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Celebrating the Faith and Ministry of Students
I've heard it said that students are the church of the future. I love what this statement attempts to inspire, though I want to augment it and add some color.
Our church has a proud history of raising students who become faithful adults, leaders in their churches and communities, and influential ministers in their contexts (whether their vocation is in the marketplace or the church). Look around First Methodist, and you'll find that many of our current leaders were faithfully raised in this church through our fruitful ministries and the faithful care of their families. Some of them are working hard to raise faithful children of their own in our church. Ask them what impacted their lives, and they'll tell you stories about the people and events from their student years.
First Methodist, you have always done a beautiful job ministering to students, and we are living in the fruitful harvest of your faithfulness. Investing in our students today is an investment in their future--and the future of the church of Jesus Christ. With an eye to tomorrow, we are committed to students in our community.
Here's where I want to augment this concept. Students are indeed the church of the future. But let us never forget that they are the church today. As we enter the Pentecost season this month, remember the words of Acts 2:17 (quoting the prophet Joel):
"I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams."
God has poured out His Spirit upon believing students today. They are our sons and daughters; God has given them the gift of His Spirit. They are united with us today in the family of God as brothers and sisters in Christ. They are the young men and women who will see visions, not having to wait until they are older to "dream dreams." They have gifts, graces, voices, and spirits that are as relevant to the church and the Kingdom of God today as they will be tomorrow. Not to mention that today, they have been delivered, washed clean, made new, and empowered for Christ.
Today, two of our students, Murphy Ray and Caughey Culpepper, are youth representatives on our Church Council, the daily governing body of our church. Over the past few months, under the excellent leadership of Brandon Keaton, Meri Beth Hillard, and our Youth Council, our students have served at SEWN, raised money to assist people in need, and prepared gifts for our homeless neighbors. Our middle school Regeneration Choir will head to Orlando to bless people with their ministry this month. Similarly, our high school Hosanna Choir will depart for an international tour where they will offer concerts and serve in mission. We are celebrating our graduating seniors who have influenced their peers for good and shared the gospel with them.
At First Methodist Church of Albany, we invest in our students because we have an eye on tomorrow. Not only that, but we also invest in them because they are the church today.
--Pastor Jim
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Dear Lord,
In this busy month of May help us to take the time to remember all the things that we need to be mindful of.
We pray for our National Day of Prayer. We ask for wisdom for our leaders. Give them wisdom to know what is right and the courage to do it. May they acknowledge you alone as Savior and Lord.
As we honor our mothers, we pray that you would bless them and help them to lead their children to know and do good for God and
others. May they know our gratitude for giving us life and love.
As we think of Ascension Sunday and Pentecost, help us to honor the wonderful ascension of Christ by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit. May the church share the good news of Jesus to bring hope to others.
This month we will also honor those who courageously gave their lives for our freedom. Bless their families and fill their homes and lives with your strength and peace.
We pray for our graduates that they will seek you first as we send them forward.
Help us Lord, as the body of Christ at First Methodist Albany,
to continue to be a beacon in downtown Albany.
We ask all this in the name of Jesus.
Written by: Susan Strickland, Prayer Team Member
| CONGREGATION CARE TEAM HIGHLIGHT: | |
CONGREGATION CARE TEAM HIGHLIGHT:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” - Matthew 19:14
The New and Expectant Mothers Team of First Methodist of Albany seeks to provide support and care for families in our church who are expecting a child by birth. For more information about the new and expectant mothers' team, please contact Head Coach, Elizabeth Bridges at bridgese7@gmail.com.
Join us on Sunday, May 12 for Baby Recognition Sunday, where were honor all the babies born this year at First Methodist.
Knit One Pray Too will meet Saturday, May 18 at 9:00 AM in
Sapp Conference Room. We welcome any friend who wishes to learn to crochet or knit, as well as those who already craft, to come and join us. Our congregational care ministry always has needs for prayer shawls and baby blankets. For More information, please reach out to Team Head Coach Misty Keaton, mistykeaton@yahoo.com
Would you like to get involved with a Congregational Care Ministry Team? For more information, please contact Pastor Anna at
amiller@firstmethodistalbany.com
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Prayer Chain - Our prayer chain passes along urgent prayer needs. To activate the Prayer Chain after hours contact: Molly Strickland, 229-343-3011.
