Presbytidings –

December 2025/January 2026

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.

Advent poetry reading

Essence of the Season

by J. Barrie Shepherd

It’s about the giving, really.
So that all those holy folk who moan
about the marketing and such can tend to miss
the deep, abiding truth that, for a month,
at least, and once in every year,
all sorts of people seek to find new,
and surprising ways to make other people smile,
ways to say, in varying degrees of warmth,
“I love you,” or at least, “I care,”
ways to call a temporary halt to grab-and-gain,
and set aside a time and place
for simple gratitude instead.
Given the way we spend the remainder
of our days and months, one might be excused
for calling this an honest-to-God miracle.

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE: December 24^th, 5:30pm

Worship Christ, the newborn King! Thursday, December 24, at 5:30pm. Bring your loved ones for a special candle-lit service celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

COMMUNION

• We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on December 7^th. Gail McCorkindale will be the communion elder.
• There will be no worship service on Sunday, January 4^th.

GIVING TUESDAT – December 2, 2025

The Presbyterian Church (USA) tells us the following about Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025. 

 Imagine one day in the calendar year when Presbyterians — together — have an opportunity to demonstrate the power of their collective generosity.

Imagine an increasingly popular annual observance launched in 2012 as a philanthropic response to the consumer-driven holidays of Black Friday and Cyber Monday as a way for people to give and give back.

Imagine #GivingTuesday, a global generosity movement joined in 2014 by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), which seeks to positively impact neighbors across the nation and around the world.

This year, the entire PC(USA) is invited into a singular effort to “Give with a Purpose” to help provide clean water, end hunger, sustain communities and support education through the Presbyterian Giving Catalog.

“This year, we are calling all Presbyterians to witness to the connectional church in action by dedicating our #GivingTuesday gifts to PC(USA) projects and partnerships that further the causes that are closest to our hearts,” said the Rev. Wilson Kennedy, associate director for the PC(USA)’s Stewardship and Funds Development. “On Dec. 2, we are prayerfully inviting all Presbyterians to ‘Give with a Purpose’ by supporting the ministries of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) through the Giving Catalog.”

For more than 10 years, churches, mid councils and individuals have been turning to the Presbyterian Giving Catalog as a tangible way to provide real and positive impact around the world.  New this year, the 2025–2026 edition of the Giving Catalog has been reorganized to focus on four global causes that align with the mission of the Church:
• Provide Clean Water
• End Hunger
• Sustain Communities
• Support Education

The 2025–2026 Giving Catalog  offers a total of 44 items under the above four cause areas to fit every prospective donor’s missional interests and budget. Copies of the catalog are available in the FPC Fellowship Hall. 

“Although we, as Christians, are called by God to support the ministry of the church through the giving of our time, talent and treasure each and every day,” said Teresa Mader, manager for the Presbyterian Giving Catalog and Direct Response, “the PC(USA)’s #GivingTuesday initiative offers Presbyterians a unique opportunity to demonstrate our togetherness as a denomination to make a lasting impact.”

“On Giving Tuesday, we can show the world that Presbyterians are serious about enacting Christ’s call to love our neighbors as we love ourselves,” Kennedy added. “It is a day when we are collectively called to ‘Give with a Purpose.’ It’s a day when we are invited to listen to the Spirit’s movement and respond with glad and generous hearts.”

Forest Walk Congregational Survey

    Sunday, November 16^th we had our second conversation with Loren and Becky Shellabarger of Forest Walk Consulting who are  guiding us as we vision and plan for the future of FPC. Loren and Becky will return in January for a second small group conversation, more information will be coming about that conversation. The Forest Walk process is not quick and it is important to gather information from a variety of sources to get the most accurate information about the hopes and dreams of the congregation. The most accurate picture will come from the input and participation of all members and friends of the congregation. As a part of their work Forest Walk has developed a survey which they would like every member and friend of the congregation to complete. This is all a part of their work to help us identify our strengths, weakness, opportunities for growth, and future outreach.  

– Only fill out one version of the survey – the online or hardcopy version, do not do both.

– For the online version, each person taking it should use a different device because the survey instrument doesn’t have a way to track different people using the same device and keep the information anonymous. 

– Hard copies of the survey are available in Fellowship Hall on the Opportunities Table

– Be sure to follow the instructions on the hardcopy version. Some questions limit your choices to 3 or 1,    etc. Forest Walk can’t take your response if you answer more than directed.

– It’ll take 30-45 minutes to complete. It doesn’t have to be done in one setting.

– Return or complete surveys by Dec 15th.

– There will be a box in Fellowship Hall to receive the hardcopies of the survey.

– If you have any questions please contact Gail McCorkindale, Mark Hammer or Pastor Teresa 

    The information from the survey and the small groups will be compiled and shared with the Session who will determine next steps. Let us all be open to how God might be at work and the leading of the Spirit as we seek to be agents of Jesus Christ. 

“Look, I am about to do something new. Now it begins to happen! Do you not recognize it?

Yes, I will make a road in the desert and paths in the wilderness.”

Isaiah 43:19  NET Translation

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTERS

    The Advent wreath is one of the most symbolic traditions for the season of Advent. With its colorful candles lit on each of the four weeks of Advent, the wreath is a reminder of the hope and joy coming. Advent, like Christmas, is a season of expectation, celebration, and hope connected to the birth of the prophesied Messiah and the promise of Christ’s subsequent ministry. This year the following folks will be leading our Advent candle lighting. 

November 30^th          Michelle and Austin Galles and family

December 7^th            Jeryl and Rochelle Nelson

December 14^th          Suzanne and Michael Sjuts and family 

December 21^st           Sydney and Nate Story and family

DRAW NEAR 

2025 ADVENT DEVOTIONAL 

 WRITTEN BY TERI MCDOWELL OTT 

During the Advent season the office will  email a daily advent devotion, Sunday’s devotion will be a bulletin insert. These devotions are from an Advent devotional by Terri McDowell Ott entitled “Draw Near.” If you would prefer a hard copy please let  Pastor Teresa know and one can be printed for you.  Each day of Advent, this devotional offers a gentle invitation to draw near — to Scripture, to stillness, and to the heart of God. The devotional follows the traditional Advent themes, of  hope, peace, joy and love, preparing not just for Christmas, but for Christ’s presence among us. Alongside daily reflections, this journey is enriched by artwork from children — tender, honest interpretations of sacred texts that remind us what it means to receive the kingdom like a child. Their drawings offer not just illustration, but illumination — echoing the wonder and welcome of the season. During this season let us draw near to Christ, let us open our hearts and minds to  the wonder of God’s love.    

PRESBYTERIAN PEALERS

Each year the Handbell Choirs in Sioux City present a program called the 12th Night Handbell Festival.  This is a concert featuring 8 to 10 handbell choirs. This year the Presbyterian Pealers have been invited to participate.
            The concert will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026 in Eppley Theater on the campus of Morningside University and is open to all. The time will be announced at a later date.

PMC ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

The PMC Annual Tree Lighting Remembrance Service will be held Sunday, December 7^th at 2:00pm in the Providence Medical Center Auditorium.

CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING

The Christmas Joy Offering has been a cherished Presbyterian tradition since the 1930s. The Offering distributes gifts equally to the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions and to Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color. The Assistance Program provides critical financial support to church workers and their families. Presbyterian-related schools and colleges provide education and leadership development while nurturing racial and ethnic heritage. This has been a Presbyterian commitment for nearly 140 years. We will receive the Christmas Joy offering on Sunday, December 14^th and December 21^st, however you may make your gift any time before the end of the year. Please note on your check or offering envelope that the gift is for the Christmas Joy offering.

