Rev. Glen Miles, Senior Minister

In the book Leaders Eat Last, Simon Senek notes that the desire to belong to a group is one of the most powerful forces at work in the human community. He quotes a leader who shouts to a group of new recruits, "From this day on, words like "I," "me," and "my," will no longer be in your vocabulary. They will be replaced with words like "we," "together," and 'us!"

As you may have guessed, the man shouting these words is a drill instructor in the United States Marine Corps. Senek argues this is the power behind these recruits' lifelong bonds. In short, they belong. They come in as individuals and leave as a unit.

In Luke 6, we read Jesus' sermon on the plain. It is very similar to the sermon on the mount in Matthew. In Luke's story, Jesus chose the twelve disciples. A crowd gathers as they come down from the mountain, and Jesus gives these instructions: 

"But I say to you…Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also…"  

He is giving them a new way of life and a new way of being in a community together. He's saying, essentially, if we live this way, together, we can transform the world!

Sometimes, the way forward for a church is really that simple. Are we ready to do whatever it takes to move our ministry forward?

I recall a late-night conversation with my son Nate many years ago. He wanted to know what I was afraid of. I thought momentarily and replied, "I am afraid I will have done nothing that matters. That fear often makes it difficult for me to do the hard things in my calling." He went to his room and found his copy of the Tao Te Ching. He read this passage from Lao Tzu's writings: "Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage." He was just a kid, only 17 or so. He was preaching to the preacher, and boy, did I need to hear it. 

This is why I enjoyed Senek's book so much. I don't want to reduce the gospel to a leadership manual, but there is truth in his writings. He notes that organizations like ours become stronger when we find common ground. The church finds its strength when it can worship, pray, and, yes, struggle together.

In the church, we are all children of God, living, loving, struggling, laughing, crying, and growing together today and every day. I'm glad to belong to a church where all are welcome and where all indeed means all. 

Let us pray together for the strength to be one church.

At First Community Church, we often talk about the importance of generosity—not just as an act of giving, but as a reflection of our hearts and our connection to God and one another. Sometimes, the most profound reminders of why generosity matters come from the most unexpected places. Today, we are honored to share the heartfelt words of, Evie, a 14-year-old girl whose story beautifully illustrates the power of giving:

Evie's words are a powerful testament to how deeply our church community touches lives, young and old alike. Her story is a reminder that generosity is not about the amount we give but the spirit with which we give. It’s about recognizing the blessings we receive through our church community and finding joy in giving back.

Every gift, no matter how big or small, helps create a space where people feel safe, welcomed, and connected. It supports our many ministries, worship services that inspire, and opportunities that draw families closer together.

If Evie's words have touched your heart, consider how you can contribute to sustaining and growing our vibrant community. Your generosity makes a difference.

To give, please visit FCchurch.com/giving. Thank you for being a part of our church family and for embodying the spirit of generosity.

First Community welcomed 16 new members on Sunday, February 2!

9 AM (left to right): Nancy Shaw, Alison Bechtel, Mike Bechtel

10 AM (left to right): Austin Ahlborn, Alyssa Schott

11 AM (left to right): Jacob Culp, Hannah Baldwin, Alan Morris, Maryanne Weed, Karen Greene, Courtney Oakley

In Absentia: Amy Gardiner, Andy Gardiner, Dawn Hofherr, Kevin McIntyre, and Abby O’Brien

Discover What it Means to be a Member at First Community

Are you interested in becoming a member of First Community? We warmly invite you to an engaging session where you can learn more about what it means to be part of our vibrant church family.

Join Senior Minister Glen Miles and Director of Membership Engagement Kristy Glaser on Saturday, March 8, at 9:30 AM at First Community North. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, ask questions, and explore the many ways you can grow in faith and fellowship within our community.

Whether you’re new to First Community or have been attending for a while, this session is designed to help you discover how you can get involved and feel at home.

Ready to take the next step?

Email Kristy Glaser at kglaser@FCchurch.com to register. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing more about the heart and mission of First Community!

Join Us for The Gathering This Month!

