quarterly events calendar
DESCRIPTION
First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale's Quarterly Events Calendar for January - March 2015.TRANSCRIPT
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What’s InsideFeature Stories ........................................................... 3Special Services Schedule ..................................... 5Adult Activity Center ................................................ 6Adult Education Ministry and Small Groups, Discipleship and Spiritual Formation ................. 7Away We Go... Social Events ................................ 9Children’s Ministry .................................................... 10Happyland Day School ............................................ 11Mission Partnership ................................................... 12Music Ministry ............................................................ 13Women’s Ministry ..................................................... 15Youth Ministry ............................................................. 16
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Welcome Steve Wofford New Church Business AdministratorThe First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale family got a little bit bigger on Monday, October 27, 2014 when Steve Wofford began his first day as the church’s new Business Administrator. He was selected by the Personnel Committee to fill this role following the retirement of David Kramer who served in this position for more than 15 years.
Prior to joining First Pres, Mr. Wofford served as Church Administrator for the First Baptist Church of Tallahassee for more than 15 years. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a trainer in the church’s software program, Shelby Church Software. In addition to his employment within the accounting profession for the past 20 years, Mr. Wofford has been a member of several community organizations including the United Way of Hardee County and the Tallahassee-Leon Shelter.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Mr. Wofford and his wife Jane as they make Fort Lauderdale and First Pres their new home and as we embark on a prosperous new year!
First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale’s Thanksgiving Tradition Shared with All of South Florida Thanksgiving Basket Drive Mission Project Featured on Focus on South FloridaThe history of Thanksgiving at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale was shared with all of South Florida on November 23, 2014, when Pastor Dr. Russ Ritchel from the church and a representative from the Salvation Army were featured on CBS’s “Focus on South Florida” Sunday morning talk show. They told the story of how, for more than 60 years, the congregation has come together to make Thanksgiving a memorable holiday for those in the community who are less fortunate.
With more than 200 volunteers participating in the 2014 Thanksgiving meal drive project, including church members, members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and many others from the community, more than 700 families in need received Thanksgiving dinners. The church is grateful to the volunteers as well as community partners such as, Publix, FPL and Downtown Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale, for keeping this tradition alive and making the dream of a happy Thanksgiving a reality for those in need. To view the CBS segment visit www.firstpres.cc.
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Welcome Rev. Dr. Christopher J. Benek and His WifeBenek is the New Associate Pastor of Family Ministries and MissionThe Rev. Dr. Christopher J. Benek hails from NE Ohio and grew up in a family that didn’t regularly attend church. After his conversion in college, God has used him to bring his family and a multitude of others to Christ in remarkable and extraordinary ways. Dr. Benek holds a Bachelors (Political Science, History) degree from Hiram College and Master of Divinity and Theology (Ethics) degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary where he was also awarded the PTS Fellowship Prize for Religion and Society. He is the youngest graduate of the first cohort of the world’s first Doctor of Ministry program in Science and Theology initiated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Currently, he is enrolled at Durham University in England as a PhD. student where he is focusing his continuing education on technological futurism and eschatology. Dr. Benek has served churches in New Jersey, Ohio and currently joins us from sunny Hilton Head Island, SC where he served as the Associate Pastor for Family Ministries. Additionally, he is the current chair for the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery Leadership Development Unit. You can read more about Dr. Benek and connect with him on social media via his blog at www.christopherbenek.com. Dr. Benek and his wife, Jeannelle, have been married for 12 years. Jeannelle is a board certified Music Therapist and a classically trained soprano. They are expecting their first child, a boy, in mid-March. When asked about his future involvement with FPC of Ft. Lauderdale Chris responded:
“I am excited about God’s calling to First Church and the wonderful opportunity that it presents to grow God’s church both spiritually and numerically. FPC is poised in unique ways to reach out and to provide a spiritual legacy to all generations in the greater Ft. Lauderdale area. It’s my privilege and honor to enter into this partnership of faith and to join in this rich tradition of discovering new and transformative ways to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to a world so desperately in need of God’s saving grace.”