Minister on Call (after hours & weekends). Our pastoral staff now shares one on call phone. To reach the Minister on Call after hours and on weekends call 229-733-1075.
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MAY READINGS
Week 18—April 29-May 5: Judges 11-Ruth 4, John 1-4,
Psalms 101:1-105:36, Proverbs 14:13-27.
Week 19—May 6-12: 1 Samuel 1-14, John 5-7,
Psalms 105:37-109:31, Proverbs 14:28-15:7.
Week 20—May 13-19: 1 Samuel 15-28, John 8:1-11:54,
Psalms 110-117, Proverbs 15:8-23.
Week 21—May 20-26: 1 Samuel 29-2 Samuel 12, John 11:55-16:33,
Psalms 118:1-119:80, Proverbs 15:24-16:5.
Week 22 May 27-June 2: 2 Samuel 13-21, John 17-Acts 1,
Psalms 119:81-121:8, Proverbs 16:6-18.
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MIDWEEK Menu:
May 1: Spaghetti, Green Beans, Salad, and Rolls.
May 8: Fried & Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Cornbread, and Green Beans.
May 15: Hamburger Steak, Rice, Cabbage, and Cornbread.
May 22: Taco Meat, Fajita Chicken, Corn, Black beans, and Rice
PLUS: Entrée Salad Bar option each week and “Grab n’ Go” kids’ options!
MIDWEEK SUPPER PRICES:
Adult $8.00
Kids’ Meal: $5.00 (12 & UNDER)
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Leave your checkbook at home!
Have your weekly or monthly contribution debited from your checking or savings account and transferred directly into the church account. Click here to get started today!
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Monthly Stewardship Report:
If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone regarding a donation, please call Leah George or Lisa Christenson at 229-432-7407.
YTD Income $ 615,425.88
Prior Year $ 467,527.26
YTD Budget $ 522,877.86
YTD Expenses $ 545,236.53
Prior Year $ 586,108.34
YTD Budget $ 583,863.90
| If you’d like to receive the First Word exclusively by electronic communication, please email kharris@firstmethodistalbany.com to remove yourself from our physical mailing list. | |
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Sunday School:
“Right Where I Should Be”
Last week a dear church member called to give me an update. After a devastating loss, she has returned to church. She is feeling stronger and has resumed some of her usual activities. Her words rushed out in explanation, “I went back to Sunday school, and this is right where I should be.”
At times of crisis, we find that we need those people who care about us, who pray for us, who show up with casseroles, who write encouraging notes and who love us in a hundred different ways. This is a description of the Sunday school classes here at First Methodist Church.
When you make the decision to faithfully participate in Sunday school, you are investing in people who will support you in challenging times. The class will also be with you as you celebrate accomplishments and navigate the various seasons of life. Over time you will find that you will offer the same kind of gift to them. This is a gift that is blessed by God. As you study, pray, and fellowship in a Sunday school class, the Spirit will weave your lives and knit your hearts together.
If you haven’t participated in a while or if you’ve never been a part of a class, please consider giving Sunday school a try. Call me if you’d like to explore Sunday morning options. There’s a group ready to welcome you with open arms, and I am confident you will also discover what so many here at First Methodist already know: Sunday school is right where you should be.
Blessings!
Pastor Laurel
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Tuesday Ladies' Bible Study:
James: Your Authentic Faith
Join us as we take a deep dive into the New Testament book of James, where faith is not an abstract idea but a practical way of living. During our six-week study we will discover what it means to live with authenticity in our contemporary world.
Study begins Tuesday, April 9
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Sapp Conference Room
Facilitator: Laurel Griffith
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MIDWEEK: Sign-up online or outside the church office.
WEDNESDAYS | 6:00—7:00 PM
Midweek Women:
Untangle Your Emotions: Discover How God Made You to Feel—Feelings aren’t sinful. In fact, the way you feel can lead you to a deeper connection with God and other people. Author Jennie Allen will guide the discussion, using scientific research, biblical insight, and her own story to help you explore the world of feelings. Join us and learn how to apply biblical wisdom and therapeutic research in order to live an emotionally healthy life.
