Upcoming Events
Caregivers Group
Thursday, May 16, 11:45 a.m., Chapel
Speaker: Chris Knudsen (Certified Paralegal)
Caregivers is a ministry for those caring for loved ones. Enjoy lunch and Chris will answer power of attorney, financial, and other legal questions.
Lunch provided. Contact Christy Bicknell or Sue Sharpe, 901-828-2624 with questions. Registration is requested here.
Everyday CoJourner: Step 4
Saturday, May 18, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall
In the final step of this series, Gabor and Edina Gresz will lead us in person to further help us keep evangelism and discipleship simple, relational, and intentional. Topics include keeping in step with the Holy Spirit, building bridges, and art of neighboring.
Register at www.firstevan.org/ec4.
Register for childcare by May 12 at www.firstevan.org/ecchildcare.
Annual Congregational Meeting
Sunday, May 19, 6:00–7:00 p.m., Sanctuary
Mark your calendars now to attend this important meeting. On the agenda will be the election of Elders, Deacons, Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Congregation and Global Missions Team members who will begin serving in July. In addition, we will be voting on the 2024–2025 church budget. A Dessert Fellowship will follow the meeting in the Fellowship Hall. Childcare for nursery–5th grade. Reminder, you must be a member to vote and a provision for proxy voting is available for those who cannot attend due to illness, being out of town, or scheduled work conflict.
Men’s Fish Fry
Tuesday, May 21, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Fellowship HallCost: $7/person or $50/table | Speaker: Larry Rea, Host of “Outdoors with Larry Rea”.
Join us for an evening of fish, food, and fellowship. Purchase tickets in the Fellowship Hall beginning Sunday, April 28. Questions: Contact John Dawson, 682-8452, Sammy Bell, 210-7958, or email men@firstevan.org.
Break Summer Trip
Saturday–Tuesday, May 25–28, Fall Creek Falls | Cost: $90.
Young adults, join us for hiking, relaxing, fellowship, and teaching from Seth Holler. Invite a friend! We'll give you more details as we get closer to the trip. If you have any questions, ask Kassie Sanborn (901) 262-6510. Register here by Wednesday, May 8.
VBS “The Great Jungle Journey”
Monday–Friday, June 3–7, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | For Rising K–5th Grade | No Cost.
At this year’s VBS, we will embark on a jungle cruise with curriculum from Answers in Genesis. On The Great Jungle Journey, we will travel from Genesis through Revelation learning all about God’s plan through His Word. Be on the look out…we’ll be boarding our cruise before you know it, and you won’t want to miss the adventure! Register April 14-May 15 at www.firstevan.org/vbs.
Jordan River Rules Book Study
Tuesdays, June 4-25, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Facilitator: Dotsy Liles
The Jordan River Rules is a small book with a big impact for those journeying through life's seasons from transition to triumph. Purchase book through robertjmorgan.com. Register here.
Garden Gathering: Shade Garden
Tuesday, June 4, 2024, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Join us for an informal gathering to hear Mary Minor share about shade gardening. Registration required.
Conversations on Art and Faith
Wednesday, June 5, 5:30 p.m.
Facilitator: Jenna Fergus
Location: Brooks Museum–People Are People exhibit
Cost: $15, adult; $12.55, Seniors; $8, Students
Christian Siriano’s People Are People exhibit explores the idea that “fashion is for everyone.” We will observe and discuss God’s view of clothing from a Biblical perspective.
Register here.
Women’s Potluck Backyard Brunch
Saturday, June 8, 2024, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Kickoff Summer Circles with a potluck backyard brunch and spend a casual morning with other FEC women. RSVP online at firstevan.org/women.
Jordan River Rules Book Study
Tuesdays, June 4-25, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Facilitator: Dotsy Liles
The Jordan River Rules is a small book with a big impact for those journeying through life's seasons from transition to triumph. Purchase book through robertjmorgan.com. Register here.
Prime Time Readers
Next meeting, Tuesday, June 11, 1:00–2:30 p.m., E111
Join us for a great time to fellowship and and to discuss the latest section of a pre-selected book. Our current book is “The Joys of Successful Aging” by George Sweeting. In our next meeting, we will cover the final two chapters of the book. Even if you have not completed the reading, you are always welcome to join. We will meet in E111 conference room across from the recreation desk near the gym entrance to the building.
If interested in joining this group, please contact Paige Poloni at ppoloni@firstevan.org.
Summer Safari 2024: Maker Fun Factory
Mondays and Thursdays, June 13–July 25, 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., First Evan | For rising PreK 4-6th Grade | Register by May 19
We have expanded our ages to include children ages PreK 4 through rising 6th grade, and we are excited about all the fun we will have this summer on Mondays and Thursdays here at First Evan! Summer Safari is a drop-off program from 9:30 a.m.—2:30 p.m. with 2 summer sessions.