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Christianity and Culture Nights ContinueFocused on “The Power of One: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things,” the 2014-2015 Christianity and Culture Night Speaker Series and Enrichment Classes have featured the intriguing journeys of Dr. Fred Scarbrough, HOPE South Florida; Barb Burnette, HANDY; Jamie Amelio, Caring for Cambodia; and Andy Mitchell, Operation Lift Hope.
Join us for the remaining dates in the series and hear from the speakers how “The Power of One” allowed them to persevere and pursue their passions to change lives. Enrichment classes will follow each speaker providing an opportunity to explore your own dreams, giftedness and life mission while learning how to partner with God in daily living.
January 7, 2015Brittany and Joanne Young, A Spring of Hope [ASOH]The Power of Water February 4, 2015Barbara Grevior, PAWS Humane Society of Broward CountyHelping is a Must
The Speaker Series and Enrichment classes take place in the Study and Renewal Center at 7 p.m. Contact Rev. Dr. Connie Ast Caldwell at (954) 598-9312 or [email protected], or pick up a church brochure for more information on these and additional enrichment class offerings. Childcare is available on request - Contact Cindy Vason at [email protected] to make your childcare requests.
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A Message from the Pastor Dear Friends, This quarterly calendar of events at First Presbyterian is a tool for you to use. First, it is a tool for you to see the things the church offers in order to get involved. We know that the more people that become involved in a local church, the happier they are with the development of their spiritual lives and their church as well. Look this over for things you might plug into. Second, it is a tool for you to use to invite someone to be a part of the life of First Presbyterian. As you think about a friend, think about the things they might most like to be a part of—something you both can enjoy, then call and invite them to join you. The third way this is a tool is for you to look over our offerings to see if there might be a ministry you could begin that would fill a void. Perhaps you are equipped to offer a certain type of ministry. Make an appointment with one of the pastors about beginning a new offering. Using your gifts and talents is another way you can grow. It is my hope that your new year will begin with a fresh commitment to Jesus Christ and to serving Him as a part of this community of faith. Yours in His service,
Russ RitchelPastor
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Faith will Come Alive this Spring at First Presbyterian Church of Fort LauderdaleSave the Date for these Upcoming Special Worship Services Scottish Sunday Sunday, February 8, 2015 at 11 a.m.
Ash Wednesday Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at 7 p.m. Palm Sunday Sunday, March 29, 2015
Maundy Thursday Worship and Dramatization of DaVinci’s “The Last Supper” Thursday, April 2, 2015 at 7:30 p.m.
Good Friday Friday, April 3, 2015 at 7:30 p.m.
Easter Sunday Sunday, April 5, 2015 8 a.m. Sunrise service in Colee Hammock Park9:30 a.m. Contemporary service in Fellowship Hall9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Traditional service in the Sanctuary
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The Adult Activity Center offers weekly fellowship, entertainment, education, activities, fun and support to the senior adults of our church and community. A regular attendee recently said, “It is days like today that make us feel like we can live forever.” The AAC meets every Thursday, October thru May.
Weekly AAC Programs:
Morning Activities10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.Activities include a morning stretch, blood pressure screenings and Humane Society “animal guests.”
Program Hour11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.Some program highlights this quarter are: Rich Williams, President’s and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking, Dennis Ryan, Mikki and Bob Crosby’s Ballroom Dancing, Barbershop Quartet, Gold Coast Banjo Band and a Philip & Henry Magic Show!
Afternoon Activities1:15 p.m. to 3 p.m.Our afternoon activities include Wii Bowling, Line Dancing, Cognitive Enrichment, Let’s Talk small group, Movie Time, Educational Speakers and special classes.
Day TripsAAC Day Trips are once a month from November thru April.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates located in Fort Myers, FL Tuesday, January 20, 2015We will tour the homes, gardens, museum and laboratory. Lunch is at the beautiful Pinchers Restaurant located at the Marina on the Estate.
