Upcoming Events
Pastoral Search Prayer Focus
Tuesdays and Throughout the Week
The purpose of this Prayer Focus is to pray for our pastor search committee and our next pastor.
We are asking you to pray every Tuesday until we call our next pastor. Weekly prayer guides will be emailed church-wide.
Heart to Heart AM Bible Study
Tuesdays, January 9–April 16 (No Meeting February 6 or March 12), 9:30–11:30 a.m., Fellowship Hall. Cost: $17.
Heart to Heart is a women's Bible study with small group discussion followed by large group lecture time. Everyone is welcome to continue or start the study this Spring. This semester we will move into the New Testament studying, “The Greatest Story: Read the Bible as One Story and Discover Your Place in God's Redemptive Plan” and we'll see clearly how the Old and New Testaments work together to tell the one story of the Bible and how God continues to prove His everlasting love and faithfulness to all of creation, especially through the life of Jesus Christ. Books are available the first week of January. Childcare and children’s programming available.
Register here
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
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
Midweek at First Evan
Wednesdays, January 10–April 24 (No meeting March 13)
There is something for everyone on Wednesday nights! Enrich your spiritual walk and deepen your relationships in our fellowship. It starts with dinner at 5:00 p.m., followed by electives for all ages. Childcare is available for those attending Midweek electives: https://firstevan.tpsdb.com/OnlineReg/1591.
Common Ground and Impact Bands
Wednesdays, 5:15–6:00 p.m., Common Ground (E202) and Impact (E226) Rooms
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.
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.
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?
Heart to Heart PM Bible Study
Wednesdays, January 10–April 17, Chapel | Cost: $17.
Heart to Heart is a women's Bible study with small group discussion followed by large group lecture time. Everyone is welcome to continue or start the study this Spring. This semester we will move into the New Testament studying, “The Greatest Story: Read the Bible as One Story and Discover Your Place in God's Redemptive Plan” and we'll see clearly how the Old and New Testaments work together to tell the one story of the Bible and how God continues to prove His everlasting love and faithfulness to all of creation, especially through the life of Jesus Christ. Books are available the first week of January. Childcare and children’s programming available.
Register here
FEC Kids Midweek
Wednesdays, January 10–April 24 (No meeting March 13), 6:15–7:30 p.m.* | No Cost
Our Midweek program will build our Sunday morning lesson and looks at what it means to live for Christ. Programming offers a variety of age-appropriate activities for children ages birth through 5th grade. Ages 0–2 will attend childcare with Mrs. Angel, who will teach through the attributes of God as seen in each week's Gospel Project lesson. Ages 3–5 will go on a learning adventure with Cubbie the puppet, who will be studying and memorizing New City Catechism. Kindergarten through 5th grade will continue Awana programming with Mrs. Kelley and her team of Awana leaders. New students welcome! Come join the fun.
For more information, please contact feckids@firstevan.org.
Register here for FEC Kids Midweek.
Register here for Childcare.
• Childcare (0–2 years old): 1st floor C Building
Available from 7:30–8:00 p.m. for kids with parents participating in on-campus electives or volunteering.
• PreK Teaching (3–5 years old): 1st floor C Building
• Elementary Awana (K–5th grade): 2nd floor C Building, C212 check-in
*Childcare is available for children ages 2 and under for adults participating in Midweek activities and from 7:30–8:00 p.m. for those with participating parents.
“Doing Life With Your Adult Children” facilitated by Pastor Taylor Park
Wednesdays, January 10–April 17, 6:15–8:00 p.m., Spurgeon Room (E125)
If you have an adult child, you know that parenting doesn’t stop when a child reaches age 18. In many ways it gets more complicated. Both your heart and your head are as involved as ever, whether your child lives under your roof or barely stays in contact.
Join us in a support group format as we study this insightful book, learn from and encourage each other. We’ll cover things like healthy and gracious boundaries, the difference between helping and enabling, supporting them when you don’t support their choices, relating to their significant other, living with a broken heart, and much more.
