticus 19:11; John 8:44-45; Colossians 3:5-10

13 Acts 5:12-6:7; I Cor. 12

14 Acts 6:8-8:3; Galatians 1:13, 23

15 Acts 8:4-40; Isaiah 56:4-8

16 Acts 9:1-31; Galatians 1:11-24

17 Acts 9:32-11:30; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 2 Cor. 9:6-11

18 Acts 12:1-14:28; 9:15-16; 2 Timothy 3; Job 36:15

And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior’s blood! Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me to Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God, should die for me? He left His Father’s throne above, so free, so infinite His grace! Emptied Himself of all but love, and bled for Adam’s helpless race. ”Tis mercy all, immense and free! For, O my God, it found out me. Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God should die for me? (Worship in Song, #221)

19 Acts 15:1-35; Romans 1:1-6; 3:21-31

20 Acts 15:36-16:40; 2 Cor. 11; Hebrews 10:32-39; 13:3; Rev. 2:10

21 Acts 17; 1 Thess. 2-3

22 Acts 18; Romans 16:3-5a; 1 Cor. 16:20; 1 Peter 1:22

23 Acts 19; Exodus 34:10-17; Leviticus 19:4; Psalm 135

24 Acts 20; 2 Timothy 2:1-13; 4:1-5

25 Acts 21-23:11; Matthew 5:10-12; Psalm 119:153-160

Almost persuaded” now to believe; “Almost persuaded” Christ to receive; Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way. Some more convenient day on Thee I’ll call.” “Almost persuaded,“ come, come today. “Almost persuaded,” turn not away. Jesus invites you here; Angels are lin-g’ling near; Prayers rise from hearts so dear. O wanderer come! “Almost persuaded,” harvest is past! “Almost persuaded,” doom comes at last! “Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail! Sad, sad, that bitter wail, “Almost,” but lost! (Worship in Song, #233)

26 Acts 23:12-24:27; Psalm 91

27 Acts 25-26; Psalm 7

28 Acts 27-28:10; Psalm 69

29 Acts 28:11-31; 2 Cor. 11:21b-12:10; Romans 5:1-5; 2 Timothy 1:8-2:13

30 Colossians 1:1-14; John 3:16-21; 8:12; 12:44-46; Ephesians 5:8-20; Psalm 112

March 2026

Cast thy burden on the Lord, Lean thou only on His word; Ever will He be thy stay, Tho’ the heavens shall melt away. Ever in the raging storm, Thou shalt see His cheering form; hear his pledge of coming aid: “It is I; be not afraid.” Cast thy burdens at His feet; linger near His mercy seat; He will lead thee by the hand gently to the better land. He will gird thee by His power, in the weary, fainting hour; Lean thou strong upon His Word; Cast thy burden to the Lord. (Baptist Hymnal, #254)

1 Deut. 6:4-8; Psalm 119:89-112; 2 Timothy 2:10-19

2 Mark 4:35-41; 2 Samuel 22; Psalm 65

3 Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16-17; Acts 19:11-20; Rev. 20:1-10

4 Mark 5:21-43; Psalm 103

5 Mark 6:1-29; Luke 9:7-9; 14:25-33; Acts 21:10-14

6 Mark 6:30-56; Ephesians 3:20-21; Psalm 37

7 Mark 7:1-23; Jeremiah 17:9; Micah 6; James 1:21-27

Savior, like a Shepherd lead us, much we need thy tender care; In thy pleasant pastures feed us, for Thy use our folds prepare. Thou hast promised to receive us, poor and sinful though we be; Thou hast mercy to relieve us, grace to cleanse and power to free. Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus, Thou hast loved us loved us still; Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus, Thou hast loved us, loved us still. (The Hymnbook, #380)

8 Mark 7:24-8:10; Colossians 1:15-23; Ephesians 1:2-23

9 Mark 8:11-38; John 10

10 Mark 9:1-13; Malachi 4:5-6; Matthew 11:7-15; 17:1-13

11 Mark 9:14-29; James 5:13-20; Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 6:18

12 Mark 9:30-41; Numbers 11:26-30; Matthew 18:1-9

13 Mark 9:42-50; 1 Cor. 5; 1 Peter 1:13-25

14 Genesis 2:18-25; Mark 10:1-16; 1 Cor. 7; 1 John 1:9-10

Work, for the night is coming, Work through the morning hours; Work while the dew is sparkling, Work mid springing flowers; Work when the day grows brighter, Work in the glowing sun; Work, for the night is coming, when man’s work is done. Work for the night is coming, under the sunset skies; while their bright tints are glowing, work for the daylight flies. Work till the last beam fadeth, fadeth to shine no more; Work while the night is darkening, when man’s work is o’er. (The Hymnbook, #297)

15 Mark 10:17-31; 2 Chronicles 1:1-12; Proverbs 11:24-28; 1Timothy 6:17

16 Mark 10:32-45; Philippians 2:1-18; John 13:1-17

17 Mark 10:46-52; Hebrews 11:6; Matthew 7:7-12; Luke 19:1-10; Psalm 27

18 Mark 11:1-19; Jeremiah 7; Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2

19 Mark 11:20-33; Luke 17:1-4; Matthew 5:21-24; Matthew 18:21-35

20 Mark 12; Proverbs 25:14; Matthew 6:1-4; Psalm 37:25-26; 112; Proverbs 11:25

21 Matthew 23; Proverbs 6:16-19; Micah 6:8

Saviour, teach me day by day Love’s sweet lesson to obey; Sweeter lesson cannot be, Loving Him who first loved me. With a child’s glad heart of love, at Thy bidding may I move. Prompt to serve and follow Thee, Loving Him who first loved me. Teach me thus Thy steps to trace, strong to follow in thy grace, Learning how to love from Thee, Loving Him who first loved me. (The Hymnbook, #457)

22 Mark 13; Isaiah 13:9-11; Rev. 6:12-17

23 Matthew 24; Rev. 16:15

24 Matthew 25

25 1 Thess. 4-5:11

26 John 10

27 John 11

28 John 12:1-11; Deut. 15:1-11

All glory, laud, and honor, To Thee, Redeemer, King. To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring! The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went; Our praise and prayer and anthems before Thee we present. Thou art the king of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son, Who in the Lord’s name comest, The King and blessed One! To Thee, before Thy Passion, they sang their hymns of praise; To Thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. All glory, laud and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King, To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring! (The Hymnbook, #187)

29 Matthew 21:1-17; John 12:12-19

30 John 12:20-50; 3:16-21; Romans 10:9-13

31 Mark 14:10-42; John 17; Mark 14:43-72

February 2026

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer, that calls me from a world of care and bids me at my Father’s throne make all my wants and wishes known! In seasons of distress and grief my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter’s snare, by Thy return, sweet hour of prayer. Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer, Thy wings shall my petition bear to Him whose truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless; And since He bids me seek His face, believe His word, and trust His grace, I’ll cast on Him my ev’ry care, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer. (Worship in Song, #475)

1 James 4:13-17; Matthew 6:34; Proverbs 3:27-28; 16:9; 19:21; 27:1; Psalm 139

2 James 5:1-6; Leviticus 19:9-13; 24:14-15; Matthew 6:19-21; Hebrews 11:24-26

3 James 5:7-12; Job 1:1-2:10; 42; Romans 12:6-21

4 James 5:13-20; 1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 4:1-37; Acts 9:36-43; Romans 8:26-28

5 1 Peter 1; 1 Chronicles 29:15; Psalm 39:12; Hebrews 13:13-16; Ephesians 2:1-13

6 1 Peter 2:1-12; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; 6:19; Psalm 65:1-4

7 1 Peter 2:13-3:22; Ephesians 5:22-6:9; Romans 13

The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin; The Light of the world is Jesus. Like sunshine at noonday His glory shone in; The Light of the world is Jesus. No darkness have we who in Jesus abide; The Light of the world is Jesus. We walk in the Light when we follow our Guide; the Light of the world is Jesus. Come to the Light; ‘tis shining for thee. Sweetly the Light has dawned upon me. Once I was blind, but now I can see. The Light of the world is Jesus. (Worship in Song, #96)

8 1 Peter 4; Philippians 1:27-30; Rev. 2:10

9 Jeremiah 10:21; 23:1-4; Matthew 9:36; John 10:1-18; 1 Peter 5

10 Matthew 17:1-8; 2 Peter 1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:105; 2 Cor. 4:6

11 2 Peter 2; Hebrews 6:4-6

12 Ezekiel 12:21-28; 2 Peter 3; 2 Cor. 6:1-2

13 1 John 1-2:14; Matthew 5:14-16; John 3:19-21; 8:12; 12:35-50

14 1 John 2:15-27; John 15:1-17; Titus 2:11-14

My Father is rich in houses and lands; He holdeth the wealth of the world in His hands! Of rubies and diamonds, of silver and gold, His coffers are full- He has riches untold. I once was an outcast stranger on earth, A sinner by choice, an alien by birth! But I’ve been adopted; my name’s written down. I’m heir to a mansion, a robe, and a crown! I’m a child of the King! A child of the King! With Jesus, my Saviour, I’m a child of the King! (Worship in Song, #377)

15 1 John 2:28-3:24; Psalm 119:1-16; 66:16-20; Romans 8:1-17

16 1 John 4:1- 6; 1 Cor. 1:18-25; Matthew 7:15-20; 2 Peter 2:1-3

17 1 John 4:7-21; Romans 12:9-21; 1 Cor. 13

18 1 John 5; Jeremiah 7:1-29; 1 Cor. 11:23-32; James 5:13-20

19 2 John; Romans 16:17-20; Colossians 1:21-23; 2:6-8; Hebrews 10:35-38

20 3 John; Romans 12:13; 1 Timothy 5:9-10; 1 Peter 4:8-10; Philemon 8-22

21 Jude; John 10:1-18; Psalm 23

Tell me the story of Jesus, Write on my heart every Word; Tell me the story most precious, sweetest that ever was heard. Tell how the angels in chorus, Sang as they welcomed His birth, “Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good tidings to earth.” Fasting alone in the desert, Tell of the days that are past; How for our sins He was tempted, Yet was triumphant at last. Tell of the years of His labor, tell of the sorrow He bore, He was despised and afflicted, homeless, rejected and poor. Tell me the story of Jesus, Write on my heart every Word. Tell me the story most precious, Sweetest that ever was heard. (Baptist Hymnal, #211)

22 Mark 1:1-13; Matthew 4:1-11; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; 1 Peter 5:8; Romans 16:20

23 Mark 1:14-20; Luke 4:43; 17:20-21; Luke 5:1-11; John 1:35-51; Matthew 10:37-39

24 Mark 1:21-45; Luke 4:14-44; John 20:29-31; 1 Peter 1:3-16

25 Mark 2:1-17; Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Timothy 1:12-17; Psalm 91

26 Mark 2:18-3:6; Exodus 20:8-10; Jeremiah 17:19-27; Matthew 5:17-20

27 Mark 3:7-34; Matthew 12:22-37; Romans 8:12-17; Galatians 3:26-29

28 Mark 4:1-34; Matthew 13:24-30

January 2026

1 Ecclesiastes 3:1-17; Psalm 119:81-112; 103

2 Hebrews 1; John 1:1-14; Galatians 3:26-4:4

3 Hebrews 2: Philippians 2:1-11; 2 Timothy 1:8-12

Mighty God, while angels bless Thee, May a mortal sing Thy name? Lord of men as well as angels, Thou art every creature’s theme. Lord of every land and nation, Ancient of eternal days, sounded thru the wide creation be Thy just and endless praise. Brightness of the Father’s glory, shall Thy praise unuttered lie? Break, my tongue, such guilty silence! Sing the Lord who came to die. From the highest throne of glory to the cross of deepest woe, all to ransom guilty captives; Flow my praise, forever flow! (The Hymnbook, #10)

4 Hebrews 3; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; John 3:35-36

5 Hebrews 4:1-13; Exodus 20:8-11; Ephesians 2:8-10; Romans 4:1-8

6 Hebrews 4:14-5:10; 1 Cor. 10:13; Romans 6

7 Hebrews 5:11-6:6; 1 Peter 2:2; I Cor. 3:1-4; Matthew 7:21-23; 26:4

8 Hebrews 6:7-20; Isaiah 5:1-7; 44; 55:10-13; Matthew 13:1-30

9 Genesis 14:17-20; Psalm 110; Hebrews 7; Romans 8:26-27

10 1 Peter 2; Rev. 1:4-6; 5:6-10; 20:4-6

Tis the grandest theme thro’ the ages rung; tis the grandest theme for a mortal tongue; Tis the grandest theme that the world e’er sung: Our God is able to deliver thee. Tis the grandest theme in the earth or main; Tis the grandest theme for a mortal strain; Tis the grandest theme, tell the world again; Our God is able to deliver thee. (The Baptist Hymnal, #198)

11 Hebrews 8 (see Exodus 25-31); Jeremiah 31; 2 Cor. 5:17

12 Hebrews 9:1-10; Exodus 40; Leviticus 16; Romans 3:21-26

13 Leviticus 8, 17; Hebrews 9:11-28; Matthew 5:17; Romans 8:1-17

14 Hebrews 10:1-25; 7:26-28; Matthew 26:26-29; 1 Cor. 11:23-26

15 Hebrews 10:26-39; 2 Peter 2; Matthew 12:31-32; Ephesians 4:30-32

16 Hebrews 11; Isaiah 7:9b; Rev. 6:9-11; 1 Peter 1:1-12

17 Hebrews 12:1-3; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; Philippians 2; Galatians 6:9

Oh soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and free! Thro’ death into life everlasting He passed, and we follow Him there. Over us sin no more hath dominion- for more than conqu’rors we are! His Word shall not fail you – He promised; believe Him, and all will be well. Then go to a world that is dying, His perfect salvation to tell! Turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace. (Worship in Song, #207)

18 Hebrews 12:4-13; 2 Cor. 4-5:10; Psalm 94

19 Hebrews 12:14-17; Ephesians 4:17-5:20

20 Hebrews 12:18-29 (see Exodus 19-20); Philippians 3:7-4:1; 2 Peter 3:10-18

21 Hebrews 13:1-6; Romans 12:9-21; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; 6:9-11; Matthew 6:24

22 Hebrews 13:7-25; 1 Thess. 4-5

23 James 1:1-8; Romans 5:1-5; Job 28:20-28; Psalm 90:12; Proverbs 1:7; 8; 21:30

24 James 1:9-11; Psalm 49; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 18:18-30; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; 17-19

While passing through this world of sin, and others your life shall view, Be clean and pure without, within, Let others see Jesus in you. Your life’s a book before their eyes, They’re reading it through and through; Say, does it point them to the skies, Do others see Jesus in you? Let others see Jesus in you, Let others see Jesus in you; Keep telling the story, be faithful and true, Let others see Jesus in you. (The Baptist Hymnal, #348)

25 James 1:12-18; Matthew 6:9-13; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; 10:12-13; Galatians 6:1-16

26 James 1:19-27; Psalm 4:4; Ephesians 4:17-32; Proverbs 15:1; 29:11

27 James 2:1-13; Leviticus 19:15; Proverbs 3; 14:21; Luke 10:25-37

28 James 2:14-26; Ephesians 2:8-10; Matthew 7:21-27; 25

29 James 3:1-12; Proverbs 4; 12:19; 16:23-30; 18:6-8; 26:20-28; 27:2; Psalm 12; 141

30 James 3:13-18; Proverbs 29:23; Matthew 20:20-28; 23:1-12; Luke 22:24-30

31 James 4:1-12; Proverbs 10:18-21; Matthew 15:10-20; Titus 2:11-15; 1 John 2:1-17

Kickoff Sunday | In Pursuit

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 19:10:11 GMT

Kickoff Sunday: In Pursuit

Sunday, August 23 | 8:30 AM–Noon

Every fall brings new beginnings.

Students return to school. Small groups begin meeting again. New Bible studies launch. Choirs rehearse. Mission opportunities expand. Ministries gather with renewed purpose.

But before we ask "What's next?" we want to begin with a more important question:

Who are we pursuing?

This fall, our church family will journey together through a new sermon series, In Pursuit: Pursuing the God Who Pursues Us. As we explore the Scriptures together, we'll discover the beautiful truth that our pursuit of God always begins with His pursuit of us. Long before we sought Him, He was seeking us. Long before we took our first step, He was already calling us by name.

Kickoff Sunday marks the beginning of that journey.

Whether you've worshiped at First Presbyterian for decades or you're visiting for the very first time, we invite you to join us as we celebrate the start of a new ministry season together.

Throughout the morning, you'll have opportunities to connect with ministries, discover ways to worship, grow, serve, and build community this fall. Families can enjoy special children's activities as Kids Ministry continues celebrating the joy-filled themes of Rainforest Falls VBS, reminding children that God Loves Us No Matter What.

We're also excited to offer a family photo opportunity to help update our church directory, making it easier for us to know and care for one another. Keep an eye out throughout the morning for a fun "Find the Shepherd" activity—you never know where you might encounter a surprise!

Welcoming New Pastoral Leadership

Kickoff Sunday will also be a special opportunity to welcome three new pastors who will be joining our ministry team this fall.

We'll introduce:

Roger Patton , Associate Pastor for Outreach, who will also be preaching in the Modern Worship services that morning.
Andrew Johnson , Associate Pastor for Adult Formation and Theological Studies.
Cara Taylor , who will lead our ministries with children, students, and their families.

Each brings unique gifts and a deep love for Christ and His Church, and we look forward to introducing them to our congregation as we begin this exciting new chapter together.

As Pastor Bob recently shared, God has answered the faithful prayers of this congregation by bringing together a remarkable team of leaders united by one purpose: making disciples who love Christ, love one another, and love our city.

Join Us

We hope you'll make Kickoff Sunday part of your plans.

Come worship.
Meet new friends.
Reconnect with old ones.
Discover opportunities for the season ahead.

Most of all, begin this new ministry year by joining us In Pursuit —responding together to the God who has always been pursuing us.

Kickoff Sunday
Sunday, August 23
8:30 AM–Noon

First Press Magazine

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:52:01 GMT

Welcome to First Press, FPC’s ministry magazine. Each issue reflects on the previous month’s life and ministry while looking ahead to upcoming events, opportunities, and important church updates.

Browse the archive below to explore stories, reflections, and highlights from the life of our church.

Submit to First Press

Submission Deadline: 1st of Each Month

Content must be submitted by the first of each month for consideration in an upcoming issue. Final placement and editing are determined by the Communications Team.

Help Us Update Our Discipleship Group Information

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:07:55 GMT

FPC Groups Survey

As we prepare to welcome our new Associate Pastor for Spiritual Formation and Theological Study , we are gathering updated information about discipleship groups meeting outside of Sunday School .

If you participate in or lead a discipleship group, we'd appreciate your help completing this brief survey. Your responses will help us better understand the many ways discipleship is already taking place throughout our church.

The survey takes approximately 2–3 minutes to complete.

Questions? Contact Kara Weaver

Global Mission Trips Updates

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:57:13 GMT

LOVING THE WORLD

At FPC, we joyfully engage in God's mission of redemptive restoration, bringing His love and grace to our neighbors, communities, and nations worldwide. Inspired by Jesus' command to "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" ( Matthew 28:19-20 ) and the call to "Declare his glory among the nations" ( 1 Chronicles 16:23-24 ), we partner with dedicated missionaries and international organizations. Together, we work to spread God's love through building relationships, planting churches, providing disaster relief, meeting basic needs, and more. Join us in being the hands and feet of Jesus, as we strive to transform lives and honor God across the globe.