A Day in the Florida KeysTuesday, February 24, 2015The trip includes lunch at Jimmy Johnson’s The Big Chill in Key Largo and then a visit to the Theatre by the Sea in Islamorada, FL.
A Day in StuartTuesday, March 24, 2015We will lunch at the Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House and then visit the newly renovated Elliot Museum for a trip back in time.
The Wick Theatre & Costume MuseumWednesday, April 15, 2015Join us for a tour, a luncheon and a matinee performance of Oklahoma.
Senior Adult Ministry(Adult Activity Center)CONTACT: Tricia [email protected](954) 598-9344
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Adult Education Ministry and Small Groups Discipleship and Spiritual FormationCONTACT: Mona [email protected](954) 598-9345
Adult Education Ministry and Small Groups, Discipleship and Spiritual FormationBeginning January 11, 2015, Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m.
Daniel Plan Saint Andrews RoomDaniel Plan is a small group study centered on five Bible-based essentials: Faith, Food, Fitness, Focus and Friends. Join this inspiring study led by Mona Petersen and Michelle Walker.Approximate book and workbook fee: $25.00
Discipleship EssentialsChapel in the SkyDiscipleship Essentials encourages us to grow by using Jesus’ own pattern of disciple-making in a small group setting. Join Paige Brody and Herb Clark, and deepen your knowledge and strengthen your faith.Approximate workbook fee: $15.99
Just Walk Across the RoomSpanish RoomJoin Steve and Elise Stimpson on this journey into your own personal evangelism.Step out of your comfort zone and share your faith stories with others using Jesus asa model by drawing from His personal experiences. Approximate book fee: $20Beginning January 14, 2015, Wednesday Evenings at 6:45 p.m.
Beginning January 14, 2015, Wednesday Evenings at 6:45 p.m.
Crown Financial MinistryRoom 224 of the Neumann CenterCrown Financial Ministries takes an in-depth look at God’s plan for handling money and possessions. Discover God’s principals for sound, honest and proven results.Approximate workbook fee: $45.00/singles, $55/couples
Experiencing GodStudy and Renewal Center (The Cottage)Experiencing God challenges everyone to experience joy-filled living at its best. Join us for this amazing study taught by Rev. Dr. Connie Caldwell. Approximate workbook fee: $15.00
Overview of the New TestamentRoom 223 (Neumann Center Library)This overview of the New Testament looks at each of the four Gospels to see how the life of Jesus is told to us in different ways. The study of the journeys of Paul and his letters to the early Christians will help us understand how Christianity was spread across the world and how those letters still speak to us today. Join Mary Helen Merchant for this in-depth and enriching study.There is no book fee. Bring your own Bible.
Origins of Great Ancient Civilizations This group study is about the period of history from 3000 BC and gives a synopsis of the formation
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of military troops and writing, establishing alphabets, forerunners of law, etc., while providing background on the world around the Biblical world and art history. It is a gateway to further study led by Dave Clarke. No books are needed.
Pastor’s Bible Study for MenTuesday mornings at 7:30 a.m.Bininger RoomPastor’s Bible Study for Men, led by Rev. Dr. Russ Ritchel, will focus on Biblical text and ideas from Sunday’s sermon.
Men’s Bible StudyWednesday mornings at 8 a.m. and Thursday afternoons at noonNeumann Center Library, room 223
Ballroom Dancing Monday Evenings Beginning March 9, 2015; Intermediate at 6:30 p.m., Beginner at 7:30 p.m.Fellowship HallBallroom Dancing hosts Bob and Mikki Crosby will lead you through a time of fun and fellowship as you dance the night away!
Faith & Fitness GroupSecond Fridays of the month at 9 a.m.Colee Hammock ParkFaith and Fitness is a Daniel-Plan-inspired group that gathers to strengthen both the physical and the spiritual body. There are various activities for all fitness levels.
First Anglers Small Boat Fishing GroupVarious weekend days and timesVenue VariesFirst Anglers is hosted by a veteran group of small boat fishers from our church. Both experienced
fishers and first timers are welcome!