At “Maker Fun Factory,” we will have songs, STEM activities, games, crafts, field trips, and more, and we will of course learn about Jesus Christ and HIS great love for the world He made! It is the desire of our ministry to come alongside parents to help provide the structure, peer interaction, and fun kids need for a healthy, enjoyable summertime.
The cost is $150/session, or $250 for both sessions—so that’s $25/child per day—plus an activity fee of $25/child per session. Financial aid is available for members and regular attenders of First Evan. We are looking forward to having you! Email Kate Taylor ktaylor@firstevan.org for more details.
Threads
Thursday, June 13, 7:00-8:30 pm
Threads
Bring your handwork project (embroidery, crochet, quilting, etc.) and join other women for fellowship while you work on your projects. Let us know you’re coming if you can but an RSVP is not required.
Student Life Summer Camp
Monday–Friday, June 17–21, Orange Beach, AL.
Students will be attending a week-long conference style camp where we will be led in worship by Judd Harris and will hear from sessions speaker Matt Carter. The focus of the week will be highlighting John 8:12 where Jesus makes the bold claim that “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.” Students will be shown how God is a God of revival, redeeming His people and giving them purpose. If you have any questions before you register, as always, don’t hesitate to reach out. Total cost of the retreat is $600.
Jordan River Rules Book Study
Tuesdays, June 4-25, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Facilitator: Dotsy Liles
The Jordan River Rules is a small book with a big impact for those journeying through life's seasons from transition to triumph. Purchase book through robertjmorgan.com. Register here.
Conversations on Art and Faith
Thursday, June 20, 5:30 p.m.
Location: Dixon Galleries and Gardens–Memphis 2024 exhibit
Cost: Free
Memphis 2024 focuses on the art of Memphis. Artists will be in the galleries to talk about their work. Afterward, we will have a time for consideration and prayer for our city.
Garden Gathering: Composting
Thursday, June 20, 2024, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Join us for an informal gathering to hear Jan Carrier share about composting. Registration required.
Baptism Sunday
Sunday, June 23, 10:45 a.m., Sanctuary
Do you want to get baptized to express your faith in Christ? Jesus commanded all His followers to be baptized, publicly proclaiming that God has brought them from death to life. If this describes you, we’d love to help you take the next step. Sign up by Sunday, June 9 for the March baptism: www.firstevan.org/baptism. Contact Katelynn Bernardini for other dates.
Stories of God’s Faithfulness
Monday, June 24, 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Speaker: Kelli Owens
Location: Jo Anne Clark’s home, 548 Valleybrook Dr., Memphis
Within God’s amazing eternal story are the stories of each of His children. Every saint has a story of both faithfulness and failure. All our stories include seasons of blessing, trial, struggle, and suffering. Hearing testimony of God’s faithfulness in the lives of other women can be a huge encouragement, helping us to trust, obey, and honor God in our own journey.
Jordan River Rules Book Study
Tuesdays, June 4-25, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Facilitator: Dotsy Liles
The Jordan River Rules is a small book with a big impact for those journeying through life's seasons from transition to triumph. Purchase book through robertjmorgan.com. Register here.
Mentoring Moms & Dads: Teaching Healthy Sexuality to Your Children
Thursday, June 20, 6:30-8:30 pm
Mentoring Moms is back this summer. Katherine Blackney, Ph.D., LPC-MHSC will share how to have, and continue, these conversations with your young kids to pre-teens. RSVP required. Childcare can be registered for here.
Girl’s Night Out: Potluck and Recipe Exchange
Tuesday, July 9, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Escape the Summer heat with an evening among friends. Women are invited to bring a friend, your fave appetizer, main dish, or dessert to share, and the recipe. RSVP requested but not required.
Blank Page Bible Study
Tuesday, July 16, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
If you only had your Bible and a blank piece of paper, would you know how to start studying? Join us for this two-part study of 2 Timothy as we prepare for our Fall Women’s Bible Study. RSVP here.
Mentoring Moms & Dads: Being a Tech-Wise Parent
Thursday, July 18, 6:30-8:30 pm
Being a Tech-Wise Parent.
Mentoring Moms is back! Good technology habits begin with parents. How do we set up and maintain safe systems and expectations for ourselves and then our children? It’s not too late to start. RSVP required. Childcare can be registered for here.
Book of Revelation: Read Aloud
Sunday, July 21, 6:00-7:30 pm
The Book of Revelation is the only book in the Bible that offers a blessing to those who both read and hear it read out loud. Join us as several readers take us through the Book of Revelation and lead us in worship.