Please purchase the book through Amazon or other retailer prior to the class beginning. A study/discussion guide will be provided.
Student Ministries Midweek
Wednesdays, January 10–May 1 (No meeting March 13), 6:15–8:00 p.m.
Impact (6th–8th grade), E226
Common Ground (9th–12th grade), E202
Providing a place for students to learn how to apply Biblical truths to their lives through engaging worship and service.
This year we are giving our students opportunities to engage with local Memphis Ministry Partners through informational sessions, corporate worship, prayer, exposure, and active service. Visit www.firstevan.org/students for full schedule.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Caregivers Group
Thursday, March 21, 11:45 a.m., Chapel
Caregivers is a ministry for those caring for loved ones. This month we will enjoy lunch and hear from Dr. Curt Bicknell, PharmD, on managing medications and a Q&A. Contact Christy Bicknell or Sue Sharpe, 901-828-2624 with questions. Registration is requested here.
Palm Sunday “The Apostles’ Creed” Worship Services
Sunday, March 24, 9:00 and 10:45 a.m. Services, Sanctuary
A special program based on the Apostles' Creed, with soloists, choir, and members of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Nursery for ages 3 and under. **REMINDER: No Sunday School.**
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
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).
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.
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.
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.
Women’s Pickleball 101
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, 1:30 p.m., Gym
All women are welcome to join us for Pickleball 101! Questions, contact Christy Bicknell at cbicknell@firstevan.org.
Women’s Adoption and Foster Group
Wednesday, March 27, 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. No reservation required. Contact Christy with questions, cbicknell@firstevan.org.
Spring Blood Drive
Wednesday, March 27 4:00–7:00 p.m., A124
By being a blood donor, individuals are truly giving the ultimate gift – LIFE! Giving this gift will provide patients the opportunity to create and share more precious moments to cherish with their caring loved ones!
You are encouraged to complete the Fast Track Health Questionnaire on the day of your drive, prior to coming out to donate. This will significantly expedite the donors processing time. Also please remind your potential donors to eat a good meal and drink plenty of water prior to donate. New donors, please contact Sam Hezlep at 901-486-6237. Sign up here.
Good Friday Communion Service
Friday, March 29, 6:00 p.m., Sanctuary
We'll remember Jesus' sacrifice for our sins with meditations on His seven last words, communion, and special music. Nursery for ages 3 and under.
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.
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
Resurrection Sunday
Sunday, March 31, 10:45 a.m. Worship Service, Sanctuary
Join us for a joyful celebration of Jesus' resurrection with a special message from Pastor Josh Raspberry. The cross will be on the front steps of the church for you to place flowers on in honor of our risen Lord. Nursery for ages 2 and under. Children's Church for PreK (2–5-year-olds). Note: We have a regular Sunday morning with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.
Date Night
Friday, April 5, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Common Ground Room (E202)
Join us for BBQ, fun, and fellowship! Compete in trivia, enter to win door prizes, enjoy building relationships with other First Evan couples. Childcare provided. Please register here by March 31 (space is limited).
Spring Soccer Registration
6-Game Season: Saturdays, April 6–May 11 | Cost: $75 (includes uniform: jersey, shorts, and socks)
Boys and girls currently in Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten are invited to play in the ESCRA soccer league! Register by Sunday, March 3. Details at https://www.escrasports.org/soccer. Register by Sunday, March 3 at www.firstevan.org/soccer.
Discover First Evan
Sunday, April 7, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Chapel
This class is offered to those interested in learning more about First Evan or desiring membership. Attending the class in no way obligates you to join, but it is the first step toward membership. For questions or additional information, please contact Jacki Stieferman. More details on membership can be found here. Sign up here.