READ PAST UPDATES

2026 Uganda Trip Updates

2025 YPM Trip Updates

2025 Oaxaca Trip Updates

2024 YPM Trip Updates- Part 3

2024 YPM Trip Updates- Part 2

2024 YPM Trip Updates- Part 1

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 6

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 5

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 4

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 3

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 2

2024 Uganda Trip Updates - Part 1

Literature Circle

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:46:08 GMT

Join Our Literature Circle: Monthly Book Reviews and Fellowship

Looking for a community of book lovers? Our Literature Circle (Circle 13) meets from September through May, gathering on the second Tuesday of each month at 1:00 PM in the McCullough Room . Men and women of all faiths are welcome and invited to attend!

We begin with thirty minutes of refreshments and socializing. Afterward, we have our monthly book review conducted by educators, pastors, authors, and church staff, leading to enjoyable and often lively open discussions.

Come join us to explore great literature and connect with a wonderful community of readers!

- Grace Clouse, Chair, and Ellen Frazier, Publicity

Celebration of 50 Years

Literature Circle Reading List for 2026-2027

We've made it easy for you to participate by providing two copies of each book in our church library for you to borrow in advance. Many of the books are very well-known and are available wherever books are sold.

2026 Uganda Mission Trip Updates

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:54:55 GMT

2026 Uganda Mission Trip Updates

The Alpha Course: Explore Life's Big Questions

Thu, 28 May 2026 11:41:55 GMT

Join the Alpha Course at FPC This Fall 2026!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Alpha Course at FPC, starting Wednesday, September 9, and running through November 18. Join us from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the FPC Student Center.

Dinner is provided , so please let us know how many will be attending.

The Alpha App

The Alpha App is a helpful companion to the course. It allows you to re-watch episodes and has extra content and ways for you to stay engaged in the course.

Click here to download the Alpha Course App for more course info

Why Alpha?

Alpha is a globally recognized program that began at Holy Trinity Brompton in the UK in 1977 and is now in over 100 countries and languages. Led by Pastor Nicky Gumbel since 1991, Alpha is one of the most powerful evangelistic tools today, offering a safe space for anyone—regardless of their faith journey—to explore life's big questions.

What to Expect

Each week, we share a meal, watch a video presentation, and have small group discussions. The videos present Christian beliefs and encourage open dialogue, allowing participants to express their thoughts without judgment or fear of wrong answers. It's an environment where the Holy Spirit guides conversations, and all are free to explore their faith journey.

We can't wait to journey through faith with you and those you invite. See you at Alpha!

Ministry Guide

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Check out our quarterly guide to all the ministries at First Presbyterian Church. See details on all our Sunday school classes, Bible studies, programs, events, and ways to get involved at FPC.

Easter Lilies & Honoring Loved Ones with Sanctuary Flowers

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Sanctuary Flowers

We invite you to enhance the sanctuary's beauty and celebrate meaningful moments together. Your involvement is a cherished part of our community's fabric.

Easter Lilies at FPC

Honor or remember a loved one this Easter by dedicating a lily to be placed in the sanctuary for Easter Sunday worship.

New this year: Easter lily dedications can now be submitted online , making it easier than ever to participate.

Important Details

Submission Deadline: March 25
Cost: $15 per lily (one dedication per lily)

Each dedication will be listed in the Easter Sunday bulletin .

Dedicate a Lily Online

You can now submit your dedication and payment securely online. Please complete one registration for each dedication .

Submit your Easter Lily dedication here:

Dedicate an Easter Lily

Paper Forms (Optional)

Printed forms are still available for those who prefer to submit their dedication in person.

Forms Available
• Mauzé Lobby
• 2nd Floor Workroom next to the mailboxes

Submit Form & Payment
Place the completed form and payment in the Sanctuary Flower mailbox in the workroom.

Checks should be made payable to the Sanctuary Flower Committee .

Forms and payments may also be mailed to:

First Presbyterian Church
c/o Sanctuary Flower Committee
404 North Alamo
San Antonio, TX 78205-1918

Easter Lilies Form (PDF)

Additional Opportunities

Sanctuary Flowers for Sunday Service

Donate flowers for a traditional Sunday service as a tribute or to celebrate a special occasion. Dedications are acknowledged weekly in the bulletin. Reservations should be submitted at least one month in advance .

Seasonal Flower Opportunities

Special seasonal flower dedications are available during Christmas (poinsettias) and Easter (lilies) . Honored names are printed in the Christmas Eve and Easter Sunday bulletins .

Contact Information

For questions or assistance, please contact the Sanctuary Flower Committee. They are happy to help you participate in celebrating and beautifying our sanctuary.

Contact Flower Committee

Mary's Children: Rev. Donald Marsden

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Apply for College Scholarships

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

College Scholarships Available for 2026-2027

Are you headed to or continuing college for the 2026-2027 school year? A resident of Texas? In need of financial assistance? Then you may qualify for a Campbell, Jones, or Holland scholarship. To obtain an application and for more information, check out our website at www.fpcsanantonio.org . You may also contact Laurie McMillen or 210-271-2770. The deadline to apply is March 30, 2026. The guidelines for eligibility and the required document submission are noted on the Scholarship form.

FPC Scholarship FPC - Holland Scholarship

Lent Daily Devotion 2026

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

As we enter the season of Lent, we invite you to pause, reflect, and prepare your heart through Lenten Reflections , a digital collection of daily prayers, Scripture, and artwork drawn from past reflection booklets shared within our congregation. Rooted in the voices of those who have gone before us and gathered for this season anew, these reflections are offered to guide us in prayer, repentance, and gratitude as we journey toward the joy of Easter and the abundant life found in Christ.

Stations of the Cross Lenten Prayer Walk

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Explore the Stations of the Cross throughout our church building. At each station on the second floor of FPC, use the printed scriptures available or scan the QR codes for digital access. Reflect and pray at each station as you contemplate Christ’s sacrifice.

Download the Stations of the Cross Booklet Download the Map

Through this contemplative practice, may you experience the unrelenting love of God. Whether touring alone or with a group, this activity is perfect for prayerful reflection anytime the church is open.

Z-Talks 2026: Dr. Nijay Gupta

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Watch the Z-Talk Videos

February 6, 2026 February 7, 2026, session 1 February 7, 2026, session 2 February 7, 2026, session 3

“Living as Citizens of the Kingdom of God in a Fractured World”

A Weekend Lecture Series with Dr. Nijay K. Gupta
February 6–8, 2026 - Full conference times given below
Dinner & Keynote Friday • Teaching Sessions Saturday • Combined Worship Sunday

Overview

In a weary and divided world, Jesus’ Kingdom invites us into a new way of being—one that restores hope and reorders our loves. Across this weekend series, New Testament scholar Dr. Nijay Gupta will guide us through Scripture and the witness of the early church to explore how our citizenship in the Kingdom of God shapes our identity, our relationships, and our engagement with the world.

Register Here

Choose the option that best fits your schedule:

Attend Friday + Saturday and save $5.
Register for the Full Weekend - $30

Friday, Feb. 6 • Dinner & Keynote • 6:00–8:30 PM
Register for Friday Only - $25

Saturday, Feb. 7 • Sessions + Meals • 9:00 AM–2:30 PM
Register for Saturday Only - $10

If cost is a concern, we would be honored to assist.
Request Scholarship Assistance

Childcare is available by request for children 8 weeks through 5 years for the Friday evening and Saturday sessions.
Request Childcare

Schedule Snapshot

Friday, February 6 – Dinner & Keynote • 6:00 PM-8:30 PM

Saturday, February 7 – Teaching Sessions + Continental Breakfast & Lunch • 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Sunday, February 8 – Combined Worship with Dr. Gupta Preaching • 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM

About the Speaker

Dr. Nijay K. Gupta is the Julius R. Mantey Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, a best-selling author, and a senior translator for the New Living Translation. He has written more than twenty books, including Tell Her Story and Strange Religion , and his work has appeared in Christianity Today, Outreach Magazine, and more. He co-hosts the Slow Theology Podcast and has been interviewed on many other popular podcasts. He lives in Portland with his wife and three children.

Questions?

Contact the Zbinden Center Team

Stewardship 2026 Resources

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Along the Way: A Stewardship of the Ordinary

Discovering God's Presence in Everyday Giving

This November, we’re exploring what it means to follow Jesus in the ordinary rhythms of life.
Through stories of time, talent, treasure, and testimony , we’re seeing how God’s extraordinary work unfolds in everyday moments.

Our theme, “Along the Way: A Stewardship of the Ordinary,” reminds us that discipleship doesn’t happen only in sanctuaries or on special occasions—it happens in kitchens, workplaces, classrooms, and neighborhood streets. God meets us right where we are and calls us to live generously, along the way.

From Our Pastor

In his November First Press article, Dr. Bob Fuller invites us to reflect on what it means to live out our faith along the way —bringing together our ordinary gifts so that God can do His extraordinary work through us.

Read “Along the Way: A Stewardship of the Ordinary"

Watch the Stewardship Series

Each week this month, we’ll share stories of ordinary disciples who are discovering God’s presence in daily life.
Check back here as new videos are released throughout November.

Watch the Stewardship Sermon Series

Join ministers of FPC as they lead us through a four-week sermon mini-series exploring how God shapes our lives through time, talent, treasure, and testimony.:

November 2 – Time
November 9 – Talent
November 16 – Treasure
November 23 – Testimony / Commitment Sunday

Each message invites us to notice God’s presence in the ordinary and respond with faith, gratitude, and generosity.

Stewardship Resources

Download and Explore:

Download the 2026 Stewardship Brochure PDF

Download the 2026 Commitment Card PDF

Make Your Commitment:

Complete Your Commitment Online

- Bring your card to worship on Commitment Sunday, November 23, 2025.

If you’ve already submitted your card online or by mail, you’re encouraged to bring one forward in worship as a symbolic act of dedication.

How You Can Participate

Pray.

Ask God to guide your heart and reveal how He is calling you to give and serve in this season.

Serve.

Discover your unique gifts and find a ministry where you can make a difference.

Take the Spiritual Gifts Survey Find Ways to Serve

Give.

Your faithful giving fuels the worship, mission, and care ministries of FPC.
Every contribution—time, energy, or financial gift—strengthens our shared purpose to love Christ, love one another, and love the city.

Make a Financial Commitment Give Now

Share.

Your story matters. Share how you’ve seen God’s faithfulness in everyday life.

Share Your Story

Commitment Sunday — November 23, 2025

On Commitment Sunday, we’ll dedicate our 2026 pledges together in worship.
Each card represents a shared step of faith—our collective response to God’s generosity and our hope for what He will do through us along the way.

Take the Next Step Along the Way Watch the Video Series Download Resources

The Gift of Christmas

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Loving Christ. Loving One Another.

The “Gift of Christmas” is an opportunity for individuals or groups in our church to share Christ’s love with others by giving clothing, gifts and/or gift cards, and food to families in our community who are in need.

Fall Legacy Luncheon

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Honor & Remember Loved Ones with a Poinsettia

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Each year during the Advent season, the congregation has an opportunity to remember a loved one, honor an individual, or recognize an occasion by purchasing a poinsettia to be placed in the Chancel by the Sanctuary Flower Committee. The cost is $15 per plant , which reserves one poinsettia for each individual or couple you wish to honor or remember (please submit one form per dedication) .

Download Printable Request Form

Proceeds help the Sanctuary Flower Committee continue its ministry of beautifying the church throughout the year.

Please make checks payable to the Sanctuary Flower Committee . Mail to:
First Presbyterian Church, c/o Sanctuary Flower Committee,
404 North Alamo, San Antonio, 78205-1918,
or place in the Sanctuary Flower mailbox in the 2nd-floor workroom of the church.

Requests received after December 8, 2025, will miss the bulletin insert printing deadline.

"Along The Way FPCSA" Photo Contest

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Capture Divine Moments in Daily Life:

Ladies' Night Out: Let's Fall Together

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Hosted by Women of the Church
October 14, 2025

What a night! Between 75–90 women from across generations gathered on Tuesday, October 14 for Ladies’ Night Out —an easy, joy-filled evening of conversation, laughter, and new connections. Our hosts welcomed us into their beautifully renovated home , which was perfect for a warm but comfortable fall evening. With tables indoors and out , women lingered over appetizers, desserts, and wine brought to share as friendships old and new took root.

Last month in First Press , Women of the Church President Lellen Lane shared her vision for this season—encouraging us to move beyond simple service to deeper hospitality and connection. Last night’s gathering was a beautiful reflection of that message coming to life.

This spirit of connection also echoes our church-wide fall theme of Everyday Discipleship , drawn from the sermon series “Along the Way.” Just as Jesus met people in ordinary places—along roadsides, around tables, and in homes—so too our Women of the Church gatherings create space to walk alongside one another in faith, friendship, and encouragement.

Why this night mattered

Real connection: The casual, bring-something-to-share format kept the focus on people, not programs—exactly the kind of “color” hospitality our WOC leadership encouraged this fall.
Momentum from Retreat: Many attendees carried forward the rich conversations and encouragement from September’s Women’s Retreat—continuing to build community across ages and stages.
A warm on-ramp: For women who are new (or newly returning) to FPC, nights like this make it simple to step in and be known.

Keep the connection going

Join a Circle or learn more about Women of the Church: Visit the Women’s Ministry webpage for information on circles, Bible studies, and upcoming gatherings.
Register for the November 3 Women’s Fall Legacy Luncheon : Don’t miss this special fall event featuring guest speaker Emily Peeples — click here to register
Stay connected: You’ll also find these links in the weekly email and on the Events page as new opportunities are added.

Thank you to our gracious hosts and to everyone who brought a plate to share, pulled up a chair, and made room at the table. Hospitality like this turns a night out into a community—and reminds us that discipleship often happens “along the way.”

- Photos by Jean Swanson

FPC Podcasts

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 06:00:00 GMT

FPC Podcasts

Whether it is sermon, Bible study, or worship music, you can find all First Presbyterian Church's podcasts below!

We recommend subscribing to our channel on Apple, Spotify, and Soundcloud to stay current with the most current offerings. Our worship and Bridges channels are updated every Sunday. Here are links to the most current audio:

Traditional Worship
Modern Worship
PBS
Holy Heretics
Bridges

Subscribe to our channels by clicking the buttons below, or listen directly on our site using the embedded playlists:

Soundcloud Spotify Apple SA Stories

Traditional Worship

We can know God through his Word revealed in the person of Jesus Christ, in his Word written in the Scriptures, and in his Word proclaimed and implemented. Wherever you are, you can learn more about Jesus Christ and practical ways of making him visible by listening to the online sermons from the worship services at First Presbyterian Church San Antonio.

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Traditional Services

Modern Worship

Our Modern service includes a worship leader with music provided by our worship band and singers.

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Modern Services

Pastor's Bible Study

Our Pastor's Bible Study meets each Thursday at 9:30 AM and is livestreamed on our Watch Live page.

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Pastor's Bible Study

Bridges Sunday Class

Year-round class taught by a collection of volunteer class members and ministers.

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Bridges Sunday School Class

Combined Class | Christian History and Western Civilization w/Bridges Sunday School

Class taught by By David Peeples January 26th - May 18, 2025.

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Combined Class | Bridges Sunday School w/Christian History and Western Civilization

Holy Heretics - Zbinden Center Lay Academy

The Reformation of the 16th century was a transformative period for the church in Europe, coinciding with the emergence of modern science, politics, commerce, education, and philosophy. During this time, while scientists like Galileo were challenging established knowledge through their study of the natural world, theologians such as John Wycliffe, Jan Hus, Martin Luther, and John Calvin were questioning the dogma and authority of the papacy through their deep study of the Bible. Despite their efforts to renew the church, they were labeled as heretics by the very institution they aimed to reform.

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Zbinden Center Lay Academy Class: Holy Heretics - Fall 2024

Center Conversations

Center Conversations is a podcast celebrating innovative theological study, Biblical formation, and discipleship in the church and for the church, so that God’s mission may be furthered through the church.

Center Conversations

Bob's No Fear Podcast

The No Fear Podcast by Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller offers hope and victory during COVID through devotionals and community news. It features Psalm reflections, interviews with FPC members, and topics on faith, resilience, and societal issues. Special episodes cover race, theology, and seasonal reflections like Christmas and Lent.

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Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller's No Fear Podcast

Scripture & Song

The Scripture & Song Podcast, hosted by Pastor Mitchell Moore and Callan Brown, offers encouragement through scripture and music. Featuring episodes on themes like God's love, refuge, joy, and renewal, it combines reflections and worship songs. Also, the Music at First Podcast by Tom Dooling delves into hymn backgrounds and inspirations.

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Scripture and Song

Session

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Read the Session Minutes

Stay informed on churchwide decisions.

2025 Financial Documents

April 2025

MARCH 2025

FEBRUARY 2025

February 10, 2025 - Session Meeting

JANUARY 2025

January 13, 2025 - Session Meeting

DECEMBER 2024

NOVEMBER 2024

OCTOBER 2024

2025 YPM Mission Trip Updates

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMT

YPM Day 1

Howdy all!

We have officially finished our first work day here in Leona Vicario! For our work project, we are helping paint YPM ’s university. This morning we gathered all of our supplies, broke into teams, and started painting the ceiling of the campus. After lots of laughs, sweat, (and lots of spilled paint), we finished our first day, and began working on VBS prep!

Yesterday, we had a wonderful day exploring Quintana Roo and learning about the culture and communities around us. We started the morning with breakfast, then drove into Puerto Morales and visited All Peoples Church. The service was a powerful experience, and with both the worship and the sermons being in Spanish and English, it was a beautiful reminder of the power of being rooted in Christ regardless of what city we are in! After the service, we got lunch and smoothies, then spent the afternoon visiting local shops and the beach. We finished the night with a group devotional studying Micah 6:8, our unifying verse for the week, teaching what God requires of us: to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

We are so blessed to be welcomed with open arms by our hosts, Wilian and Erly. We couldn’t be more excited for the work that God has in store for us. Thank you so much for your continued faithfulness in partnering with our students in prayer!

Vaya Con Dios!

YPM Day 2-3

Hi All!

We are officially half-way done with our 3rd work day here at YPM ! Yesterday, we finished painting the ceilings, the classrooms, and the outside walls of the University. After finishing our project for the day, we gathered together and played card games until dinner. We had a wonderful meal of fish and rice, and then proceeded to have our first evening of VBS!

VBS was an amazing sight of the community coming together to learn about Jesus! We had around 30 kids, and some of their parents came stayed for the entire time as well. We started with the story of the Good Samaritan, teaching the kids that God calls us to love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We had the students act out the story, and the community loved it! After teaching the story, we all sang “Mi Dio es Tan Grande” (My God is so big) and then played Luz Roja, Luz Verde (Red light, Green light) and Tiburones y Peces (Sharks and Minnows). We had a wide range of ages show up, and had lots of laughs and lots of fun!

After VBS, we all went into town and got ice cream and played basketball with the locals! It was such a cool experience to walk through the streets of the neighborhood, past the homes of the people who attend YPM ’s university, the families of the kids who came to VBS, and many who receive their clean water from YPM ’s water plant right across from where we are staying. It is a joy to see the ways that God is working through this community, and we are so grateful to have these opportunities to serve and love our neighbors here.

Today, we began working on painting YPM ’s water plant, which an amazing ministry that Wilian and Erly utilize to provide the community with clean water and share the gospel! We scraped rust off of the gates and big doors, and started painting them with new, fresh coats of paint. Our students and our team here is working hard!

This trip has been so impactful and has been an amazing reminder of God’s global providence. Thank you all for continuing to pray for us as we continue to work and serve the Lord!!

Vaya con Dios!

YPM Day 5

Buenas tardes a todo!

