A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER OF F IRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, GREENVILLE , SC

Volume 8, No. 52 December 25–31, 2011

Ministry News

Calendar for the Week

The Academy, Michael EverhartACADEMY OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 10

You are invited to The Academy Preschool and Elementary Open House on Tuesday, January 10, 9:00–11:00am and 5:00–7:00pm. In the 2012-2013 school year, The Academy will serve children ages 2 through 5th grade. For details, contact The Academy at 235.0122.

Activities Ministry, Lindsay GrahamHOLIDAY BASKETBALL SCHEDULE

No Basketball games or practices will be held Tuesday, December 20, through Sunday, January 1. Practices and games will resume on Monday, January 2.

Educational Ministries, Tim LeslieWEDNESDAY ADVANTAGE BEGINS JANUARY 4

Wednesday Advantage, FPC’s Wednesday class and choir program for all ages, begins its second semester on Wednesday, January 4. Come for dinner in Fellowship Hall (served 5:15–6:30pm), and then choose one of many exciting classes to help you grow spiritually. Wednesday Advantage brochures, listing all classes, times, and locations for adults, youth, and children, are available in the church literature racks and at FirstPresGreenville.org/wednesdayadvantage.htm. For more infor-mation, contact Charlotte Joye at 672.0309 or cjoye@firstpresgreenville.orgLuncheon Bible Study begins January 4 as well. Lunch is served at 11:30am, with a study of 1 Samuel by Dr. Richard Gibbons following at 12:30pm.

1 SAMUEL WITH DR. RICHARD GIBBONSJourney back with us to some of the earliest days in the history of ancient Israel. Watch while Samuel fulfills the eternal purposes of God by being recognized as the voice of God for his generation. Samuel showed remarkable courage, outstanding faith, and unprecedented skill in his prophetic role. The lessons for us are monumental. Join us as we encounter afresh the hand of God on his most unlikely servant. This study is offered at 12:30pm and 6:30pm on Wednesdays beginning January 4.

THE TRUTH PROJECT COMING IN JANUARYMany Christians do not experience a personal sense of significance. They spend their time and money on things that fail to satisfy and then wonder what life’s ultimate purpose really is. To help us find the relevance and importance of living the Christian worldview in daily life, First Pres is offering The Truth Project, facilitated by Barbara Stueben beginning the second week of January. Class size will be limited, so interested persons should contact Barbara as soon as possible at bstueben@att.net or at 292.6871.

CONFIRMATION CLASS FOR GRADES 6–8Beginning January 4 during Wednesday Advantage (5:30–6:15pm), students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to attend Confirmation Class in order to confirm their baptism. This class helps the student to consider the claims of Christ Jesus and the Christian Church, the truths of the gospel, and the call to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The class will conclude on March 21 and students may come before the Session as early as Sunday, March 25, to join as active members of FPC. Please register with Charlotte Joye, cjoye@firstpresgreenville.org or 672.0309.

Evangelism and Missions, Brian StewartCONSIDERING MEMBERSHIP AT FIRST PRES?

The next First Look new member class series for those interested in membership at FPC will be held Sundays, January 15, 22, and 29, 9:40–10:50am in the Parlor. Contact Chuck Emory, New Member Coordinator, for more details (cemory@firstpresgreenville.org or 672.1753). Register with Beverley Alberson (balberson@firstpresgreenville.org or 672.1754) by Friday, January 6.

ALPHA: INQUIRY INTO THE CHRISTIAN FAITHFacilitators: Angie Orfanedes and Sara MorrisDates: Wednesdays, January 11–March 28DVD Teaching: Room 316, 6:00pm–6:45pmSmall Group Discussion: Room 316, 6:45–7:30pmAlpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. During each

CHRISTMAS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25Pastor of the Day: Brian Stewart (423.2660) 11:00am•WorshipService(Sanctuary)MONDAY, DECEMBER 26Pastor of the Day: Stan Johnson (423.2067) Church Office closed – Christmas holiday

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27Pastor of the Day: Bob Jones (313.5869) 6:30pm•WorshipTeamRehearsal(FellowshipHall) 7:00pm•HealingPrayer/Communion(HarperChapel)WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28Pastor of the Day: Bob Jones (313.5869) 7:00am•LifeMen’sBibleStudy(Offcampus) 9:30am•PrayerCommittee(Room310) 7:45pm•YoungAdultsPick-upBasketball(Gym)THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29Pastor of the Day: Tim Leslie (423.2063)FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30Pastor of the Day: Tim Leslie (423.2063) 10:00am•BulletinStuffing(Room212)SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31Pastor of the Day: Phil Hargrove (423.3455)

session, you’ll enjoy laughter and learning in a fun and friendly atmosphere where no question about life or God is seen as too simple or too hostile. Questions like—Is there a God? Why am I here? Where did I come from? Where am I going? Alpha is for anyone! Participants from all backgrounds, religions, and viewpoints are welcome. To register, contact Beverley Alberson at balberson@firstpresgreenville.org or 672.1754.