Stories of God’s Faithfulness
Monday, July 22, 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Speaker: Jo Anne Clark
Location: Jo Anne Clark’s home, 548 Valleybrook Dr., Memphis
Within God’s amazing eternal story are the stories of each of His children. Every saint has a story of both faithfulness and failure. All our stories include seasons of blessing, trial, struggle, and suffering. Hearing testimony of God’s faithfulness in the lives of other women can be a huge encouragement, helping us to trust, obey, and honor God in our own journey.
Blank Page Bible Study
Tuesday, July 23, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
If you only had your Bible and a blank piece of paper, would you know how to start studying? Join us for this two-part study of 2 Timothy as we prepare for our Fall Women’s Bible Study. RSVP here.
Threads
Thursday, July 30, 7:00-8:30 pm
Threads
Bring your handwork project (embroidery, crochet, quilting, etc.) and join other women for fellowship while you work on your projects. Let us know you’re coming if you can but an RSVP is not required.
Prime Time Readers
Next meeting, Tuesday, May 14, 1:00–2:30 p.m., E111
Join us for a great time to fellowship and and to discuss the latest section of a pre-selected book. Our current book is “The Joys of Successful Aging” by George Sweeting. In our next meeting, we will cover chapters 10 through 12. Even if you have not completed the reading, you are always welcome to join. Our new meeting place will be in A111 conference room across from the recreation desk near the gym entrance to the building.
If interested in joining this group, please contact Paige Poloni at ppoloni@firstevan.org.
Child Dedication
If you are interested in dedicating your child, please sign up by Sunday, April 21 here.
We are very excited that you are interested in dedicating the precious gift of a child to Him. Our hope at First Evan is that this special event in your lives will be memorable and the beginning of your relationship with the church and your family.
Once you have filled out and submitted the registration form, we will contact you to schedule the required Child Dedication interview with one of our pastors. Our desire is to come alongside you as you journey into the wonderful responsibility of parenting.
(Please know that space in each service may be limited and will be on first-come, first-serve basis.)
If you have any questions, email Jill Hopkins.
VBS Work Night
Thursday, May 9, 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall
VBS is an important outreach and evangelism tool for our children and their friends. We need your hands to help work on props, decor, and other tasks. All ages and abilities are welcome to attend this church-wide night of community fun and preparation.
Garden Gathering: Propagating and Saving Seed
Tuesday, May 7, 10:00 a.m., Julie Sayre's Home (1574 Pecan Ridge Dr, Collierville, TN 38017)
Come hear Julie Sayre’s share about propagating and saving seed, Christy Bicknell will give a devotional. Refreshments provided. Registration required at www.firstevan.org/gardengathering.
Women’s Ministry Supper Club
Thursday, May 2, 6:00 p.m., Pyro’s Pizza, 1199 Ridgeway Rd.
Join us for a time of fellowship with other ladies. Women of all ages welcome! No reservations needed. For more information, email Christy Bicknell at cbicknell@firstevan.org.
National Day of Prayer
Thursday, May 2, 12:00–1:00 p.m., Sanctuary
“Lift Up the Word – Light Up the World”
There will be in-person prayer in the Sanctuary or you can join us via livestream. We will be praying for these spheres of influence in our country: family, church, workplace, education, military, government, and arts, media & entertainment.
"For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; He is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him." 2 Samuel 22:29-31For more details, visit: www.nationaldayofprayer.org.
Break Midweek
Wednesdays through May 22 (Will not meet April 24), 6:00–8:00 p.m., Seth and Noelle Holler’s Home
Using the book, "The Problem of Pain" by C.S. Lewis as a tool, Break will meet at the Holler's home this Spring to openly ask and discuss questions around pain and suffering. Contact Anies Kunda with questions and address.
Trail Life Meeting
Meet every other Tuesday, beginning April 30, 6:00–7:15 p.m., First Evan, Impact Room (E226)
For dads and boys in kindergarten through middle school. Contact troop leader Mark Mazzone at 901-238-6370 or markmtraillifetn4170@outlook.com. Find details about Trail Life USA at www.traillifeusa.com/program-overview.
Prime Time Walkers
Mondays, 9:00–10:00 a.m., First Evan Indoor Walking Track
Whether it's one or a dozen of you, this is a great way to fellowship with health benefits in a safe and weather-free environment. If you plan to come, please see Sherri Bonar at the recreation desk to sign a waiver (first time only) and to get an access code to the second-level entrance to the track. If interested in joining this group, please contact Paige Poloni at ppoloni@firstevan.org.