To day we finished our work at the water plant! Our team continued to remove rust and paint the doors and big gates to the plant, and in the last half-hour of our work day , everyone pitched in and all worked on the same gate, finding spaces next to and above and under and around each other to make sure every spot was scrubbed and painted and touched up. Our students and volunteers worked hard and worked together to get the job done- and by this afternoon, our work at the university and the water plant were entirely done! We've been taking our time in the meantime this afternoon for a much needed siesta.

This evening, we are looking forward to our last night of VBS. Our VBS on Wednes day night was unfortunately rained out (we had thunder storms roll through from the afternoon- on), and we are missing the kids we met on Tues day ! We're hoping the thunder that we've heard in the distance throughout the day to day stays away so that we can enjoy lots of fun games and playtime with the kids in the community tonight. It's been a joy seeing our own students smile and play and be silly at VBS, and even in the midst of the language barrier have conversations and laughs with the kids.

Tonight's VBS skit is the parable of the Prodigal Son, which we went over in our team devo last night. All week long we've been focusing on Micah 6:8, and digging deeper into what it really means for us to do what God requires of us to do- to seek justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. The story of the Prodigal Son is such a beautiful picture of the mercy that God shows to us as a Good Father to His beloved children, and last we talked about what it looks like and feels like to really know that we are loved by our Heavenly Father. And when we know that we are loved, that we are the recipients of God's mercy through Christ Jesus, His beloved Son, we are called to share that love out! To show others the same kind of mercy, and to long for mercy for those around us.

We have an amazing team of students and adults on this trip, and it has been beautiful to see the ways that God has been using us, each in our own special ways, to serve others because of Christ's love for us and His mission for His disciples. God has been answering prayers and has been actively working in and through our team, drawing hearts closer to Him. Thank you for partnering with us in those prayers!

Wilian, Erly, Claudio, Adrian, and others have been incredible hosts and co-laborers throughout our time here. It's been a gift to get to know them and work and play alongside them! (Watching Wilian play basketball and Sharks and Minnows with our students and our VBS kids was a big highlight for me!) As we move out of our work day and into our final day here in Leona Vicario, we are all starting to get to that place in the week where you feel glad to have settled in- happy to be here with the people you are with- but also sad knowing that our time here is coming to a close (at least for now). Continue to pray for us as we enjoy the favor of the Lord with this special, specific, and purposeful fellowship of believers.

Gracias a Dios por todo!

YPM Days 6-7

Thank your continued prayers for our team! On Thurs day , we officially finished our work project for the week and completed painting the water plant. That night, we had our final evening of VBS, and we had a great turnout of kids and parents! (35ish kids and 8ish parents and older siblings) We got to play some really fun games, like "Pato Pato Ganzo" and "Tiburones y Peces". Preston and Erly told the kids the story of the Prodigal Son, which our students acted out, and at the end we sang Mi Dios es tan Grande (My God is so Big!) together (some of the kids joined in with us!) we finished the night in prayer for all of the kids and families who joined us. A definite highlight of the evening was when some of the little girls decided that we all needed to get our hair styled right in the middle of our Sharks and Minnows game. At one point, all of the girls on our team were sitting in the middle of the basketball court, each of us with at least two girls doing our hair (some of us with different styles at the same time)- it made everyone laugh and it ended up being a really sweet way for our girls to connect with the girls from the neighborhood. We were so thankful to have another evening of VBS!

After VBS, we finished our night talking about the third part of our Micah 6:8 verse of the week, seeking justice. Kara led us in worship with Graves Into Gardens and God I Look to You, two songs that echoed what we learned about God's ultimate plan for rescue, redemption, and restoration from the garden to the grave and throughout all the day s until we are restored fully to our Heavenly Father. It was so special to see our team uniting together and making a joyful noise for the Lord!

The next morning, we woke up early to get ready for our day exploring the Yucatán! We planned out a trek to Chichen Itza and Ik Kil, a well-known and beautiful cenoté here in the area. We got to know so much about Chichen Itza, the history of the land, and the Mayan culture from our guide Jorge. It was amazing for so many of us to see a place we've known about and heard about in person for the first time. We left from Chichen Itza with Wilian and Erly for Ik Kil, and spent the rest of the afternoon swimming, jumping, and laughing together in the cenoté. It was an end-of-the-trip experience that our returners on this trip and our first-timers were really looking forward to and it absolutely lived up to the hype We all could have stayed for hours!

Once we were home for the night, we had some time to reflect as a team on our trip, looking back on the work we contributed to here at YPM and the ways that we saw God move and work in our own hearts, in our team, through our hosts and our neighbors, and through the many experiences we've shared together. We've shared laughs, tears, stories, and lots of special moments with each other throughout our time this week- and God has been so, so good. Praise God from whom all blessings flow for the way He has used all of us and the people we got to spend time with, even for a brief time, to be bearers of His grace, His love, and His mercy to those around us.

Before we left this morning, Wilian gave us a book to write in. It was filled with pages upon pages of notes from people, detailing the past work completed at YPM 's university, at the water plant, and in and amongst the community over the last 20 years. Our team was able to add this week to their book, and each of our students and volunteers wrote their own special notes to Erly and Wilian, thanking them for all that they have done for us and for many as stewards of what they have, what they can do, and what they long to do for others to build God's Kingdom here. We are so grateful to have gotten to partner with them this week, and we look forward to continuing to partner with them in their work as we go out from the Yucatán to day . I'm reminded of the end of Acts 2, where it talks about the Holy Spirit moving through the fellowship of believers- "Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." (Acts 2: 4 6- 4 7)

We've seen and experienced so much of the joy of the Lord on this trip! God has blessed this trip with uncontrollable joy and laughter!!!

As we depart to day and head back to our own homes, please pray for us as we go- that the Holy Spirit would go before us, fall behind us, and surround us on all sides with protection and grace. We ask that you continue to pray that we would have opportunities to share what God has done on this trip with our families and friends! That we would have boldness to give testimony to God's faithfulness and the pure joy that we have all experienced on this trip. That our students would long for holy justice and restoration -- That God will continue to bless the work of Wilian, Erly, and our master craftsman, Claudio, as they continue their work as faithful stewards day after day , dreaming and longing for well-watered gardens and flowing streams of righteousness.

God is so good! And he has brought us all uncontainable joy! Thank you for being a part of our endless laughter.

Gracias a Dios por todo este semana.

Mental Health Support in Crisis: Flooding Response

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMT

I Am Not Ok. Now What?

The aftermath of the July 4, 2025, flooding disaster in the Texas Hill Country has left our community reeling. Some have faced the devastation firsthand, while others have watched in horror as reports of the flash floods unfolded. How do we process the haunting images we've seen and continue to see? What do we do with the profound sadness we feel? Our hearts are heavy, and our souls are fatigued, making it easy to slip into a state of depression.

Flood Relief Efforts Information

Scripture offers us hope and perspective, yet the pain may persist. By the grace of God, we serve a Savior who can handle our doubts, anger, despair, and the inevitable question of “why.” As stated in John 6:68b, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” He remains our ultimate solution, providing tools for us to lean on during times like this.

The FPC Mental Health Team is here to support you as an extension of pastoral care. We are eager to walk alongside you, offering companionship, direction to applicable services, mental health education and awareness, a vetted referral list, and, when appropriate, assistance with the cost of crisis care. We are committed to loving our congregation and community well through the gift of presence during a mental health crisis or ongoing care.

Steps You Can Take to Find Relief:

Excerpts from Mill Creek Christian Counseling (Content modified for the current Hill Country crisis.)

Cry out to God.

God desires all of you, even the sad and broken parts. Cry out to Him for help, healing, and hope. The book of Psalms can guide your prayers during this season. As you read through the Psalms, express your hurts and frustrations to God. He can heal your wounds and provide comfort and encouragement.

Don’t just “suck it up.”

In the face of others moving on and who seem joyful, you may feel guilty about your depression. This may prompt you to stuff your feelings and paste on a smile. Denying your emotions can be harmful in the long run. It’s important to find a safe place to express your true self. Journaling and counseling sessions offer good outlets for releasing sadness.

Lean into grief.

It’s common for those experiencing depression to shy away from their grief, fearing it will overwhelm them. However, it is healthier to lean into your grief so that you can move through it. You can schedule specific times for grieving, just as you do for other appointments.

Take time to grieve before God, letting the tears flow in front of Him. Then go about the rest of your day, reminding yourself that you’ll have time to grieve again. By reserving time for grief, you’ll improve your mental and emotional well-being.

Work against isolation.

One of the hallmarks of depression is a desire to isolate. But this is one of the worst things you can do, as it will only deepen your depression. Put connection times on your daily schedule. Reach out to those who lift you up via regular Zoom calls, FaceTime, or old-fashioned phone calls. These points of connection with others will lift your spirits and give you something good to anticipate.

Give yourself the gift of counseling.

One of the most valuable gifts you can give yourself is a series of counseling sessions. There is no shame in reaching out for help. It’s one of the best ways you can care for yourself. For those who may be new to counseling, you’ll find that a caring, objective perspective from a Christian counselor can be a crucial step in overcoming depression.

Spiritual Direction.

Another available resource to process trying times is Spiritual Direction. Its goal is to bring people into greater alignment with God and to recognize His presence in their lives. The Holy Spirit can bring healing as a byproduct of this method of spending time with God.

The mind and soul are intricately connected. When the soul, the center of your being, is wounded, the mind can be a help or a hindrance in its healing. Special attention and care are needed for both to bring holistic healing. Some people opt to utilize both counseling and spiritual direction to address inner struggles and traumatic seasons.

Contact the FPC Mental Health Team.

Please reach out to our team if you have any questions or need help connecting to available resources. You can call our message phone at 210 271-2708 or fill out the contact form. If you prefer to speak to someone directly, reach out to Jenn Borges at 707 372-3228.

Contact the Mental Health Team

Continue to seek solace in Scripture, discovering words that matter and heal.

2025 Oaxaca Mission Trip Daily Reports

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Oaxaca - Day 1

Our first day of traveling to Oaxaca was quite the adventure!

Our team was able to have quality fellowship through “breaking bread” in the San Antonio and Mexico City airports by enjoying “Whata B” and some authentic Mexican cuisine. In addition, we were able to quickly depend on one another after being split up in the México City airport due to “personnel issues” with airport security. However, after about 30-40 minutes of being split up as a team, with the Lord’s faithfulness and guidance, we were able to reconcile everyone together and find our way to our next stop.

Whether it was chasing down airport staff in the San Antonio airport to get toys for Liam (6 years old) and Eleanor (2 years old) or overcoming the altitude in the Mexico City airport (7,350 feet!), our team was able to overcome the odds to make it safely to Oaxaca.

Oaxaca - Day 2

On day two, we immersed ourselves into the full Oaxacan culture. We started our day with a team devotional over Matthew 6. Next, we spent the morning learning from our brothers and sisters in Christ at Amor Y Proclamacion Church (IPAP). They hosted FPC and we toured and learned more about their Sunday School programs, and the incredible AMO ministry program that is implemented there daily. Pastor Josias Luna and his Elders, also explained their ministry model, along with the history and ministry of the church. They then hosted us for a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, we went to visit the XOXO church plant from Amore Y Proclamacion in Xoxocotlán district of Mexico. The community of Xoxo is in an impoverished, remote community on the outskirts of Oaxaca. We had the privilege of serving lunch to the families of the Xoxo church plant. We had fellowship with them as they explained to us the history of the XoXo plant, home of church members, Ranulfo and Jose, and learned how they do multigenerational Bible Studies in the homes of their church members. They had a well thought out curriculum for introducing the gospel to new believers and were extremely organized. This, combined with the hospitality of the host, is a powerful way to disciple new believers and exemplifies the beauty of God’s word in action.

We then set off by going into the community surrounding the Xoxo church, by visiting homes in the area to distribute invitational fliers for an event the next day, featuring medical services, haircuts, arts and crafts, and games. This was an outreach event sponsored by the Xoxo church, in order to reach the community with the gospel.

After passing out fliers, we were able to have fellowship with the families of Xoxo by being hosted to a wonderful Mexican cheeseburger (#muy bueno!!) and papas fritas.

To end the evening, our team spit up with half of our members going back to Amore Y Proclamacion to learn from Pastor Josias on how he teaches his volunteer church members the model for each upcoming Sunday School lesson, while the rest of the mission team joined Elder Issac and wife Carla for small group Bible studies in two of the members homes. The homes were prayerfully led and directed through various lessons of scripture. What amazed our team was the hunger for God's Word that was displayed by the various members of the church and their intentionality to want to live out the scripture in their own lives.

Overall, we were amazed at how the youth in both churches were consistently engaging in their Bible Studies, serving both our team and their families with generosity and glad hearts. Confident in their faith, they were enthusiastic about sharing how the scriptures were shaping their lives.

We look forward to what awaits us tomorrow!

Oaxaca - Day 3

It’s Day 3 of our trip! Thanks to the prayers of saints from home all of us are safe and so far free from illness, including our littlest team member who likes mouthing everything. We get up bright and early and have our breakfasts (delicious everyday), do our devotions, and get to our destination by 9am, despite many of us getting back to the hotel close to 11pm the previous night. Today is the day of the outreach event to the Xoxo community - the church provided free pediatric, medical and dental services to the community, as well as free haircuts. The youth had organized a fair of sorts - there was arts and crafts, games, crocheting, drinks and snacks. Later on the youth would tell us they had forgotten a few things and were feeling a little disorganized - but this was not apparent at all - they were so welcoming and good with the children and a fun time was had by all!

A couple of us got to share our testimonies with the youth. Sichan talked about faith, family, friends and his inspiring life. Sharm shared a bit about her testimony and encouraged the youth to see themselves the way the Lord sees them, and not listen to the voices of culture and the world.

At the event, we met a mom and her son, who must have been about 9 or 10 years old. This sweet child had cerebral palsy and was wheelchair-bound. He also suffered from epilepsy. His mom was grateful for the free medical checkup and the referrals given, and shared how difficult it was to get the right care for him because of how expensive things were. We were all moved by her plight and suffering. It was an honor to lay hands on him and pray. Amongst ourselves, we took up a collection for them. Please pray for this mother and child, that they would find comfort in the Lord and a loving home in the church.

A couple of days later, we learned that 2 families had started Bible studies in their homes as a result of this outreach. Praise God!

After the event we had lunch at Ranulfo and Jose’s home (also the Xoxo church) - delicious black beans and Oaxaca cheese (quesillo) on a tortilla cooked over a charcoal fire. After that it was back to IPAP for the AMO conference with parents. AMO is a Christian curriculum that the church is implementing for children and youth. The unique thing about this program is that it is intentional in training the adults who disciple these children so that they have a holistic Christian view of education. As part of this, parents attend a quarterly conference on AMO principles. Francelia was the speaker this evening and we were all blessed by her presentation on Christian financial stewardship. Rich also had the opportunity to share his insights on the topic. The kids had their usual AMO class during this time, and Liam got to share the story of Jonah to the kids (the whole book - including the part about the plant!)

Finally, to close the evening, Lindsay ’s flight arrived this evening and she was able to join us for the conference - YAY!

We look forward to sharing the updates from the final days of our time in Mexico very soon!

Oaxaca - Final Updates

Dear Oaxaca Mission Trip Prayer Team,

The team arrived back at home on Wednesday afternoon. They prepared updates from the trip for the final three days, which I am attaching to this email, complete with photos. The Lord was certainly at work through this team, and through our partner ministries in Oaxaca. We thank God for the opportunity to go and serve in fellowship with His Church. As the team has returned, we invite you to continue to pray for the following:

That God’s Kingdom would continue to advance through the fruitful ministry of His Church in Oaxaca.
That communities would be transformed by the Gospel as it is preached and received.
For each team member’s discernment as they process all that they have seen, heard, and experienced - and for the ways they are strengthened to continue to live on mission each day.
For stories and testimony from the trip to encourage and challenge others to consider how God has gifted them to serve.
For discernment on continuing ways FPC can partner and serve with the Church in Oaxaca.

Thank you for your participation in this mission trip as you prayed for this team, and those they served. What a blessing your partnership has been!

Download Day 4 Update Download Day 5 Update Download Day 6 Update

Perseverance and Hope: A Message from Pastor Bob Amidst Recent Floods

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Dear Beloved in Christ,

What a joy it was to gather in worship with you yesterday. In times of joy and in seasons of sorrow, it is good to be together as the people of God. As we sang, prayed, and opened God’s Word, I was reminded again of the beauty and strength of our church family—especially in times of trouble.

Over the July 4th weekend, floodwaters surged through our region, particularly along the Guadalupe River Valley. Our own families, friends, and neighbors were deeply affected. Yesterday in church, Morgan and I sat behind a family that recently had two children at camp in Hunt, and we were overwhelmed with gratitude that they were present and safe yesterday. We have Covenant Partners and staff members who live in Kerrville and Hunt. Many of you have loved ones in Kerrville; others have children who were at summer camps along the river this summer and know others who have been lost. Still others have properties and memories rooted in communities now facing damage and disruption. This disaster is not distant—it is personal.

All of us are waiting to hear what the news of the day will bring. In the face of such devastation, we turn to the Word of God, which does not ignore pain but meets us in it. Psalm 77 gives voice to the anguish of God’s people in a time of distress, but also to their hope.

It begins with the plea:

“I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me.
In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord;
in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
my soul refuses to be comforted.
When I remember God, I moan;
when I meditate, my spirit faints." (Psalm 77:1-3)

But then, the psalmist remembers God’s mighty works of deliverance and then speaks these words:

“Your way was through the sea,
your path through the great waters;
yet your footprints were unseen.
You led your people like a flock
by the hand of Moses and Aaron.” (Psalm 77:19–20)

This is the mystery of God’s providence: His way often leads through the deep waters—not around them. Yet even when we cannot see His footprints, He is still leading. God is never absent from our trials. He led His people through the Red Sea, and He leads us now—sometimes invisibly, but never aimlessly. He is still the Good Shepherd. There is an old devotional called “Footprints in the Sand,” about a man who has a dream that he was walking down the beach with the Lord, reviewing every season of his life. He noticed that most of the time there were two sets of footprints—his own and the Lord’s. But he also noticed that at the most difficult times in his life, there was only one set of footprints. He asked the Lord why He had not walked with him during the hard times. The Lord answered, “when you saw one set of footprints in the sand, that was when I was carrying you.” As I was reading Psalm 77, I thought to myself, “There is one set of footprints in the mud, and He is carrying us now.”

Thank you for the way you are already responding—with prayers, with concern, and with readiness to act. Lindsay Selli, our Director for Mission and Mobilization, is in contact with our local and national partners and our Local Missions Committee is ready to move forward. In the coming days, we will provide opportunities for you to give financially and to serve personally as we respond to the needs of those affected both within and beyond our congregation.

In the meantime, I urge you to continue in prayer:

Pray for safety and shelter for those who have been displaced.
Pray for the emergency responders and local leaders who are working around the clock.
Pray for our members and their families who are directly impacted by the flood.
Pray that our church may be a vessel of compassion, hope, and the presence of Christ in the midst of sorrow.

Know how deeply I love you and how grateful I am to be walking this path of faith with you. Even now, the Lord is leading us—perhaps in unseen ways, but always with His steadfast love.

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Bob Fuller

Dr. Fred Brown Shares His Educational Resources

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Frederick B. Brown, M.D. of San Antonio, Texas

Doctor Fred Brown is a retired obstetrician-gynecologist who was the Co-Director of the Ob/Gyn Services in the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Family Medicine Residency Program in San Antonio.

Since graduating from Georgetown University School of Medicine, his career has been segmented into military medicine, mainstream private practice of obstetrics & gynecology, and medical education.

He is a member of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations and has served for 20 years on the San Antonio Area Council for CMDA.

He lectures on the spiritual aspects of medicine on the local, regional, and national levels.

He is a recognized spokesperson on the subjects of Sexual Health, Breast Cancer, Hormone Therapy, Life Expectancy and The Sanctity of Life.