Marriage & Family and Men’s Ministries, Bob JonesMEN’S IMPACT WEEKEND MARCH 2-3, 2012

Save the date! The Men’s Impact Weekend, March 2-3 at the Cove in Asheville, NC, will offer fun, fellowship, worship, and adventure. For more details, visit FirstPresGreenville.org/mensimpactweekend.html. Gift certificates are available in the Vineyard.

Prayer MinistryPRAYER AND COMMUNION DECEMBER 28

The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper (gluten-free) will be observed this Tuesday evening, December 28, at 7:00pm in Harper Chapel during the Tuesday evening prayer service. You are cordially invited to come aside for this quiet time of prayer.

Senior Adult Ministry, Pam ColeELDERBERRIES SENIOR ADULTS JANUARY 3

The next meeting of the Elderberries (age 55 and older) is Tuesday, January 3, at 11:30am in Fellowship Hall. Judge John Kittredge will speak on “The Trial of Christ.” The program is free; lunch is $7. For information, call Pat Browning at 313.8004.

Women’s MinistrySAVE THE DATE: WINTER WAKE-UP! JANUARY 21

All women are invited to our Winter Wake-Up! mini-retreat on Saturday, January 21, 9:00am–12:00pm in Fellowship Hall. You’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and delightful seminars.

AnnouncementsSTEWARDSHIP UPDATE

Thank you! to all who have turned in their commitment cards for 2012. Through Sunday, December 18, we have received 514 commitments for a total of $2,789,572, which represents 60 percent of our total budget. If you have not turned in a commitment card for 2012, please do so soon. Also, please remember that all gifts to the church must be received by 5:00pm on Friday, December 30, to receive contribution credit this year. There are many ways to donate, including checks, cash, stock, and online at FirstPresGreenville.org. If you have questions about your giving for the year, please contact Cheryl Craig at 672.0374.

OFFICER RECOMMENDATIONSTo submit recommendations for Class of 2015 Elders and Deacons, visit FirstPresGreenville.org and click on the home page banner; email Lynn Johnson at ljohnson@firstpresgreenville.org; or fill out and turn in the form found in your Sunday bulletin. Recommendations are due January 29.

Honors & MemorialsCHURCH MEMORIAL FUNDIn loving memory of:Jane H. Coleman by Mr. and Mrs. James L. Effefson.FLOWER FUNDIn loving memory of:Carmen Upchurch by Mrs. Mary U. Adams; Mr.

Charlie Upchurch.JOHN BRADFORD EDWARDS MEMORIAL FUNDIn loving memory of:Brad Edwards by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Roberts.PLAYGROUND FUNDIn loving memory of:Mr. and Mrs. James Perry Aiken by Mary Lane

Strickland.Sherry Thackston by Mary Lane Strickland.TURNER MEMORIAL FUNDIn honor of:Joan Deifell by Mrs. Cema Powell.Mareon Stall by Mrs. Cema Powell.

Member NewsCONGRATULATIONSThe Pastors and Congregation extend blessings to:Mr. and Mrs. Zeke Lollis (Tyner) on the birth of a

daughter, Adleigh Mae Lollis, on December 13, and to grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Bill Ray (Sherry).

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Meister (Mary Frances) on the birth of a daughter, Tinsley Jane Meister, on December 14.

Mr.andMrs.JustinBolli(Amy) on the birth of a son, Brayden Michael Bolli, on December 14, and to grandfather Dr. Rob Wood.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHYThe Pastors and Congregation extend sympathy to:Mrs. Doris Elmore in the death of her husband, John

Samuel Elmore, Sr., on December 14. Mr.andMrs.RoyElmore(Vickie)in the death of her

father, John Samuel Elmore, Sr., on December 14. IN MEMORIAM:John Samuel Elmore, Sr.

August 14, 1924 – December 14, 2011

Christmas is an almost magical time of the year. Christmas trees, lights, decorations, carols, gifts, and excited children all make Christmas extra special. At the very heart of all of the festivities, however, is the birth of Christ. A birth which utterly changed the course of human history and still transforms lives today. If you are genuinely looking to come face to face with the living God, invite family and friends and join us for services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24 5:00pm Children’s Service (Sanctuary) 7:00pm Family Service (Sanctuary) 11:00pm Candlelight Service (Sanctuary)

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25 11:00am Morning Worship (Sanctuary)

No other services or Sunday SchoolNew Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1

9:40am Ignite Worship (Fellowship Hall) 11:00am Worship (Sanctuary)

No 8:15am service or Sunday School

Sunday Worship Assignments for December 25th Prayer ListDECEMBER 25, 2011

CHRISTMAS DAY

11:00am Worship

A CHRISTMAS MESSAGERev. Dr. Richard Gibbons

Continental Breakfastand Sunday School

will resume on January 8.

