Presbytidings – October 2025
The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church
216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787
(402) 375-2669 + http://www.fpcwayne.com
“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”
From the Pastor…
TELLING THE STORY
“Stories are our primary tools of learning and teaching, the repositories of our lore and legends. They bring order into our confusing world. Think about how many times a day you use stories to pass along data, insights, memories, or common-sense advice.”
Quote fromEdward Miller, founder of Edward Elementary, illustrator and product designer.
(Accessed from 50 Best Quotes for Storytelling — The Storyteller Agency)
Most of the furnishings in my home have a story that didn’t begin with me, many things have come to me through my parents, maternal or paternal grandparents. My maternal grandfather was a fine woodworker. I have a clock he made for me, and furniture he refinished. I have a four-poster bed that my maternal grandmother and her sister shared as children. My paternal great grandmother was a quilter. I have several quilts from my father’s side of the family. My mother took some of the quilt tops and finished them into useable quilts. Each of these items has a story, a connection with my family.
I also like genealogy and history which makes connecting the stories of family and the items I have even more interesting. The family lore says the wooden rosary and the small prayer book I have belonged to my paternal great grandfather’s sister, who was a nun in France. These items and the stories of people connected to them passed on to me a connection to extended family, some of whom I never knew. Our stories, personal and family, are a part of our identity of who we are, where we came from.
Before there was writing, there was storytelling, in every culture and from every age. It exists (and existed) to entertain, to inform, and pass on cultural traditions and values. Oral storytelling is telling a story through voice and gestures and takes many forms, including epic poems, chants, rhymes, songs, and more. ( Storytelling and Cultural Traditions. Accessed 9/30/2025).
The National Geographic website shared a storytelling example from theNative American Choctaw tribe. The oral storytelling tradition of the Choctaw goes back generations. Their stories were intended to preserve the tribe’s history and educate the young. The Choctaw oral tradition includes two creation stories: One relates to migration from the west and another to creation from a mound. Many of the Choctaw traditional tales employ animal characters to teach history, moral teachings, as well as life lessons in a humorous vein. Storytelling can encompass myths, legends, fables, religion, prayers, proverbs, and instructions ( Storytelling and Cultural Traditions. Accessed 9/30/2025). Telling a story may also be done through art, photography, film, quilts and other mediums.
The Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, is a grand narrative filled with stories about people, places, and events across generations. The stories were first shared by oral tradition and in time written down. The Bible is composed of numerous types of literature and stories about people and events that reveal God’s character, relationship with humanity, and God’s redemptive plan.
One theme throughout the Bible is the teaching and transmission of faith from generation to generation. In Paul’s letter to his mentee, Timothy, he wrote.
I remember your true faith. That faith first lived with your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I know you now have that same faith. This is why I remind you to keep using the gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. Now let it grow, as a small flame grows into a fire. God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid but a spirit of power and love and self-control. (2nd Timothy 1:5-7).
Remembering and sharing our stories of faith are a central tenet of Christianity, both on a personal level and as a communal experience. Sharing biblical stories and values guides individuals as they navigate life. Being in community plays a crucial role in nurturing individual beliefs and collective values shared through teaching, preaching, and hearing one another’s stories of God’s interaction with us. The Bible emphasizes the significance of faith within the context of community, underscoring the role of believers in supporting, encouraging, and edifying one another. The Bible highlights that spiritual growth, encouragement, and witness thrive in community. Within a faith community we find fellowship, mutual support, unity, as we seek to share the love of Christ inside and outside the walls of the church.
The refrain to the old gospel song, “I love to Tell the Story” is;
I love to tell the story, Twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story Of Jesus and His love.
The First Presbyterian Church of Wayne has a rich origin story, we follow in the footsteps of the cloud of witness who established this congregation with 11 members in December of 1881. The founding members were joined and then followed by other faithful members and pastors through the years. Our FPC story includes men and women, young and old, baptisms, weddings, funerals, Sunday School, music, and special events. The story of this congregation, it’s worship, ministry and mission continues to be written, authored by our Triune God. As we enter our time with Forest Walk, we look forward to not only sharing our FPC story but look forward with anticipation to the guidance and direction of the Spirit in the ongoing telling our story of faith and outreach to the community and the world.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Teresa
WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2025
Sunday, October 5th is World Communion Sunday, a day when we share the Bread of life and the Cup of salvation alongside Christians in all different traditions, around the world. The communion elder will be Mark Hammer.