You're invited to The Gathering this month for a time of food, fellowship, and spiritual growth. We meet every Wednesday in Wing Grace Hall, and it all kicks off with a delicious supper at 5:30 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with others in our church community, enjoy a shared meal, and deepen your faith.

Here’s what’s on the menu this month:

• February 5: Pizza
• February 12: Chicken nuggets, salad, and dessert
• February 19: Hot dogs, salad, chips, and dessert
• February 26: Little sandwiches, fruit, and chips

But that's not all! Rev. John Girard will be leading a new study based on the inspiring book 3 Simple Rules. Each week, we'll explore practical ways to live out our faith with the following topics:

• Week 1 (2/5): Do No Harm
• Week 2 (2/12): Do Good
• Week 3 (2/19): Stay in Love with God

Whether you come for the food, the fellowship, or the faith formation—or all three—you’re sure to find something meaningful at The Gathering. Mark your calendars and bring a friend! We look forward to seeing you there.

Pajama Story Time & Pre-K Sing and Play at The Gathering

Mark your calendars for a cozy, fun-filled evening at The Gathering on Wednesday, February 12! We're excited to host Pajama Story Time and Pre-K Sing and Play, a special event designed for all Pre-K children and their grown-ups.

The evening kicks off with a delicious supper at 5:30 PM, featuring kid-friendly favorites like chicken nuggets, fresh salad, and dessert. It's the perfect way to fuel up before the fun begins!

At 6 PM, the real adventure starts with Pajama Story Time and Pre-K Sing and Play. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas and bring a cozy blanket to snuggle up with as we dive into engaging stories and joyful songs.

This heartwarming event is open to all Pre-K children and a grown-up companion. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, laugh, and create cherished memories together.

Don't miss out on this delightful evening of stories, songs, and fellowship. We can't wait to see you there—in your PJs, of course!

Sunday, February 9, at First Community Church. Rev. Dr.Glen Miles will be delivering a powerful sermon titled, Unforgettable: I Just Called to Say I Love You.

In this inspiring message, Glen will explore the profound simplicity and transformative power of expressing love—not just through words, but through meaningful actions and heartfelt connections. Drawing from both scripture and everyday experiences, his sermon promises to resonate deeply with all who attend, reminding us of the enduring impact of God's love in our lives.

Whether you've been a part of our church family for years or are visiting for the first time, this service is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and find encouragement. The warmth of our community, uplifting music, and Glen's heartfelt message will make this a Sunday you won't want to miss.

Bring a friend, invite a neighbor, and join us as we come together in faith, hope, and love. We can't wait to see you there!

Heart to Heart food pantry is holding a soup drive during all worship services. Look for the team’s volunteer quarterbacks at collection sites out in the parking lot at both locations to drop off your donations on your way in or out. We would love hearty meal-type soups, and our Pop-Up Pantry is particularly interested in soup in pop-top cans for those without kitchens and/or can openers to use. Also, for a $5 donation (cash or check), you can become the proud owner of a one-of-a-kind soup bowl or mug! These have been lovingly decorated by First Community Church's Midweek Mission (K-8 grade) and Crossroads (6-12 grade) students for this special occasion. Which service will donate the most soup?! Heart to Heart wins, regardless of the final score.

This week in Sunday school

• The K-2nd class at 9 am and K-1st class at 11 am will hear the story, What does God Want? from Growing in God’s Love: A Story Bible edited by Elizabeth F. Caldwell and Carol A. Wehrheim. This story explores the words of the prophet Micah, who said, “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God?”

• The 3rd-5th grade class at 9 am, K-5th class at 10 am, and 2nd-3rd grade class at 11 am will hear the Godly Play story of Jesus’ Baptism by John the Baptist. When Jesus came out of the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God came to Jesus. The voice of God said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased.”

• The 4th- 7th grade class at 11 am will discuss Jesus and his mission of peace. Specifically, we will look at Luke 10:1-9 and really think about what these words mean. Then we will read a verse from the Qur’an to think about how the verses are the same and how they are different.

Please go here to register for all K-12, 24/25 programs.