Wednesday MealsWednesday studies and meals

will resume on January 4.

10:40 First Welcome Team: Dean Livingston (DC); Ann Buchanan (MH); Lee Shelton (P); Tommy Toler (CR); Meredith Rigdon (WCN); Darleene Lathan (RSMH); B.J. Pate (RW); Ken Chapman, Tim Delaney, Don Davidson, Rick Erwin, Hank Faris, Walt Fowler, Brian Garrison, Eddie Lathan, Dean Livingston, Joe Palmer, Mason Powell, Louis Vorhees (Ushers).

NurseryWorkers:(10:45) Kate Hellier, David and Tiffany Hammett, Melanie Sudduth, Jennifer and Chris Binder

To join the First Welcome Team:Contact Chuck Emory at cemory@fi rstpresgreenville.org or 672.1753.

To join the Nursery Team:Contact Evelyn Penkert at epenkert@fi rstpresgreenville.org or 672.1843.

200 West Washington StreetGreenville, SC 29601

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

phone 864.235.0496fax 864.235.0698

web FirstPresGreenville.org

Broadcasts:RADIO

First and Foremost Radio Programon Shine 96.7 FM

Sundays at 10:30am

TELEVISIONFirst and Foremost Television Program

on WHNS-TV FOX Carolina Sundays at 10:30am

December 25–31, 2011

WHAT’S INSIDE:

Women’s Weekly Bible StudiesWinter-Spring 2012

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services

Wednesday Advantagebegins January 4

Alpha: Inquiry into the Christian Faith

The Truth Project coming in January

For more information aboutthe ministry of FPC, visitFirstPresGreenville.org

Bold = New Italics = In Hospital

Andy Anderson IIIJulia Moore Bailey

Eddie BellengerBeatrice “Bea” Bennett

Chuck Burleson, Bill CaldwellMartha Clark, Sara Collins

Robbie Edwards, Linda EllisonRay Hollins, Mike Johnson

John Kabas, Mary Ellen KeathleyBettie Landreth, Tyner Lollis

Bill McLellanMary Elizabeth McNair

Lena G. Perrin, Neill PerrinArthur Phillips, Tatti Samuelson

Gene Rishel, Cate SimkinsMary Simkins, Bertha Mae SimsPaul Stoddard, Ruth Stoddard

Beverly Witt, Barbara Woodward

PRAYER REQUEST LINESPrayer Requests: 672.1838

Prayer Appointments: 672.1848Congregational Care Assistant Tammy Burkhalter: 672.0327

Complete Class Lists including descriptions

and contactscan be found in the

church literature racks and at

FirstPresGreenville.org/womensministries.html.

Questions?Contact

Charlotte Joye at cjoye@fi rstpresgreenville.

org or 672.0309.

MONDAYSDavid: Seeking a Heart Like His, a Beth Moore DVD study — 10:00–11:30am, Room 212, January 9–March 26

TUESDAYSHere and Now... There and Then, a Beth Moore Study of Revelation — 8:30–10:00am, Room 308, resumes January 3

WEDNESDAY MORNINGSMercy Triumphs, a Beth Moore DVD study of James — 10:00–11:00am, Room 212, begins January 18

WEDNESDAY EVENINGSSermon on the Mount, by John Stott — 6:30–7:30pm, Room 212, January 11–April 4

With All Your Heart, a video study by Ray VanderLaan — 6:30–7:30pm, Room 405, February 22–March 28Young Women’s Bible Study (20s to early 30s) — 7:00–8:30pm, January 18–March 28, Diana Orders’ Home

THURSDAYSThe Promised One —Seeing Jesus in Genesis, by Nancy Guthrie — 9:30–11:30am, Room 317, January 12–March 15

Am I Messing Up My Kids? by Lysa TerKeurst — 9:30–11:00am, Room 308, January 5–February 16Rebuilding Jerusalem and a Faithful Community — 9:30–11:00am, Room 301, begins January 5

Mercy Triumphs, a Beth Moore DVD study of James — 12:00–1:00pm, Room 308, January 5–February 16Childcare is available for Thursday Bible Study participants by reservation to Evelyn Penkert, epenkert@fi rstpresgreenville.org.

Women’s Weekly Bible StudiesWinter–Spring 2012

beginningJanuary 3rd