The Spiritual Expansion of his Message:

The Stewardship drive for First Presbyterian two months after his presentation at the Men's Quarterly Dinner expanded the concept of sharing “Time, Talent, and Treasure” to include “Testimony”. Dr. Fred's presentation was referenced from the pulpit as a prime example of testimony for the church and for the Kingdom.

There are senior pastoral staff, Sunday School teachers, and church programs who have used the content as a case study on many prominent topics. The Marriage Ministry has suggested that couples read it out loud to each other alternating segments.

Dr. Brown's Gift to All

Dr. Brown has generously offered his documents to be shared with all, and we are so grateful. Below you will find the testimony he gave at the FPC Men's Quarterly Dinner in 2021:

Download Presentation Document (PDF)

He has also graciously shared the presentation slides and testimony from his Life's Perspectives May 2024 KEYS Seminar :

Download Presentation Document (PDF)

Download Presentation Slides (PDF)

Watch KEYS presentation

First Presbyterian Church Luncheon with the Christian Medical and Dental schools

February 24, 2025 " Roe v Wade: Perspectives "

Download Presentation Document (PDF)

Meet the Biblicus Students: Inspiring Future Leaders in the Church

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:00:00 GMT

At First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio, our mission stretches beyond borders, embracing a vision of Christian education, discipleship, and church planting. Through the dedicated efforts of the Mission South Champion Team, the Biblicus Ministry is sowing seeds of hope and leadership across South Texas, Mexico, and beyond. We are excited to introduce you to the inspiring individuals at the heart of this mission—our Biblicus students.

Biblicus Ministry: A Commitment to Growth

Biblicus was founded as a project to enhance the Presbyterian Church of Mexico and South Texas through prayer, networking, and scholarships. This endeavor is sustained by FPC Covenant Partners, Missionary support, and dedicated staff, ensuring robust engagement with our faith communities on both sides of the Rio Grande. As of 2025, First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio has proudly supported 21 students in this program, each of whom is on a path to making a significant impact in their communities.

William and Eduardo of Biblicus in Tabasco

Biblicus walks alongside seminary students in Mexico by offering scholarships, mentorship, and prayer partnerships as they prepare to serve Christ and bring healing and transformation to families, churches, and communities. Each student's journey is enriched through:

Mentoring from a partner pastor in Mexico.
Prayer partnerships with members of FPC San Antonio.
Quarterly virtual gatherings for learning and fellowship.
A selection of books from FPC to strengthen their ministry.
Completion of the five-day AMO training focused on biblical family discipleship.
Participation in the annual MeXed conference , connecting them with Christian educators and discipleship ministers nationwide.

Cassie and Francelia, Covenant Partners in Biblicus

Our church community is warmly invited to meet these students, uphold them in prayer, and participate in Biblicus trips to Mexico—where books are delivered, and bonds are strengthened over shared meals. No Spanish? No problem—interpretation is provided.

Meet Our Current Students

Moises Moo: A dedicated student at San Pablo Seminary, Mérida, Moises is preparing for pastoral ministry and will soon marry his fiancée, Sofia, on June 28, 2025.

Pablo Enciso: Having recently graduated from Geneva Reformed Seminary (Online), Pablo is looking forward to pastoring a church in Mexico City. He is newly married to Celia.

Jairo Gamaliel Bacab: Jairo blends his skills as a practicing dentist with his theological studies at San Pablo Seminary, Mérida, ready to serve in pastoral ministry in Yucatán. Notably, he secured 1st place at a recent speaking forum in Mexico City.

Eduardo Isai May Ramirez: A scholar at Sureste Presbyterian Seminary, Tabasco, Eduardo is an accomplished speaker, avid bird-watcher, and the mind behind a Bible museum exhibit. He aspires to become a pastor or professor. Eduardo proudly took 2nd place at a recent speaking forum alongside Jairo.

Jairo and Eduardo won 1st and 2nd at a recent speaking forum in Mexico City

Juan Peña: As a student of Miami International Seminary (MINTS Online), Juan serves a church plant in Chihuahua. He is married, has one daughter, and hosts the YouTube channel, Predicador Expositivo.

Ezequiel Lopez Meneces: Once a psychologist, Ezequiel is now preparing for pastoral ministry at Sureste Presbyterian Seminary, Tabasco. He is married and a father of three.

Manuel Cahuich Mendoza: A student at San Pablo Seminary, Mérida, Manuel attended a Korean Christian high school in Comitán, Chiapas, Mexico. He is married and has one son.

Uriel Jasaai Laguna Cal: Our newest Biblicus student, Uriel, studies at the Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Mexico in Mexico City. As a fourth-generation Presbyterian pastor, he feels called to minister to children and youth.

Celebrating Achievements and Fellowship

It's not just about the studies—it's about community and fellowship. From Biblicus gatherings in Mérida hosted by FPC to celebrating milestones like Gema's birthday, our community thrives on shared experiences and support. Covenant partners like Cassie and Francelia play crucial roles in making Biblicus more than a program—it's a family.

Biblicus fellowship in Merida hosted by FPC

Biblicus celebrates Gema's birthday! Class of 2024

These students represent the future of Christian leadership, each influenced by the rich history and enduring partnerships that define Biblicus. We invite you to join us in supporting these future leaders. With your prayer, involvement, and encouragement, we can continue to nurture the next generation of church leaders who will bring healing and hope to the world around us.

Partnering with CAM to Transform Lives

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT

At First Presbyterian Church, our collaboration with Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) is a testament to our commitment to community engagement. May and June present a significant opportunity to support CAM in their impactful mission.

Meeting CAM's Current Needs

CAM is seeking contributions to meet essential needs, and there are various ways you can help:

Men’s Clothing: Small-sized jeans, shorts, and t-shirts
New Underwear: For both men and women, alongside gently used bras
Tennis Shoes: For all genders and sizes
Volunteers: Extend your time and skills to those in need
Feminine Hygiene Products: Consistently in demand
Financial Support: Contributions can make a significant impact

Donate Here

CAM's Adopt-a-Child School Supply Program

As we approach the school year, CAM's 'Adopt-a-Child' Program plays a vital role in ensuring that 450 children are equipped for academic success. This initiative allows sponsors to adopt a student by purchasing a backpack and school supplies tailored to the child's specific needs.

Why Participate?

This program provides essential tools for education, giving children the confidence to excel. When children have the supplies they need, they are set up for success, reducing barriers to learning and enhancing their educational experience.

How to Contribute:

Sponsor a Student

Receive the child's name, grade, and school details, then purchase their specific requested items. Completed backpacks should be delivered to CAM's Downtown Warehouse Building between July 21st and July 25th.

Sign-Up Link

Volunteer

Assist in receiving or distributing backpacks. (Note: This may require the ability to lift filled backpacks.) Receivers will welcome and help donors, while distributors will provide backpacks to families during pickup times.

Volunteer Sign-Up

For more information about CAM’s Back-to-School program, contact Silvia Garcia at sgarcia@cam-sa.org or 210-223-4099.

A Story of Success: Vanessa's Experience

Get Involved with CAM

Whether through volunteering or donations, your involvement can make a difference. For further inquiries, connect with CAM’s Volunteer and Operations Director, Mary Henderson, at mhenderson@cam-sa.org , or call 210-223-4099.

Participating in initiatives like these embodies our church's vision of fostering community transformation and underscores the importance of each person’s contribution. Together, we cultivate a community marked by faith, compassion, and shared effort.

Serve with the KRL

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) is a collaboration of churches, organizations, and leaders working together toward restoration for our neighbors, neighborhood, and city.

Contact:

210-271-2704 (KRL Main Phone)
404 N. Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205 - Entry on 4th Street
www.krl-sa.org

AWC at KRL
Call: 210-271-2705 Text 210-906-1721

SA Hope Center at KRL
Call: 210-271-2704

MINISTRY TESTIMONIAL

Ruth's journey is a powerful testament to resilience and community support. In the summer of 2023, Ruth, a devoted mother of eight, was referred to the KRL by the SA Hope Center's main campus. She initially sought assistance with food and job searching. Through case management services, she bravely opened up about her past, revealing that she had recently escaped a 14-year relationship marked by domestic violence. During this difficult time, she arranged for her children to stay with friends and family while she found herself homeless, living in her car for about five months until she could stay with her brother-in-law. When her car broke down, the SA Hope community rallied to collect donations for repairs.

Determined to change her circumstances, Ruth fully embraced KRL's services designed to help neighbors achieve their goals. She accessed the food pantry, received job placement assistance, and participated in Career Readiness and Faith and Finance classes. Despite facing transportation challenges and juggling odd jobs, she remained committed to improving her family's situation.

Ruth's perseverance paid off. She secured housing for her family and, through the Career Readiness Program, found a job that brings her joy. She now manages several kitchen and food booths for the San Antonio Spurs at prominent venues like the Frost Bank Center and Toyota Field. Her success and dedication were recognized by the Spurs Organization, which praised her as "a strong leader, who always demonstrates tenacity" and "an invaluable asset to the Spurs Organization."

Today, Ruth thrives, skillfully balancing her rewarding work with precious time spent with her five grandchildren, using the city bus as her primary mode of transportation. Her story highlights the positive transformation that community resources and personal determination can achieve. - Chris Parker , KRL & SA Hope Center Community Outreach Specialist

Ways You Can Help

1. Explore and Share: Request a tour of the KRL to learn about our work and help spread the word!

2. Create Hygiene Kits: Gather your group to assemble quart-sized hygiene kits with small toiletries. Find preferred supplies on our Amazon Wishlist . The bag contains a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, razor, deodorant, shampoo, and conditioner. Here is the Amazon link to the supplies we prefer: bit.ly/KRL-SA-wishlist

3. Prepare Snack Bags: Team up to make gallon-sized snack bags filled with nutritious items for distribution.
A snack bag contains a small bottle of water, a small bag of chips or pretzels, 2-3 Slim Jim-type meat sticks or peanut butter to-go cups, a breakfast bar, and a fruit cup. If you're unable to find peanut butter to-go cups in a store, you can order them online using this link: https://a.co/d/bAnESY4 .

4. Sew Pocket-sized Prayer Quilts for snack bags or direct distribution. Contact Elaine for details .

5. Organize Clothing Drives: Lead a drive for seasonal clothing. Verify current needs before starting. See our Amazon Wishlist .

6. Volunteer in Resource Room: Help us organize clothes and support clients through prayer. Weekly volunteers are needed!

7. Become an Advocate: Sign up with Hope Heals to receive training and advocate for clients.

8. Purchase Essential Items: Visit our Amazon Wishlist to buy always-needed items like underwear and socks for the Resource Room.

KRL Amazon Wishlist

Easter at First

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 06:00:00 GMT

HOLY WEEK AT FPC

Join us in commemorating the journey to Easter and celebrating the resurrection. We have a variety of services and events throughout Holy Week. For more information, please contact the church office.

Sunday, April 13 | 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM | Event Calendar Link

Modern & Traditional Services - Celebrate Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Regular services with children processing and waving palm branches through each service.

View Full Traditional Service View Full Modern Service

Thursday, April 17 | 6:30 PM | Sanctuary | Event Calendar Link

Reflect on the Last Supper and Jesus’s commandment to love one another in this Communion service.

View Full Service

Friday, April 18 | 12:00 PM | Sanctuary | Event Calendar Link

A solemn remembrance of Christ’s crucifixion and sacrifice.

View Full Service

Saturday, April 19 | 10:00 AM | Event Calendar Link

An engaging and fun-filled program for children to learn about the Easter story. Details can be found in the Children's Section.

Sunday, April 20 | Event Calendar Link

6:45 AM Sunrise Service | Courtyard
Experience a modern style worship as the sun rises, celebrating the resurrection of Christ. (No online video)

8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, & 11:00 AM Easter Services | Sanctuary
Join us for traditional Easter worship services reflecting on the triumph of Jesus over death.

We look forward to worshiping together as we reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and triumph. All are welcome!

View Full Service

WORSHIP WITH US ONLINE

Join our services live online at fpcsanantonio.org/live .

2025 WOC Luncheon

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Ash Wednesday Bulletin

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Lent at First

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

This Lenten season, we invite you to join us at First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (FPCSA) for a variety of enriching events and activities designed to deepen your spiritual journey.

Ash Wednesday Service

When: Wednesday, March 5, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Where: FPC Sanctuary, 404 N. Alamo Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

Join us in the sanctuary or online for an evening service that marks the start of the Lenten season. Remember, most Bible studies will not meet this evening, with exceptions including the "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" Class, NAMI Classes, and DivorceCare.

See Event Calendar for more details

Stations of the Cross Lenten Prayer Activity

March 5 – April 18

Download the Stations of the Cross Booklet Download the Map

"Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" Class

When: Every Wednesday, March 5 - May 7, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: McCullough Room

Beginning with a dinner at 6:00 PM on Ash Wednesday, this 10-week course led by Chris and Kathy Scruggs explores the intersection of emotional health and spiritual growth. Together, we will use Peter Scazzero's book "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" to guide our journey.

- 40-Day Devotional: On sale for $5.00 in the Mauzé Lobby on Sundays, February 16, 23, and March 2. It offers a twice-daily prayer guide throughout Lent (not required for the class).

- Course Fee: $5.00, covering workbook, dinner, and childcare. Register in the lobby or online.

See Event Calendar for more info ®gistration

40 Days of Prayer

In alignment with our strategic vision, join us for a transformative 40-day prayer journey starting on March 5. Each day, a new prayer and scripture will be shared on our social media to guide you deeper into God’s calling and our strategic goals.

FPC San Antonio Facebook FPC San Antonio Instagram

The Lenten season offers us a time to reflect, renew, and deepen our relationship with God. Please join us in these diverse opportunities to enrich your spiritual journey.

May this Lent lead you closer to Christ and a life filled with reflection, repentance, grace, and peace.

Mary's Children Guest Speaker Series

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The Impact of Technology & Social Media on Children

Parents and grandparents, you’re invited to join a thoughtful conversation with Annie Mays from Young Life San Antonio. This seminar is perfect for those who want to learn how to protect and support their children in today’s tech-filled world.

Missed our first talk on February 2? No worries! Annie gives a quick recap and then dives into helpful solutions. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions after the presentation. We’d love for you to be part of this important discussion on practical and Biblical ways to preserve childhood in our fast-paced world.

Our special guest speaker is sponsored by "Mary's Children," a fund created in memory of Mary Gates, a longtime Covenant Partner at First Presbyterian Church, who deeply loved and cared for children.

Z-Talks 2025: Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Watch the Z-Talk Videos

February 7, 2025 February 8, 2025 February 9, 2025 About the Speaker

Z-Talk & Dinner, February 7, 2025

This Z-Talk emphasized the significance of leadership in a modern Christian context, underscoring the necessity of humility, perseverance, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, encouraging the audience to consider their dreams and future growth rooted in biblical principles.

Z-Talk Discussion, February 8, 2025

The Z-Talk discussion focused on evaluating and planning the future direction of the church, emphasizing themes like congregational growth, biblical literacy, community engagement, intergenerational relationships, and creating a welcoming, mission-oriented environment.

About the Guest Speaker

REV. DR. RICHARD GIBBONS - Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons is a native of Scotland and became the Senior Pastor of the historic First Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC, in 2007. Richard holds joint honors in Ecclesiastical History and Systematic Theology from the University of Glasgow and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Highland Theological College in Inverness, Scotland. He is married to Ruth (43 years), and they have one adult son, Michael.

Richard was the Chaplain of the Day for the U.S. Senate in 2018 and 2023, chaired the "World Summit in Defense of Persecuted Christians" (Washington, D.C.) in May 2017, and was the plenary speaker for Presbyterian pastors in Egypt in 2019 and 2020. He served for four years as Chair of the ECO Denomination’s Theology Task Force. He was the guest preacher for Great Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla in August 2023, and Their Majesties hosted Ruth and Richard in their home at Balmoral Castle at the close of the service in Crathie Parish Kirk, in Royal Deeside.

Richard has authored several children’s books, written a number of hymns, and for fun, writes children’s nursery rhymes in Shakespearean prose. His warm devotional book entitled *Conspiracy Theory – When God Is Seemingly Against You – Psalm 139* was published by Christian Focus Publications in November 2021.

Z-Talks 2021: Dr. Ligon Duncan

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

As a living memorial to our beloved Pastor Emeritus, the Session of First Presbyterian Church approved the formation of The Louis H. Zbinden, Jr. Lecture Series (Z-Talks) . The Z-Talks are an endowed series that brings theologians, religious writers and speakers to FPC to speak on a variety of theological and educational topics.

The inaugural speaker for this series was Dr. Ligon Duncan, Chancellor of the Reformed Theological Seminary . Dr. Ligon joined us the weekend of October 24, 2021, to help us celebrate the 175 ^th Anniversary of the founding of this church.

FPC's Historical Organ & Organ Competition

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The Robert L. Sipe Organ of First Presbyterian Church

First Presbyterian Church’s Robert L. Sipe organ, completed in March 1999, is an instrument of 55 ranks of pipes, many of which came from the preexisting 1968 Holtkamp instrument, but which have been rescaled and revoiced. The detached, three-manual console is built from mahogany and rosewood with sharps from ebony and natural key coverings carved from 100,000 year-old mammoth tusks. Each of the pipes is handmade to specific requirements, some of metal, some of wood. All the pipes have been carefully voiced for the acoustics of First Presbyterian Church.

All the pipes in the façade are speaking pipes. Visible from the chancel are Pedal Principal pipes and horizontal Festival Trumpet pipes. The upper center section behind the façade contains the Great organ. The enclosed Swell division is positioned behind the Great. The enclosed Choir division, decorated with Scottish thistles, is beneath the Great division. The Pedal division is divided on both sides of the organ. The Festival Trumpets may be played either from the Choir, the Great or the Pedal divisions.

The William C. Hall Pipe Organ Competition

The William C. Hall Pipe Organ Competition was founded as the “San Antonio Pipe Organ Competition” in 1970 at University Presbyterian Church, largely through the efforts of Mr. William C. (Bill) Hall who originally conceived it out of his great love of church music. His purpose was to ensure the future of organ music by encouraging the study of organ by students who would later become professional organists in churches. For the first 16 years he almost single-handedly brought it into being by organizing the many necessary volunteers, raising money for cash prizes and securing prominent organists from across the country to serve as judges. Following his death, as a tribute to him, the title of the Competition was officially changed in 1986 to reflect his name.

The full-day competition is held in the Sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio and has gained a reputation as one of the most outstanding organ competitions in the country. Contestants consist of both graduate and undergraduate status and are limited to only organ students from Texas universities.

Contact Tom Dooling or Dr. Jae Ha for more information on the pipe organ competition.

Competition Documents

2025 Competition Brochure and Rules

2025 Application Form

2025 Hymn

2025 Competition Advertising Poster

Prior year competition winners

Prior year competition judges

Read Through The Bible in One Year

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Starting a journey to read the whole Bible in one year can be an exciting and meaningful experience. This downloadable plan will help you read a little bit each day, making it easier to understand and enjoy the Bible's stories and lessons. Each day, you'll read a passage from the Old Testament in the morning and a passage from the New Testament in the evening. Whether you're new to the Bible or already familiar with its pages, this plan will keep you on track and motivated. Get ready to dive into the amazing tales, wise teachings, and spiritual messages that have inspired people for thousands of years!

Download the full set of monthly bookmarks, print and cut them at home, and then keep them in your Bible or follow along throughout the year.

