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First Press
an online newsletter
May 2022 edition
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It was a road trip unlike any other I’d ever taken. My older brother, Stephen, had just been honorably discharged from the Navy, and was making his way back to our awaiting apartment in Lexington from San Diego, where he’d been stationed for the past two years. It was just the two of us, crammed in his 1997 Nissan Pathfinder, alongside his stereo, immense vinyl collection, and the camping gear I’d lugged through airports on my way out to meet him. We had a road map (this was before GPS was widely available), a few “must-sees” circled in yellow highlighter, and two weeks ahead of us. There were the towering redwoods, the face of Half Dome, the sunbaked arches. There was the snow in July at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas on the horizon that seemed never to get closer, and winds across the Kansas plains so strong I felt like the steering wheel was more akin to the helm of a massive ship in a gale. We had no plan, but we had a purpose. We had no answer to the question of what lay ahead, but still we had a focus. We were together, growing our brotherly bond, exploring places and ideas and unknowingly shaping our future in too many ways to recognize.
It’s funny, isn’t it, the ways that we can change and learn and grow when we are least expecting it. It’s funny how a seemingly benign word or action might strike a chord, or strike a nerve. It’s funny how directions can be charted when mere openness lies ahead.
In so many ways, this is where we now find ourselves, here at FPC, Oxford. It’s now been several years of change and loose ends that we have endured together. There have been electrifying ups, but there have also been shattering lows. We have shared some wonderful and some desolate times together, shaping our future in too many ways to recognize.
And while there is much hope and encouragement in the children spilling out of the sanctuary, in the multitudes of circles and small groups, book studies and bible studies, music ministry transformation, and in the abundant mission and outreach activities, it has been brought to the attention of the session that there is also, for some, uncertainty in what lies ahead. And it’s into this space—because we all have wonderful gifts to share and ideas to glean from each other—that the session of FPC, Oxford has invited the Executive Presbyter of the Presbytery of St. Andrew, Rev. Dr. Greg Goodwiller, to facilitate a conversation and listening session for our congregation in Fellowship Hall on Thursday, May 5th at 5:30 PM. The purpose of this meeting will be twofold: 1) to allow those individuals who recently sent correspondence to the elected leadership of the church an opportunity to further articulate their hopes and dreams for our church family moving forward, and 2) to invite any/all others from among our membership to take part in the shaping of a new vision for the exciting days of collective mission and fellowship that lie ahead. The session’s heartfelt hope is that this conversation proves illuminating, fruitful, and fulfilling for all, and we appreciate Greg Goodwiller’s openness to leading us in this endeavor. Furthermore, the session and church staff genuinely looks forward to “learning from you” as we seek to lead faithfully and answer God’s call in this exciting time for FPC, Oxford.
With thanksgiving for the faithfulness, generosity, and example of those who have so selflessly contributed to creating the firm foundation we enjoy today, may we look ahead with joy for a shared ministry that’s yet to be realized. So friends, come! Share in the conversation! And may we all renew our commitment to being that church we profess to be: A church that “welcomes you no matter who you are, where you come from, or why you are here.” After all, “We are Christ’s people, and this is Christ’s place with its doors open wide.”
With hope,
Barrett
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If you can't join us in person, join us for worship on Sunday mornings 10:55 am on Facebook Live. The video will go live on the church's public Facebook group. If you do not have a Facebook account, a message will pop up asking if you wish to join. Simply click, "not now" at the bottom of that message and it will go away. You may then enjoy the video as it plays live. Click here for the link to Facebook live
Online worshipers may now find the weekly bulletin on the church's website under the Online Worship page. Click here for the Online Worship page, then click the link titled "Weekly Bulletin."
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Ministry to the Farthest Pew
Unable to get to in-person worship? Missing communion? We will come to you. On the first Sunday of each month, elders and deacons will be extending the table to meet you, wherever you are. So if you would like to be included, please let us know. Just call the church office or drop us a line. We’ll look forward to seeing you.