Happy Scrappers Scrapbooking GroupFirst Fridays of the month at 9:30 a.m.Neumann Center, room 224 Happy Scrappers join Mona Petersen and enjoy a morning of fellowship and creativity while scrapbooking - whether you are a newbie or a craft master all are welcome!
PickleballMonday evenings at 6:30 p.m.Holiday ParkPickleball is hosted by Glenna and Jeff Kuhlman. Additional times and venues will be added to the schedule.
New Member Class Series:Sunday, January 11, 2015, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., The Study and Renewal CenterSunday, January 18, 2015, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., The Study and Renewal CenterWednesday, January 21, 2015, 6:45 – 7:45 p.m. (Dinner is from 5:45 – 6:45 pm in Fellowship Hall)Sunday, January 25, 2015, 11 a.m. Worship
Childcare is available during all classes; reservations are required.
Women’s Bible Study: Acts – Seeing God’s Power in ActionThursdays (starting January 8, 2015) Chapel in the Sky, 3rd floor of the Neumann Center9:45 a.m. Fellowship10 -11 a.m. Bible Study11-11:30 a.m. DiscussionSometimes our lives can seem powerless, but it was not so for the people of the early church. Jesus transformed their lives, and they changed the world. Acts is the extraordinary record of what they did. The power that we see in action in this book is the same power that can transform our lives. Study Acts, and you will begin to understand what the Holy Spirit can do in you and in this world. Study guides are available for purchase for $6. For more information, contact [email protected], or contact Rev. Dr. Connie Ast Caldwell at (954) 598 – 9312 or [email protected].
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Away We Go... Social EventsCome one, come all, and bring your friends – there is something for ev-eryone! See monthly flyers placed around the church campus for detailed information on upcoming events including RSVP requirements. You can also visit the social events table on the Plaza each Sunday to sign up.
Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, Miami FLJanuary 31, 2015 The Honda Classic PGA Tour, N. Palm Beach, FL February 28, 2015 Sightsee on the Carrie B, Fort Lauderdale, FL March 21, 2015 Grand Finale - Royal Caribbean 3-night Cruise, Bahamas/Nassau June 5-8, 2015 We are taking reservations now for the Grand Finale Cruise.
Away We Go... Social EventsCONTACT: Rev. Dr. Connie Ast Caldwell [email protected](954) 598-9312
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Upcoming Events
MOPS
Children’s Sunday Morning ScheduleSunday SchoolPK3 children meet downstairs in room #109PreK4-5th Grades meet in room #214Children will be able to enjoy different workshops, such as Crafts, Bible story time, Games, Drama, and Bible based videos to learn and reinforce the same Bible story each month!Childcare is provided for infants through age 5.
Children’s Chapel11 a.m. in Watts Chapel
Marriage RetreatSaturday, Jan 17, 2015, 5 to 9 p.m. Fellowship HallMOPS sponsored Marriage Retreat with guest speaker Jackie KendallChildcare will be available by reservation.
Lil’ Miss Sweetheart Father-Daughter DanceThursday, February 12, 2015, 6 to 8 p.m. Fellowship Hall
Parents’ Night OutSaturday, March 14, 2015, 5:30-8 pmNeumann Center
Children’s MinistryCONTACT: Cindy VasonDirector of Children’s [email protected] (954) 598-9341
1st and 3rd Wednesday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Second Floor, Neumann CenterMOPS is about:• Celebrating Motherhood• Meeting needs • Making connections • Experiencing God’s love…. through relationships and resources
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Happyland Day Schoolwww.happyland.wsBack to school after winter breakJanuary 5, 2015
Valentine Bake Sale February 13, 2015 President’s Day - Happyland Closed February 16, 2015
Staff Work Day - Happyland Closed March 20, 2015
Happyland Spring Soiree March 21, 2015
Easter Egg Hunt March 27, 2015
Happyland Day SchoolCONTACT: Shari Cazel, Director [email protected] (954) 463-6051
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Mission PartnershipHabitat Bike Ride Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 7:30 a.m. All are invited to participate in this annual bike ride to raise money for Hab-itat for Humanity. Each sponsored rider can ride along any part of the route starting at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, up A1A to the Hills-boro Inlet Bridge and back. Following the ride, there will be fellowship and lunch at the church.