SEASON OF GIVING

        In this season of giving, you are encouraged to support local non-profit agencies such as Salvation Army, Haven House, the Wayne Food Pantry & Backpack Program, Coat Closet, and WACAM. 

You may also give toward an international mission through your donation to the Presbyterian Giving Catalog. For example, a pair of goats cost $178.00.  If you give by check to the Giving Catalog through FPC make the check out to FPC Wayne with a notation of your gift of choice to allow it to be recorded by the financial secretary and forwarded to PC(USA).

Peanut Butter and Jelly Challenge !

For the month of December FPC members and friends are asked to donate peanut butter and jelly which is used both in the holiday Backpack Program with the school students and in the regular food boxes. Pastor Teresa issued a challenge to the congregation to collect 50 jars of peanut butter and jelly by December 16^th.

Thank you to the congregation and community for their support of the Wayne Food Pantry, especially this October and November in a time of uncertainty. We are grateful to all the community organizations for the food drives, the donations of food, and financial support. Working together, we make our community and the world a better place.  

BIBLE STUDY ON THE BOOK OF JAMES

Gail McCorkindale is hosting a Bible study on the book of James Tuesdays at Kinship Point at 1:15 p.m. Our journey of faith, requires a growth of knowledge about the Bible, James exhorts us to not stop there and offers  a challenge to Christians to not just “talk the talk,” but to “walk the walk.” Many will find this epistle challenging as the book of James focuses on the truths of Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount and motivates us to act upon what He taught. All are welcome to join Gail in this study which is so relevant for today.

PASTORAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVICES – December 2025/January 2026

December 2025:

• KINSHIP POINTE: Pastor will lead a chapel service at Kinship Pointe on Wednesday, December 10^th beginning at 1:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of December 22^nd – 26^th at 5:40am.

January 2025:

• WAYNE COUNTRYVIEW: Pastor will lead chapel service on Sunday, January 11^th, beginning at 1:30pm.
• KINSHIP POINTE: Pastor will lead chapel service on Wednesday, January 21^st, beginning at 3:30pm.

PASTOR’S VACATION & STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor will be on vacation December 25^th, 2025 – December 31, 2025.
• The Christmas Eve service will be held at 5:30pm.
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS

• The church office will be closed December 25^th – January 2^nd. We will re-open on Tuesday. January 2^nd, 2025.
• Pastor Teresa will be on leave Thursday, December 25 – Friday, January 2^nd 2026. Please leave a message if you have a need at either (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

TAX REMINDER

All donations for the 2025 calendar year need to be to Anita Fuelberth no later than December 30^th for tax purposes. Any mailed donations should  be postmarked no later than December 29^th.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING: December 7^Th, 2024

            On December 7^th the Congregational meeting will receive the budget for 2026 which will include the terms of call for the pastor. At the meeting a change in the by-laws and the elections of officers will also be presented. Copies of the budget will be available in Fellowship Hall after the meeting

The Nominating Team presented the following slate of officers;

Elder –            Jeryl Nelson (1^st term)

                        Gail McCorkinfale (2^nd term)

Deacon –        Gordon Granberg (2^nd term)

                        Karen Marra (1^st term)

COFFEE HOUSE TO RETURN IN 2025

CoffeeHouse Worship will return on February 15, 2026. Please contact Jane to volunteer or share ideas for topics. We will also need volunteers for treats and to make the coffee so please watch for the sign-up sheet to volunteer. We look forward to more discussion about the Scriptures’ and how they impact our lives. Coffee House begins February 16^th.

SESSION

• The Session will not meet in December.
• The Session will gather for a retreat Saturday, January 24^th, 2026 (snow date is January 31^st) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a time of training and planning for 2026. All Session members including the incoming class of elders should plan to attend. We will be reviewing polices of the congregation as well as planning for communion, monthly devotions and organizing Session teams. 
• If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Saturday, 1/24/2026.

FPC ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

Our annual congregational meeting will follow worship on Sunday, January 25^th. If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Friday, 1/16/2026.

SESSION & DEACON TEAM REPORTS DUE

If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Friday, 1/16/2026.

December 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

January 2026 – First Presbyterian Church

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

                5      Tiffanny H.

             7      Candyce P.

             14     Randy D.

                18     Beau B.

                22     Nina H.

   JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

             2        Larry H.

             5        Terry B.

             9        Jenny H.

             20      Kent P.        

             27      Jim P.

             28      Jackie O.

             31      Shannon P.

This New Year
Poet:  Catherine Pulsifer[*]

For the year that has passed, Lord we thank you.
For the coming year, Lord we thank you.
For the people you have put in our path, Lord we thank you
For the blessings you have generously given us, Lord we thank you.

Let us being your shining light in this new year.
Let us always see and help with the needs of others this new year.
Let us share what we have this new year.
And, let us praise and worship you in freedom this new year.

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

[*] https://www.stresslesscountry.com/christianpoemsnewyear.html  Accessed 11/25/2024

Presbytidings – November 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……

There is a children’s song about Jesus’ love, the lyrics are:

Jesus’ love is sweet and wonderful,

Jesus’ love is sweet and wonderful,

Jesus’ love is sweet and wonderful,

Oh, wonderful love!

So high, you can’t get over it.

So low, you can’t get under it.

So wide, you can’t get around it.

Oh, wonderful love!

Thanks to Suzanne Sjuts and Ronda Ras who spearheaded First Presbyterian Church’s participation with Haven House’s, Trunk, or Treat event with the theme “God’s Love is Sweet” on October 30^th. Due to gusty winds the event was moved inside the building but that didn’t stop the children and families. They came in all sizes, babes in arms, toddlers, and older elementary children. From tiny dinosaurs and skunks, super heroes, Minecraft costumes, even Harry Potter as well as an assortment of princesses we had quite the costume review. The children could get a temporary tattoo from the Haven House staff as well as treats. Ronda and I decorated our table and us. Rhonda was rocking her 1950’s look and me, a not too scary witch, with my pet frog and black cat. Ronda and Suzanne had prepared individual packages of cookies with stickers containing information about the church and upcoming activities. The children could also choose Rice Krispie treats or chocolate candies. The adults gladly accepted an FPC pen. We think there were about 50 children over the course of a couple of hours. Ronda and I had fun seeing the children showing off their costumes and sharing the sweet love of God through some sweet treats.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on November 2^nd with John Fuelberth as the communion elder. We will celebrate Communion on December 7^th with Gail McCorkindale as the communion elder.

COFFEEHOUSE WORSHIP CONTINUES ON NOVEMBER 16^th

We will meet in Fellowship Hall, coffee and refreshments will be available as desired throughout the service. We are still in need of a fellowship host for the day. This will be the last CoffeeHouse for the year.

FOREST WALK CONSULTING RETURNS NOVEMBER 16^TH

Greetings in the name of Christ! We’re very excited to be coming back to Wayne to be with you again on November 16. While we are there, we look forward to participating in your Coffeehouse Worship and seeing what great things you are doing there. We will also be leading the first of two “Small Group” gatherings following worship. In this gathering, we’d like to ask you questions about your church; its history, what’s gone well, when have struggles happened, what major decisions have been made, what decisions have been set aside, what works, what doesn’t, etc. There’s a lot to cover, but these gatherings usually last around one hour. 

We ask that you plan to attend either this small group meeting or a second one on January 11. Please don’t attend both so everyone has an opportunity to share their thoughts. These meetings are open to everyone associated with the church: members, attendees, Session, etc. We gather very important information about the church in these gatherings and your input is vitally important. We look forward to seeing you on November 16!