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Lectionary texts for May
May 1: Acts 9:1-6 (7-20); Psalm 30 or Isaiah 61:1-3; Psalm 90:13-17; Revelation 5:11-14; John 21:1-19
May 8: Acts 9:36-43; Psalm 23 or Isaiah 53:1-6; Psalm 114; Revelation 7:9-17; John 10:22-30
May 15: Acts 11:1-18; Psalm 148 or Leviticus 19:9-18; Psalm 24:1-6; Revelation 21:1-6; John 13:31-35
May 22: Acts 16:9-15; Psalm 67 or Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Psalm 109:21-31; Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5; John 14:23-29 or John 5:1-9
May 29: Acts 16:16-34; Psalm 97 or II Kings 2:1-15; Psalm 2; Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21; John 17:20-26
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Sanctuary floral arrangements are available May 22; June 26; and all Sunday's in July. To provide flowers in honor or in memory of a loved one, contact Margaret Fancher at fancherm@bellsouth.net or call 662-234-1359. Contributions to the Flower Fund are greatly appreciated. | |
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Remember in Prayer
FPC Members: Thomas Wade Simpson; Ann Luckett Montgomery; Jeffrey Butler; Family of Stevie Campbell; Family of Nolan Waller, Family of Helen Scruggs, Family of Janet Barnes; Family of Ann Caroline McIntosh; Jerry Wilson; J.T. & Barbara Davis; Tommy Patrick; Marianna Ochs; Family of Lynton Dilley; Max Williams; Teresa Flautt; Lydia Moak; Michele Howie; Margaret Fancher; Family of Betty Mullen White; Joe Murphey
Family and Friends: Family of George Walker; Family of Gloria Smith Griffith; Valentina Iepuri and Ukraine family; Charissa Johnson; Sarah Luchin and Family; Sigrid Morrison Long; The family of John “Nat” Sumner, Connie Whelan; Lenoir Stanley; Family of Lauren "Lo" Chastain; Peter C. Wood; Doors of Hope Families; Bob Flautt; Lafayette County Detention Center inmates; Parchman Prison inmates; Haven House residents; Our Haiti partners; Oxford & Lafayette County First Responders; Community leaders
U. S. Military: SSgt Jason Freeland, USAF 4th Air Support Operation
Please pray, too, for those with unspecified needs.
If you wish to have a name removed or added to this list, please contact the church office.
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The FPC prayer chain is ready if you or someone you know is in need. This is a confidential list that is independent from the names listed above. Please contact Carlisle Wood at carlislewood@gmail.com or 662-832-8606. All requests are held in strict confidence. | |
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Anyone interested in an FPC member directory can call the church office at 234-1757. One will be printed for you. | |
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Adult Faith Formation
Adult Faith Formation has been waking up out of the slumber that Covid forced us into! Our team is so excited to be offering more programming's for our entire congregation to participate in. We have had several book studies this semester, including both online and in-person. Adult Sunday School classes have resumed and are enjoying great attendance. Bibles and Brews kicked back off in January and is meeting twice a month, averaging about 12 lively participants each gathering. Our first Pop Up Event for the year will take place on May 1st, where we will dive into the movie "Encanto" providing opportunities for children and older adults. We are listening to you and are planning more classes and events for the summer, fall, and winter. If you would like to give us your feedback or would like to be a part of the Adult Faith Formation Ministry Team, please contact Allyson Ashmore at allyson@camphopewell.com or 662-816-8544. We would love to hear from you!
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Ongoing Sunday School Offerings
Women of Faith: Led by Ann DeVoe (meets in Fellowship Hall)
Men’s Class 1: Led by Hale Freeland (meets in the 2nd floor Conference Room)
Men’s Class 2: Led by Trey Byers (meets in the Annex Building)
| Bibles and Brews will continue as usual on May 4th and 18th, gathering at The Growler from 4:30-6pm for conversation guided by The Wired Word curriculum. Facilitated discussions will take a summer break for the months of June and July, but all are welcome to continue gathering at The Growler on first and third Wednesdays for casual fellowship time. | | |
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COME ONE COME ALL to a Whole Church Pop Up! We’ll be watching clips from the movie “Encanto,” and yes, we’ll talk about Bruno! May 1st, 3-4:30 pm in Fellowship Hall
Click here for a sing-along song
Disney's Encanto | Now Playing Only In Theaters
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VIP's!!
Our next outing will be Thursday, May 12. James Day has
organized a trip for supper to the Pier at Sardis. Our reservation
is for 6:00. We are offering transportation to the Pier by bus. The bus will LEAVE at 5:30, so please arrive to the church around
5:15. Call or stop by the church office to sign up. When you stop by/call to let us know you're going,
please say whether or not you'll be riding the bus. Thanks
to James for doing this.