Download Bookmarks

Christmas Eve Services Schedule and Livestream Links

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Dec. 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE

Christmas Eve & Lord’s Supper Service

2:30 PM in the Sanctuary

Family Christmas Eve Service

5:00 PM in the Sanctuary

Candlelight Christmas Eve Services

7:30 PM & 10:00 PM in the Sanctuary

We hope to see you, your family & friends during this most wonderful time of the year. Free childcare for ages 8 weeks-5 years by reservation during all services except the 10:00 PM Service.

LEARN MORE RESERVE CHILDCARE

Church Officer Nominations

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

2025 Nomination of Church Officers

Elders, Deacons, & Trustees | Class of 2 0 28

Download the Nomination Form

The life of the congregation is enriched by the many different kinds of service that members offer. This represents an expression of Paul’s great picture of the church as the body of Christ, with each member contributing to the health of the whole.
(I Corinthians 12)

Congregational leadership is one important area of service in the church. Each year, members of First Presbyterian Church are called by the congregation to exercise a ministry of leadership within the church as Elders, Deacons, and Trustees. These are distinctive leadership roles, calling for particular gifts and commitment.

The offices of Deacon and Elder are part of the rich history of our Judeo-Christian heritage. Please read the scriptures listed below as you seek the leading of the Holy Spirit before completing the nomination form:

• I Timothy 3 • I Timothy 5 • I Peter 5 • Titus 1

The Church Officer Nominating Committee is now seeking names to consider for nomination for service as Elders, Deacons and Trustees. The Committee asks the congregation to suggest the names of persons who have been regular in worship, active in the life of First Presbyterian Church, generous in support of our ministry and faithful in their life and witness to the gospel.

The committee will meet and consider the persons suggested by the congregation together with the members who have served as officers in the past. The committee will exercise its collective judgment in deciding which members to nominate and present to the congregation for election.

Deacons

The Board of Deacons consists of 51 members who serve staggered three-year terms. Deacons undertake ministries of care and compassion within and beyond the congregation. Some of the responsibilities of this office are to deliver seasonal flowers at Easter and Christmas and to visit the sick and the grieving in hospitals and at home.

Elders

The Session is the governing body of the congregation. It currently consists of 24 Elders who serve staggered three-year terms.

Trustees

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the management of the affairs of the church. Trustees serve staggered three-year terms.

The Session and the Board of Deacons meet in the evening on the second Monday of each month (except July). Elders also serve on one or more church committees throughout most of the year. Elders and Deacons are expected to attend and participate in these meetings. Trustees meet as needed.

The information on this form will be kept confidential and will be used only by the Nominating Committee, which consists of the following individuals:

Bill Oliver (2025 Chair)
Bobby Mickler (Session)
Lynn Thompson (Session)
Judy Kruger (Diaconate)
Linda Delano (Women of the Church)
Charlotte Milner (Adult Education & Discipleship)
Jim Clouse (KEYS Older Adults Ministry)
Mike Meadows (FPC Student Ministry)
David Peeples (At Large)

In the space provided on the back panel, please make your suggestions and explain why the person suggested should be an officer. In considering persons for church office, please consider the person’s service, participation, and giving at FPC, as well as their willingness to serve. It is especially helpful for the committee to be informed about involvement in the life and work of the church, including participation in Sunday School classes as a teacher or student. Also, please be aware that, according to our by-laws, anyone nominated must have been a member of First Presbyterian Church for at least two full years before beginning a term of service as an officer.

Download the Nomination Form

Please return the form by Friday, January 24, 2025 by either:

Hand-delivering it to the church office

(“OFFICER NOMINATIONS” mail slot in the second-floor workroom)

Mailing it to:

Officer Nominating Committee
c/o First Presbyterian Church San Antonio
404 North Alamo
San Antonio, Texas 78205-1918

2025 Stewardship Campaign Resources

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Created to Dream

Under the direction of the Holy Spirit and following His Word

In the sermon series for this fall of 2024, we are reminded of the incredible promises of God as revealed in the visions and dreams He gave His servants Abraham, Joseph, Ezekiel, and John. Fabulous blessings are promised to Abraham— a homeland, countless descendants, and the magnificent purpose of blessing all the nations! Joseph, who was betrayed and sold into slavery by his own jealous brothers, rose to a high management position among his captors; that very position allowed him to rescue his family and nation! Ezekiel, in despair as he saw the rebelliousness of God’s people, was given a vision of deliverance and restoration! John, faithful, exiled John, was given a vision of such beauty—the new Jerusalem, the Holy City, where God actually lives with His people, and death, pain, and mourning are things of the past.

We are Created to Dream—whether it’s in the form of such divine visions and dreams or through the desires and aspirations placed in our human hearts. This ability to dream is rooted in our very nature. The Creator-God who made us in His image (His workmanship, His poem—Ephesians 2:10) made us to be creative as well. Under the direction of the Holy Spirit and following His Word, we imagine things can be different; we solve problems; we repair and build; we see a new direction; we point to the hope, the new way of living, that comes from our Savior. The God who blesses us so richly, who rescues us from famine, who raises dry bones, who promises us life with Him in the beautiful New Jerusalem, also calls us to dream dreams that bless others. In the coming year, we’ll be exploring what God is calling First Presbyterian Church to be and do through our new 10-year strategic plan. Prepare to harness your God-given dreams and all the good gifts God bestows upon us so we can, collectively, be an overflowing fountain of blessing to one another, our city, and our world!

In gratitude,

Your FPC Stewardship & Finance Committee

Envision, Equip, Empower

During this stewardship season, we reflect on how we can align with God’s creative vision and fulfill the divine dreams He has placed within us. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to Envision, Equip, and Empower— sharing the good news of God’s faithfulness, love, and the supreme gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, whom we worship and serve. Are we inspired by God’s promises, and do we act with gratitude? Do we recognize and embrace the dreams and generosity God has for us, and do we encourage one another in this mission? How do we serve with purpose and glorify God through the dreams He plants in our hearts? Confident that the Lord, who began a good work in us, will guide the family of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio, we embrace our calling, knowing we are Created to Dream and to realize those dreams together.

Joyfully and generously support the ministries of FPC!

Watch Created to Dream Sermons

Join the Dream

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Download the Stewardship brochure below.

Called Congregational Meeting

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

CALLED CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

Sunday, Dec. 8 | All Three Services

A Congregational Meeting will be held Sunday, December 8 at the end of each morning service (9:30 AM Christmas Pageant, 11:00 AM Traditional, & 11:00 AM Modern), to approve proposed officer nomination committee members and for consideration of a property purchase.

Notice - Road Closures for Rock'n'Roll Marathon

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

NOTICE: This road closure affects the Children's Christmas Saturday Rehearsal and Sunday Pageant on Dec. 7 & 8.

Roads in downtown will be closed for the Rock N' Roll races on Saturday & Sunday. We encourage the congregation to use Highway 281 to enter and exit the area and to avoid the lower Broadway area.

TRIBE

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Tribe Community

Thursdays | 6:45 AM | Paloma Blanca

Join the men’s TRIBE community where men sharpen men through the study of God’s Word and sharing life together. Contact Caleb Barber for more information.

Download Discipleship Tools

Note - we encourage men to be in discipleship groups during “off weeks” for Tribe and blog content is intended to facilitate groups and empower group leaders.

TRIBE Holy Spirit - 1 TRIBE Holy Spirit - 2

TRIBE Holy Spirit - 3

Cultivating Seeds of Faith

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

FPC Partners with Landmark Church!

We're thrilled to announce that FPC is wholeheartedly supporting God's magnificent work through Landmark Church in San Marcos. Over the past two years, we've championed Ryan Azzaro (the dashing gentleman on the left with the mustache) in his theological studies at Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS). Now, we're overjoyed to share that two more church plant residents at Landmark have received full scholarships to pursue their studies at RTS! Here they all are, captured in a moment of camaraderie at the RTS Orlando campus.

Seeing our investments bear fruit in such a profound way humbles us. It's incredible to witness how Jesus is orchestrating his plans through this partnership. Just this past weekend, I had the privilege of preaching at Landmark Church—what an inspiring experience! You can catch my sermon, along with Pastor Ryan’s weekly messages, on the Landmark podcast.

Let’s keep moving forward as a church family dedicated to nurturing kingdom growth!

With Grace and Excitement,

Rev. A. Mitchell Moore

2024 High School Mission Trip to YPM Report #3

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Humble Beginnings and Community Connection

Howdy, friends!

We are ecstatic to report that we had a successful first day working at YPM's University! This morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by the YPM staff and shared fellowship with Wilian and Erly over some fantastic Mexican-style eggs. Afterward, we walked to YPM's campus and began constructing sound-reducing panels to decrease echo in their classrooms. Each student enthusiastically worked at a workstation, cutting wood pieces, gluing and screwing them together, covering the frames with fabric, and inserting insulation. The morning was filled with fun conversations, lots of laughs, and Holy Spirit-filled moments.

After our morning work, we returned to the YPM base for lunch with Wilian and Erly, followed by a traditional Mexican siesta. In the evening, we enjoyed some incredible fried chicken, strolled to the main square of Leona Vicario, and indulged in authentic Mexican popsicles from a local shop. We found a basketball court where locals graciously invited us to play. We spent about an hour with them before returning to the YPM base for another devotional, delving deeper into Micah 6:8. We discussed what it means to walk humbly while serving those around us and shared stories of how people in our lives have encouraged and listened to us.

Thank you again for your prayers and support for our mission trip! It truly means the world to us. Please continue to pray for renewed minds, softened hearts, and excitement for VBS to come. It's a privilege to walk alongside these students in humility and service to one another and this beautiful community.

Vaya con Dios!
The YPM Team

2024 High School Mission Trip to YPM Report #2

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Embracing Humility and Service in the Yucatan

After a delicious breakfast, we drove to Tres Reyes to attend a church service, one of the many churches that Wilian and Erly support. Wilian preached, and although we didn't understand everything, we felt the impact of his words. At the end of the service, Wilian baptized a young girl named Leah. We celebrated with her family and even held our newest little sister. The family gave us parting gifts, including a freshly cut bunch of guava fruit, which we all tried.

After a quick lunch at the YPM base, we spent the rest of the day in Puerto Morelos, enjoying the beach and dining with Wilian and Erly. We ended the night with devotion and reflection time, focusing on Micah 6:8 and the concept of walking humbly. We learned that to "walk humbly," we must first become humble, and we reflected on how we could "grow young" and become more childlike (Matthew 18:1-4; Philippians 2:5-11).

We are eager to begin our work tomorrow and grow from this experience! Thank you again for supporting us in prayer. Please pray for our students as they serve at the YPM institute, and for them to fully understand that to be great, one must become like Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve and give His life away.

Vaya con Dios,
The YPM Team

2024 High School Mission Trip to YPM Report #1

Sat, 13 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Greetings from the Yucatan Peninsula!

Hello friends and family!

Thank you so much for supporting the First Presbyterian High School Yucatan Peninsula Ministry (YPM) trip. After safely landing in Cancun, we were warmly welcomed by the YPM directors, Wilian and Erly. Following a quick bus ride, we arrived in Leona Vicario and settled into the YPM base house. Both the base and the town have remained undamaged from the recent hurricane, and we are enjoying the beautiful, well-kept grounds here.

We had a wonderful dinner followed by our first devotion and reflection time on the rooftop patio under the moon and stars. We focused on the first part of Micah 6:8, reflecting on how God speaks to us and encourages us, knowing He has a good work for each of us. We are excited to learn more about the work of YPM and explore how we can contribute to their mission.

Keep us in your prayers, and stay tuned for more updates!

"A Republic, If You Can Keep It:" Pastor's Article July 2024

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In the summer of 1776, on July 4, something happened on this planet that had never happened before. The first enduring and self-sustaining democracy was born.

Eleven years later, having won our freedom from Great Britain, our founding fathers gathered in Philadelphia to craft a sustainable government and constitution for our new country. On the last day of the Constitutional Convention, on September 17, 1787, a woman of Philadelphia accosted Benjamin Franklin with a question as he came out of the meeting.

“Well, doctor,” she asked him, “what have we got? A republic or a monarchy?”

Franklin, who was rarely short of words or wit, shot back:

“A republic, madam— if you can keep it.” ¹

What exactly did Dr. Franklin mean by that? “A republic, ... if you can keep it.”

He meant that a democracy must be maintained by the people themselves, or else it will devolve into something else—either tyranny or chaos.

The founding fathers crafted the constitution because they knew that there is a difference between winning one’s freedom and maintaining it. Democracy’s greatest liability is that it is fragile. That is why the first words of the U.S. Constitution express a commitment made by those first Americans on behalf of all Americans. The Preamble of the Constitution reads:

We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

As I write this newsletter article, I’ve been wondering, “how are we doing at keeping our Republic?”

The first presidential debate of this election cycle is looming. 2024 will always be remembered as an election-year like no other. For the first time in our lifetimes, we have two candidates each running on a four-year presidential record. Both candidates have their proud talking points, and both candidates each have their significant liabilities.

Our country is deeply divided and there is a lot on the line. The vitality of our country and our republic depends on the enthusiastic participation and vigilance of the American people— “We the people.”

What makes America exceptional has never been its perfection, but our commitment to be more perfect — the belief we can be made better. In one of his better moments, former President Bill Clinton said something that is absolutely true— “ There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be fixed by what is right about America.” Time and time again, when our laws, when our leaders, or our government are out of alignment with our ideals, when our republic is “out of order,” then the diligence of ordinary Americans armed with our own freedoms, faith and constitution, have proven that we can police ourselves.

Hubert Humphrey reputedly said that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was one of the most important foreign policies of that decade. What he meant was that it showed the world that America could right itself. That we hold ourselves to a moral standard and that we can fix what is wrong.

Even though our ultimate citizenship is in Heaven (Philippians 3:20), by God’s providence we are a part of this community – of San Antonio, Texas, and the USA—and we have a purpose in this country.

Jeremiah wrote:

⁷ But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. ² (Jeremiah 29:7)

We are part of “We the People,” and “We the People” have a responsibility to proclaim and pursue the mission of the Kingdom of God in the city (and nation) in which we dwell. We are not called merely to observe this world, but to serve it. The Lord has given us the important job of making His purposes visible in real ways in the real world.

In a season of political noise, the most important thing we can do is stand-up for the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We do not declare that Jesus is on this side, or that side—that the Lord is Democrat, Republican or Independent—but remind people that He is Lord of all. All authority in heaven and on earth has been given unto Him. We do not use the name of Jesus to rally people to a candidate. We must rally people to HIM. As the world devotes more and more attention to the messiah-like promises of politicians, we must direct them back to the truth of the real Messiah.

We need to love this city. Not just as spectators, but as missionaries. In this election year, how can you best serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through service to our country? How can we best work for the welfare of our neighborhood, our city, our state, and our nation? How can we share the words of resurrection, hope, and unity during a season of political division and anxiety?

How can we, the people of Jesus Christ, best pray for and serve the “welfare” of the country in which we live?

Grace and peace,

Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller

____________________________________

1. (Metaxas, Eric (2016-06-14). If You Can Keep It: The Forgotten Promise of American Liberty (pp. 8-9). Penguin Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.)

2. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Je 29:7). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

Diving into God's Friendship: Making Waves at 2024 Scuba VBS

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 06:00:00 GMT

We had an amazing time this year at the 2024 Scuba VBS as we dove into building our friendship with God! Here are some key lessons we learned:

God is a real friend, as we explored through the life of Elijah. We understood that God is real even if we can't see or hear Him.
God is a loving friend, as we experienced through the story of Jonah being inside the belly of a fish. We learned that God has mercy on everyone.
God is a trustworthy friend, as we saw when Jesus calmed a storm at sea with His disciples. We realized we can trust God, even in life's struggles.
God is an eternal friend, as we discovered through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, which paid the price for all the world's sins. This taught us that we can have a forever friendship with God.
God is a friend for everyone, as we learned from Lydia's discovery of the good news of Jesus. We now know that no one is left out of God's loving friendship.

It was such a fantastic week! We tie-dyed shirts, decorated crosses, had boat races, and made Lydia banners. We also learned about different parts of the world and the essence of being a missionary by hearing from some of our missionary partners. In addition, we enjoyed fun games in recreation and delicious sea-themed snacks.

View Recap Video During Traditional Service View Recap Video During Modern Service

The mission focus this year was AWC Centers. The children learned about AWC and even had the opportunity to explore the mobile unit during their mission rotation.

Some of the children took the initiative to fundraise by selling lemonade, making bracelets, and selling water to support this wonderful cause. Additionally, we collected diapers, wipes, and gummy prenatal vitamins.

DRUM ROLL, PLEASE! We raised over $1,100.00. WOO HOO!!!! A big thank you to the fifth graders for keeping track of all the donations. WAY TO GO. PRAISE GOD!

Thank you to everyone who donated their time, energy, and money to such a worthy cause. A special thanks to the many volunteers who made all of this possible. GOD BLESS ALL THE VOLUNTEERS for your sacrificial service to the children of this church and community. You are a HUGE blessing.

Thank you again,

Ms. Rebecca

Supporting Healers on the Frontlines: the Fullers' Trip to Poland

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Reprinted with permission from The Outreach Foundation.

Morgan and Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller Join Forces with The Novus Foundation to Host a Transformative Event for Trauma Caregivers

“Since 2022, the Polish people, especially the Polish Church have been incredibly generous. Millions of refugees from Ukraine have poured across the borders and the Poles have taken them into their homes, taken them into their churches...that is an incredible strain on churches and on the people who lead them.” (Bob Fuller, Outreach Foundation trustee and senior pastor, First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, TX)

In March 2022, three weeks after full-scale war in Ukraine had begun, Bob Fuller, Mark Mueller, and Tom Boone journeyed to Warsaw, Poland, to meet with Dr. Piotr Nowak, president of the College of Theology and Social Sciences (CTSS), Aneta Montano, and their team of leaders who were sacrificially serving Ukrainian refugees. From these early days, The Outreach Foundation has remained alongside these leaders and has been pleased with the war-relief efforts they have performed with limited resources.

Novus Center in Warsaw, Poland, is a Christian counseling center focusing on trauma and PTSD, while also addressing other emotional and psychological needs. They provide training for current psychologists and pastors to deliver best practices in trauma and PTSD counseling. They’ve hosted and placed over 150 women, men, and children from Ukraine, each a refugee in search of a new home or needing various forms of care.

In May 2024, a team of seven from The Outreach Foundation along with the Novus Foundation, co-hosted a marriage retreat for clergy couples and Christian psychotherapists who are on the front lines of addressing the trauma people are enduring. Their stress is overwhelming. Our “healing the healers” experience took place in Krakow and included cultural experiences such as visiting Auschwitz and the historic Jewish Quarter. The three-day retreat was an opportunity to pour into the lives of caregivers who have worked tirelessly.

We spent time together as Christian couples, reflecting on God’s vision for marriage, helping build each other up to face coming challenges, worshipping, praying often, resting, and most importantly providing a safe space for sharing among people who understand the toll a life of ministry can have. One pastor’s wife said, “I don’t remember the last time someone took care of us. I don’t remember the last time someone served us and thanked us for what we do in such a meaningful way.”

This retreat was an outstanding success and it met real needs. The Outreach Foundation and Novus Foundation are discerning another retreat in 2025 with other clergy couples and Christian psychotherapists. Because Novus Foundation is non-sectarian, it can serve as “neutral ground” for clergy coming from a variety of denominations. Please join us in prayer for God’s leading and how you may be part of such an experience. Needs will include a team equipped with marriage retreat leaders, clergy couples, life coaches, people gifted in intercessory prayer, and finances.

The Opportunity

Novus Foundation is a new partner, birthed out of [The Outreach Foundation's] Ukraine Partnership. Through the Novus Foundation, God is impacting the lives of the people in Poland and Ukraine. If you want to join the growing network of supporters for this incredible ministry visit www.theoutreachfoundation.org to learn more about this ministry partnership and how you can donate.