Habitat Collegiate Challenge Picnic Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 5 p.m.It is a First Pres tradition to sponsor a picnic in Colee Hammock Park for the college students who volunteered with Habitat for Humanity during their Spring Break. We will grill burgers and hotdogs and volunteers from the church will provide side dishes, desserts and salads. Look for volunteer sign up tables by mid February.
Mission PartnershipCONTACT: Kathy [email protected]
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The 2014-2015 Concert Series Continues This season’s concert series kicked off with a bang, drawing more than 400 guests to the October 26th concert featuring organist Chelsea Chen. You’re invited to enjoy the upcoming concerts in the series and share in the joy that music brings into our lives. There is no cost to attend the concerts, except for the Annual Kirk Singer Musical in March, but a free offering will be collected during each concert to help support the future programming of the Music Ministry program.
Westminster Handbell ChoirSunday, January 18, 2015 at 7 pm The church will host students from Westminster Choir College, Princeton, NJ, on their winter concert tour in our area. The ensemble performs on the largest set of handbells in the world and promises a spectacular program of all kinds of music. It is as exhilarating for the eyes as well as the ears.
An Evening of Stories and Songs: Ashley Lindsay, SopranoSunday, February 22, 2015 at 7 pmAshley, who studied voice at Northwestern University and sings in our Cathedral Choir and Contemporary Worship service, will tell us about the songs that inspired her to become a singer. She has sung Broadway, Opera and Oratorio, Musical Theater and sacred music here in our church. Her personal insights, as well as her beautiful voice, will make for a great evening of music.
Music MinistryCONTACT: Robin L. [email protected](954) 462-6200
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42nd Annual Kirk Singer Musical - “Bye Bye Birdie”Thursday-Sunday, March 5-8, 2015 The Kirk Singers will present their 42nd annual Broadway musical, Bye Bye Birdie, in two dinner shows and two theater-style performances. Tickets need to be purchased for each show and are available after February 1,2015. The times are as follows: Thursday, March 7 – 7:30 p.m.Friday, March 6 – 6:30 (dinner); 7:30 (show)Saturday, March 7 – 6:30 (dinner); 7:30 (show)Sunday, March 8 – 2:00 p.m.
Cathedral Choir Pops ConcertSunday, March 22, 2015 at 7 p.m.Back by popular demand, come hear the Cathedral Choir and members of the Symphony of the Americas as we present a concert of Pops music. The program will include a salute to our Armed Forces, great orchestral music, and choral Broadway hits.
Join the Middle School or High School Choir! The Chapel SingersRehearsals are on Sundays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room (September-May).All middle school students are invited! The Chapel Singers perform at designated worship services throughout the year, including the “Hanging of the Greens” service, and they present a “Jr.” Broadway show in the fall. The Kirk SingersRehearsals are on Sundays, 5 to 6 p.m. in the Choir Room (September-May).All high school students are welcome! The Kirk Singers (high school choir) sing in the traditional worship service every Sunday. One Sunday each month they perform during the contemporary worship service. Established in 1952, The Kirk Singers also present an annual Broadway Musical in the Spring as well as a national or international singing tour each summer. Contact Michael Sayers for more information at [email protected].
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Women’s Ministry Upcoming Events The Women’s Ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale is passionate about investing in the spiritual lives of women of all ages. If you are seeking Bible study, fellowship, small groups and more - we have it all! More information on the Discovering God Women’s Ministry is available on the church website or in the weekly bulletin.