-Sally Hines
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Coming your way.. A summer Bible Study on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m., beginning June 1st, in the Fellowship Hall. | |
The best stories in the book of Genesis involve families. The issues these stories raise—married vs. single life, sibling rivalry, infertility, family relocation, blended families, and the like—are startlingly relevant to families of today. This Bible study examines the families of Genesis, starting with how the Adam and Eve story encompasses far more ways of being family than most of us think. It looks at the sibling rivalry of the Cain and Abel story, pointing to the jealousy and violence to which the whole human family seems addicted. It uses the ups and downs of the relationship between Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael can help us understand the complicated dynamic of blended families. Carol Helsel and Suzie Park invite readers to consider these and many other connections as they reexamine the joys and complications of modern family life. | |
FPC Children & Youth Formation | |
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FPC’s continued support, financially, spiritually, and through donated gifts of time and talent, to CYFF has been so important over the past year. Our children and youth are a vital part of the life of FPC and your participation in their faith formation is deeply appreciated.
After a successful Rally Day, Sunday School kicked off with youth and children attending every Sunday throughout the fall and into the spring. CYFF continued Children’s Church with children gathering for crafts and lessons during the second half of Sunday morning worship service. Our PYF continues to meet for fellowship each Sunday evening. The Children’s Advent Series was a great success with a lively bunch of PreK to 6th graders meeting on Sunday afternoons for Christmas play practice and great fellowship, including gingerbread house competitions, games, and caroling.
Because of your support and gifts, FPC has welcomed our new Director of CYFF, Dave Garvey. Dave has hit the ground running! We are looking forward to an engaging spring and summer with Sunday afternoon Lenten gatherings, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, our first confirmation class in two years, Baccalaureate Sunday, Montreat, and Vacation Bible School. Thank you from the youngest members of the FPC family!
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Attention Parents!!!
A large part of the mission of the youth ministry here at First Presbyterian Church is to show the middle school and high school students that they are loved. A large part of reaching that goal is to know our students and how to reach out to them. If you have a middle school or high school aged students, please fill out the below card and email it to Dave at dgarveyfpc@gmail.com. Click here for the card!
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This class will continue until May 18th! | |
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Mission
The Mission Ministry Team's monthly meeting is May 3 at 5:00 in Room
101 in the Sanctuary building. The courtyard door will be unlocked. If you'd like to learn more about mission at FPC, please join us!
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Begun in a closet at First Presbyterian Church in the 1980’s, The Pantry has grown into an effective ecumenical outreach providing thousands of area residents with donated groceries throughout the year. Each June FPC is responsible for staffing the Pantry three days a week from 8-11:00. The Pantry is located on Molly Barr Road next to the Oxford Police Station. On Tuesdays deliveries of food are received and the shelves stocked. On Wednesdays and Thursdays groceries are made
available to clients in a drive-through. Eight to ten volunteers are needed each of the three days. Members of Oxford First United Methodist Church will be helping out as well. FPC members— from thirteen years of age through our VIP’s—are invited to volunteer for as many shifts in the month as you would like. Perhaps in 2022 this could by your mission! Click here to sign up.
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Nine Ukrainian refugee families currently have children being treated at St. Jude's Hospital. One is a nine-month-old infant undergoing cancer therapy. These families arrived in Memphis with little more than the clothes on their backs. Target House provides accommodations for families whose
children are patients at St. Jude's. Last month members of FPC provided $1,700 in gift cards for the Ukrainian families to purchase clothing, hygiene products, diapers, etc. They are deeply grateful for your prayers and support.
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The Family Crisis Services of Northwest Mississippi is a comprehensive victim
organization. FPC continues to collect new stuffed animals for the 15-20 children the facility receives each month.
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Doors of Hope is an outreach program housed in the FPC education building. DOH makes available to single parents with young children temporary housing support, budget management and other life skills training. FPC hosts the Step 2 Dinner the second Tuesday of each month. The dinner provides ann opportunity for current clients to sit at table with successful alumni of the
program. We thank Jennifer Williams and Melissa Perler for hosting last month. Jo Turner, the DOH social worker, is particularly grateful for FPC’s support, “Thanks for all you do for our Step 2 meetings. I think it helps our ladies to see that someone takes an interest in them as they are so often overlooked.”
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At noon the second Tuesday of each month St. Andrew Presbytery sponsors a zoom meeting for anyone interested in learning more about Matthew 25 activities in congregations throughout our Presbytery. It is hosted by Kendal Cox, Elder First Presbyterian Church, Greenville and our own Allison Wehrung. If you would like to participate, email Allison at ukirk.olemiss@gmail.com, and she will send you a link.