The gift of a Bible is a symbolic milestone in a child’s faith development. On January 26 during the 10 and 11 am worship services, 22 children were presented with Bibles. Following the ceremony, the children went to Sunday school where they begin learning how to look up verses in their new Bible. 

We are grateful to the First Community Foundation for granting the funds to purchase this year’s Bibles.  

by Rose Konrath, Governing Board Chair

February Greetings, First Community

My name is Rose Konrath, and this is my first Governing Board update. April Howe passed the gavel to me at the Annual Member Meeting / Worshipful Work on Wednesday, January 29. Jennifer Short will serve as Vice-Chair. I’m grateful for this opportunity and thankful to April for her leadership, caring, and inspiration. I look forward to working with April, Jennifer, the board, our clergy, and you.

If we don’t already know each other, I hope to meet you soon. I’m a Group C usher (for quite a few years) at the 9 AM service. (If you haven’t attended this service, you need to come to hear the Common Grace Band.) I’m also a member of Guild Group C, I’ve been on the Spiritual Life & Learning team (for many years) and served on the Foundation Board and Nominating Committee. There are so many meaningful opportunities to serve this beloved community.

Highlights from the January 2025 Full Governing Board Meeting

1. The Board approved four (4) new First Community Foundation Board Members:

• Rick Greene
• Bill Hinga
• Scott Toop
• Ingrid White

2. First Community finished 2024 with a deficit of $85k (1.5%), which is $139k better than forecast.

3. The Board approved a continuing budget resolution through the end of February.

4. We celebrated the service of our members who completed their terms in January 2025. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and service. Please join me in thanking them for their invaluable contributions.

• Catherine Adams – Personnel Committee
• Ginny Barney – Served as Treasurer
• Molly Hagkull – Past Chair who completed 5 years of Governing Board service
• Rebecca Wolfe – Personnel Committee

Looking Ahead

The full governing board will meet in February. Our agenda includes welcoming our newest members, reviewing/approving the 2025 budget, and electing a Treasurer. In March, we’ll have a board retreat and set our goals for the year.

Until next month,

Rose Konrath

By Tom Stewart, Chair

I want to share details about our new FC South Assessment Task Force, how we will work, and what to expect. Please see the bullet points below to learn more about this vital work. Together, we will ensure that the future of the First Community South Location reflects our shared values. I look forward to our work ahead! I appreciate your support in this important journey.

Why the Task Force Was Formed 

• The South Location has raised many questions for our faith community over the years.
• In October, a diverse group began meeting to explore options for the future. 
• Our main goal is to:
• Study various possibilities for the South Location
• Importantly, the Task Force will not make final decisions
• We will gather insights and recommend options to the church Governing Board.

How the Task Force Will Work 

• Your input is vital: all members will have an opportunity to share their thoughts. 
• We will consult outside experts, such as engineers and city leaders. 
• We promise to be open and clear: we will provide timely updates to build trust:

1. Updates will come from Ginny Barney, our spokesperson
2. Look for our logo for news and updates
3. We plan to publish 4-5 updates throughout the process

Timeline 

We aim to finish our work in the coming months. At that time, we will present our recommendations and findings to the Governing Board.

Brunch Bunch: A New Gathering for 20s and 30s at

First Community Church

We are excited to introduce Brunch Bunch, a new event designed specifically for individuals in their 20s and 30s! Whether you're new to the area or looking for a fresh way to connect, this is the perfect opportunity to meet others and grow together in a welcoming environment.

Brunch Bunch offers a laid-back setting where you can enjoy delicious appetizers provided by the church. Feel free to order additional food and drinks on your own. It’s all about great conversation, new friendships, and, of course, fantastic food!

Our very first gathering will take place on Sunday, February 16 at 11:30 AM at Local Cantina on Lane Avenue. It’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend with some fun and fellowship.

To help us get a headcount for seating, please email Kristyn Anderson at Kmanderson76@gmail.com if you plan to attend. We can’t wait to see you there and hope you’ll join us for what promises to be the first of many meaningful Brunch Bunch gatherings!

Come hungry for both food and connection!

Click on each graphic for more information or to register.