FOREST WALK UPDATE
It was so wonderful to see so many folks in worship on September 14th for the Forest Walk kickoff. If you were in worship, I’m sure you enjoyed Rev. Loren Shellabarger’s message (you can find video of the service on the church Facebook page or the church website). Rev. Loren shared that he really enjoyed meeting the congregation and participating in worship. Thanks to Suzanne and family for the pulled pork for lunch and all who shared items for the delicious meal. Following the meal Loren and Becky shared with the congregation an overview of their work and process and invited congregational feedback to a number of questions. During our time with Rev. Loren and Becky, it was wonderful to hear the congregation lift up so many of our activities and outreach projects. FPC has many assets, building, people, resources and we have time to vision a new way of being and serving as God’s people in this place. Loren had suggested during our time together that members read Acts chapters 1-6, which is about the formation and work of the early church led by the disciples.
Forest Walk consultants, Rev. Loren and Becky are in the process of preparing an initial identity report for First Presbyterian, which should be received in time for the Session to
review at the October meeting. Rev. Loren and Becky are planning to return to FPC on November 16th. More information will be coming in the next few weeks about their next visit. The work Forest Walk is doing will be the most accurate and helpful with the input and participation of the congregation and friends of the congregation. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us where we need to put our hope:
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
The Forest Walk process is not quick, over the course of time with suggestions from Forest Walk, the leadership of the Session and open hearts and ears for the leading of the Spirit and holding God’s hope may we be strengthened and renewed as God’s people.
PEACE & GLOBAL WITNESS OFFERING TO BE RECEIVED October 5th
Our gifts to the Peace & Global Witness Offering are helping our neighbors in need —
those who live next door, down the street, and across the globe.
25% of this Offering stays with our congregation to support peacemaking and reconciliation
in our own community.
25% of this Offering goes to our mid-council to join with other congregations
to support peacemaking work in our region.
50% of this Offering supports the work being done by Presbyterians across the globe.
Our neighbors need us. Please give what you can to the Peace & Global Witness Offering.
WHEN WE ALL DO A LITTLE, IT ADDS UP TO A LOT.
FPC DEACONS TO HOST COAT GIVE-AWAY: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11th
Saturday, October 11th, the First Presbyterian Church Deacons will be hosting a coat give away from 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Coats for all ages will be available, the selection will be limited to stock on hand. In addition to coats there is a limited selection of hats, scarves and gloves. Each “shopper” can select one coat and accessories; parents may select for their children. The event is open to all area individuals and families. The Deacons will be setting up on Thursday afternoon October 9th with help from volunteers. On October 14th we will return the coats to the basement. If you are able to assist, please contact Pastor Teresa.
PASTORAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVICES
Pastor Teresa will lead pastoral outreach services at the following locations throughout October:
- KINSHIP POINTE CHAPEL: Pastor Teresa will lead a chapel service at Kinship Pointe at 3:30pm on Wednesday, October 29th.
- RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of September 29 – October 3rd at 5:40am, and November 10 – 14.
SESSION
The next session meeting will be held on Monday, October 27th at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Meditations will be given by Suzanne Ras.
COMMUNION
- World Communion will be held on Sunday, Oct. 5th. Communion Elder will be Mark Hammer.
- On Nov. 2nd we will celebrate Communion with John Fuelberth serving as the communion elder.
COFFEEHOUSE WORSHIP
- Coffee house worship will be on October 19th, thanks to Jane O Leary for being discussion leader and Marras being Fellowship hosts.
- The November CoffeeHouse will be held on 11/16. Thank you to Ronda Ras for volunteering to lead the discussion. A fellowship hosts is still needed.
PLEASE VOLUNTEER AT FPC
- The November CoffeeHouse will be held on 11/16. A discussion leader and fellowship hosts are still needed.
- Join a friend or family member for a team approach. Please sign up in Fellowship Hall or contact Pastor Teresa. Consider sharing the gift of hospitality.
- Greeters & lectors are needed. Please volunteer or say “yes” when asked.
PASTOR’S VACATION
- Pastor Teresa will be away on vacation Thursday, October 16th – Monday, October 20th.
- Please contact the office if you have pastoral needs.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: STEWARDSHIP 2026
Like every organization the church has to plan for the coming year, estimate income and expenses, create a budget which leadership uses in making decisions. In the next few weeks, you will receive a mailing from the financial secretary and the Session. It is hoped as you reflect on the information you receive you will prayerfully consider your ongoing support of the First Presbyterian Church of Wayne. Your financial support, as well as your participation are vitally important in the life and ministry of First Presbyterian Church. Your financial support enables the ministries of the church, such as the Coat Closet, hosting the Wayne Food Pantry, supports staff, as well as worship, our music program and special events and education for all ages. There is no church without U.
I AM YOUR CHURCH BUDGET
I am your church budget…
Through me, families are launched in marriage,
persons are baptized, the young are trained in Christian character.
I provide a church school and youth activities for your children.
I provide music to enrich your worship,
and preaching and pastoral services to help you live nobly.
I heat your church building and keep them in repair for your comfort and use.