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In December of 2021 tornadoes decimated portions of western Kentucky. Reconstruction efforts are now underway. In conjunction with Catholic Charities, FPC is recruiting volunteers to travel to Kentucky for a long weekend to assist in the reconstruction effort. If you are interested in participating or would like more information call Niles Lovelady at
662-801-9200.
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Arc Benders is a FPC fellowship group that seeks to actively practice Christ's call to serve "the least of these" and to seek authentic reconciliation in the Oxford community. All are invited to participate. For more information please contact Ruth O'Dell at delloruth@gmail.com. | |
Curious about the various FPC mission activities? An email account is available specifically for keeping FPC members abreast of mission plans, outreach programs, committee minutes, etc. If you would like to be kept in the mission loop, contact the Mission Team at missionteam@fpcoxford.net. Your name will be placed on Mission Ministry's contact list. We look forward to keeping everyone informed of FPC's outreach opportunities. | |
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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI
SUMMARY OF THE STATED SESSION MEETING
APRIL 11, 2022
1. Communications. Elder Mauldin reported that the Session received a thank you note from Memory Makers.
2. Consent Agenda. The following requests for membership were presented to the Session as part of the consent agenda:
a. Beth Breeland;
b. Margaret Burke;
c. Melinda Gordon; and
d. Melissa Perler
The consent agenda was accepted by the Session in its entirety and approved.
3. Ministry Team Reports
a. Property (John Abernathy, 2022 & Bradley Goodwiller, 2024). Elder Goodwiller reported that the scheduled exterior painting for the Church should begin in late April to early May. He also reported that the Boy Scout Troop should be ready to proceed with their cosmetic renovations of the basement following recent waterproofing work. He also reported that the new sugar maple tree would be covered with topsoil, and the team’s hope is to consult with an arborist and prepare a site plan. Property is also continuing to explore options regarding the aging bus.
b. Children & Youth Faith Formation (Kathryn Elliott, 2023 & Catie Hester, 2024). Elder Hester reported that Children’s Church will conclude in in May. She also reported that preparations for Montreat were underway, with eleven youth currently signed up to attend and Dave Garvey leading the meetings.
c. Membership & Hospitality (Kevin Christian, 2022 & Lee Miers, 2023). Elder Christian reported that the Confirmation Brunch went beautifully, with approximately 94 attendees. He also reported that the annual Easter Egg hunt would be held on the Saturday before Easter at Julie and Ed Field’s house. He reported that the Membership and Hospitality team would also be increasing its role in collecting the visitor pads and reaching out to visitors following church services.
d. Mission (Greg Patton, 2022 & Melissa Hall, 2024). Elder Patton reported that Mary Margaret Andrews at Doors of Hope visited their recent meeting, and provided an update on their operations and goals. He reported that the Mission Team would be working with Catholic Charities to support rebuilding efforts in Kentucky, and that Niles Lovelady has spearheaded this effort. The Dialogue for Racial Healing series will meet at the Methodist church for the fourth of the five scheduled sessions. He reported that there were approximately 25 attendees at the recent Prayer for Remembrance event, and that it was a successful venture with attendees from multiple area churches. He reported that Martha Kelly has turned over Pantry sign-up efforts to Thelma Curry, and that First Methodist has indicated a willingness to assist FPC with staffing the Pantry during FPC’s month. The team will be considering additional community-building events. He also reported that two shipments of medications had recently been shipped to Haiti.
e. Worship (Hale Freeland, 2024). Elder Freeland reported that the Worship Team’s recent meeting was primarily organizational for Easter, and that the team will be leading the re-start of homebound communion with an elder and deacon each month.
f. Deacons. Reverend Milner reported that the diaconate will be included in home communion efforts and will expand their role in the funeral process.
4. Continued Business.
On a motion from Elder Freeland, the session approved extending an invitation to the Executive Presbyter of St. Andrew Presbytery, Reverend Greg Goodwiller, to moderate a congregational listening session at the Church with the goal of providing members an opportunity to voice their aspirations and hopes for the Church, as well as any concerns.
5. New Business.
Elder Goodwiller reported that the Property Team will continue to consider possible options for streaming Church services to other buildings on the Church campus.