Peace,

Loren & Becky Shellabarger

Forest Walk Consulting

BIBLE STUDY ON THE BOOK OF JAMES

Beginning November 18th

Gail McCorkindale will be hosting a Bible study on the book of James beginning on November 18^th at Kinship Point at 1:15 p.m. Our journey of faith, requires a growth of knowledge about the Bible, James exhorts us to not stop there and offers  a challenge to Christians to not just “talk the talk,” but to “walk the walk.” Many will find this epistle challenging as the book of James focuses on the truths of Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount and motivates us to act upon what He taught. All are welcome to join Gail in this study which is so relevant for today.

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY

Our presbytery will meet on November 20^th at Tekamah. Worship begins at 10:00am. Pastor Teresa will attend.

SESSION

The Session will gather on Monday, November 24^th at 7:00pm in Fellowship Hall.

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

The church office will be closed Thursday & Friday, November 27-28^th for the Thanksgiving holiday.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

The Session has called a congregational meeting for December 7^th. At the meeting we will elect a new class of deacons & elders, approve the terms of call for the pastor in 2026 and make a change to the date required for the second congregational meeting. The snow date will be December 14^th.

PASTORAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead pastoral outreach services at the following locations throughout October:

• WAYNE COUNTRY VIEW CHAPEL: Pastor will lead a chapel service at Country View on Sunday, November 2^nd.
• KINSHIP POINTE CHAPEL: Pastor Teresa will lead a chapel service at Kinship Pointe at 3:30pm on Wednesday, December 10^th.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of November 10^th – 14^th and December 22^nd -26^th at 5:40am.

STEWARDSHIP REMINDER

Members and friends of the congregation should have received a year-to-date statement of giving for 2025 and a 2026 intention of giving form. If you did not receive this information please contact Anita Fuelberth.

You are asked to prayerfully review your information and return the intention of giving form to Anita Fuelberth right away. You can mail the form to Anita or drop your envelope in the offering box at church. This information is helpful to the Session in planning for 2026. Thank You for your support and dedication to FPC.

DID YOU KNOW?

            Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) have become a great way for people 70½ or older to take all or part of their Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from their Traditional IRA. The recent tax code changed the standard deduction for those over 65 to $26,600 for married filing jointly or $13,600 for single filers. Thus for many of us our church pledges will no longer be included in an itemized deduction. However, by making all or part of our pledge a Qualified Charitable Distribution directly from the IRA custodian or trustee to the church the distribution will not be included as taxable income to the IRA owner. Qualified Charitable Distributions can also exceed one’s specific RMD amount and still not be taxed.

            While Qualified Charitable Distributions are not complex there are certain requirements and steps that should be followed so check with your tax professional.

PRAYER FOR VETERANS DAY

God of peace, we pray for those who have served our nation,
who laid down their lives to protect and defend our freedom…

We pray for those who have fought, whose spirits and bodies are scarred by war
and whose nights are haunted by memories too painful for the light of day…

We pray for those who serve us now, especially for those in harm’s way:
shield them from danger and bring them home, soon…

Turn the hearts and minds of our leaders and our enemies
to the work of justice and a harvest of peace…

Spare the poor, Lord, spare the poor!

May the peace you left us, the peace you gave us,
be the peace that sustains, the peace that saves us.

Christ Jesus, hear us! Lord Jesus, hear our prayer!
Amen.

From – ConcordPastor.blogspot.com

Deacons Coat Giveaway a Success!

….. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these

 brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’   Matthew 25:40b NIV

The First Presbyterian Church hosted a successful winter coat giveaway on October 11^th in the church Fellowship Hall. The doors  opened at 10 am to several people waiting and ready to find a winter coat for themselves or their families. Over two dozen families were able to get prepared for winter with coats and winter accessories. The FPC Deacons are thankful for the assistance of the WCS FCCLA Club who moved the coats and racks from the lower level to Fellowship Hall and then returned them to the basement. The Deacons also appreciated the assistance of Ms. Dutcher and her Spanish students and Georgina Bernal in providing translation as needed. The FPC Coat Closet is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. – noon. The closet accepts donation of new or used coats. Used coats should be clean and  in good condition, zippers working etc. Please no wool or leather coats. For more information call the church office  at 402.375.2669. 

SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS NEEDED

The Wayne Extension Unit of the Salvation Army will be conducting its Annual Bell Ringing Campaign beginning Friday, November 21^st. The bell ringing campaign is the primary fundraiser for the Salvation Army in Wayne. Bell ringers are needed for 1 or 2-hour time slots on Friday or Saturday beginning Thanksgiving weekend to December 20^th. Churches, service organizations, youth groups and others are invited to participate in the bell ringing project. The only requirements are to be friendly and welcoming, dress warmly and smile easily and say thank-you, oh yeah, a little wrist action with a bell.

Ninety percent (90%) of the funds collected in the bell ringing campaign remain in the community and assist with housing, utilities, medical, transportation and other needs of families and individuals in Wayne. In 2025 the Wayne SA Unit sponsored a back-to-school drive for school supplies for elementary children. The project was very successful and helped more than 98 children with backpacks and school supplies.

This year the Wayne Salvation Army Unit also made a large donation of groceries to the Wayne Food Pantry in September.

Participation in the Salvation Army bell ringing campaign is one way we can live into our commitment of being a Matthew 25 congregation; as we are reminded in Matthew 25:40; ‘… whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Please see Pastor Teresa to volunteer to ring at Pac N Save or Quality Foods.

LOOKING AHEAD TO ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

• We will begin observing advent on the last Sunday in November, 11/30/2025
• The Hanging of the Greens will take place after worship on November 30^th. Stick around to help decorate the interior and exterior of our building in anticipation of Christmas..
• Our Christmas Eve Service will be held at 5:30pm.

ADVENT CANDLE LIGHTERS NEEDED

Pastor Teresa is looking for couples, families or individuals who would like to assist with lighting the Advent candles during worship in December. All readings will be provided in advance. Your participation in this seasonal tradition will be appreciated. A sign-up sheet will be in Fellowship Hall or you can contact Pastor Teresa.

The dates are:

November 30^th, December 7^th, December 14^th, December 21^st, and December 24^th

To Give Thanks…

is to remember how it feels to experience belonging,

to look long around a laden table

and be glad to claim a place among that gathered company.

To give thanks is to remember what has been-time’s bewildering recital-

and, despite so much, to look ahead with undiminished hope.

To give thanks is to recall with heartache all those absent from the assembled,

the dear departed, those, too, who never made it in the first place,

due to loss, or want, foul fortune, being born at the wrong place, at the wrong time.

To give thanks takes all that we have been, all that we are and yet might be,

and shapes it new around a fuller, richer, broader future feast.

J. Barrie Shepherd

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here? 