Prime Time Readers
Meets Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month, 1:00–2:30 p.m., E234
Join us for a great time to fellowship and engage in topics of interest. The first book is, “The Joys of Successful Aging” by George Sweeting. It’s not too late to join if you are interested! If interested in joining this group, please contact Paige Poloni at ppoloni@firstevan.org.
Meet Memphis
Saturday, April 13*, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Memphis is longing for healing. Join us by stepping into this great need. Come to serve and fellowship with Memphis ministries who are seeking the welfare of the city and spreading the gospel. You'll also get to consider opportunities to build authentic and Christ-centered relationships with nonbelievers.
Sign up beginning Sunday, March 10: www.firstevan.org/registermm24
*Meet Memphis Projects on Friday, April 12:
· Arise2Read – Serve Lunch to Faculty at Balmoral Ridgeway Elementary School
· Arise2Read – Serve Lunch to Faculty at Northaven Elementary
Meet Memphis Projects on Saturday, April 13:
· Advance Memphis – Community Feast near Advance Memphis
· Arise2Read – Door Painting at Balmoral Ridgeway Elementary School
· Neighborhood Christian Center – Replace flooring at NCC office
· Binghampton Christian Academy – Work on Community Garden at BCA
· Child Evangelism Fellowship – Building cleanup at CEF office
· Memphis Coalition for Life –Pack Blessing Bags at First Evan
· Eikon Ministries – Block Party near Eikon Ministries
· Life Choices – Help set up and clean up at Life Walk at the Memphis Zoo
· Red Zone Ministries – Painting the storage building/facility at Opportunity Zone
· World Relief Memphis – Community Potluck near World Relief
Men’s Retreat
Friday–Sunday, April 19–21, Riverside Resort, Mammoth Spring, Arkansas | Speaker: Josh Raspberry, Pastor of Family Ministry
Men ages 18 and up are invited to join us for a fun weekend of Bible teaching, fish tales, fellowship, and good food. There will be trout fishing, horseshoes, canoeing, kayaking, and more. Bring a friend! Dads are welcome to bring sons age 16 years and older. Register in the Fellowship Hall on Sundays or below.
Contact John Christiansen (652-3355) or Tim Frazier (734-2678) with questions. Need help with online registration? Contact Stephanie Johnson (682-8452).
Baptism Sunday
Sunday, April 28, 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, April 7 for the March baptism: www.firstevan.org/baptism. Contact Katelynn Bernardini for other dates.
Discover First Evan
Sunday, April 28, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Chapel
This class is offered to those interested in learning more about First Evan or desiring membership. Attending the class in no way obligates you to join, but it is the first step toward membership. For questions or additional information, please contact Jacki Stieferman. More details on membership can be found here. Sign up here.
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.
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 19 at www.firstevan.org/vbs.
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.
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.
MCFL “40 Days for Life” Prayer Vigil
Tuesdays, February 20–March 19, 6:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Shifts Outside of Planned Parenthood (2430 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN).
This is a sidewalk prayer vigil for the lives of the unborn led by Memphis Coalition for Life. You will pray alongside a sidewalk advocate as he or she reaches out to people with hope and life-preserving options. First Evan covers all day every Tuesday. Sign up at www.firstevan.org/40daysforlife.
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
Women’s Small Group: “Emotions”
Mondays, 6:00 p.m., E236 (Executive Conference Room).
Terry Bernardini Thompson, LPC, will facilitate an eight-week women's small group on emotions. The group will break for Spring Break and involve sharing and education. Please contact Terry Thompson at tkbernardini@gmail.com or 901-870-8970 for more information or to sign up for the group.
Prime Time Walkers
To Meet 1–2 Hours a Week at the First Evan Gym Walking Track.
This is a great way to fellowship with health and safety benefits. Currently we have 11 women interested in walking. If interested in joining this group, please contact Paige Poloni at ppoloni@firstevan.org.
FEC Kids Sunday School **Special Guests**
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
Special Guests during Sunday School, 9:30–10:30 a.m., C210/212.
Hi FEC Parents!