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Memorials & Honorariums
~ With gratitude for contributions to First Presbyterian Church ~
In memory of:
Janet Barnes
Ben & Adalene Pettis
Ann Caroline McIntosh
Richard & Ann DeVoe
Jay & Patsy Eads
Ben & Adalene Pettis
Helen Phillips
Helen Scruggs
Jay & Patsy Eads
Ben & Adalene Pettis
Jaden Taylor
Steve & Marty Mauldin
Nolan Waller
Mack & Dorothy Lou Aldridge
John & Melba Bowen
Bill & Ann Canty
Dean & Yung Chow
Richard & Ann DeVoe
Jay & Patsy Eads
Frank & Diana Garavelli
Roger & Mari Kuhnle
Ben & Adalene Pettis
Sydney & Bobbie Shaw
Linda A. Young
In honor of:
Bobbie Shaw
Robert & Laura Butler III
David & Susan Shaw
Robert & Vickie Shaw Jr.
Max & Nila Williams
John & Melba Bowlin
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Upcoming Birthdays & Anniversaries | |
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May Birthdays:
2 Tucker Milner, Oliva Williams
4 Ruby Jane Baquie, Erica "Plicca" Watt, Hassell Wilkinson Jr
5 Anne Hunter, Scott Manley, Mary Morrison
6 Alisa Elliott, Mack Schuesselin
8 Stefanie Goodwiller, Bill Mayo, Nolton Rawl
10 Pat Atkinson, Evelyn Rose and Jane Reeves Carmean, Mary Jack Mullen, Chris Rosseau
11 Jane Lyle Byars, Blair Hobbs
12 Harriman Abernathy, Olivia Lovelace
13 Hayden Cascio
14 Allyn Cascio, Case Embry, Danny McKittrick
15 Nana Adjekum-Boateng, Kate Hill, David Robinson
16 Grace Carlton
17 Gabrielle Chiniche, Kaitlyn Flowers, Dick Scruggs
18 Lynda Huggins, Carmichael Jenkins
19 Anna Franklin, Justin Kennon, Matthew Simpson
21 Phil Baquie, Kathryn Burton, Aiden Hanson, Kathy Neff
22 Beth Ann Fennelly, Mary Shields Hunter, Jack Mauldin, Miles Staines
23 Dave Garvey, Rev. Barrett Milner
25 Lauren Goodwiller, Lucille Jones, Jenny Kate Luster
26 Jeffrey Butler, Allen Elliott, Georgia Wigginton
27 Harrison Atkinson, Kevin Christian, Alan Eads, Bradley Goodwiller
28 John Scarbrough
29 Christopher Newman
30 Duvall Fluatt, Nalani Haralston, Paul Hester
31 Shae Orrell, William Webb
May Anniversaries:
3 Brian & Amanda Hyneman; Brent & Ramey Hardin
7 Patrick & Whitney Bolen
8 Dick & Diane Scruggs
12 Tony & Tina Montgomery; Matt & Christy Neilson
18 Bradley & Kelli Briscoe
21 Bill & Melba Bowlin
23 Billy & Carlisle Wood
24 Tommy & Shelley Cribbs; Tom Franklin & Beth Ann Fennelly
26 Ben & Kathy Griffith; Syd & Bobbie Shaw
27 Mack & Dorothy Lou Aldridge
28 Phil & Lindsey Baquie; Don & Nancy Giles; Duke & June Goza
29 Bobby & Beth Kennedy; Randall & Lee Mize
30 David & Teresa Flautt; Mit & Lenore Hobbs; Griffin & Molly Tanner
31 Paul & Catie Hester
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The Session
Adult Faith Formation - Allyson Ashmore (2023)
Children & Youth Faith Formation - Kathryn Elliott (2023) & Catie Hester (2024)
Clerk of Session - Drew Mauldin (2023)
Finance - Susan Abbott (2022) & Richard DeVoe (2024)
Membership & Hospitality - Kevin Christian (2022) & Lee Miers (2023)
Mission - Greg Patton (2022) & Melissa Hall (2024)
Personnel - Trey Byars (2022) & Goodloe Lewis (2023)
Property - John Abernathy (2022) & Bradley Goodwiller (2024)
Worship - Hale Freeland (2024)
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The Diaconate
Class of 2022 - Gabrielle Chiniche, James Day, Sarah McLellan, Cliff Smith, Pattye Wilson
Class of 2023 - Laura Jackson, Chloe Lloyd, Allison McCord, Shae Orrell, Adam Quick
Class of 2024 - Patrick Bolen, Tommy Cribbs, Lindsey Estes, Kathy Orr Griffith, Jennifer Williams
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