Friends of Women of Faith7 p.m., The CottageJanuary 6, 2015February 3, 2015March 3, 2015
Tea & Table Talk in the Cottage 2 p.m., The CottageJanuary 13, 2015February 10, 2015March 10, 2015
First Thursday LunchTBD Offsite February 5, 2015March 5, 2015
Women’s MinistryCONTACT: Rev. Dr. Connie Ast [email protected] (954) 598-9312
Women’s Ministry Annual Spring LuncheonLauderdale Yacht ClubMarch 12, 2015
Women in Distress TBD
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Middle School Youth GroupSundays Evenings (resumes 1/11) 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. The Harbor and Fellowship HallFellowship for students in grades 6 through 8 with games, engaging activities, dinner, and Bible study.
High School Youth GroupSunday Evenings (resumes 1/11) 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.The Harbor and Fellowship HallFellowship for students in grades 9 through 12 with games, engaging activities, dinner, and Bible study.
Man NightMondays Nights (resumes 1/12) 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Location changes weekly This is a night for guys to be guys and will be led by Nic Merchant and Marcos van Dorn. It will include sports, video games, fellowship, devotion, mandles, pastrami, sau-erkraut, and more! The location changes depending on the activity for the week, changing weather, etc. To find out information for the cur-rent week, send a text to Nic Mer-chant at (954) 483-5124.
Girl’s Night OutMonday Nights (resumes 1/12) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Location changes weeklyGirls, do you have friend that you’ve wanted to invite to church and just haven’t found the right opportuni-ty? This is the perfect weekly event and is led by Ayla Kohler. Once a week, high school girls join together for fellowship, movies, glitter, food, sweets, and a ton of other stuff that men just don’t understand!
High School Huddle TimeWednesday evenings (resumes 3/11) 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.The HarborHuddle time is a weekly high school Bible study. Being Christian is a way of living your life. It is not a social group, a means to community ser-vice, or a matter of saying some magic words. At Huddle Time we will explore what the Bible (our authority on these matters) tells us about our faith and how we are to live our lives as witnesses to that faith.
Youth MinistryCONTACT: Nic Merchant [email protected] (954) 598-9361
Follow Nic on Twitter: @Nic_Merchant IG: @Nic_MerchantSpotify: Nic MerchantFacebook: First Pres of Fort Lauderdale Youth
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Middle School Sunday SchoolSundays (resumes 1/11) 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.Fellowship Hall (worship) & The Harbor (small groups)This is a weekly middle school Bible study. Being Christian is a way of living your life. It is not a social group, a means to community service, or a mat-ter of saying some magic words. We will explore what the Bible (our authority on these matters) tells us about our faith and how we are to live our lives as witnesses to that faith.
Homework at the HarborTuesdays (resumes 1/13) 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.The HarborHaving trouble with a subject at school? Need a quiet place to study? High school youth and edu-cators will be on hand to tutor or assist students who are in need of help. The Harbor has a com-puter lab with Internet access. If you are a retired or current educator and would like to volunteer, please contact Nic Merchant.
Get R.E.A.L. Parenting SeminarJanuary 24, 20158:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.Fellowship HallRegister today at http://www.livethelife.org/events/first-presbyterian-church-of-ft-lauderdale/
Confirmation Class 2015 Sundays (begins 1/25)3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.The HarborIt is almost time again for 8th grade Confirmation Class to begin. The first class will be held on Sun-day, January 25, 2015, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at The Harbor and will meet each week culminating with Confirmation Sunday on April 12, 2015. This class will cover what it means to be a Christian and, more specifically, what it means to be a Presbyte-rian, why we worship the way that we do, and how to further develop a relationship with God. Please contact Nic Merchant to add your student to this class and with any questions at [email protected] or (954) 598-9361.
Important Dates to Remember:Confirmation Class begins January 25, 2015
Souper Bowl of Caring and Youth Super Bowl PartyFebruary 1, 2015
Kirk Singer PlayMarch 3 – 8, 2015
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Worship Schedule 8:30 a.m.
Traditional Worship - Chapel-in-the-Sky (Third floor, Neumann Center)
9:30 a.m.Contemporary Worship - Fellowship Hall
(First floor, Neumann Center)11:00 a.m.
Traditional Worship – Sanctuary
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF FORT LAUDERDALE401 Southeast 15th Avenue | Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 | 954-462-6200
www.firstpres.cc .