Upcoming Events
Blue Christmas Worship Service on December 19
The holiday season is often filled with joy and celebration, but for many, it can also bring feelings of loss, grief, or sadness. If you’re finding this time of year difficult, we invite you to join us for a Blue Christmas Service, a special service of comfort, hope, and peace, on Thursday, December 19th at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. Whether you’re grieving a loved one, dealing with illness, or simply feeling the weight of the season, we invite you to come as you are, and to receive the peace that Christ offers.
Free Canvas Photos Available through December 20
As we refresh our church spaces, we’re offering canvas-mounted photos from our collection to anyone who’d like them. Stop by the east hallway to browse and take any photos that interest you by December 20.
Join Our Advent Youth Bible Study – Sundays in December
Discover the true meaning of Christmas at our special Advent youth Bible study series. We’ll meet Sunday mornings at 9:15 AM in the Youth Rooms from December 1-22. Free breakfast provided! Bring your Bible and join us for meaningful discussions and fellowship.
Parent Connection: Invitation to Advent (Sundays in December)
Join Deacon Jeanne Koontz Sunday mornings at 9:15 AM in the library for a special Advent small group. Parents and caregivers will connect with others while reflecting on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Contact jeanne.koontz@mcphersonfumc.com for more information or to register.
Stations of the Manger – through December 22
As we enter the season of Advent, a time of hopeful waiting and anticipation, we invite you to participate in our Stations of the Manger. These stations are a quiet, reflective space to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Prayer Stations are open Sundays during worship and during office hours Monday through Thursday, beginning Sunday, December 1, through Monday, December 23. We will also provide a weekly opportunity for community prayer and worship focusing on a different prayer station each week and joining in advent and Christmas songs on Mondays at noon. We look forward to walking this Advent journey with you.
Candlelight Christmas Eve – December 24, 2024
Join us at McPherson First United Methodist Church for three special services: a shorter, interactive 5 PM Family Service with organ music perfect for children; a traditional 7 PM Service featuring carols, organ music, and full Christmas message; or a simple 11 PM Communion Service with piano music and quiet reflection. Each service ends with our beautiful candlelighting ceremony. Click here to RSVP and invite friends on Facebook.
Share Christ’s Light: Special Christmas Eve Offering December 24
Make a direct impact in our community this Christmas Eve as we dedicate 100% of unmarked offerings to our Servant Outreach Fund, which provides emergency assistance to local families facing hardship. Join us at Candlelight Christmas Eve at 5, 7, or 11 p.m. to help neighbors in need through this special offering.
One Worship Service – Sunday, December 29 at 10:00 AM
Join us for a unified worship celebration as we gather for a single service at 10:00 AM on Sunday, December 29. This special combined service brings our whole church family together between the holidays. Regular worship schedule resumes January 5.
Youth & Kids’ Programs Return January 8
Start 2025 with fun and faith! Kids’ Zone and Youth Group kick off their new year of activities on Wednesday, January 8. Contact Karen Jonas about Kids’ Zone or Sarah Hendricks about Youth Group to get your children connected to these engaging programs.
Building for Tomorrow: First Impressions Gathering
Join us Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 12:30-2:00 PM for lunch as we share our Building for Tomorrow case statement and capital campaign plans to upgrade our church’s heating and cooling systems. Your feedback will help shape our future. RSVP: 620-241-1371.
Winter Book Study: Faith & Indigenous Justice – Starting January 15
Join Deacon Jeanne, Pastor Andrew, and Megan Eisenbarth for a transformative journey through “The Land is Not Empty,” a thought-provoking study examining faith and Indigenous justice. Meeting Mondays from 6-7 PM from January 15 through April 16, this discussion-based series will challenge and deepen your understanding of Christian responsibility in addressing historical injustices. RSVP and register at https://mcphersonfumc.breezechms.com/form/ea887d
Parents’ Night Out – Friday, January 17
Enjoy a free evening out while your children (birth through 5th grade) have supervised fun in Hess Hall from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Whether you need shopping time, a dinner date, or quiet moments, we’ve got you covered. RSVP required by clicking here or church office contact. Enter through south doors.
Building for Tomorrow: Congregational Survey Launches January 19
Make your voice heard! The Building for Tomorrow congregational survey opens January 19, asking for your input on our proposed heating and cooling system upgrade. Your perspective will help guide this important project to maintain our church building for future generations. Take the brief survey online or pick up a paper copy at the church office.
Leadership Board Shapes Church’s Vision – January 22
Join us as the Leadership Board meets to guide our church’s mission and make key decisions for the year ahead. We’ll gather Wednesday, January 22, at 6:00 PM in the church conference room. All are welcome to attend and observe.
Art of Hospitality: Learn from Church of the Resurrection
Join us at McPherson First UMC as we connect online with Church of the Resurrection for their renowned hospitality training. This interactive workshop covers four key areas: The Why of Hospitality, Principles of Hospitality, Providing Great Experiences, and Intentional Follow-Up. Especially recommended for ushers and greeters, but open to anyone passionate about creating a welcoming church environment. This free training runs 10 AM – 3 PM on Thursday, January 23 and includes lunch. Sign up at https://mcphersonfumc.breezechms.com/form/dd1382
New Member Sunday – January 26
Interested in making McPherson First UMC your church home? Meet with Pastor Andrew for a relaxed conversation to share stories, learn about our church’s membership commitments, and prepare for New Member Sunday on January 26 when you can join at either worship service. Email andrew.conard@mcphersonfumc.com to find a time that works for you.
Building for Tomorrow: Final Days to Share Your Input
Time is running out to share your thoughts on our Building for Tomorrow project. The congregational survey closes January 31. If you haven’t already, please take a few minutes to complete this important survey that will help shape our church’s future. Contact the church office for the survey link or to get a paper copy.
Church Calendar
Keep up-to-date with the latest events and activities.