2024 Uganda Trip Report #6

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Reflections and Renewal with the Rescue One More Staff Retreat

After breakfast with the R1M staff, we participated in another icebreaker to deepen our connections. Kathy then guided us through the hand prayer and led a meditation on Psalm 23, encouraging us to reflect on how God was speaking to us through the Scripture. Following lunch, we had free time to rest, swim, read, and play games.

That evening, we gathered by Lake Victoria under the light of a beautiful full moon for a bonfire. A local worship leader led us in songs of praise. Wink then spoke about the importance of surrendering to God. We each wrote down what Jesus had revealed to us that we needed to surrender and threw these notes into the fire. It was a moving and symbolic way to end the day.

Sunday morning marked our final time with the staff. Several staff members shared how impactful it was to be warmly welcomed by the team at the hotel— a role reversal from their usual experience of greeting incoming teams. Others expressed how the bonfire helped them let go of anxieties and burdens that had been weighing them down. One staff member shared that although it was initially hard to relax, as she is never alone, she felt rejuvenated and ready to return to her roles as an employee, wife, mother, and social worker.

It was a joy to serve this dedicated staff, who work tirelessly in the challenging field of sexual abuse, and to hear how God had worked in their hearts during the retreat.

2024 Uganda Trip Report #5

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

A Day of Hope and Healing at Rescue One More

We packed up and headed to the Rescue One More (R1M) safe house, a ministry dedicated to providing safety, justice, and healing for children who have experienced sexual violence. Unsure of what to expect given the trauma these girls have faced, we were overjoyed to be greeted with hugs, smiles, and great joy as we walked through the gate—a true testament to the transformative work God is doing through R1M.

Upon arrival, we met Jane in her office. She provides six months of counseling to each girl, utilizing art and play therapy, among other methods. During our tour of the house, the girls were enthusiastic to show us where they slept.

We then heard from Sarah Lambie, who shared the inspiring story of how the ministry began in 2021. Vanessa, who is Scott and Sarah's Ugandan daughter, wanted to support girls who had endured similar situations to hers.

Staff members briefed us on their various teams, such as the Community Action Team. This team collaborates with prosecutors, social workers, Child Protective Services (CPS), doctors, psychologists, and other professionals to bring justice to the perpetrators. To date, they have rescued over 100 children and facilitated more than 200 arrests. Additionally, they offer prevention and awareness training in schools and communities.

Currently, there are 20 girls aged 5 to 14 living in the Kampala safe house. The girls typically stay for a year, and if reunification with their families isn't possible, the ministry seeks other family members who can take them in.

The girls treated us to a special performance that included a skit about forgiveness, a dance, and a fashion show featuring items they had made. With the help of five sewing machines and a skilled instructor, the girls create hats, purses, sandals, jewelry, and backpacks. One brave girl also shared her testimony with us.

Kathy captivated the girls with a story about the Good Shepherd and the lost sheep. We bonded with the girls through crafts, games, and shared meals. It was incredible and heartwarming to see them enjoying the activities despite their challenging circumstances.

2024 Uganda Trip Report #4

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Fond Farewell to Operation Uganda: A Day of Reflection and Celebration

Our final day with Operation Uganda (OU) was filled with mixed emotions as we were sad to see this incredible experience come to an end. We arrived at the daycare just as the children were sitting down to their breakfast of hot tea and little doughnuts.

Later, we visited a local primary school and met with the headmaster in his office. He warmly greeted us and expressed gratitude for our involvement with OU. The school has had a long-standing partnership with OU, which sponsors children to attend classes there. Recently, OU renovated four classrooms, adding fresh paint, additional windows, and new desks for both students and teachers. While touring the school, we noticed Bible verses displayed prominently, and the school’s motto, "Work Hard and Fear God," serves as an inspiring message to all.

OU also runs a program in the school that teaches students about values and purity. We had the privilege of hearing from some students about the lessons they've learned through the program.

Returning to the daycare for our final visit, we helped feed the children one last time. After the children left, we surprised the staff with a lunch of KFC chicken, which they love! It was a wonderful way to celebrate and show our appreciation for this caring and dedicated staff, who share the love of Jesus daily with their students and the community.

We concluded our day with a visit to a local crafts market and an amazing cultural show featuring songs and dances from different Ugandan tribes.

Stay tuned for more updates!

2024 Uganda Trip Report #3

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Spreading Knowledge and Love in Kampala

Another glorious day in Kampala brought us the chance to make a significant impact. We delivered all the donated books and Bibles to the daycare, and they were blown away by the quantity. Operation Uganda (OU) opens its library to other schools without one, so these books will benefit many children.

OU also runs programs for older students, so we visited a secondary school (high school) to hear from students in the Shine program for girls and the Strength program for boys. Every one of the 1,500 students goes through this Christian-based curriculum. In the Shine program, girls spoke about their value, uniqueness, and how they are fearfully and wonderfully made, emphasizing God's immense love for them. The boys shared their experiences and lessons from the Strength program. It was beautiful and amazing to see these young people learning such empowering truths in a public school setting.

We ended the day by serving lunch to the daycare students, enjoying lunch with the staff, conducting workshops for the staff, and, of course, ending with afternoon tea.

Stay tuned for more updates!

2024 Uganda Trip Report #2

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Day of Play, Prayer, and Praise

We began our day at Operation Uganda in small groups, engaging in activities with the daycare children. We painted faces, played with blocks, read stories, colored, and enjoyed a fun game of musical chairs. It was delightful to watch the children pray before serving them lunch—it was the cutest moment!

After lunch, and once the children had finished school for the day, our team had the opportunity to minister to the Operation Uganda staff. To call this moment of worship, prayer, and veneration life-changing would be an understatement. We wrapped up our day with the traditional afternoon tea, reflecting on the blessings and meaningful connections made.

Stay tuned for more updates and please enjoy the attached photos and video!

From Helped to Helper: Chris Parker's Inspiring Journey with the KRL

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Article by Marcus Goodyear | Photos by Alyson Amestoy
Summary of an article from Echoes , The H. E. Butt Foundation Magazine

Chris Parker’s journey from seeking help at the SA Hope Center to working on the frontlines of poverty alleviation is truly inspiring. In 2013, struggling with the complexities of parenting and CPS involvement, Chris found crucial support at the SA Hope Center. Today, he works at the Kingdom Restoration Lab in downtown San Antonio, using his lived experience to assist those in need. His firsthand understanding of issues like lost identity—which surprisingly affects many—shows the importance of grassroots involvement and personal empathy in addressing poverty.

Our community survey indicates a strong desire to tackle issues like mental health, education, and homelessness, but recognizing the nuanced challenges faced by individuals like lost IDs is essential. Chris Parker exemplifies how personal experience can drive effective, compassionate intervention. To read the full article and learn more about Chris’s impactful work, follow the link to the HEB Foundation website.

Read Article

2024 Uganda Trip Report #1

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Warm Welcomes and Heartfelt Connections in Uganda

After two long days of travel, we were eager to experience Uganda—and what an introduction it was! As we drove through the gates of Operation Uganda’s (OU) Jordan House, we were greeted by the children in the daycare singing and dancing for us. It was an amazing and heartwarming welcome.

We then had the opportunity to meet the dedicated staff, share lunch with them, and hear the inspiring story of why OU was founded 19 years ago by Russell and Jenny Barton. After lunch, we ventured into the community where OU operates to meet families and offer our prayers.

We were deeply touched by the families who welcomed us into their homes and shared their hopes and dreams for their children and grandchildren. It was also profoundly moving to witness the great love and care the OU staff has for these families.

Thanks be to God for these blessings and connections!

Developing a Praying Congregation: Intercessory Prayer Guide

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

For Jesus, daily prayer wasn’t just a ritual—it was as essential as breathing. Through prayer, He discerned God’s will for His life and found the strength to counter the spiritual apathy, hypocrisy, and injustice of His time. As our resurrected and living Lord, Jesus promises to stand with us in our daily struggles. The Spirit He placed in our hearts calls us to turn to God in prayer, where we find comfort, support, rest, and peace.

Jesus beckons us to bring our joys, concerns, hopes, and fears before our loving and just God through prayer. In doing so, we become empowered for loving service to a world in need of healing.

Intercessory Prayer Guide Resource

We’re excited to offer you the 2015 edition of our **Intercessory Prayer Guide**, a condensed version of FPC Prayer Ministry’s “Manual for Prayer Intercessors.” This guide is designed for use by every member of our congregation, providing time-tested guidance and scriptural insights to help you pray more effectively for those in need.

Download Intercessory Prayer Guide PDF

Contents of the Guide:

The Purpose of Intercessory Prayer: Understanding why intercessory prayer is vital for both personal spiritual growth and communal well-being.
The Call and Characteristics of Prayer Intercessors: Identifying the qualities and preparation required to engage in meaningful intercessory prayer.
Scriptural Guidelines on Preparing for Intercessory Prayer: How to spiritually and mentally prepare yourself for the task of praying for others.
Public Prayer Requests: Handling and respecting the requests that come from our community.
Sample Intercessory Prayer Session: A step-by-step guide to conducting an effective prayer meeting or session.
Examples of Prayer Needs and Ways to Pray: Real-world examples to guide your intercessory prayers, making them relevant and impactful.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Intercessory Prayer: Understanding how the Holy Spirit works within and through us during prayer.
Scriptural Truths on the Importance of Faith for Effective Intercessory Prayer: Anchoring your prayer life in faith according to Biblical teachings.

Join Us in This Prayer Journey

We encourage every member of our church to embrace this guide as a vital resource. Through dedicated prayer, we will grow closer to Christ, support each other more profoundly, and respond more effectively to the needs around us.

By following the guide, you’ll not only enhance your personal prayer life but also contribute to the spiritual health of our congregation. Together, we can create a community deeply rooted in prayer, ready to extend God’s love and healing to a hurting and broken world.

**Download your copy today and let’s begin this transformative journey together.**

Discovering Stephen Ministry: A Path to Healing and Support

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a non-denominational Christian ministry that emphasizes our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as its keystone. Named after the first Christian martyr, Stephen, who was stoned to death for spreading the Gospel, this ministry embodies the Great Commission of Christ.

How Does Stephen Ministry Work?

For several years, Stephen Ministry has been a vital part of our congregational service at First Presbyterian Church (FPC). A volunteer caregiver, known as a Stephen Minister, is matched with a congregation member in need of support. Whether it’s providing companionship, offering prayer during ill health, or supporting someone through challenging family relationships, Stephen Ministers are there to help.

Stephen Ministers serve based on gender—women ministers care for women, and men ministers care for men. This ministry deeply values confidentiality; the identities of care receivers are never disclosed. Stephen Ministers don’t solve problems but instead offer listening, friendship, support, and knowledge of available resources. Typically, a Stephen Minister meets with their care receiver once a week.

How Does a Stephen Minister Help?

Stephen Ministers are not:

Counselors or therapists
Ordained pastors
Problem solvers

Stephen Ministers are:

Good listeners
Non-judgmental
Confidential
Reliable Christian friends

Benefits of Having a Stephen Minister:

Learn positive attitudes, healthy expectations, and a realistic self-image
Develop stronger ties with a caring Christian community
Understand the role of suffering in life
Accept and bestow forgiveness and grace
Start or strengthen a relationship with God

Stephen Ministers provide Christian support for as long as it’s needed, offering regular visits (usually an hour each week), listening, prayer, and referrals if necessary.

Confidentiality is Paramount

Stephen Ministry ensures that the identity and details of the caring relationship remain private. Allow a Stephen Minister to walk with you on your path to wholeness.

To request a Stephen Minister: Contact Rev. Scott Simpson at 210-226-0215 ext 212.

Considering Becoming a Stephen Minister?

Kenneth Haugk, founder of Stephen Ministries, reminds us: “Your presence is worth much, much more than words. Your presence communicates to the other that they are valued, precious, and beloved. Your presence brings not only the gift of yourself into the relationship, but also, in and through you, the gift of God.”

If you feel called to serve Christ through this ministry, here’s what you need to know:

What to Expect:

Training takes 20 weeks (50 hours of instruction) led by Rev. Scott Simpson and Rev. Dr. Joe Moore.
Recorded sessions are available for make-up on YouTube.

Training Topics Include:

Feelings: Yours, Mine, and Ours
Listening: The Art and the Practice
Process versus Results
Assertiveness: Relating Gently and Firmly
Maintaining Boundaries
Crisis Theory and Practice
Confidentiality
Experiencing Grief
Dealing with Depression

Apply for the Course:

Since 1975, over 600,000 people have been trained as Stephen Ministers, impacting countless lives and experiencing profound personal and spiritual growth. If you’re ready to answer this call, contact Rev. Scott Simpson at the church office.

Contact Rev. Scott Simpson at 210-226-0215 ext 212.

2024 Dominican Republic Trip Report # 4

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Our Inspiring Adventures of Faith in El Cercadillo

Written by Madeline Everson

Wow! We’ve done a lot in the past 24 hours on the DR mission trip! First off, yesterday afternoon we did VBS with the kids in the community of El Cercadillo. It was so great to see all the kids’ smiling faces as we played games and did dances with them. Then to see them so eager to learn the story of Jesus walking on water. They then made a craft to represent the story. It was the sweetest thing when one of the kids was so excited to show his mom the craft they did. It really showed how the Lord was working through these kids in the community to spread his word and have a better relationship with him.

We then had a delicious dinner of salami, sausage, mofongo, and yucca. After that, the debrief meeting was great. People talked about how they saw the Lord working through the kids at VBS, God sightings, and much more.

After the debrief, we played some more with the kids and I noticed something amazing about them. These kids live in a community where they don’t have much. They don’t have air conditioning, running water, or other luxurious things that we take for granted. But they always look on the bright side and have a very welcoming community. Their happy, smiling faces show how grateful they are for the things that they have and don’t just focus on the bad things, but instead on the good. They have something that our society in San Antonio, Texas don’t have. We have it much better than them and still focus on the things we don’t have. I can truly see the Lord working through this community in that way.

This morning at devo, we read from Matthew 6:19-34. It talked about how we always are focused on things besides Jesus, like money and clothes. Somebody also brought up that they struggle with comparison and Jesus said that we just need to be ourselves and not compare ourselves to others. That made me think about what I was talking about earlier and how the kids and the rest of the people in the community don’t care too much about clothes or money, or other things that distract us from Jesus. Hopefully, that helps them be closer to the Lord. We then had an amazing breakfast of pancakes with fresh fruit.

After that, we played football, kickball, and baseball with some of the kids at the field and I still could see the Lord working through them as the kids were having fun playing with the materials that they’ve only had for a year but even before that they just played with things they could find in the neighborhood and that again shows how grateful they are for what they have and don’t focus on what they don’t have. They realize that they have each other in the community and that’s enough.

We then had a magnificent lunch of corn, beef, chicken, and potatoes in some broth. After lunch, we just spent some more time with the kids. This has been a great trip so far and I’m definitely coming back next year.

2024 Dominican Republic Trip Report #3

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Faith, Fun, and Fellowship in El Cercadillo

“Que lo que” (Dominican for “what’s up”) from the Dominican Republic!

Wow! The last twenty-four hours has been nothing short of heaven on Earth. Despite spending most of our day yesterday under the rooftops of our home from rain, our First Presbyterian and Dominican brothers and sisters in Christ, were able to learn about the classic story of David vs. Goliath through VBS. Several members of our FPC family came together to re-enact the skit on the outside patio of our home, giving the community of El Cercadillo a first-hand reminder that “the victory belongs to the Lord”! The monsoon of rain that we experienced was as if God was giving us all a life lesson to have faith in Him, like David, to conquer the Goliath of weather that we needed to endure.

After learning about the importance of having faith in Christ, the children of El Cercadillo were given the opportunity to individually design crowns to put on their head. The smiles and joyful radiance that the children displayed on their faces as their finished crowns were placed on their heads, provided a foreshadowing of the glory and love that we will experience as sons and daughters in Heaven under Christ’s rule.

During the evening, as the rain began to subside, we were given the opportunity to take the children of the community to a local nearby field; only a short five-minute walk away. As we strolled through the puddles on the dirt roads of El Cercadillo, we were met by motorcyclists riding past us, neighbors greeting us outside of their homes, and a group of men playing a game of pool outside at a local hangout spot. When we reached the field, I was in awe as the green vegetation and mountains of El Cercadillo were seen in the backdrop of the field. The field was in between three to four houses. The field was an abandoned, overgrown baseball field, complete with two horses grazing on it. The children ran across the field playing soccer, volleyball, and any other creative games that they could play with our FPC team. It was a joyful bliss for everyone who was there having fun. The evening ended with everyone coming home to a delicious Dominican dish called “Pigeon Soup”. The dish contained pork, beans, and Dominican pumpkins mixed with rice. The meal was very delicious.

At the start of today, we began the morning with Pedro Kelly, a Food for the Hungry translator and talented musician, playing the worship song, “Breathe” (“This is the Air I Breathe”). We then dove into the scriptures of Isaiah 58, discussing the meaning of what true fasting appears like today. Afterwards, we made home visits to local neighbors in the community, getting to know the neighbors in the community, and prayed for them. We later assisted with the construction of a water well in the community by laying dirt, helping mix concrete, and having fellowship with the workers in the community. I don’t know what tomorrow brings but the Lord will provide for our team.

2024 Dominican Republic Trip Report # 2

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Turning Challenges into Blessings: A Rainy Day Reflection in the DR

We awoke to the pitter-patter of rain, the continuous rumble of thunder, or an equally loud snore. The morning devotional was constantly interrupted by the sound of water hitting the roof, leading us to split into smaller groups. Despite this change, our conversations were meaningful as we discussed what it means to be poor in the world yet rich in spirit. Many members shared personal testimonies of hardships they had overcome and how God’s generosity provided for their needs.

After the devotional, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast of oatmeal and fruit. As we prepared for our house visits, we were informed that the heavy rain might prevent us from going out. The downpour was so intense that we had to stay inside and watch the streets flood with red-tinted water, colored by the dirt. Nevertheless, we kept ourselves busy by playing cards and hand games, making bracelets, and getting to know each other better.

This situation was a prime example of our group facing an unexpected challenge and making the most of it. Although we don't know what God has in store for us, we trust that He will strengthen and empower us to be exactly where He intends. Despite the day's challenges, we turned our faces to God, who provided us with the wisdom and strength we needed.

Stay tuned for more updates from the field!

2024 Dominican Republic Trip Report #1

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Overcoming Nerves and Embracing Fellowship: Our First Day in El Cercadillo

As we embarked on our journey very early Saturday morning, it is safe to say many of us were filled with nervous jitters. I wondered about what the community would be like, and I even began to question whether I was qualified enough to spread God’s Word here. However, on Sunday morning I was overwhelmed with the presence of God during worship at the Church service the team and I attended. I truly believe God brought each one of us here for a reason, and I am positive His hand was on the team when we arrived and will remain steadfast throughout our time here in the Dominican Republic. God is the Creator of everything around us, and to think about how deep His unconditional love for us is awe-inspiring. Furthermore, it is a beautiful thing to witness the fellowship God provides for us which we are all experiencing through the warm welcomes from the people here in El Cercadillo. From the very first hour we arrived, people’s kindness glowed radiantly upon us. Though there are some language barriers, God’s love overcomes them through the many shared smiles and laughs present here. Building relationships with the people in the Dominican Republic as well as learning about their culture has been such a blessing, and I fully trust God will continue to grow all of us through our relationships with one another.

Stay tuned for more updates from the field!

Building Hope and Community Amidst the Heat: Yucatan Mission Trip Update

Tue, 28 May 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Greetings from the Yucatan Peninsula! Our incredible journey with the students from Young Life and the dedicated team at Yucatan Peninsula Ministry (YPM) continues to unfold in remarkable ways.