I do your custodial work.
I reach out to your community and country,
preaching, teaching, healing in Christ’s name.
I provide assistance to those who retire after years
of faithful service to God through the Church.
It is through me that the sick find spiritual strength,
the troubled and discouraged are steadied.
I go out into the wide world preaching the gospel in every language.
I carry the Word to people of every race, color and clan.
I am your Budget.
Believe in me; support me, that I may carry on in your name.
With your help I make possible all those services.
I am YOU at work.
But I do need your help and support.
Without your pledges to undergird me, I am helpless.
Your pledges are my foundation, my supporting walls.
I am your money, your prayers, your concern translated into action.
I can only do what you, through your pledges, make it possible for me to do.
All things through me are possible.
…from Celtic Cross Comment
WAYNE FOOD PANTRY NEEDS
This month FPC members are asked to donate complete pancake mixes. Typically “complete” pancake mix only requires the addition of water. “Regular” pancake mix may require eggs and/or oil as well as water. A donation box is at the rear of the sanctuary.
FOOD PANTRY THANK YOU
A big thank you to the golfers & friends at the annual FPC/OSLC Golf Tournament for their donations to the Wayne Food Pantry and Backpack Program. We received many food items and $375 in cash.
PRESBYTERY NEWS
- “Steering the Ship Leadership” meeting will be October 21st via ZOOM at 2:30pm.
- Presbytery Meeting will be Thursday, November 20th at Tekamah.
2025 SESSION MINUTES REVIEW
We will have a Session Minutes Review in person this year. There will be three opportunities across the state, and you may come to whichever works best for your schedule:
- September 27th at Beatrice Presbyterian Church
- October 11th at Heritage Presbyterian Church in Lincoln
- October 25th at Wayne Presbyterian Church
Each session is on a Saturday and will be from 11:00-2:00 with lunch provided. Please come prepared with 2024’s minutes. We’ll have some time for education and conversation, then clerks will pass their minutes to others to be reviewed. This is intended to be a time of community and learning.
I look forward to seeing you there!
Erica Nelson
Phone 404.477.3401
General Assembly Commissioners Needed June 22 – July 2, 2026
Milwaukee, WI
Please consider serving the larger church as a commissioner to General Assembly. Homestead Presbytery is now taking applications for General Assembly commissioners for 2026. We need one ruling elder and one teaching elder from our Presbytery. Contact Rev. Erica Nelson if interested at 404.477.3401. Applications must be submitted by September 30th.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
Daylight saving time will end for the year at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, Nov. 2nd, when we “fall back” and gain an extra hour of sleep. Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour, or you’ll have plenty of time for solitary meditation in the sanctuary!
OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS
(Would you like to see your birthday listed here?
Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)
5 Dale J.
8 John F.
10 Brook B.
18 Ron C.
20 Braydn McC.
21 Rob S.
SPECIAL DAYS/EMPHASIS SUNDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER
- Mental Illness Awareness Week begins (Oct. 1, 2025)
- World Communion Sunday; Peace & Global Witness Offering (Oct. 5, 2025)
- Indigenous Peoples Day (Oct. 13, 2025)
- Children’s Sabbath; Educate a Child, Transform the World (Oct. 19, 2025)
- World Food Day (Oct. 16, 2025)
- Young Adult Volunteer Program (Oct. 20, 2025)
- United Nations Day (Oct. 24, 2025)
- Reformation Sunday (Oct. 26, 2025)
October 2025 – First Presbyterian Church
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| 1 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living | 2 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living | 3 5:40am KTCH 104.9 Moment for Living | 4 | |||
| 5 9:00am Pealers practice World Communion Day | 6 | 7 | 8 10:30am WACAM Mtg. | 9 3:45 FCCLA moves coats | 11 10:00-1:00am Coat Closet Coat Fair | |
| 12 9:00am Pealers practice | 13 | 14 3:45 FCCLA moves coats | 15 Set-up for CoffeeHouse | 16 | 17 | 18 |
| 19 10:00am Coffee House Worship | 20 | 21 2:30 – ZOOM Presbytery Steering the Ship Leadership | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 11:00am Presb. Session Minutes Review |
| 26 9:00am Pealers practice | 27 7:00pm Session | 28 | 29 3:30pm Kinship Pointe Chapel | 30 | 31 |
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Contact Information:
First Presbyterian Church
216 W. Third Street
Wayne NE 68787
FPC Office/Wayne Food Pantry/Coat Closet
402-375-2669
Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon
Pastor Teresa Bartlett
402-375-2669 (office)
319-795-2911 (cell)
Websites:
Church: https://fpcwayne.com/
Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/
Wayne Coat Closet:
FIND US ON FACEBOOK
First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska
Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska
Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church
First Presbyterian Church of Wayne, Nebraska 