Click below to read the On a Mission! monthly news

• Darkness to Light abuse prevention training is required of all volunteers. The next opportunity for the training is February 18
• Read about one of our newer partner ministries, Little Bottoms free store
• February is Heart to Heart month, with events all month long to spotlight the food pantry, including SOUPerbowl drive, Volunteer appreciation dinner, and Generosity Match-a-thon
• The Refugee Ministry preservers despite recent challenges and seeks to support C.R.I.S. in their fundraiser efforts
• Read about the appeal of shopping at Tri-Village Trading Post
• Warm Welcome Knitters needs yarn donations and Monday Night Meals needs volunteers
• Save the Date to Celebrate 50 years of Deep Griha’s service to their community in Pune, India
• Community Justice and Missions All Teams meeting update and opportunity to provide feedback

(Click on each graphic for more information)

February is Heart to Heart Month

Generosity Match-a-Thon starts February 14

by Amy Caskie, Director of Missions

I met Jill Thomas shortly after starting to work at the church. Jill and Duke approached Heart to Heart with the offer to do a matching grant for the ministry during the holiday season. I remember being overcome and surprised by their generosity. As I got to know Jill, it became clear that she was just that kind of person. She shared stories with us about how food insecurity affected her in childhood and now how fortunate she felt to be able to give to our food pantry as an adult.

Jill and her husband Duke continued to support us with the same matching grant every year since then. Last year, when Jill passed away, we were again overcome with the generosity of those who gave to Heart to Heart in her memory. I am so grateful Duke decided to honor Jill through his commitment to provide a matching grant again last year, for the tenth time. This year is number eleven and Duke has once again committed to the financial support of our ministry!

We are asking you to follow his lead and contribute as you are able toward this matching grant toward our operating costs. The success of this fundraiser directly impacts our ability to serve the greater Columbus community. If you cannot make a monetary donation, I encourage you to volunteer for the food pantry! Look for more information in the coming weeks to double your donation beginning February 14 and ending March 31.

Criminal Justice Voting Rights and Election Day

Did you know there is a common misconception that people with criminal histories have lost their right to vote because some states restrict voting for people convicted of a crime? According to the League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus, in Ohio, the only people who cannot vote because of involvement with the criminal justice system are those who are currently incarcerated for a felony conviction. (Special rules may apply if it is a crime involving voter fraud.) 

This means people on probation or parole can vote – they are not incarcerated. People convicted of a misdemeanor and incarcerated can vote – they are not incarcerated for committing a felony. People who have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony and are incarcerated can vote – they have not been convicted of a felony.

Most people with criminal histories can vote in Ohio! Help First Community and the Community Justice Team get the word out! Be sure to vote this year and every election cycle!

Women’s Guild Soup and Casserole Sale

Winter Comfort Food

On Sunday, January 26^th, the Women’s Guild held its annual Soup and Casserole Sale following both services at FC North. There was a wide variety of homemade soups and casseroles as well as some baked goods for sale. Guild Group A coordinates the event each year and members from all the Guilds contribute the scrumptious dishes designed to warm you up and provide comfort during these cold, often dreary winter days. The sale was quite a success, with everything selling out! The Women’s Guild netted over $1,000 which will be used for needed things around the church, as well as for contributions to community organizations assisting our neighbors in need.

Thank you to all who contributed to the sale and to all who purchased the delicious meals! 

Women’s Guild Women’s Luncheon

Based on prior history, the cold, snowy weather will come to an end and spring will eventually arrive! As spring arrives, so does the time for the FC Women’s Spring Luncheon, so

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, April 12^th, from 11:30 AM until 2 PM.

The lunch will be held in Wing Grace Hall (3777 Dublin Rd., Columbus, OH 43221). This year’s program is titled, “A Hymn Pilgrimage,” by special guest, Rev. Becky Sunday, Associate Minister of Dublin Community Church.

*More Information Coming Soon

Church Closed February 17

ElderWisdom

Blood Drive

Your gift helps us live out our vision to serve the world.

Please consider a gift in memory or an honorarium to the

Church or Foundation.

Click here to securely give online.

Some content in this edition was generated with the help of artificial intelligence.