Today, despite the sweltering heat of 40°C (104°F), our team displayed unwavering resilience and commitment to our mission. Here’s a snapshot of our achievements:

Project Progress:

Rods for Bathroom Columns: We successfully built 4 sets of rods with Armex for the bathroom columns, laying a solid foundation for the structure.
Land Cleanup: Several team members took on the ardent task of cleaning the land, collecting 4 bags of garbage to keep our project site and surrounding community clean.
Column Bases Cast: With precision and teamwork, we cast the bases of the columns, ensuring they are sturdy and ready for the next steps.
Block Base Placement: By the end of the day, we placed the block base, setting the stage for wall construction to begin tomorrow.

Community Connection:

Beyond the hard work, we also experienced a spiritual high as we worshipped together with YPM and the local community. These moments of faith and unity remind us why we are here – to build not just structures, but relationships and hope.

Stay Engaged:

We invite you to stay connected with our journey. Visit our website for the latest updates and specific prayer needs from our teams throughout the summer. Your prayers and support are crucial to our mission’s success.

**Good job, team! Let’s continue to push forward together, building more than just walls but a stronger, united community!**

The Power of Prayer Across FPC: Making It a Way of Life

Thu, 02 May 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Prayer isn't just a routine; it's a lifestyle. At First Presbyterian Church (FPC), we emphasize prayer as an essential part of our faith journey. By dedicating ourselves to a life permeated by prayer, we not only align ourselves with God's will but also foster a sense of community centered on love, service, and genuine joy. Here’s how you can make prayer an everyday part of your life at FPC and beyond.

Prayer Throughout the Worship Experience

- Sunday Morning Prayer with the Ministers: The Deacons, Elders, and Covenant Partners are encouraged to sign up to pray with the ministers before the Traditional Services. The person is to be in the Robing Room 10 minutes prior to the service (9:20 AM and 10:50 AM). A short prayer with the Pastors starts when all are present or the Pastor says – go ahead. Please sign up for Summer 2024 by using the button below.

- Before Worship: Start by praying for our ministers and the congregation. Ask God to imbue the worship service with truth, boldness, and clarity, and that the message delivered will be received and acted upon with faith and a heart for service.

- During Worship: Use this time not just for personal reflection, but also to intercede for others. It’s a moment to pray for the collective well-being of our church family and community.

- After Worship: Take advantage of the dedicated individuals available to pray with you. This post-service prayer provides a space to address specific needs and thank God for the blessings of the day.

Prayer in Ministry and Community Activities

- Session, Diaconate, and Stephens Ministry: Prayer is foundational in these ministries, guiding their decisions and actions.

- Group Activities: From staff meetings and committee gatherings to Women of the Church events, choir rehearsals, and men’s prayer breakfasts, prayer enriches each assembly. Opening and closing with prayer not only centers the group but also strengthens the sense of community and purpose.

- Retreats and Family Gatherings: Whether it's a church retreat or a family get-together, these occasions are ripe for deepening faith through prayer. They provide excellent opportunities to come together in faith and service.

Mission and Outreach

- Local and Global Mission Activities: Prayer is crucial for the success of our mission work. It undergirds our efforts to meet the physical and spiritual needs of those we serve, both locally and globally.

Major Life Decisions

- Personal and Family Life: Whenever major decisions loom—be it regarding employment, finances, health, or other significant areas—turn to prayer. It provides clarity, peace, and the confidence that you are seeking God's will in every aspect of your life.

Integrating Prayer into Everyday Life

Start by incorporating simple prayers into your daily routine. Even something as familiar as the Lord's Prayer—"Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name..."—can transform your perspective and draw you closer to God.

By making prayer a priority in every aspect of your life, you’ll not only grow in your relationship with Christ but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from placing "service above self." Together, let's commit to being a community more oriented towards love—love for Christ, love for one another, and love for our city.

Special Days of Prayer

As needed in the life of the congregation, or the local or national community, Prayer Ministry coordinates the congregation’s participation in movements such as the National Day of Prayer and other prayer initiatives. Announcements of each event appear in the monthly First Press Magazine, worship bulletins, Ministry Guide, and other media.

**Join us in this prayerful journey at FPC, and let’s watch as God works wonders in our lives and the lives of those around us.**

Rev. Scott Simpson
Congregational Care Pastor

The Truest Form of Love: Marriage as an Act of Sacrifice

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 06:00:00 GMT

*You can watch the full session recording above or download the transcript at the bottom of this post.

For those who remember the cult classic *The Princess Bride*, one of the most memorable scenes is the wedding where the priest humorously declares, "Mawwiage is what bwings us togethew today. Mawwiage, that bwessed awwangement, that dweam within a dweam.” These lines, comedic as they are, hint at profound truths about the ideal of marriage.

Christian author Ingrid Tro once remarked, “There’s only one thing harder than living alone, and that is to live with another person.” And comedian Chris Rock lightens this truth by noting, “Many girls marry men just like their fathers, which may explain why so many mothers cry at weddings.” Ruth Bell Graham adds deep wisdom by saying, “A good marriage is the union of two forgivers.”

Through these perspectives, one can understand that marriage, while often seen through a romantic lens, is deeply grounded in the concept of mutual sacrifice and selflessness. Another insightful saying goes, “What you want in a spouse is one whose life's mission is to make you great and one who wants to make their life’s mission to make you great as well.”

Marriage as a Form of "Death"

The idea of marriage as "death" might sound grave, but not in the morbid sense. Rather, it signifies dying to one's selfish desires and living for the greater glory of God by serving the other. This concept, rooted in Christian scripture, particularly Mark 8:31-37, sheds light on the essence of a Christ-centered marriage.

In Mark 8, Jesus predicts His suffering and death to His disciples, emphasizing that the act of following Him necessitates self-denial and taking up one's cross. This idea of self-sacrifice extends to marriage, where the pursuit is not self-preservation but living selflessly for the spouse's benefit.

The High Call of Marriage

The call to marriage aligns with what it means to follow Christ. When Jesus foretells His suffering and death, He dismantles Peter’s understanding of the Messiah as a triumphant figure devoid of suffering. The need for the Messiah to suffer, die, and rise again signifies a path of sacrificial love—a model for marital relationships.

Jesus instructs that to truly gain life, one must be willing to lose it for His sake and the gospel. This principle profoundly applies to marriage: the true essence and joy of marriage lie in self-sacrifice and service to one's spouse.

Marriage: A Means to God’s End

Marriage should not be perceived as the ultimate end but as a means to God's greater purpose. If viewed as the ultimate goal, couples may mistakenly believe their spouse should fulfill all their needs. Instead, marriage is about meeting the needs of the other, reflecting the self-sacrificial love Christ exemplifies.

The Covenant of Companionship

In Genesis 1:26-28, God creates humanity in His image, endowing them with dominion over creation. The essence of being made in God’s image includes the capacity for relationship—exemplified in the Trinity, where Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in a perfect relationship of mutual love and service.

The narrative in Genesis 2 further illustrates that being alone was "not good" because Adam had no counterpart to reflect God’s relational nature. Thus, God created Eve as a companion for mutual reflection and intimate companionship.

Unity and Companionship

The institution of marriage, illustrated in Genesis 2:24, involves a covenantal pledge—leaving one’s family to become one with a spouse. This covenant is not based on fleeting emotions but on a permanent promise of companionship and mutual support.

Marriage as a mirror reveals both spouses' flaws, driving them toward Christ’s redemptive work. This mutual vulnerability demands honesty, forgiveness, and continual repentance.

Love as Sacrifice

Ephesians 5 elaborates on marriage by likening it to the relationship between Christ and the Church. Here, love is depicted as sacrificial and self-giving. Just as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it, spouses are called to love each other sacrificially.

Marriage, therefore, should reflect the gospel. It is a divine picture of Christ's covenant love for His Church, demanding that each partner lives redemptively with the other.

Living as God’s Ambassadors

In marriage, spouses are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), reflecting His love and grace in their relationship. This means prioritizing their marriage above all other relationships and engaging in selfless, God-centered love.

Conclusion: A Secure Identity in Christ

Ultimately, a fulfilling marriage is grounded in finding one's identity in Christ. Secure in His love, spouses are free to give rather than constantly seek to receive. Jesus's sacrificial love provides the foundation for this secure identity, enabling spouses to love each other genuinely and selflessly.

Marriage, then, is a profound journey of mutual sacrifice, continual repentance, and unwavering commitment. Through this lens, marriage truly becomes an opportunity to glorify God, reflecting His love and devotion.

Embracing the Reality of Marriage and Faith: Insights from a Pastor's Perspective

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Marriage is often discussed in lofty and romantic terms, but for those who have journeyed through its challenges, a different metaphor sometimes seems more fitting: marriage as a form of "death." This might sound harsh, but this concept offers profound insights into what it means to live for another person rather than for oneself. Watch the full recording of the session from our "Focus on Marriage" event or download the transcript at the bottom of this post.

The Concept of Marriage as "Death"

The idea that marriage requires a sort of "death" isn't meant to be morbid. Instead, it encourages couples to view marriage as an opportunity to die to their selfish desires and live for the good of their spouse. It's a radical yet transformative approach to understanding relationships.

The Transformation Power of Love and Forgiveness

Navigating the waters of forgiveness in marriage can be tricky. Holding no record of wrongs requires an understanding of how Jesus loves humanity. When Jesus instructed to "love one another as I have loved you," He set a new standard for love. Jesus loves without holding grudges, a model that can profoundly impact marital relationships.

In Romans 4, the doctrine of justification becomes a cornerstone for understanding this. It states that God justifies the ungodly, counting their faith as righteousness. The act of justification is not only a New Testament concept but is rooted in ancient scripture, as seen in Genesis 15:6. When Jesus forgives without holding a grudge, it begs the question: why should spouses hold grudges against each other?

Embracing Vulnerability in Marriage

Marriage often brings out both our qualities and flaws, and facing these can sometimes lead to fear and shame. These emotions can erect barriers between spouses. However, the gospel frees individuals to confront these flaws openly. When God looks upon believers, He sees them clothed in Jesus's righteousness, not defined by their sins. This understanding provides a foundation for honest and open communication in marriage.

A poignant example involves a woman who, despite working out with a friend for years, never revealed her marital struggles, which ultimately led to an affair. The fear of judgment often prevents openness. Breaking through this fear can lead to more honest and supportive relationships.

Understanding the Role of Intimacy

A critical but often avoided topic is the role of sex in marriage. The state of a couple's bedroom frequently reflects the overall health of their relationship. A healthy sexual relationship mirrors a healthy emotional and spiritual connection. Issues in intimacy often signify deeper relational problems. The key is mutual pleasure and selflessness—putting the needs of one’s spouse above one's own.

Proactive Communication

Recognizing emotional distance in marriage and initiating conversations can prevent minor issues from escalating. Asking a spouse if something is wrong and being available to listen without judgment promotes a healthy dialogue and strengthens the relationship.

Overcoming Shame and Isolation

Fear and shame, significant barriers in relationships, often stem from a fear of judgment. However, Jesus's sacrifice on the cross shows that He understands and takes on humanity’s shame. This realization should liberate individuals to confront their vulnerabilities, both in their relationship with God and with their spouse.

Actionable Takeaways

Direct Communication: Practice straightforward and clear communication.
Embrace Vulnerability: Share fears and flaws to build deeper connections.
Regular Check-ins: Frequently check in with your spouse to address issues early.
Model Forgiveness: Let Jesus's example of love and forgiveness guide marital interactions.
Self-Reflection: Continuously reflect on whether actions are self-centered and make necessary adjustments.
Healthy Intimacy: Understand that intimacy in the bedroom is often a microcosm of the overall relationship and needs to be nurtured accordingly.

Conclusion

Marriage is undoubtedly a challenging journey, but it is also an incredibly rewarding one. It involves continual sacrifice, forgiveness, and growth. Leaning into the lessons of the gospel can guide couples to love each other as Christ loves humanity—selflessly and without holding grudges. Embracing vulnerability, direct communication, and proactive engagement can transform marital relationships into deeper, more fulfilling partnerships.

In the end, marriage is not just about surviving together; it's about thriving together through mutual love and support.

Strengthening Marriages Through Faith and Practical Support

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In an ever-changing world filled with challenges, maintaining a strong, faith-based marriage requires both divine guidance and practical support. Drawing from practical wisdom and faith-based resources, this article highlights essential strategies and programs designed to foster healthy marriages and enrich family life.

For an in-depth exploration of these topics, you can watch the full recording of the talk or download the transcript of the session at the bottom of this article. Let’s continue to nurture our marriages and families together, guided by faith and practical wisdom.

Recommended Resources For Strengthening Marriages

"The Acceptance" by John Anderson:
This book is a staple for those looking to strengthen their marriage through faith. It provides profound insights into overcoming marital challenges and maintaining a loving, supportive relationship.

Love Reboot:
Designed as a weekend intensive program, Love Reboot aims to help couples in crisis. Offered quarterly in various churches and monthly by John Anderson, this program is highly recommended for spouses seeking to rekindle their relationship and resolve deep-seated issues.

Prepare and Enrich Program:
A comprehensive couple-to-couple mentorship that spans seven sessions, covering essential topics such as communication, finances, and intimacy. This program is ideal for both married and engaged couples looking to build a strong foundation for their future together.

Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey:
Managing finances is crucial for a healthy marriage. Muffin and Morris Camp offer valuable guidance on financial health, helping couples create a balanced and stress-free financial life.

"The Act of Marriage: The Beauty of Sexual Love" by Tim and Beverly LaHaye:
This highly recommended book delves into the beauty of sexual love within marriage, offering timeless wisdom and practical advice for couples.

San Antonio Marriage Initiative:
An initiative introduced by Nora and Carlos, focused on partnering with churches to uplift and restore marriages. They provide a plethora of resources available at samarriage.org for those seeking additional support.

Parenting and Marriage Guidance by Kristen Hatton:
Kristen Hatton brings her seasoned expertise as an author and counselor, offering unparalleled wisdom through her books, including "Parenting Ahead." She provides nationwide talks on parenting, making her insights accessible to a broad audience.

Key Insights for Marriage and Parenting

Parent Like a Farmer:

Parenting, much like farming, is a long-term commitment requiring patience, persistence, and a willingness to nurture growth even when progress is not immediately visible.

Redemptive Living:

Emphasize living a grace-filled life that prioritizes confession, repentance, and forgiveness within the family. By openly addressing mistakes, parents can exemplify the principles of the gospel in day-to-day life.

Proactive Planning:

Set your long-term hopes for your family’s spiritual and character development to guide daily decisions. Regular family meals and dedicated sibling bonding time are vital for fostering a strong family connection.

Understanding and Addressing Parenting Idols:

Recognize and confront the idols (like control, fear, or success) that influence your parenting style. Better understanding these influences can lead to healthier and more consistent parenting choices aligned with your values.

Pursue Your Kids:

Maintain undistracted time with your children and encourage open communication. Normalize difficult conversations and establish clear, loving boundaries to foster a trusting relationship.

Conflict Resolution and Prioritizing Marriage:

Successful conflict resolution in marriage often involves understanding the origins of conflict, which frequently stem from unfulfilled desires and expectations. By identifying and addressing these root issues, couples can foster reconciliation and maintain a strong, supportive relationship.

Financial Harmony:

Discussing and aligning financial priorities is crucial for avoiding conflicts related to money. Making joint decisions and maintaining transparency can strengthen your marriage.

Combating Peer Pressure and Setting Boundaries:

Parenting expert Kristen Hatton suggests strategies for guiding children through peer pressure, emphasizing open communication and proactive engagement. Discuss family values openly and encourage friendships and activities that align with these principles.

Conclusion

Strengthening marriages through a blend of faith-led, grace-filled approaches and practical support is both vital and attainable. The resources and insights shared above are designed to offer guidance and encouragement for every stage of married life.

The Women of the Church: Reflecting on Festive Spring Celebrations

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:00:00 GMT

The Women of the Church: Reflecting on Festive Spring Celebrations

Hope for Silent Saturday

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

“Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!”

Last year, after Easter services, a gentleman came to me with an interesting question. He said, “Jesus had the last supper on Thursday, died on Friday, and rose from the dead on Sunday. What happened Saturday?”

That’s a great question. Officially, the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is called “Holy Saturday.” It commemorates the day when Jesus Christ's body lay in the tomb after his crucifixion. It serves as a bridge between the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday, emphasizing themes of waiting, anticipation, and hope.

Even though the Bible tells us a lot about what happened on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the Gospels are silent about “what happened” on Holy Saturday. On Friday, Jesus told the thief next to him that he would be with him in paradise, and when he died, his body was buried in a tomb. People have argued that Peter gives us a hint that Jesus went to the place of the dead to proclaim the gospel of light to saints of old:

18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, (I Peter 3:18-19)

However, Biblical scholars have argued about the meaning of these words for centuries. (This is one of the verses that inspired the insertion of the phrase, “He descended into hell,” into the Apostle’s Creed.)

I have come to think about “Holy Saturday” as “Silent Saturday,” and each year I get more and more curious about what God was doing during that “silent” time.

When Jesus died, the whole world went dark for three hours. And then from that evening through Saturday, the disciples hid in fear while everyone else’s lives went back to normal. But, even though the Lord was quiet, I believe that God was up to something.

When a seed is planted in the ground, we lose sight of it but we know that there is a lot going on under the soil. Even as Jesus lay in the tomb, the seeds of resurrection were watered. In the stillness of the grave, God was preparing to bring forth new life and the proof is the Resurrection.

In the same way, I believe that the Lord is at work in the silent seasons of our lives. A silent season is that time following some type of suffering—a season of confusion following a tragedy, crisis, humiliation, or a death. The s ilent seasons are the times when it seems God is silent and the world has gone dark. We have prayed but have not yet received an answer; after we have suffered and still don’t have relief; when we are afraid for ourselves or the people we love and don’t know what to do. We are hurting, but everyone else goes on with business as usual.

But the Resurrection on Easter Sunday shows us that God is at work even during Silent Saturdays, and the good news is that the Lord is moving in the world, in our lives, in the church, and in the lives of the people we love even when we can’t see or hear what he is doing.

The Bible tells us that in the early days of the church, the Lord was moving ahead of the apostles invisibly, preparing the soil for the seed of the gospel to be received.

Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you… (2 Th 3:1).

In the same way, I believe that God the Holy Spirit is moving ahead of us --preparing, working, loving and answering prayer.

We believe in the promises of God, and that He is faithful, but we are waiting for those promises to be fulfilled. On Easter Sunday, it gave us hope for Silent Saturdays. The Lord not only raised Jesus from the dead, He gave us proof that He is the God who keeps his promises.

Easter Sunday gives us the hope we need on Silent Saturday. There may be a lot of time between pain and relief. There may be a lot of time between the prayer we pray for someone and the time we see God’s answer. But that doesn’t mean that Jesus isn’t working behind the scenes and beneath the surface.

Do we believe that our God brings new life from death—that the Lord is always at work, even when we can’t see what he is doing? Do we believe, as Isaiah wrote, that the Lord will give his people

… a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified. (Is 61:3)

Holy Saturday is a day of hope, because it is a time for us to remember that even in our darkest moments, God is present, working out his redemptive purposes. Does your life feel more like Crucifixion Friday, Silent Saturday, or Resurrection Sunday? Do we believe that Friday was the end or do we believe that He is working on Saturday and that new life is coming on Sunday?

Praise the Lord for His death on Friday
Praise the Lord for His resurrection on Sunday
And praise the Lord for His work we can’t see on Saturday.