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

               6       Brandon B.

               10     Kevin P.

               12      Mark Mc.

               13      Katherine B.

               14      Audrey H.

November 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

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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

fpcwayne@gmail.com

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

FPC Service Recordings can be found at:

*Facebook @ First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

*Our website @ https://fpcwayne.com

*YouTube @ FPC of Wayne Nebraska

FPC Online Worship Bulletins can be found at:

FPC Account at Thrift Warehouse: #4570

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 5^th 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 14^th 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 16^th. 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 5^th

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 11^th

Saturday, October 11^th, 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 9^th with help from volunteers. On October 14^th 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 29^th.
• 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 27^th 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. 5^th. Communion Elder will be Mark Hammer.
• On Nov. 2^nd 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 16^th – Monday, October 20^th.
• 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 21^st via ZOOM at 2:30pm.
• Presbytery Meeting will be Thursday, November 20^th 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

statedclerk@homesteadpres.org

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. 2^nd, 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

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.com; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office/Wayne Food Pantry/Coat Closet

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

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

Presbytidings–September 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.com

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

Save the date – September 14^th:

All are invited to attend worship on September 14th. The Rev. Loren Shellenbarger of Forest Walk Consultants will bring the message. Rev. Shellenbarger along with his wife Becky are Forest Walk Consultants and will be guiding the congregation through a series of conversations to help us vision our identity and our future. Following worship there will be a potluck dinner, meat is being provided, members are asked to bring side dishes, salads and desserts. Following the meal Forest Walk will give an overview of their process and goals. The input and participation of every member and friend of the congregation is desired in this process. 

From the Pastor…

Throughout our lives individuals ask who am I, what am I to do, we question and explore our identity in a variety of ways. An individual’s identity can be shaped by a variety of things, environment, relationships with parents, siblings, and others. We can be influenced by social groups, friends, family, mentors and others, as well as experiences, our beliefs, values, and memories. Our identity shifts and changes throughout life as we encounter new challenges and different experiences. One’s identity might be questioned at any age in life, but especially in times of great change, including beginning new relationships, traumatic events, divorce, moving to a new place, losing, or starting a job, or a serious health condition. Humans often struggle with being clear about who they are and what they believe, their values, the impact of change and trauma in their lives.

Reflecting on and reevaluating our individual identity is important even if we are not in a crisis. Denominations and churches also experience changes which challenge their understanding of who they are and what they are called to do as the people of God. Changes in society, changes in our community, as well as membership signal it is time that First Presbyterian take a closer look at who we are and what is important to us as a congregation.   

Presbyterians in the reformed Christian tradition claim the motto of the Reformation, “Ecclesia Reformata, Semper Reformanda”:  the church reformed and always reforming. The church is shaped by our theology, our heritage which informs, inspires, unites us, and continues to challenge us. What is our identity as the people of God who gather at 216 West Third St.? In order to define our identity, our relationships and mission as the people of God we will begin working with Forest Walk Consulting in September. Forest Walk Consulting will guide the congregation in thinking about our identity to our members, friends and the community. What are our relationships inside and outside the congregation? We will consider how well the things FPC does reflects what we think is important. Change is part of growth; we should not be afraid of change and new ideas, new visions. Forest Walk will guide us in listening for and how the Holy Spirit may be calling us. 

The Shellabarger’s will be here on September 14th for the kickoff event which includes worship and a potluck dinner following worship. The Session and I are enthusiastic about this opportunity. There will be a variety of opportunities to share your thoughts and opinions during this process, and the input and participation of all the members and friends of the congregation is needed to be effective. The outcome of the work of Forest Walk and the congregation will help us define our identity and how we can impact our community and the world as the people of God. 

Pastor Teresa 

INTRODUCING FOREST WALK CONSULTING

As you know, your Session has contracted with Forest Walk Consulting to deliver a Mission Study. Forest Walk is a small consulting ministry run by Rev. Dr. Loren and Becky Shellabarger. Our website is www.forestwalkconsulting.com. Loren is a retired PC(USA) Pastor and Becky is a PC(USA) Ruling Elder. Together, our passion is to help small churches in their quest to follow God’s calling in their lives. We feel strongly that small churches are vitally important to the work of the greater church. We look forward to beginning our work with you soon!

The first step in this study is for us to explore your “Identity”. We shared some details of this step with you earlier this summer. We will meet with you on Sunday, September 14 for worship with a meal and meeting to follow that day. Come with your thoughts and hopes for the church and be ready to share them with each other and us! After we’ve gathered in September, Forest Walk will spend a couple of weeks creating our first report for your Session: your Church Identity Report. This is a ‘first impression’ of who you are and where your passions lie. As we continue to work with you, this report may be updated to reflect additional learnings.

As we continue in the Mission Study process, we will be meeting with you and asking for information from you in a variety of ways. We will create a custom survey for your church members and friends to fill out and send back to us. Look for that to arrive in late October or early November. We will also be contacting a few of you for one-on-one conversations via the phone or Zoom to learn more about your church and community. In late 2025, we will be back in Wayne to hold two small group meetings with portions of the church. We ask that you plan to attend one of these meetings. We offer two options to reduce potential calendar conflicts for you because your attendance is always very important. These meetings will discuss the history, community, challenges, and opportunities facing the church. Finally, in early 2026, we will return once more to gather with the entire church membership and friends. In this meeting, we will take the information you’ve given us over the preceding months and begin to discuss options and ways forward. We’ll also use this to ask any last questions or seek any clarifications as needed. 

After completing this time together, Forest Walk will create a Mission Study Document and send it to your Session approximately 4-6 weeks after our last gathering. This document varies by church and context, but usually contains both short and long term recommendations and options. We will also give the Session all of the raw data that we’ve collected. While this makes for a long report, we’ll be available to the Session to go over our recommendations and to answer any questions they (and you) may have as you move forward, seeking ways to be God’s people! 

Again, we look forward to meeting everyone on September 14. Loren will be preaching that day and is excited to share God’s word with you!

Peace,

Loren & Becky Shellabarger

Forest Walk Consulting

COMMUNION

There will be no communion for the month of September. We will celebrate World Communion on Sunday, October 5^th.

DEACONS MEETING

There will be a Deacons meeting following worship on September 7^th in Fellowship Hall. We will gather about 11:15 for a brief meeting about fall events and plans. Please let Pastor Teresa  know if you are unable to attend. 

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

• COUNTRY VIEW: Pastor will lead chapel at Wayne Country View on Sunday, September 7^th at 1:30pm.
• KINSHIP POINTE: Pastor will lead Kinship Pointe chapel on Wednesday, September 17^th at 3:30pm.
• 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.

COFFEEHOUSE

We are looking for CoffeeHouse discussion leaders and fellowship hosts for September, October and November. Consider joining a friend or family member for a team approach. Many hands make light work! Please see Jane O’Leary or Pastor Teresa if you can help out by filling these roles.

SESSION MEETING

• Monday, September 22^nd, at 7:00 pm in Fellowship Hall.

PRESBYTERIAN PEALERS

The Presbyterian Pealers Bell Choir begin on September 28^th. Please join us. all are welcome. If you have a friend who would like to play, they are also welcome and encouraged. If you have questions, please contact Jay O’Leary at drjayoleary@gmail.com

NEW ADDRESS

Jean Griess has moved to be nearer her family.  Please stop by the Opportunity Table or call the church office is you would like to contact her. How about a card shower to her new home?

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING EVENT – SEPTEMBER 6th!

New Location – the FNBO parking lot located at 1100 E. 10th Street in Wayne.

The City of Wayne Green Team is hosting its annual electronics recycling collection event on Saturday, September 6^th from 8am – 10am (ends earlier if the truck fills up). It will be hosted at a new location this year, the FNBO parking lot located at 1100 E. 10th Street in Wayne.

Bring your old TVs, computers, cell phones, printers, cords and more to recycle right and keep electronics out of the landfill, where they can become hazardous to our soil and groundwater.  You can even bring VHS tapes, vacuums, blenders, toasters, and kitchen mixers.  Sorry, no large appliances, dehumidifiers, or batteries.

Enter the FNBO Parking Lot from the west to unload your electronics and exit on the east end to 10th Street or Hillside Drive.

