Coffee Talk Now in Parlor

Sunday, September 4

10:00-10:45AM | Parlor

Drop in for a casual time of connection and conversation this Sunday. We are exploring "play" and the unexpected ways it still shows up in our lives, even as adults. Come and enjoy this chance to meet new friends, chat about our lives, and connect in community. For more information, contact Rachel Wright.

Book Study: Decolonizing Christianity

Tuesdays, September 6, 13, 20, 27 

6:30-8:00PM | Zoom

In Decolonizing Christianity: Becoming Badass Believers, author Miguel De La Torre describes how white American Christians have aligned themselves with the oppressors who subjugate the “least of these”—those who have been systemically marginalized because of their race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status—and, in overwhelming numbers, elected and supported an antichrist as president who has brought the bigotry ingrained in American society out into the open. De La Torre prophetically outlines how we need to decolonize Christianity and reclaim its revolutionary, badass message.

FUMC member John Hathaway, a retired judge and Deacon candidate in the ordination process of the UMC, will lead this discussion. Zoom link sent with registration.

Disciple I Fast Track:

The Old Testament

Wednesdays, September 7-December 4

6:00-7:15PM | FLC RM 104

The Bible is a complicated artifact that exemplifies some of the worst and absolute best aspects of humanity. At the same time, it is without a doubt the most important single repository of information about the history of our lives with God. The first of two 13-week programs, this fall module of Disciple I examines the Hebrew Bible. In the spring, we will offer the second module, which examines the New Testament. Join Dr. Brad King and member Pete Meeker for this conversational exploration of the social, theological, and historical aspects of the Hebrew Bible, from Genesis to the prophesies that Jesus' early followers interpreted in light of their faith in the Christ.

Fall Baptism Preparation Class

Sunday, September 25 | 12:15-2:00PM

SAN Library

Are you ready to have your child Baptized? Lara Greene, Director of Children’s Ministries, and Pastor Taylor Fuerst host this class to learn about our beliefs about Baptism, information about scheduling and service preparation, and ways to help your child live the Baptized life. This class is required for those preparing for a child’s Baptism and is only offered twice each year. Lunch provided. Childcare can be requested within the registration form linked below. Questions? Contact Lara Greene.

Confirmation 2022-2023 Class Begins Soon

Open to 8th-10th Graders

Confirmation offers young people a chance to learn about faith in the United Methodist tradition—our identity as Christians, history and heritage, practices, and beliefs. With weekly gatherings in participant families’ homes from October to April, Confirmation lets youth question, wonder, and learn together in a casual, pressure free environment. Participating families will have input on the day of the week we meet. If you have an 8th-10th grader who is interested in exploring faith through Confirmation.

Take First Steps and Make This Your Church Home

Sunday, September 11 | 12:15-2:00PM

FLC Garrison Chapel

Take the first step toward membership at FUMC Austin with this casual chance to meet with pastors and staff, talk about United Methodist beliefs and practices, connect with others who have found a faith home here, and ask your questions. Lunch and childcare provided. Email Amy Wink with questions.

Disaster Relief:

Early Response Team Training

Live out the skills you have built from ministries like Appalachia Service Project right here at home by joining First Church's Early Response Team (ERT). ERTs work through the United Methodist connection to help victims when natural disasters occur and we know from experience that the best time to prepare for a local disaster is before it happens. For this reason, First Church hopes to recruit at least 10 people who are interested in training for the first time or who want to be recertified so that we can schedule an ERT training on our campus. If you are interested in ERT training or want more information, contact Mark Steves.

Acolyte Training

Sunday, September 11

10:00-10:45AM

SAN Wesley Hall

Children in 2nd through 5th grades are invited to learn how to serve in worship services as acolytes. We will gather on the first floor in Wesley Hall. Pickup will be in your child’s Sunday School classroom. If your child is interested in becoming an acolyte but cannot make this date, contact us to arrange another time by emailing Lara Greene.

Bowen Bible Study Returns

Wednesdays, beginning September 14, 10:00-11:30AM | SAN RM 213

FUMC teacher Jim Bowen, retired research scientist and Bible expert, is resuming his weekly Bible class of in-depth exploration of Scriptural texts. This weekly group will begin study with the book of Hebrews. All are welcome to join. For more information, please email Jim Bowen.

Mobile Loaves & Fishes for First Timers

Sunday, September 18 | 4:00-7:00PM

FLC Great Hall

Help feed people experiencing homelessness daily on the streets of Austin. We are offering a monthly opportunity primarily for first-time FUMC individuals or families to serve with Mobile Loaves and Fishes. We will have 1-2 veteran volunteers for each run who will be there to lead the way! Volunteers can serve on the make-ready team (4:00-5:00PM), the truck team (5:00-7:00PM), or both! This is a great way for families with children to serve together. Learn more and sign up here>

S'More The Merrier! Middle School Retreat to Mo Ranch

October 21-23 | 2229 FM 1340, Hunt, Texas | Cost $150

All middle school youth are invited to a wonderful weekend in the Texas hill country! We will hike, kayak, eat s’mores, run wild, and share some meaningful time together. The retreat costs $150 per person. Sign up now and don’t be afraid to rope your friends into the fun, too! In fact, want to make things interesting? The student who recruits the most new friends (other middle schoolers who don’t currently attend youth) will have their trip fees refunded and can enjoy the fun for free!