Men’s Monday Prayer Breakfast
Mondays, 6:30–7:30 a.m., E234 (Gathering Place)
Join us for a time of prayer and breakfast. For more information, contact Hickman Ewing.
Break Sunday Night Dinner
Sundays, 6:30 p.m., Gina Hensley's Home
On (most) Sunday nights, join us for dinner and fellowship! Contact Kassie Sanborn for the address or more details.
Career Fellowship: Dinner & Games
Sunday, April 28, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Nick and Jo Anne Clark's Home
Calling all young professionals! Join us for food, fun, and fellowship as we kick up our feet and share life together. Bring a friend! Contact Christie Taylor at 901-581-6547 or Jo Anne Clark at 901-409-8401 for more information.
First Evan Prayer Focus
Sundays, 5:00–5:30 p.m. via Zoom: Meeting, ID: 863 8809 4094; Passcode: 758395.
Please join us as we pray for First Evan and how the Lord may lead us into the future. Click here to join the meeting. For more information, contact Jim Pendleton.
Worship Service Intercessors
Sundays, 10:45 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Prayer Room (D106)
Jesus said, “My house shall be called a house of prayer…” Pray for our pastors, worship leaders, and congregation during the Sunday morning worship service. Will you consider committing to pray as our church gathers? You only need to commit once or twice a year. For more information, contact Kate Patrick at 685-0171 (home) or 496-6570 (cell).
FEC Kids Worship Hour
FEC Kids Worship Hour, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
This time is a review of the Sunday School lesson and a time of worship with an emphasis on helping kids develop a deeper love of Christ. Nursery available for children ages 2 and under.
In effort to further encourage family discipleship, starting on Promotion Sunday, August 6, elementary-aged children (K–5th) will attend the worship service with their families. The Chapel will be available for children at any time. Children’s sermon notes will include two new questions each week to discuss over lunch or on your way home from church on Sunday morning. We are also re-stocking the resource shelves at each entrance to the Sanctuary.
Children’s Church will be available for preschool-aged children. Preschoolers will stay in their Sunday School classes and their teachers will walk them to our new Children’s Church room downstairs in the C-wing.
Contact feckids@firstevan.org with questions.
• Nursery (0–2 years old): 1st floor Main Building
• PreK (2–5 years old): 1st floor C Building
• Elementary (K–5th grade): Corporate worship with families in the Sanctuary
FEC Kids Sunday School
Sunday School, 9:30–10:30 a.m. (Nursery–5th Grade), Nursery and C-Wing.
On Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m., we offer FEC Kids Sunday School for Preschool–5th grade. This is where the bulk of our Bible study takes place. We want kids to learn who God is. Nursery available for children ages 2 and under.
• Nursery (birth–2 years old): 1st floor Main Building, Nursery
• PreK (2–5 years old): 1st floor C Building
• Elementary (K–5th grade): 2nd floor C Building; Check in on 1st floor
Student Ministries Sunday School
Sundays, 9:30–10:30 a.m. | Impact (6th–8th grade), E226 | Common Ground (9th–12th grade), E202. To equip students to spend time in the word of God effectively. This school year we will be working through the Gospel Project curriculum in unison with FEC Kids Ministry and a few adult Sunday school classes. This will give families the ability to have conversations with the grade-school children and middle/high school students who have all engaged the same scripture and teachings for their age level each day. Visit www.firstevan.org/students for the full schedule.
Pro-Life Apologetics Training with Scott Klusendorf
Saturday, April 27, 9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Common Ground Room (E202) | $5 Lunch (optional)
Scott Klusendorf of the Life Training Institute will present and facilitate an interactive training primarily for teens and families who are seeking to have a better understanding and handle on how to have graceful and truth-filled conversations about the sanctity of life. Register here by Tuesday, April 23.
Women’s Thursday Morning Prayer Time
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m., D106 (Prayer Room)
Join this open group of women who meet weekly to pray for our church, community, and world.
Men’s Monday Night Bible Study
Mondays, January 29–April 29, 6:30–8:00 p.m., E135 (Spurgeon Room) “Philippians, Colossians, & Philemon” led by Buddy Jones
These letters were written by the Apostle Paul to four New Testament churches. Paul told Timothy that the Scriptures are profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. We’ll look for those four benefits each week as we study these letters. The format includes weekly study assignments, small group discussion, and lecture.
Contact Buddy Jones at buddyjones0@gmail.com with questions.
Register here
On-Ramps to Spiritual Conversations
Wednesdays, January 10–April 24 (No Meeting March 13), 6:15–8:00 p.m., E111 (Men's Outreach Community Group)
Bringing up the gospel may feel awkward or intimidating. It doesn't have to be! Join us as we share personal experiences and discuss creative on-ramps to spiritual conversations. Contact Chuck Dalton with questions or interest.