FEES: Suggested donation of $10 per carload or $50 per business load of reasonable size.  Fees for CRTs (tube) of $5/monitor and $10/TV (no charge for flatscreens); $15/microwave. 

SEASON OF PEACE

September 7 – October 5, 2025

A “Season of Peace” is the name for a period of focused activity by the PC(U.S.A.) that begins on the first Sunday in September and concludes with World Communion Sunday on the first Sunday of October with the Peace & Global Witness Offering. 

Every fall, the PCUSA extends an invitation to join with people of faith from around the country and the world for A Season of Peace, a month-long pilgrimage designed to deepen the pursuit of peace for congregations, small groups, families and individuals. This season is a time of growth, encouragement, challenge, inspiration and education that invites you to consider your own relationship to peacemaking and justice. Our connectional church is rooted in none other than Christ’s clear call to harmonious living. The apostle Paul tells the Romans that we are to pursue what makes for peace, to build each other up, and to not cast judgment on those who are different from us or have different customs or needs than our own.

Paul is inviting the Romans — and us — to break down the neat and orderly worlds we create for ourselves and experience the fullness of our diversity. This means leaving our comfort zones and seeing our neighbors, both around the corner and around the world, not as “them” but as “us,” friends and siblings in Christ. Whenever we welcome and embrace one another in this way, we respond to Paul’s invitation to pursue what makes for peace.

This year’s Path of Peace takes up this call in a distinct way. Each day, we offer a vignette of a Presbyterian who contributed to the civic and spiritual well-being of our church and world and made a significant impact on the common good here or abroad. Some battled injustice; others broke down barriers and dividing walls. Many advocated for marginalized communities and made room for them within the church. Each offers us an example of how peace can be pursued in tangible ways.  Here is the link: 2025 A Season of Peace.pdf

WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY & THE PEACE AND GLOBAL WITNESS OFFERING

World Communion Sunday (WCS) is a tradition that promotes Christian unity by bringing together believers from diverse cultures and denominations for Holy Communion. Initiated by Shadyside Presbyterian Church pastor Hugh Thomson Kerr in 1933, the celebration was adopted by the PC(USA) in 1936 and promoted worldwide by the Federal Council of Churches in 1940. The celebration encourages sharing cultural elements like food, clothing, and music, connecting believers in Christ across the globe.

The Peace & Global Witness Offering is collected on WCS and helps to pursue peace in a variety of ways. Gifts to the Offering are combined with others to support Presbyterian mission and ministry around the world. Our congregation and presbytery keep a portion to help us be peacemakers in our own communities by meeting needs and ensuring every person can flourish. Our participation in supporting this Offering helps us see the face of God in all people. May the offerings of our time, talent, and self be used by God and by our congregation to pursue what makes for peace today and in the future.

Homestead Presbyterian Women’s Fall Gathering

“A Cord of Three Strands is not Easily Broken, a Vision of Relationship.”

September 27, 2025

Join us for worship, inspiration, and fellowship.

Special guest speaker, Sandra Rojo, Associate Director

of the ELL Program from Lincoln Literacy Project.

Offering will go to assist the work of Lincoln Literacy.

Watch your email for additional information.

about the Homestead PW Fall Gathering.

Westminster Presbyterian Church

2110 Sheridan Blvd

Lincoln, Nebraska 68502

Phone #402.475.6702

Check-in and Coffee from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m.

Meeting from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Hybrid meeting: in person and via Zoom. If you receive the Circuit, you will receive the Zoom link.

If you need the Zoom link email -tbartlett98@gmail.com by September 25^th.

THE GREAT PLAINS SMALL CHURCH CONNECTION 

September 22-24, 2025

Calvin Crest Conference & Retreat Center, Fremont, Nebraska

        The Great Plains Small Church Connection Conference/Retreat, held annually at Calvin Crest Camp, is designed for leaders in small church ministry. Emphasizing support, fellowship, and learning, this event offers a valuable opportunity for community growth. Planned by pastors and laity experienced in small church ministry, the conference features worship, plenary sessions, and various smaller group learning sessions on relevant topics. Learn more at the Calvin Crest website under retreats or at:

   Great Plains Small Church Connection | Small Church Resource | Fremont, NE, USA

2025  Session Minutes Review 

We will be doing 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

statedclerk@homesteadpres.org

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.

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

                                    6          Anita F.

                                    8          Sharyn P.

            24        Misty B.

            30        Madison B.

SEPTEMBER 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

FPC ONLINE WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

FaceBook:https://www.facebook.com/fpcwayne/

YouTube: First Presbyterian Church of Wayne, Nebraska

Our web page: https://fpcwayne.com/media/

Worship Bulletins may be found at:https://fpcwayne.com/fpc-wayne-worship-bulletins/

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to http://www.fpcwayne.com; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

Presbytidings – July/August 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

From the Pastor….

From the Pastor………

            “While walking through the forest one day, a man found a young eagle who had fallen out of his nest. He took it home and put it in his barnyard where it soon learned to eat and behave like the chickens. One day a naturalist passed by the farm and asked why it was that the king of all birds should be confined to live in the barnyard with the chickens. The farmer replied that since he had given it chicken feed and trained it to be a chicken, it had never learned to fly. Since it now behaved as the chickens, it was no longer an eagle.

“Still it has the heart of an eagle,” replied the naturalist, “and can surely be taught to fly.” He lifted the eagle toward the sky and said, “You belong to the sky and not to the earth. Stretch forth your wings and fly.” The eagle, however, was confused. He did not know who he was, and seeing the chickens eating their food, he jumped down to be with them again.

The naturalist took the bird to the roof of the house and urged him again, saying, “You are an eagle. Stretch forth your wings and fly.” But the eagle was afraid of his unknown self and the world and jumped down once more for the chicken food. Finally the naturalist took the eagle out of the barnyard to a high mountain. There he held the king of the birds high above him and encouraged him again, saying, ” You are an eagle. You belong to the sky. Stretch forth your wings and fly.” The eagle looked around, back towards the barnyard and up to the sky. Then the naturalist lifted him straight towards the sun and it happened that the eagle began to tremble. Slowly he stretched his wings, and with a triumphant cry, soared away into the heavens.

It may be that the eagle still remembers the chickens with nostalgia. It may even be that he occasionally revisits the barnyard. But as far as anyone knows, he has never returned to lead the life of a chicken.”^[*]

One’s identity can be shaped by a variety of things, environment, relationships with parents, siblings, and others. We can be influenced by social groups such as classmates, as well as experiences, our beliefs, values, and memories. Social media can also be a powerful force especially for young people. Throughout our lives we ask who we are, what am I to do, we question and explore our identity. A particularly challenging period is the transition into Jr. High and then into high school. These are years of social pressure to fit in and can lead to challenges being satisfied with who we are and how we look.

Our identity shifts and changes throughout life as we encounter new challenges and encounter different experiences. Research suggests there are a number of factors such as health issues, stress, and social support that can influence whether a person experiences an identity crisis. One’s identity might be questioned at any age in life, but especially in times of great change, including beginning new relationships, traumatic events, divorce, moving to a new place, losing, or starting a job, or  a serious health condition. ^[†] Reflecting on and reevaluating our identity is important even if we are not in a crisis.