Christ is Risen!
Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller

2024 WOC Luncheon

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

This year's Women of the Church Luncheon features a panel of guests discussing how we love the youth in our city through discipleship. The panel includes:

Gilbert Hernandez, CEO South Texas Youth for Christ

Annie Mays, Associate Regional Director for Young Life in South Texas

Kyle Bowden, FPC Director to Youth & their Families

Celebrations and Prayer Requests from YWAM North Africa

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

YWAM North Africa has shared some exciting updates and reasons to give thanks! God is actively working through their ministry, and they invite you to join them in celebrating these milestones and to continue supporting them through prayer:

Training Success: 28 participants have completed training designed for North African leaders who work with kids and youth groups. This program included Bible study training, leading to the formation of many new Bible study groups. Praise God for this fruitful outcome!
Multiplying Disciples: Through two Discipleship Training Schools (DTS) in another North African country, two local students are now preparing to staff another DTS this fall. This is a wonderful example of multiplying disciple-making leadership. Praise the Lord for this incredible growth!
Leadership Conference: Please pray for God's guidance and wisdom as the YWAM North African Leadership team meets at a conference geared towards building synergy and fostering partnerships in the region. May God open the right doors and lead them to fruitful collaborations.

Your prayers and support make a significant difference in this vital ministry. For more information about YWAM North Africa, a valued Global Mission Partner, please contact Lindsay Selli .

Let's continue to lift up YWAM North Africa in prayer, asking God to bless their efforts and expand their impact across the region.

2024 Stewardship Campaign Resources

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Dear FPC Church Family,

What is the GPS of First Presbyterian Church? What is our personal GPS?

This Fall, 2023, as we have looked at the book of 1st Corinthians, our focus has been on various aspects of the Gospel Solution—Paul’s directions to the church at Corinth, encouraging and correcting them, as they found their way as disciples. The Gospel—the good news in Jesus Christ, was their solution—their GPS for the journey.

How are we called as we journey into 2024?

At First Presbyterian Church, we’ve identified three aspects of our Gospel Solution. Our mission is to help people find their way as disciples by:

Loving Jesus Christ
Loving One Another
Loving the City (and beyond)

During this season, we are asking many questions to make sure we are on the right path. Are we fueled by gratitude? Do we acknowledge God’s goodness and generosity to us? Do we encourage one another? Build up one another towards the goals God intends? Who do we help, how, where, and with whom? How do we bring praise to God for all of this?

Our GPS directs us to:

Gather We come together to worship God and love and support one another.
Prepare We learn and grow through Biblically-relevant teaching.
Serve We love the city and the world through sacrificial service & multiplying mission.

May it be so.

In gratitude,

– Your FPC Stewardship & Finance Committee

Watch GPS Sermons

Download the GPS Brochure below.

The Historic Journey of FPC San Antonio

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 06:00:00 GMT

A Rich History Steeped in Faith and Service

Tucked away near the corner of Alamo and Fourth Street stands a testament to time, faith, and dedication: First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio. Its story began in 1846, a mere decade after the fall of the Alamo, when a Pennsylvania native and Presbyterian pastor, John McCullough, laid its cornerstone near Soledad and West Commerce. As the city evolved, so did the church, moving through several locations before finally anchoring itself at its current address.

Through the years, First Presbyterian has witnessed an array of leadership that sculpted its path, shaping it into a bastion of spiritual guidance and community service. Revered names like Arthur Gray Jones, P.B. Hill, and George Mauze passed through its pulpit, but it was under the visionary leadership of Louis Zbinden—spanning an impressive 32 years—that the church truly broadened its horizons, both locally and globally.

A Heart for Mission: Transforming Lives

Under Zbinden, the church's commitment to mission work reached new heights, leaving a lasting impact on San Antonio's diverse community. This spirit of altruism birthed numerous local organizations aimed at uplifting the homeless, the poor, and individuals with special needs. From Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) and the San Antonio Christian Dental Clinic to Mission Road Ministries and the San Antonio Metropolitan Ministry (SAMM) Shelter, each initiative echoes the church's foundational ethos of love and service.

One of the most recent additions is the Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL), located on the ground floor of the church. The KRL serves as a sanctuary for the underserved, focusing on restoration and community support—a vivid embodiment of faith translated into action.

Modern-Day Devotion: Continuing the Legacy

Today, under the pastoral care of Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller, First Presbyterian Church flourishes, constantly renewing its commitment to nurture faith, foster community, and extend unwavering love to the city of San Antonio. The church’s mission remains as compelling as ever—loving Christ, loving one another, and loving the city.

Within its historic walls, First Presbyterian Church holds more than just services; it holds a rich legacy that continues to inspire and transform lives. Its journey from 1846 to the present day is a living tapestry of faith in action, serving as a beacon of hope and love for generations to come.

The Art & Architecture of FPC

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 06:00:00 GMT

Discover the Wonders of First Presbyterian Church: A 6-Episode Study

First Presbyterian Church is a treasure trove of architecture, art, symbolism, and history. Join us for an enriching 6-episode study, led by Stuart Seal, as we explore the marvels of our church and uncover how God is in every detail!

In this series, you will delve into:

- The stunning architectural designs that shape our church.
- Artistic masterpieces and their symbolic meanings.
- Historical stories that have woven our rich tapestry of faith.

Whether you're new to our congregation or a long-time member, this study promises to deepen your appreciation for the beauty and significance that surrounds us every day.

Don't miss this opportunity to discover the hidden wonders of First Presbyterian Church!

Episode 1: September 8, 2021

Episode 2: September 15, 2021

Episode 3: September 22, 2021

Episode 4: September 29, 2021

Episode 5: October 6, 2021

Episode 6: October 13, 2021

Biblicus México Scholarship Program Update

Wed, 26 May 2021 06:00:00 GMT

The Biblicus México Scholarship Program embodies the Mission South Task Force’s vision of strengthening the bond between First Presbyterian Church (FPC), Mexican seminaries, the National Presbyterian Church of Mexico, and Presbyterian churches in South Texas. This growing friendship has led to four new students receiving a one-year, renewable scholarship from FPC. Each recipient has a unique story and calling, and we are excited to share these inspiring journeys with you.

Toribio Reyes

Toribio Reyes lives in Tabasco with his widowed mother and seven other family members. Currently in his fourth semester at the Sureste Presbyterian Seminary, Toribio has a heart for discipling youth. He is actively nurturing faith in the next generation by teaching a communicants class.

Check out Toribio's video to hear more about his journey and ministry focus:

Raquel Cahuich

Raquel Cahuich, a graduate of the Pan American School, has been accepted into an online graduate program at Calvin University. Raquel feels a profound calling to engage in family ministry, particularly with special needs children, and to serve as a teacher in the AMO program. The scholarship enables her to pursue this special call from the Lord.

Aarón Noh

Aarón Noh, a devoted husband and father of five-year-old Raquel, is in his fourth out of six semesters at San Pablo Presbyterian Seminary in Mérida. Aarón is dedicated to discipling a small group of neighborhood men and serves in a local church. His unique situation is further enriched by his wife's fluency in Mayan. Aarón is currently in need of an FPC prayer partner. Those interested can contact Kathy Scruggs at kathyscruggs@me.com for more information.

Call to Action

These students represent the future of ministry in their communities, equipped to make a significant impact. Your prayers and support play a crucial role in their journeys. We encourage you to watch their stories and become involved by praying for them or even becoming a prayer partner.

For more information about the Scholarship Program or to connect with a student as a prayer partner, please contact Kathy Scruggs .

Together, we can support these ambitious students in their ministries and continue to build strong, faith-based connections across borders. Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers for the Biblicus México Scholarship Program.

Celebrating Missionary Work: Stephen's Impact in Northeastern Uganda

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 06:00:00 GMT

The Antioch Partners (TAP) takes great joy in serving missionaries worldwide and witnessing how God uses these cross-cultural servants to advance His Kingdom. One such dedicated missionary is Stephen, who lives and works in a rural part of northeastern Uganda.

Stephen teaches at a theological college that plays a crucial role in equipping South Sudanese pastors. Due to ongoing instability and conflict in South Sudan, the college relocated to Uganda, making it a vital educational hub for many pastors. A remarkable number of Stephen’s students reside in refugee camps, while others make the challenging journey from South Sudan each semester to pursue their studies.

Despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19, Stephen remains deeply inspired and motivated by the unwavering faith, hope, eagerness to learn, and bravery of his students. Their determination to grow in their theological knowledge amidst adversity is truly inspiring.

Thanks to the support of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) for TAP, missionaries like Stephen are being used by God to strengthen and equip the global church, particularly in challenging contexts. We invite you to join us in praying for Stephen and his students as they continue their important work.

Your support makes a tremendous difference, and we are grateful for your dedication to global missions.

For more updates and ways to support TAP, stay connected with us.

Nuaulu Translation Project: Bringing God’s Word to Southern Indonesia

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT

175 years ago, First Presbyterian Church (FPC) of San Antonio took its first steps in the mission of translating and sharing the gospel. Today, FPC Global Missions continues this legacy through a partnership with Wycliffe Bible Translators, focusing on the Nuaulu people in Southern Indonesia.

For more information or to provide support, please visit Wycliffe Bible Translators .

THE PEOPLE

The Nuaulu people, residing in the lush tropical rainforests of the Maluku province, are one of Indonesia’s most vibrant linguistic communities. Living across eight coastal communities, they sustain their families through farming crops like bananas and cassava, hunting deer and pigs in the rainforest, and fishing the coastal waters.

Despite their rich traditions and strong adherence to traditional religion, the Nuaulu people have recently begun to witness the transformative work of God. However, a deep-seated resistance to external religions and the prevalence of sorcery blame contribute to a culture of distrust. In light of these challenges, the need for Scripture in their native language is more urgent than ever to fully convey the message of Christ and enable the Nuaulu people to share this good news with their communities.

THE PLAN

FPC Global Missions, in collaboration with Wycliffe Bible Translators, is excited to embark on a three-year project to translate key New Testament books into the Nuaulu language. The focus will be on completing the translations of Luke, John, 1 Corinthians, Philemon, and 1-3 John. These translations will be published on a Scripture app as they are completed, with the Gospels of Luke and John also available in printed form by the project's end.

Given the Nuaulu culture’s preference for oral communication, the translation team will adopt innovative methods to make God’s Word more accessible and meaningful. This includes the production of hymns and other Scripture-based media in Nuaulu. Additionally, a video will be translated where the Gospel of John is narrated word-for-word with actors portraying the events. The team will also work on the Nuaulu script for the film "JESUS," which is based on the Gospel of Luke.

THE IMPACT

The influence of this project is already palpable among the Nuaulu. For example, two Nuaulu women preparing to lead a home meeting for their church realized the significance of having Christian resources in their native language. Although they had access to Indonesian materials, they felt more comfortable and effective using Nuaulu resources. The translation team’s creation of a Christmas devotional book in Nuaulu filled them with joy and anticipation for the upcoming Bible materials.

CALL TO ACTION

Your prayers and support are crucial in helping the Nuaulu people gain access to God’s Word in their heart language. Join us in this transformative journey by contributing to the Nuaulu Translation Project. Together, we can make a lasting impact and bring the message of Christ to a community eager to embrace it.

Partnering in Faith: Genesis Presbyterian Church

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT

The Mission South Task Force of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) is deeply grateful to collaborate with seminaries, ministries, and churches across Mexico and along the border. Our focus is on advancing the gospel and equipping and empowering emerging leaders. One of our cherished partners in this endeavor is Genesis Presbyterian Church in Mercedes, TX, led by Pastor Hector Reynoso.

Overcoming Challenges in the Rio Grande Valley

The Rio Grande Valley has faced significant challenges in recent times, including the impacts of COVID-19 and devastating hurricanes. Despite these obstacles, Pastor Héctor Reynoso has steadfastly continued to share God's word through weekly online sermons. He has also encouraged families within the community to engage in meaningful conversations and support one another through prayer.

Genesis Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon of hope in this region. It is a vibrant, multigenerational, multicultural, and bilingual Hispanic church with dedicated focuses on discipleship and evangelism, ministry to the elderly, outreach to younger generations, and hosting mission and activity groups.

A New Beginning

In a remarkable step forward, Genesis Presbyterian Church is poised to break ground on their new church building this November. This milestone is made possible by the generous support of FPC, and we are thrilled to see the congregation grow and thrive in their new space.

Prayer Requests

We invite you to join us in prayer for several key aspects of this partnership and community:

- Pray for the Rio Grande Valley , particularly for those suffering from poor health and those vulnerable to the virus due to an economy not easily adaptable to remote work.

- Pray for Pastor Hector Reynoso and his ministry , as they continue to navigate and uplift their community through faith and prayer.

We are incredibly grateful to God for allowing us to walk alongside Genesis Presbyterian Church as friends and ministry partners. Together, we trust in His provision and guidance to bring hope and transformation to the Rio Grande Valley.

**For more updates and ways to support Genesis Presbyterian Church, stay connected with us.**

Ashraf Abdou – Serving with YWAM North Africa

Sat, 09 May 2020 06:00:00 GMT

Ashraf Abdou is a valued Global Missions Partner at First Presbyterian Church (FPC) serving with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) North Africa. He and his dedicated team are committed to equipping, discipling, and caring for Christian leaders in the North African region. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashraf and his team have found creative ways to maintain and even expand their mission.

Continuing the Mission Amidst COVID-19

While the pandemic has halted much of their travel to North Africa, it has not hindered their impactful ministry. From their home base in Southern Spain, they have continued to host Discipleship Training Schools (DTS) and outreaches. By leveraging virtual platforms, the YWAM North Africa Team has stayed in touch with former DTS graduates, conducting weekly Bible studies, prayer sessions, and providing much-needed encouragement.

These weekly virtual gatherings have not only supported former students but have also become a gateway for reaching new believers and even skeptics. Graduates are inviting friends to join, expanding the reach of the gospel in unexpected ways. Ashraf is now planning a virtual training session for other school leaders, aiming to further equip and empower those committed to spreading God’s word.

Prayer Support and Future Plans

The Abdou family faces their own set of challenges and blessings. Homeschooling their three children has been a significant undertaking. They are grateful for the prayers and support from their FPC family and look forward to the time when Ashraf can resume his travels to North Africa.

Your prayers are indispensable. Please join us in praying for:
- The Abdou family as they homeschool their children.
- The virtual training sessions, that they may be fruitful and reach many.
- A swift and safe return to in-person ministry in North Africa.

Stay Connected

For more information about Ashraf Abdou and YWAM North Africa, or to explore ways you can support their mission, please contact our Missions Ministry or visit gosahara.org .

Your support and prayers help sustain and grow this vital work, bringing hope and encouragement to Christian leaders and new believers in North Africa.

Heritage in Mission

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 06:00:00 GMT

The purpose of this heritage presentation is to stir interest, recollections, intergenerational dialogue, new research, and most of all, to inspire personal engagement. Accounts included represent only a small sample of FPC ministry and mission stories of the past 173 years. For every wonderful story of a pastor, participant, missionary, outreach ministry or partner referenced herein, the editorial team is fully aware that many more important stories shape our heritage. First Presbyterian Church is truly blessed by the abundant opportunities God has given us for service.

Heritage in Mission Timeline

8 Powerful Displays of Prayer in the Bible: How can changing your posture intensify your prayer life?

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Used by permission. By authors Alex and Stephen Kendrick.

Is it necessary to bow when we pray? Should we lift our hands and kneel?

The answer is simple: prayer is not dependent on body positions.

God’s clear emphasis is not on externals but on the heart. Yet He’s created us to be a complete, unified whole—body, soul and spirit. All of our various components feed and affect all the others.

We hear of professional golfers who study with coaches to make even slight alterations in their stance or grip, hoping to achieve another fifteen yards off the tee or better control around the greens. How much more should we study the Word to see how our posture might intensify our praying?

1. Bowing

To bow is a physical expression of honor and allegiance. The action of bowing is associated with worship. Even just the bowing of our heads communicates to our mind that we’re addressing the One to whom we’ve pledged our complete loyalty. When the Lord came down in a cloud around Moses on Mount Sinai, "Moses made haste to bow low toward the earth and worship" (Exod. 34:8). King David, centuries later, said, "As for me . . . I will bow down in reverence for You" (Ps. 5:7). Bowing is an appropriate posture of prayer.

2. Kneeling

Many other biblical references speak of dropping to our knees in prayer. Solomon’s monumental prayer at the dedication of the temple was given while he "knelt down in front of the entire congregation of Israel" (2 Chron. 6:13). Daniel, even at the risk of death for defying the king’s order against praying to anyone other than the king himself, continued kneeling three times a day at the open window of his home, "praying and giving thanks before his God" (Dan. 6:10). And one day, we’re told, "every knee will bow" before Christ—"in heaven and on earth and under the earth" (Phil. 2:10)—even those who refused to kneel before Him.

3. Lying Prostrate

Sometimes bowing our heads or bowing on our knees still doesn’t quite reflect the devotion we intend. When Ezra the priest gave an all-morning, public reading of the law to the returned exiles in Jerusalem, "they bowed low and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground" (Neh. 8:6). Jesus, agonizing in the Garden of Gethsemane before His torture and death, "fell on His face and prayed" (Matt. 26:39). And when John later saw Him in His resurrected, glorified form — as described in the apostle’s Revelation on the island of Patmos — he admitted he "fell at His feet like a dead man," totally prostrate before the power of God (Rev. 1:17).

4. Lifted Hands

Many prayers from Scripture were made with uplifted hands. The idea of folding our hands, while meaningful, is actually more recent in history. But the Bible does talk about raising our hands—"the lifting up of my hands as the evening offering" (Ps. 141:2). Paul said, "I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension" (1 Tim. 2:8). Both Solomon and Ezra, whom we mentioned earlier, prayed while falling to their knees and lifting their hands—at the same time—a position of total, physical worship and praise.

5. Lifted Eyes

While closing our eyes is a good way of limiting distractions and maintaining focus in prayer, a common biblical expression was lifting the eyes toward heaven, like when Jesus "raised His eyes" before praying at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:41), or when "looking up to heaven" as He blessed the five loaves and two fish before multiplying them for the crowd of five thousand (Luke 9:16).

6. Silence

Beyond physical postures, what we do with our voices in prayer is also important. Sometimes the best thing we can do in prayer is be still and know that He is God, without saying a word (Ps. 46:10). When awed and amazed, one is often in silence. When Hannah prayed in anguish for God to give her a child, "she was speaking in her heart, only her lips were moving, but her voice was not heard" (1 Sam. 1:13). No one could hear her silent prayer, but God heard and answered.

7. Lifted Voices

Along with lifted hands and lifted eyes, the Bible also exhorts us to lift our voices to the Lord in prayer. "Give ear to my voice when I call to You," David prayed (Ps. 141:1). "My voice rises to God, and He will hear me" (Ps. 77:1).

8. Crying Out

"Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud" (Ps. 55:17). This crying out is a frequent descriptor of prayers spoken in the Bible. Jesus, we’re told, during His life on the earth, "offered prayers and appeals with loud cries and tears to the One who was able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence" (Heb. 5:7). Various translations of the original words for crying out carry the idea of shrieking in pain, or making a sound like an animal in danger, or wailing with deep emotion of spirit. It’s intense and loud. Heavy and heartfelt. Nearly half of the times when John’s Revelation talks about words being spoken in heaven, they’re explicitly identified as a "loud voice"—20 times in its 22 chapters.

Again, posture isn’t everything. It’s not mandatory or specifically prescribed. But we all can identify the difference, can’t we, between the prayers we make while flat on our backs, fighting sleep—and the prayers we make while deliberately kneeling, or raising our hands, or speaking aloud.

Our body sends signals to the rest of our system, reminding us we’re truly in His presence. Truly dependent on Him. Truly His servant. Truly worshipful. And if anything can help us stay this anchored and concentrated on Him, can it really be insignificant?

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