This Sunday, March 10, we have SPECIAL GUESTS!!!! Joe and Katie Hox will be teaching our elementary students and parents together! We will meet in C210-212 (CONNECT room at the top of the stairs); children will sit at the front and parents in the back.
Katie, who is Ken Boer's sister, began writing the book Who is Jesus: Forty Pictures to Share with your Family when she could not find the devotional resources she had in mind for her children. Her husband Joe, who is an illustrator, joined in, and together they created a fabulous resource designed specifically for Lent, but that is applicable all year round. They have graciously agreed to share their story and their talents of speaking, teaching, and drawing with us while they are here visiting family. The schedule for Sunday will be as follows:
9:30-9:40 Kids & Parents arrive in C210/212 (I will have toys set out for kids & snacks on tables for grown-ups while we wait for lesson to start)
9:40-10:00 Katie & Joe Hox speak and draw for children
(10:00 kids dismiss to choir practice with Mrs. Rachael Boer while parents remain in room)
10:00-10:30 Katie & Joe Hox speak to parents about family discipleship
10:30- Dismissal & pick up kids in Choir room down the hall
10:45- Worship service starts
Women’s Ministry Supper Club
Thursday, March 7, 6:00 p.m., Swankys Taco Shop, 6641 Poplar, #109, Germantown
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.
ACT II Widows Fellowship
Monday, March 4, 10:00 a.m., Chapel | Speaker: Andrew Beach, Director of Life Planning & Retirement Coaching, The Center - Memphis.
ACT II is a group for widows that meet monthly for prayer and fellowship in the Chapel, unless we have an outing or special program. This month we will hear from First Evaner Andrew Beach who is the Director of Life Planning and Retirement Coaching at The Center - Memphis. For more information about this ministry or to RSVP, please contact Cathy Graham at 901-685-1028 or 901-299-1426 (cell).
Abounding in Christ Together in the Second Season—“God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things, at all times, you may abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8
World Prayer Focus
Quarterly on Sundays, 6:00–7:00 p.m., Chapel
Next Meeting: Sunday, March 3
Join us in intercessory prayer for our world, country, county, city, and church. For more information, contact missions@firstevan.org.
Student Ministries IRL Weekend
Friday–Saturday, March 1–March 3, Pinecrest Camp in Moscow, TN | Cost: $140
IRL Weekend is one of our favorite weekends in Student Ministry! This weekend will be an enriching time for our students diving into 1, 2, and 3 John and being in community with one another. Our theme verse for this weekend is 1 John 1:7, which says, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." On Saturday, the high school will be taking a hiking trip for the day, and the middle school will be competing in our annual Survivor Games! Register by Sunday, February 18 at www.firstevan.org/irl.
Women’s Adoption and Foster Group
Wednesday, February 28, 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. No reservation required. Contact Christy with questions, cbicknell@firstevan.org.
Women’s Coffee Club
Wednesday, February 28, 9:30 a.m., Congregation Coffee, 3060 Forest Hill Irene, Rd., Germantown
Join us for a time of fellowship with other ladies. Women of all ages are welcome! No reservation required.
Precept Upon Precept “Galatians” Bible Study
Tuesdays, January 9–February 27, 6:00–8:00 p.m. via Zoom.
Galatians – What does it mean to live under grace? Do you have to keep the law to be a Christian? Register by January 9 by contacting Sara Butler at 901-491-0101 or sarabutler6@gmail.com.
Global Missions Conference “Listening to the Lord of the Harvest”
February 17–18: Pastor Antonio Muñoz
February 23–25: Dr. George Murray
“Go into all the World and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” Mark 16:15
The theme verse for the year is a good “Great Commission” verse. We learned, when Dr. George Murray preached in November, that we need to “pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into the harvest.” We want to build on that in February. We will hear from these speakers about the importance of GOING and also SENDING. Then, we will be asking you what you believe your role is in the Great Commission.