Choir & Worship Team Rehearsal
Wednesdays, 6:15–8:00 p.m., Choir Loft and Sanctuary
The Worship Ministry welcomes members and regular attenders who are interested in participating in the choir, worship team, student bands, and more. Contact Katelynn Bernardini for more information at kbernardini@firstevan.org.
Wednesday Night Furniture Building for World Relief (Men's Group)
Wednesdays, January 10–April 24, 6:15–8:00 p.m., A109
Join us for a time of men’s fellowship and some woodworking as we build furniture for newly arriving refugees. We are partnering with World Relief to build and deliver some basic furniture pieces (currently dining tables) for refugees coming from places like Ukraine, Cuba, and Central America. The skill level required is minimal. Come make some saw dust and enjoy an evening where you can see the results of your labor. Feel free to bring your power drills if you have one.
Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting
Wednesdays, 6:15–8:00 p.m., D114
A prayer guide is provided each week to assist in praying for our church, ministries, sick, bereaved, country, missionaries, and military. For more information, contact Chuck Downs.
Men's Midweek Bible Study “The Book of Acts”
Wednesdays, January 10–April 24, 6:15–8:00 p.m., A121/122
Men, join us on Wednesday nights this semester as Steve Atkins, one of our Session elders, leads us on a study of the book of Acts. Acts walks us through the founding and history of the early church. What is the church really to be about? What is God’s plan and intention for it? What is our mission? How did those early followers of Christ spread the Gospel throughout the then-known world and establish the foundation upon which we continue to build to this day?
Precept Upon Precept “1 Timothy” Bible Study
Tuesdays, March 5–April 30, 6:00–8:00 p.m. via Zoom
1 Timothy: Paul's letter to young Pastor Timothy regarding false teachers, conduct, and guarding the truth in the church. Register by March 1 by contacting Sara Butler at 901-491-0101 or sarabutler6@gmail.com. Purchase workbooks from Precept, cost $15.75
Student Ministry Fundraiser: Spaghetti Dinner Auction
Midweek Fellowship Meal, Wednesday, April 24, 5:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall
Around 55 students are attending Student Life Camp this summer in Orange Beach, AL ($600/student). To raise funds for camp, we are hosting a Spaghetti Dinner with Live Auction and Silent Auction to raise money for Student Life Camp. Be on the lookout for students selling tickets!
Meal Cost:
$8/adult
$4/child (3–10 years old)
$40 family max
We take cash, checks, or Venmo @fecmemphis.
Silent Auction, Sunday, April 10–24, Fellowship Hall
There will also be a Silent Auction leading up to the Spaghetti Dinner. This portion will begin Sunday, April 10, and remain in the Fellowship Hall until April 24 at 5:00 p.m. The silent auction will then close at the start of the Spaghetti Dinner. Students will submit items or services to be bid on (some examples from last year, include handmade jewelry, crochet projects, paintings, handmade stationery, babysitting, lawn services, etc).
Live Auction, Wednesday, April 24, Fellowship Hall
This event will, for the majority, be student run.
Women’s Adoption and Foster Group
Wednesday, April 24, 11:30 a.m., Snapdragon Floral, Tea Room (734 Mt. Moriah Rd., #4, Memphis, TN 38117. Snapdragon Floral is to the left of Gibson's Donuts and behind Prima's Bakery.)
Grab lunch and join interested and current foster or adoptive moms for a time of fellowship and community. Birth moms are welcome. We will discuss how to deepen the support and learning of this community also. No reservation required. Contact Christy with questions, cbicknell@firstevan.org.
Men’s Wednesday Morning Bible Study
Wednesdays, January 31–May 1, 6:30–7:30 a.m., via Zoom (to be emailed) | “Philippians, Colossians, & Philemon” led by Buddy Jones
These letters were written by the Apostle Paul to four New Testament churches. Paul told Timothy that the Scriptures are profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. We’ll look for those four benefits each week as we study these letters. The format includes weekly study assignments, small group discussion, and lecture.
Contact Buddy Jones at buddyjones0@gmail.com with questions.
Register here
Trail Life Kickoff Cookout
Tuesday, April 23, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Richard Marsh's Home
Dads and boys in kindergarten through middle school interested in Trail Life are invited to join us for a cookout to kick off the year. Contact troop leader Mark Mazzone at 901-238-6370 or markmtraillifetn4170@outlook.com. Find details about Trail Life USA at www.traillifeusa.com/program-overview.