Humans often struggle with being clear about who they are and what they believe, their values, the impact of change and trauma in their lives, like the eagle we may get comfortable being with the chickens, thinking we are alike. Institutions also need to reassess their identity in light of change, such as technological and cultural shifts. For example, Kodak was once a dominant force in the photography industry and failed to recognize changing trends and transition from film to digital photography effectively. Kodak’s failure to change and adapt to the digital revolution, led to its bankruptcy in 2012. Kodak’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of adapting to technological and cultural changes and the consequences of failing to change or innovate. [‡]

Churches also experience changes which challenge our understanding of who we are and what we are called to do as the people of God. Changes in society, changes in our community, as well as membership signal that it is time that First Presbyterian take a closer look at who we are and what is important to us as a congregation.

Presbyterians in the reformed Christian tradition claim the motto of the Reformation, “Ecclesia Reformata, Semper Reformanda”:  the church reformed and always reforming. The church is shaped by our theology, our heritage which informs, inspires, and unites us, and continues to challenge us.

How do we understand ourselves as the people of God? How do we relate to those who do not share our faith? In order to define our identity, our relationships and mission as the people of God we will begin working with Forrest Walk Consulting in September. You can read more about Forrest Walk and the Shellabarger’s in their introduction which follows this letter. Forrest Walk Consulting will guide the congregation in thinking about our identity to our members and to the community. What are our relationships inside and outside the congregation? Consider how well the things FPC does reflect what we think is important. Change is part of growth; we should not be afraid of change and new ideas, new visions. Forrest Walk will guide us in listening for and how the Holy Spirit may be calling us. During August more information will be shared about the process.

The Shellabarger’s will be here on September 14^th during worship for the kickoff event. The Session and I are enthusiastic about this opportunity. There will be a variety of opportunities to share your thoughts and opinions about the church this fall. The process needs the input and participation of the congregation to be effective. The outcome will be redefining our identity as the people of God on the corner of 3^rd and Lincoln and how we can impact our community and the world as the people of God.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

Save the date- September 14th for the kick off to a new church year

and a new opportunity at First Presbyterian

Greetings in the name of Christ!

    Our names are Loren & Becky Shellabarger and together we are Forest Walk Consulting. Our goal is to help churches, particularly smaller churches, find their Identity and Mission. Your church Session has contracted with us to perform a Mission Study for your church and we look forward to meeting you soon! Our kickoff meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2025. We call this the “Church Identity Meeting” and we believe it is a vital piece of the puzzle for churches that is often skipped when discussing Church Mission. Your “Identity” can be summed up as why you do the things you do (as opposed to what things you do). We find it very helpful for a church to spend time discussing the why before getting to the what. This meeting will delve into the “why” of your church. You don’t need to do any homework prior to the meeting, just come prepared to talk about what you think is important for a church. We look forward to beginning this journey with you and to learning more about you as you seek to better understand God’s mission for your church!

    The FPC Session invites you to join us for this important meeting in the life of the church following worship on Sunday, September 14, 2025.  We will enjoy a time of fellowship following and a church potluck. Bring your favorites dishes to share! 

4^th OF JULY OFFICE CLOSURE

The FPC Office and Wayne Food Pantry will be closed on Friday, July 4^th.

SUMMER COMMUNION DATES

• No communion for the month of July 2025.
• Sunday, August 3^rd. Communion Elder, Brian Bowers.

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

Pastor Teresa will lead chapel services at the following locations through the summer:

• COUNTRY VIEW CHAPEL Pastor will lead chapel on Sunday, July 27^th at 1:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of July 14^th – 18^th at 5:40am.
  • Pastor will also be giving KTCH devotions August 18^th – 22^nd at 5:40am.
• KINSHIP POINTE CHAPEL Please join Pastor Teresa as she leads chapel at Kinship Pointe on Wednesday, August 6^th at 3:30pm.

COFFEEHOUSE WORSHIP DATES

CoffeeHouse Worship continues this summer on the following dates:

• July 20^th at 10:00am – Discussion leader & host are still needed.
• August 17^th at 10:00am – Discussion and Fellowship hosts are needed.

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY MEETING

The Homestead Presbytery will meet at Calvin Crest on Saturday, August 16^th.

PASTOR’S STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor Teresa will be out on study leave Monday, July 21^st – Monday, July 28^th.
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please check the church website for contact info.

SESSION MEETINGS

• There will be no session meeting in July.
• The next session meeting will be held on Monday, August 4^h, at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall

FOOD PANTRY & BACKPACK NEWS 2025

The Food Pantry has served approximately 100 requests so far this year. The Backpack Program distributed approximately 4,000 food bags in the 2024/25 academic year. We serve the Wayne Community Schools, St. Mary’s and Tower Schools. We distribute backpacks during the summer to children who visit the Food Pantry. We appreciate donations such as individually wrapped packages of nutritious food & snacks or financial donations. Contact Jodi Pulfer or Jenny Hammer at the church office: fpcwayne@gmail.com or (402)375-2669 for more details.

July 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

July Birthdays

                        10        Shea S.

                        21        Josephine P.

            24        Mark H.

            29        Marta P.

LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING

PRESBYTERIAN HYMN #563

Lift ev’ry voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring,
Ring with the harmonies of liberty.
Let our rejoicing rise, high as the list’ning skies,
Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us.
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,
Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod,  bitter the chast’ning rod,
Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;
Yet, with a steady beat, have not our weary feet
come to the place for which our people sighed?
We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,
We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered;
Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last
where the bright gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,
Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way;
Thou who hast by Thy might, led us into the light,
keep us forever in the path, we pray.
Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee,
Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee.
Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand,
True to our God, true to our native land.

August 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

AUGUST BIRTHDAYS

                                                2          Gordon G.

                                                3          Ken M.

                                                8          Nina S.

            27        Milton O.

            30        Layne H.

FPC WORSHIP SERVICE LIVE AND RECORDED:

This summer you can take us with you wherever you are!

            Zoom: (This option is a live broadcast.) Check your email for an invitation from Pastor Teresa.

Facebook: @ First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Website: fpcwayne.com

YouTube: @ fpc of Wayne Nebraska

Check it out!

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.org/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.org/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail, go to www.fpcwayne.com; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

[*] Theology News and Notes, October 1976, quoted in Multnomah Message, Spring, 1993, p. 1. Sermon Illustrations  Accessed June 24, 2025.

[†] How to Recognize and Cope with an Identity Crisis. Accessed June 24, 2025.

[‡] The rise and fall of Kodak –Accessed June 24, 2025.

Presbytidings – May/June 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

From the Pastor…..

In Jesus’ short ministry he gathered and taught disciples, sent them out to teach and share the gospel with others. Jesus laid the foundation for the church, but he didn’t establish the church. The disciples and the Apostle Paul were instrumental in establishing churches, their ministry and outreach. The Greek word translated in the New Testament as “church” is Ekklesia (or ecclesia). It comes from ek, meaning “out from and to” and kaleo, meaning “to call.” The ekklesia in the New Testament is a group of people, an assembly or a congregation who have been called out of the world to God; it is the people, not a building, that is the church.^[*]

1 Peter 2:9-10 gives an overview of those who are “called out” to be God’s people; “… you are a chosen people, royal priests, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession. You were chosen to tell about the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.At one time you were not a people, but now you are God’s people. In the past you had never received mercy, but now you have received God’s mercy.

Followers of Christ are “called out” to tell about God, to be bound together by their faith and trust in Jesus Christ. God’s people are all who believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The church universal includes Presbyterians, Lutherans, Methodists, Catholics, Baptists, and others. Different denominations may order their worship differently, differ in how they ordain and call pastoral leadership and their governance, however the common denominator is Jesus Christ.