Full details & schedule at www.globalmissionsconference.com.
KMC 2024 “Ears to Hear”
Friday–Saturday, February 23–24 | 4 years old–5th grade
Kids will come to learn about global missions as parents learn in the Global Missions Conference.
This year, KMC is all about ears. They’re amazing, remarkably complex, and we each have two of them—but sometimes we don’t use them to listen as we ought. Jesus knew this about human beings. He said to the crowd, “he who has ears, let him hear.” Jesus taught in Mark 4 that, just like a seed is sown in the ground, God’s Word is sown in our hearts through—that’s right—our ears! We want to become good listeners to God’s word, letting it take root in our hearts, so we can worship Him and joyfully “go into all creation and proclaim the good news” (Mark 16:15). Do YOU have ears to hear? Let’s listen!
Full details & registration at www.firstevan.org/kmc
Break Bible Study “Colossians: Grounded in the Gospel”
Wednesdays, January 10–February 21, 6:00 p.m., The Meadows’ Home.
What does it mean to be grounded in the gospel? Join Break young adults weekly as we study through Colossians together and find out! We'll meet at Kary and Debra Meadows’ home. Contact Anies Kunda with questions and address.
Caregivers Group
Thursday, February 15, 11:45 a.m., Chapel | Speaker: Susan Crowson, CDP.
Caregivers is a ministry for those caring for loved ones. Susan is an aging life care consultant, certified dementia practitioner, and has been a caregiver herself. She helps families grapple with the effects of aging, dementia and quality of life. Contact Christy Bicknell or Sue Sharpe, 901-828-2624 with questions. Registration requested: https://firstevan.tpsdb.com/OnlineReg/2917.
Christ’s Community Church Can Drive
Urgently Accepting Donations Now Through Sunday, February 18!
We are helping to replenish our neighbors’ bare food pantry. Please bring canned food between now and February 18. Look for a cart or table with signs.
Student Ministry Fundraiser Basketball Game
Saturday, February 10, 2024, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Gym | Tickets: $10/person; $30/family
Around 55 students are attending Student Life Camp this summer in Orange Beach, AL ($600/student). We are hosting a student vs. volunteer leader basketball game. There will be plenty of hot dogs, candy, and drinks for donation and friendly competition!
Life Choices: Bottles for Life
Fundraiser for Life Choices – Pick up & return bottles by February 11!
First Evan celebrates the Sanctity of Human Life month with Life Choices by raising awareness and support for the cause of saving unborn babies, mothers, and their families. Pick up a bottle, fill it (coins, cash, or check), and bring them back by Sunday, February 11. Available at the Connect Center & Fellowship Hall table.
ACT II Widows Fellowship
Monday, February 5, 10:00 a.m., Chapel.
ACT II is a group for widows that meet monthly for prayer and fellowship in the Chapel, unless we have an outing or special program. This month, we will have a light Valentine brunch and hear from Josh Raspberry, Pastor of Family Ministry. For more information about this ministry or to RSVP, please contact Cathy Graham at 901-685-1028 or 901-299-1426 (cell).
Abounding in Christ Together in the Second Season—“God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things, at all times, you may abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8
A Colorful Day
Saturday, February 3, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall & Classrooms. Cost: $15. ($5 for hand embroidery) Women, join us for a morning of workshops, brunch, and fellowship. Register here by Sunday, January 28.
Men’s Fish Fry
Tuesday, January 30, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Fellowship HallCost: $7/person or $50/table | Speaker: Josh Raspberry, Pastor of Family Ministry
Join us for an evening of fish, food, and fellowship. Purchase tickets in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, January 28. Questions: Contact John Dawson, 682-8452, Sammy Bell, 210-7958, or email men@firstevan.org.
Everyday CoJourner: Step 3 In-Person Session
Sunday, January 28, 1:00–3:00 p.m., Fellowship Hall. Lunch provided, no childcare.