Facilitator: Lauren Ray
Location: Sapp Conference Room | Study Guide: $15.00
Midweek Men:
The Awe of God: The Astounding Way a Healthy Fear of God Transforms Your Life—Fearing God is very different than being afraid of God. The awe of God is not a topic you’ll hear much about these days, but if you want to build a faith that stands strong through troubled times, you cannot afford to dismiss this idea. Author John Bevere will be your guide as you learn how healthy and holy fear builds maturity and conformity to the image of Christ. You will learn how the awe of God will lead to your own confidence, fearlessness, and security.
Facilitator: Chad Mullins
Location: River Classroom | Study Guide: $15.00
Midweek Studies:
God Sightings—Join us for a spring discussion of our God Sightings reading together. We will dig deeper and discover together how God’s presence is with us in unpredictable, yet in everyday ordinary ways. We will explore penetrating, life-changing questions, and see God with brand-new eyes as we share together. Find freshness in God in this new season of bright days in a fun and interactive way.
Facilitator: Anna Miller
Location: Library
Midweek Bible Study:
James: Your Authentic Faith—Join us as we take a deep dive into the New Testament book of James, where faith is not an abstract idea but a practical way of living. During our six-week study we will discover what it means to live with authenticity in our contemporary world.
Facilitator: Laurel Griffith
Location: Conference Room A
|  | The Upper Room Devotional Books (available in both regular and large print) are located throughout the church. Pick one up to use as a devotional guide for you and your family. A 75₵ donation is requested. | |
A Few
Highlights!
View Full Newsletter Here
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LOOKING
BACK: Historical Glimpses
From your church archivists Gordon & Meri Beth
(Looking back at areas of our church which honor former dedicated servants)
Beulah Wakeford Sapp: Conference Center
Beulah Sapp was born in Sparks, Georgia on November 26, 1889, died April 15, 1964. She made her greatest contributions to First Methodist Church, but also impacted the civil, cultural, and business life of Albany. She was selected as Woman of the Year in 1951.
She held many positions in the Woman’s Missionary Society locally and in the Thomasville District and the South Georgia Conference. In 1937 she became the seventh and last president of the conference and was elected the first president of the new Woman’s Society of Christian Service in 1940 through 1947. She also served four times as elected delegate, general board of missions, general board of evangelism, Georgia Council of Churches, and the Trustee of Magnolia Manor.
She was recognized as a quiet, gentle person who was an outstanding trailblazer and innovator at church and in her community.
|  | A career at First Methodist Church of Albany is a fulfilling way to live out a call to ministry and serve the Lord by serving our community. To be a part of our team is to work alongside high-caliber clergy, staff, and laity who follow the Lord with their whole hearts, seek God's best for one another through love, service, and mentoring, and continually innovate together with a passion for following the Holy Spirit's leading for the greatest impact. For more information, visit www.firstmethodistalbany.com/careers. The following opportunities are currently available: | |
How to Apply
Applying for a career position at First Methodist Church of Albany is easy!
Send your resume to careers@firstmethodistalbany.com, including the position you’re applying for in the subject line,
or mail your resume (please indicate which position you’re applying for) to:
Staff Parish Relations Committee
First Methodist Church of Albany
307 Flint Ave.
Albany, GA 31701
| First Methodist Church of Albany is a 1,850-member Global Methodist Church in the heart of downtown Albany, GA. Founded at the formation of our city, we have a rich history of passionate worship, intergenerational life, and leadership in our community and around the world. We are committed to serving our community and spreading the good news of Jesus Christ across the world through mission and ministry. | Be on the lookout for more information soon about our summer 2025 trip to Scotland! | |
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Mission Spotlight: Northside Elementary School
Thank you to all the volunteers who made the Northside Elementary Easter egg hunt a success. With 1400 eggs to hide, it was a busy day. Children in kindergarten through second grade scrambled to find the candy filled eggs. What a fun time for these kids! Volunteers also gave out treat bags for the third through fifth grade students. We greatly appreciate the help of the GAP students and our youth who stuffed the eggs with candy and assembled the treat bags. More than 300 students were blessed by this event.
