Monday, August 31, 2020
A great day: Gathering as a congregation
 
Whether you connected with us 'virtually' via our Facebook livestream, or joined us in person for our outside service, it was wonderful to have everyone gathered together at one time for our Combined worship service yesterday.

It took many hands to make the day come together, so we want to thank the Worship Committee, Music Director David Macbeth, the tech team of Kyle Steele and Aaron Kapes, the FPC facilities team, and many volunteers.

And thanks to the photographic contributions of David Macbeth, Rich Gorton, Al Philpotts, Deb Philpotts and Rebecca Angione, here are a few images from the day:
Rebecca Ripley was our guest vocalist, singing several numbers with our Contemporary ensemble.
The vantage point from the tech crew's station.
Safely - and strategically - spaced to enjoy a beautiful morning outside.
Each person brought their own chairs, masks, and other 'comfort' items!
Rev. Austin said he was happy to look out at so many friendly faces again (at least the parts he could see above the masks!).
The tech crew took on several new challenges, and delivered in fine fashion.
In this photo you can see the chalk marks that create the individual 'pods' for each household.
David Macbeth, right, tied all the pieces together for the music and technology.
The service included a special presentation by Elder Polly Beste and Rev. Austin, who revealed First Presbyterian's newly-designed logo. Kari Keyock of Imagevolution took comments from many, many conversations at FPC as she crafted several new designs. She was ultimately inspired by the cross on top of the building's spire - as a nod to the church's history - coupled with a fresh, 'forward looking' appeal for our new design.

You will start to see our new logo appearing in our publications, online and in signage over the coming months.
NEW PROGRAM FOR SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN TO START

As was mentioned during yesterday's service, we are working to offer a new program for school-age children and their families.

Families with students entering Kindergarten – grade 5, and who are enrolled in a Bethlehem Area School District hybrid program, will have an option for their “Online Learning” days: First Pres is offering a new School-Age Program to provide a safe, home-away-from-home alternative.
 
The new program will be offered in our Children's Center, following PA Health and Human Services COVID-19 Guidelines for Schools, in a safe, child-friendly setting with indoor and outdoor spaces.

Children will attend on their designated Online Learning days, and receive assistance to participate in the online learning offered by BASD teachers. Children will also be inspired with interesting and challenging classroom activities, along with art, sports, and outdoor explorations.

We are currently hiring for several part-time teacher/facilitator and assistant positions. Education and experience requirements vary for the positions, but all applicants must have experience working with school-age children.

For more information, contact Andie Barbehenn at abarbehenn@fpc-bethlehem.org.