Equipping the Saints for The Work of Ministry

January 8, 1992, was a significant day in the life of First Presbyterian Church, Columbia. Though few may have realized it at the time, God was planting a servant in our midst who would leave an indelible mark on our congregation. That day, Mrs. Deborah Kirkland stepped into her role as an elementary assistant in the Christian Education Department. In 1994, she transitioned into the role that would define her ministry among us: Church Librarian. And, for the past thirty-three years, she has faithfully served the Lord and His people with unwavering devotion.

Mrs. Deborah’s ministry has centered on “equipping the saints for the work of ministry” through the library and book service. But her influence has extended far beyond books and resources. Through her humility, wisdom, and steadfast love for Christ, she has taught us what it means to walk closely with the Lord. Her life has been a living testimony to the transformative power of faithfulness over time. In an age where leadership is often measured by charisma or productivity, Mrs. Deborah has reminded us that the true mark of a leader lies in faithful, persevering, behind-the-scenes service in Christ over the long haul.

To put her tenure into perspective, nearly twenty members of our current staff were not even born when she began her service at First Presbyterian Church. Yet her impact has shaped us all. She has been a source of wisdom, encouragement, and gentle humor, pointing us to Christ in all she does.

On April 30, Mrs. Deborah will retire, closing a remarkable chapter of service to this church. While her presence in the office will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the new season ahead for her and her beloved husband, Mr. Al, along with their family. Mrs. Deborah, we are profoundly grateful for your labor in the Lord. Your legacy is not only in the books you have cataloged or the countless resources you have provided, but in the hearts you have touched and the faith you have strengthened.

Your contagious joy will be missed, your quiet humor irreplaceable, and your dedication an example to follow. We pray God’s richest blessings on you in this next chapter of life. May the Lord continue to use you mightily as you step into retirement, knowing that your service to Christ has left an everlasting impact on us all.

On behalf of the congregation and all the staff,

With deep gratitude and love,

Dr. Neil C. Stewart

Wales Mission Trip

We are planning to send a short-term mission team to Wales from July 25 - August 2. We will be working alongside Bethel Presbyterian Church and Ely Presbyterian Church in Cardiff to share the love of Christ through a Holiday Bible Club and sports outreach. There is still room on the team, and we would encourage you to consider participating in this mission trip. The deadline to apply is March 25. Please email Holly Edwards at hedwards@firstprescolumbia.org if you have any questions about the trip or if you would like to apply.

Pastoral Care Staff Changes

After eight years of faithful service, Barbara Diller, our Congregational Nurse, has retired. We wish her well in her retirement. 

Ann Lonon will serve as Member Care Assistant in the Pastoral Care Department, taking on some of the responsibilities related to member care. 

We’re Hiring! 

The church is seeking a Graphic Designer who will serve our congregation by developing and producing quality publications and designs. For more details on the position, please visit firstprescolumbia.org/careers. To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Ashtyn deBessonet at adebessonet@firstprescolumbia.org. 

Women’s Theology Discussion Group

Have you found yourself familiar with the term Reformed Theology but not really knowing exactly what it meant? This spring, the Women’s Ministry will be leading a weekly discussion group as we read Reformed Theology by Jonathan Master. We will be learning about the five solas, various covenants, the comfort of trusting in God’s sovereignty, and much more. Meetings will take place on Thursdays at 12:00 p.m. from April 3 - May 1. Please visit the Women’s Ministry page for more details: firstprescolumbia.org/women.

Church Family

Congratulations to: 

Emma Smith and Will Cureton who were married on February 22, 2025.

Items for Church Family

Please contact Lisa Eargle at leargle@firstprescolumbia.org.

March Calendar

21-23 Middle School Spring Retreat at Bonclarken Conference Center

21 Catawba Presbytery Senior Connect Day - 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Smith Chapel and the Family Life Center.

21 J.S. Bach, St. John Passion - 7:00 p.m. in Jackson Hall. The Company of Singers will celebrate Bach’s 340th birthday with one of his most profound masterpieces. Tickets can be purchased online at companyofsingers.com/performances. 

22 Special Sports Saturday - 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center

23 College Lunch - following the 11:15 a.m. Worship Service in Jackson Hall

25 WOC Jubilee Luncheon - 11:00 a.m. in Jackson Hall

 April Calendar

4 First Friday Organ Concert - 11:45 a.m. lunch in Jackson Hall followed by 12:30 p.m. concert in the Sanctuary. Thomas Russell will play music of the French Romantic era.

For more information on any upcoming events, please check our website at firstprescolumbia.org or our church app.