First Methodist also made a significant financial contribution to the Northside media center, allowing the school to take advantage of a matching program made available by a book publisher. Now students who are struggling to read will have new books to enjoy.
Looking Ahead…
In May we will honor the Northside Elementary teachers and staff with a small gift of appreciation, assuring each person of our support and prayers.
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MAY SAM GATHERING:
Join us Thursday, May 16 for our monthly SAM Gathering! This month we will be taking a MYSTERY TRIP for lunch. We will leave the Ford Hall parking lot at 10:00 AM sharp! Please RSVP to the main church office by Tuesday, May 14. Cost is $10.00 for lunch. For further questions, contact Brandon Keaton
| Men’s Fellowship @ Camp Kirksey! Join the men of our church for fellowship and a meal together on May 9. Supper is served at 6:00 PM but come as early as 5:30 PM to hang out around the grill. Call the church to make your reservation by noon on May 7. Donations appreciated, but not required. |  | |
KIDS CAMP 307 is our summer kid’s program that meets on Mondays and Wednesdays,
May 29 – July 26, 9 AM – 1 PM for children ages 8 weeks – 1st grade. Kid’s 2yrs – 1st grade
can also attend on Fridays this year! (Camp will not meet during Vacation Bible School, June 10-14.)
Cost varies by age. $50 nonrefundable deposit due with registration.
For Babies and Ones: $175/month for June and July ($350)
For Twos and Up: $200/month for June and July ($400)
Register here: ttps://tinyurl.com/FMCKidsCamp, or scan the QR code:
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (VBS):
This summer, we are going to have a fun, memorable week where kids will grow in their faith as we celebrate the Good News of Jesus at our VBS, START A PARTY!
Register by May 12 to receive a free t-shirt for your child! Scan the QR code to register!
Ages: 4 yrs. (potty trained) - 5th grade (completed)
Dates: June 10-14
Times: 9AM - 12PM
Cost: $20
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Allison Vandenbergh
Director of Children’s Ministries
avandenbergh@firstmethodistalbany.com
| Get on Board for Preschool 2024-2025! Registration has began for families currently in the program and church members. The registration fee is $100 per child. Registration to the public is now open. If you would like more information or would like to schedule a visit, please call Erin Loyd at 432-5512. |  |  | |
New Thrive Youth Schedule Each Sunday Thrive will meet from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. All students are welcome to come!
Every week we will have choir/band, “Together Time Devotional,” snack supper, and small groups.
We will also have a different activity each Sunday night of the month.
Here is the May 2024 Schedule:
May 5: Middle School—Regeneration Tour returns by 6:00 PM
High School—Hosanna rehearsal at 4:00 PM
May 12: Mother’s Day Mission project
May 19: Game Night
May 26: Memorial Day weekend—No Youth Activities!
Senior Recognition Sunday—May 5 at 10:30 AM service
We will recognize our 2024 high school graduates Sunday, May 5 at the 10:30 service. If you have a student who would like to participate, please call the church office and let Brandon Keaton know.
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Awanita Middle School Camp—June 24-28, 2024
Registration for Awanita Middle School Camp is now open! Awanita is a wonderful week-long opportunity for your 6th-8th grade students to have an awesome time and get to know each other and Jesus better. Lots of games, crafts, and worship. This is a great camp to invite friends who may not have a home church. Save your student’s spot now!
| Sanctuary Choir: “Summer” is a great time to join the Sanctuary Choir! We would love for you to join us for rehearsals every Wednesday at 6:00 PM in the music suite. Contact Brandon Keaton for more information OR just come to rehearsal! | Hosanna and Regeneration News—Deposits are DUE! Our trips are a part of the entire student ministry program and we want your students to be a part of the ministry as a whole. In order to go on these extended trips we expect that students will come weekly to Sunday night activities. Since there are mission components (and musical components) we need your students to actively participate. We hope to see your students as often as possible! | |