For followers of Christ, whether in the 1^st century or 21^st century discipleship can be challenging, so the regular support and encouragement of other Christians is invaluable. Three important reasons to be part of a faith community are faith development, fellowship and mission or service to others.

         In a community of faith, we seek to hear and understand God’s Word as a guide for our lives. The Scriptures help us understand how to live in community, care for each other and creation. We often need to be reminded that we are not God and to be humbled by God’s presence and action in our lives.

In a community of faith joys and sorrows can be shared. Being part of a faith community gives a sense of belonging and rootedness, it is a place where we are known and can know others. As we worship together, we respond with thanksgiving and praise to God in good and challenging times.

In a faith community we are challenged by Jesus’ teachings to live in a way that is often counter to the world around us. Jesus taught we are to love our neighbor as ourselves, our neighbors may be near or far away. Since the first century the church has cared for widows and orphans, for the poor, needy and sick. The church has established schools, hospitals, and other institutions to care for those in their communities and around the world.

FPC helps neighbors close by through the Coat Closet, Backpack and Pantry programs. This summer our new 5^th Sunday Mission project is an outreach to neighbors who find themselves in difficult times. Read more about the 5^th Sunday Mission Project elsewhere in the newsletter. Working through Church World Services we are giving assistance to people after natural disasters or other traumatic situations. Save the date and join us on June 29^th.

The church is a community of believers who grow in their faith, deepen their fellowship with each other and reach out in caring ways to their community and beyond. We have been called out to be the family of God, the church in this place. sharing our faith and God’s love through our words and actions. Together, let us continue to deepen our faith, spend time in fellowship supporting and encouraging each other and reaching out in mission and service to our community and beyond. May God continue to guide us in these endeavors.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Teresa

SAVE THE DATE FOR A NEW FPC EVENT!

5^th Sunday Mission Project set for June 29^th

            The Session invites the congregation to join them in a new summer mission project. We will be collecting personal care items and assembling Hygiene Kits for Church World Service. Church World Service is a faith-based organization whose mission is “…transforming communities around the globe through just and sustainable responses to hunger, poverty, displacement and disaster.”

The Church World Service website says CWS …was born in the wake of the devastation of World War II. Seventeen Christian denominations came together to do in partnership what none of us could hope to do as well alone. Over the decades, the specifics of our programs have shifted and evolved. The CWS family has grown. And our foundation of collaboration and welcome has remained unshakable. Reader more about CWS at their website CWS

The Presbyterian Church (USA) and Presbyterian Women have long been partners with Church World Service preparing several types of kits, including clean-up buckets and hygiene kits for disaster response. In 2024 CWS distributed 10,084 clean up buckets and 30,580 hygiene kits. CWS also does schools kits, a sturdy cloth bag containing school supplies, any of the various kits may be shipped anywhere in the world as needed. You can learn more about CWS and the various kits on their website at Take Action | CWS

Through this project we will live into our Matthew 25 commitment to care for the least among us: For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,  I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. (Matthew 25:35-36). 

Through this project we can help those who are in need as we participate in Christ’s mandate to care for our neighbors. The Session has set a goal of 100 kits. We will begin collecting supplies in May and end on June 29^th, the date planned for packing. There will be a container in Fellowship Hall for your donations, which may be the listed items or cash contributions.

The supply list follows, please purchase only the items and sizes listed; so CWS can manage packing and shipping efficiently. Start shopping now, it is estimated that to purchase all the items in one kit would be about $15.00. Watch which items need to remain in original packaging, such as toothbrushes. The bulletin board on the west wall of Fellowship Hall will show updated progress on what has been purchased and what is still needed. It will be a challenge to meet our goal of 100 kits, we have May and June to prepare.

Join us on the 5^th Sunday of June at 10:00 a.m. after a brief opening and prayer we will assemble the kits. This project is suitable for all ages, in fact bring a friend. Please save the date and join your church family in this project.

SPRING 2025 GRADUATION

• Congratulations to our FPC spring 2025 graduate Maria Ras who will be graduating from Morningside University on May 10^th with a degree in elementary education and an reading endorsement. Maria has signed to teach third grade at Harney Elementary School in South Sioux City.

CELEBRATING NEWS FROM THE WORNERS

• Cate Worner will be celebrating her high school graduation with an Eagle Court of Honor and graduation party on May 11^th. Details are posted on the bulletin board in Fellowship Hall. She plans to attend MSUM for Exercise Science in hopes of becoming an Athletic Trainer.
  • Jon Worner will graduate from Concordia College with Music and Business degrees and also from Army Basic Training.

You may find more details, along with their home address on the bulletin board

in Fellowship Hall.

MOTHER’S DAY – MAY 11^th, 2025

Happy Mother’s Day – Thank-you to every woman for the many roles you play – whether as mother, spouse, employee, employer, mentor, grandmother, friend, role model, spiritual friend. Not all women are mothers, but all of us have a mother – if your mother has been an example of faith and grace in your life give thanks and let her know how much you appreciate her. If this Mother’s Day you are missing a special woman in your life- give thanks for all that woman was to you, whether she was a wife, teacher, grandmother, mother or friend. Each of us, women and men should do our best to reflect the love and grace of God to those around us.

God’s Helpers

God could not be in every place
With loving hands to help erase
The teardrops from each baby’s face,
And so He thought of mother.
He could not send us here alone
And leave us to a fate unknown;
Without providing for His own,
The outstretched arms of mother.
God could not watch us night and day
And kneel beside our crib to pray,
Or kiss our little aches away;
And so He sent us mother.
And when our childhood days began,
He simply could not take command.
That’s why He placed our tiny hand
Securely into mother’s.
The days of youth slipped quickly by,
Life’s sun rose higher in the sky.
Full grown were we, yet ever nigh
To love us still, was mother.
And when life’s span of years shall end,
I know that God will gladly send,
To welcome home her child again,
That ever-faithful mother.

— George W. Wiseman

COMMUNION

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on the following days in May & June:

• Sunday, May 4^th at 10:00am (Communion elder, Suzanne Sjuts)
• Sunday, June 1^st at 10:00am (Communion Elder, John Fuelberth)

COFFEEHOUSE WORSHIP

We will hold CoffeeHouse Worship on the following dates in May & June:

• Sunday, May 18^th at 10:00am. Discussion Leander: Shari Dunklau
• Sunday, June 15^th at 10:00am.
• We are in need of discussion leaders, contact Jane O’Leary or Pastor Teresa if you are interested. We also need someone to volunteer as fellowship host for May and June.

SESSION MEETINGS

• The Session will be meeting on May 19^th at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. The meeting will be a week early due to Memorial Day.
• The Session will meet on June 23^rd at 7:00pm in Fellowship Hall.

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

• Word in Faith Column: Pastor’s column in the Wayne Herald will appear on Thursday, May 1^st.
• Wayne Country View Chapel: Pastor will lead chapel at Wayne Country View on Sunday, May 4^th at 1:30pm and again on on Sunday, June 15^th at 1:30pm.
• Kinship Pointe: Pastor will lead chapel at Kinship Pointe on Wednesday, May 21^st at 3:30pm, and again on Wednesday, June 25^th at 3:30pm.
• Radio Devotions: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH Monday, May 26^th – Friday, May 30^th at 5:40am.

HOMESTEAD PRESBYTERY MEETING

May 15^th, 2025

Beginning at 10:00 a.m.

United Presbyterian Church, North Bend, NE

The Presbyterian Church (USA) has four annual special offerings; One Great Hour of Sharing, Christmas Joy, Pentecost, Peace and Global witness. FPC has participated with the One Great Hour of Sharing at Easter and Christmas Joy for many years. The Pentecost offering will be collected on June 8^th, Pentecost Sunday.