Evangelism and discipleship should be a normal aspect of following Jesus. Everyday CoJourner is a set of training sessions that makes outreach simple and relational. Each session brings the whole picture together but they are not prerequisites to one another. In this third training, you will learn to:
identify a God-prepared person
disciple a new believer, and
create a personal evangelism plan.
Register at www.firstevan.org/ec3
Baptism Sunday
Sunday, January 28, 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, December 31 for the January baptism: www.firstevan.org/baptism. Contact Katelynn Bernardini for other dates.
**Worship Service ONLINE ONLY at www.firstevan.org/watch**
We tried our best to get things ready so we could have a service here tomorrow. I want to give a shout-out to Joseph Lawrick and his crew for going the extra mile and having the campus cleared and ready. But one thing we do not have control over is MLGW's water pressure, and that has done us in.
Because of the city’s low water pressure, we do not have functioning toilets and without functioning toilets we cannot have a gathering here. Maybe they will be back up and working by tomorrow, but we have hit the point where we had to make a call and get plan “B” rolling:
The Worship Service will be ONLINE ONLY TOMORROW, January 21.
I am very thankful that Luke Hall and his team have, since our COVID online days, developed a first-rate online experience for those unable to attend the service in person. Tomorrow, that will pretty much be all of us. If you haven’t watched online since we were shut down for COVID, you are going to be pleasantly surprised—so don’t sit tomorrow morning out. Just go to our website and right there on the first screen you see is a button that says, “Watch Live”. Just click it. If you are using a mobile device, just go to our app and the top right button says, “Watch Live”. Just tap it!
I really hope and pray you have all been able to stay safe and warm over this past crazy week. I look forward to being able to gather together again next week, Lord willing.
Stay Safe! Stay Warm! Stay Tuned!
Blessings,
Taylor Park
Executive Pastor | Pastoral Counseling
First Evangelical Church
tpark@firstevan.org
**Everyday CoJourner: Step 3 Via Zoom**
Saturday, January 20, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. via Zoom OR
In-person on Sunday, January 28, 1:00–3:00 p.m., lunch provided, no childcare.
Whether it be hills, homes, temples, seashores, or storms on a boat, Jesus took every advantage of the situation. Praise!The Outreach team has decided that the uncertain weather and road conditions are unfit for driving. For Gabor's safety, we also agreed that he should NOT travel. This was unexpected, but not all is lost.Instead of cancelling the event, there are 2 options to still attend this training! Thank you for being flexible!
Gabor Gresz will lead us through identifying a God-prepared person, discipling a new believer, and creating a personal evangelism plan.
Register here for one of these options:
Saturday, January 20, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. via Zoom
In-person on Sunday, January 28, 1:00–3:00 p.m., lunch provided, no childcare.
Sunshine Stockings for Seniors
Note: Almost EVERY stocking is accounted for! Praise God! If you did not check out your stocking at the Reception Desk clipboard, please do so.
Sunshine Stockings for Seniors—Pick up one today!
Lining the reception desk you will see “Sunshine Stockings” for our homebound senior adults. Adopt a stocking as a family or partner with friends to honor our homebound members. Fill the stocking and then deliver with a smile to share a little joy this Christmas! Contact Kate Taylor for more details.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Children's Choir & Nativity
Sunday, December 24, 5:00–6:30 p.m.*, Sanctuary
Come worship with us! We will have special music, congregational singing, and a message from Pastor Taylor Park. This is a family service — no childcare. *Children arrive at 4:00 p.m. to dress up and prepare for their song!
Family Service – No childcare.
Christmas Eve Worship Service
Sunday, December 24, 10:45 a.m., Sanctuary.
Childcare is available for those ages 2 and under.
No Sunday School.
FEC Kids Christmas Eve: Pizza & Practice
Thursday, December 21, 10:00 a.m., Chapel and Sanctuary. Rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, followed by a casual lunch for moms and kids (on the playground if weather allows!)