Each year on Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the church. The Holy Spirit connects us with the church of the past, continues to inspire the church of today, and points us to the church of the future.

The Pentecost offering is focused on the youth of the church. Since the Pentecost Offering started in 1998, Presbyterians have raised more than $16 million for ministries that benefit younger members of God’s family. Presbyterians believe we are called to support and care for young people to help them build a solid foundation of faith. Gifts to the Pentecost Offering connect with God’s hope and future, supporting ministries with children, youth and young adults helping them grow in faith, so they may build the church of the future.

Each participating congregation keeps 40% of funds raised to initiate or support programs for young people in their communities or for events or projects that are youth related. The FPC Session decided our offering will go to Calvin Crest Camp in Fremont. The camp has been and continues to be important in the lives of many of our FPC family. The remaining 60% is used by the Presbyterian Mission Agency to support children-at-risk, youth, and young adult ministries. When we all do a little it adds up to a lot, thank-you for your generosity in the Pentecost offering.

PASTOR’S VACATION & STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor will be on vacation Monday, June 2 – Monday, June 9^th.
• On Sunday, June 8^th Gail McCorkindale will be the worship leader.
• Pastor will be on study leave Wednesday, June 11^th – Monday June 16^th.
• Sunday, June 15^th will be CoffeeHouse worship.
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

SUMMER CAMP @ CALVIN CREST

Summer is coming! We promise! And what better way to spend your summer than going to camp learning about Jesus with friends? Calvin Crest is officially open for summer camp registration: http://www.calvincrest.org/summer-camp/ Pick out your week of camp and register your kid(s) or grandkid(s). Our young people may apply for a scholarship to pay ½ of the cost of registration.  Additional scholarships, based on financial need may be available. Please ask Jenny or Pastor Teresa for an application.

SYNOD SCHOOL

Want to go to camp as a family this summer?  Plan to Join Presbyterians from all over the Midwest at Buena Vista College, in Storm Lake, IA July 20-25, 2025.  Plan on a week of inspiring worship, educational speakers, arts and crafts, and lots of new friends for the entire family.  There is programming available for every age and every interest.  Want more information?  Go to http://www.lakesandprairies.org/SynodSchool

May 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

MAY BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here? 

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

                                    3          Dave P.

                                    10        Jeryl N.

                                    11        Karen J., Solomon P.

12        Joan L.

18        Jay and Jane O., Taytum S.

24        Gail Mc.

What Makes a Dad?

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle’s flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called it … Dad

By Unknown Author

June 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

June Birthdays

             2         Jean G., Jill S.

             6         Connie B.

             8         Brian B., Carol M.

            10        Karen G.

            18        Wes B.

            19        Dennis S.

            26        Pastor Teresa

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

FPC Service Recordings

can be found at:

*Facebook @ First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

*Our website @ fpcwayne.com

*YouTube @ FPC of Wayne Nebraska

FPC Online Worship Bulletins can be found at:

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

[*] What is the definition of ekklesia? (compellingtruth.org)  Accessed 5/1/2025.

Presbytidings – April 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

From the Pastor

The Lenten devotional “From Wilderness to Glory”[*] by N.T. Wright is a 40-day account of Jesus’ path from his baptism to Golgotha. The author includes Jesus’ teaching recorded in John and Luke about loving one another. Recall Jesus’ reply when asked what the greatest commandment was: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment.And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40).  Jesus taught a lot about loving our neighbor, also about loving our enemies as recorded in Luke 6:27-28, ^“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” 

Jesus’ point was to teach, to illustrate, an attitude that even in the face of all the world throws at us, the good and the bad, we need to look after each other. Jesus lived and peached about generosity, a glorious, uproarious, absurd generosity. Jesus’ focus was that we are to be kind, generous and loving to each other because that is what God is like. God is generous, generous to a fault, providing good things for all, the deserving as well as those we humans consider undeserving, God loves all of us.

Jesus’ spoke of the extravagant love of his father, he called his followers to display the same type of exuberant generosity and love. Most of us don’t have much trouble being nice to people we like, people we know, perhaps even friendly strangers or neighbors. However, when Jesus teaches, “love your enemies,” that is when the rubber meets the road! Think of the people to whom you are tempted to be nasty, short-tempered with and instead lavish on them generosity. Think of the best thing you can do for the person you have trouble getting along with and go ahead and do it. Think of what you’d really like someone to do for you and do it for a neighbor or even an enemy.

Our God calls us to live differently than the world around us, to love one another, not putting property and possessions above the well-being of our neighbor or even our enemies. When we display this type of love, generosity, others want to know more, want to know why do we do what we do. The world could be a vastly different place if we loved like Jesus.

Jesus was the embodiment of God’s love, showing love for his friends and his enemies, he wept over Jerusalem, the city that had rejected his plea for peace. Wright comments about Jesus “.. when they struck him on the check and ripped the coat and shirt office his back, he went on loving and forgiving” (88). Even on the cross, Jesus asked for forgiveness, for those who crucified him.  Jesus’ action on the cross was his most loving and gracious action for all of humanity. Easter is the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, his triumph over death, which means love, grace and forgiveness have triumphed.  Alleluia!

Easter Blessings,      Pastor Teresa

LENTEN WORSHIP CONTINUES THROUGH APRIL 9th

“From Wilderness to Glory”

For our Lenten worship are using as inspiration the book by N. T. Wright, “From Wilderness to Glory.” We explore the stories of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection during the Lenten season.  We hear from each of the gospel writers during our Lenten worship series. Soup suppers are at 6:00 p.m., worship at 7:00 p.m. Please sign up at the Fellowship Hall to provide soup, sandwiches or dessert.

April 2^nd – Jesus among friends

April 9^th – Jesus among enemies

April 17^th – Maundy Thursday – Jesus in the city – Worship with Communion

(7:00 p.m. no meal)

LENTEN SOUP SUPPERS THROUGH APRIL 9th

Lenten Soup and Sandwich suppers continue through April 9^th. Soup suppers begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by our Lenten worship service at 7:00 p.m. Sign-up on the sheet in Fellowship Hall to bring soup, sandwiches, dessert or other items for the meal.

LOOKING AHEAD TO LENT & EASTER

Observe a holy Lenten season this year.

• Lenten Soup Suppers & Services continue through April 9^th. Soup at 6:00pm, service at 7:00pm.
• Palm Sunday Service on Sunday, April 13^th at 10:00am.
• The Maundy Thursday service will be held Thursday evening, April 17^th, 7:00pm.
• Easter Sunday Brunch: April 20^h at 9:00am
• Celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord at our Easter Sunday service at 10:00am on Sunday, April 20^th, 2025.

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING

The One Great Hour of Sharing is the church saying, “We’ll be there when you need us.” Since 1949, Presbyterians have joined with millions of other Christians through One Great Hour of Sharing to share God’s love with people experiencing need. Your gifts support ministries of disaster response, refugee assistance and resettlement, food for the hungry, and community development that helps people find safe refuge, start new lives, and work together to strengthen their families and communities. The One Great Hour of Sharing offering will be collected on Palm Sunday & Easter Sunday.

PALM/PASSION OR EASTER SUNDAY READERS & MUSICIANS NEEDED

• Pastor Teresa is looking for participants for the Palm/Passion Sunday service. She would like readers, 3 men and 3 women. Most parts are a paragraph or less, readers will have a script. Please let Pastor Teresa know by April 2^nd if you can help. Thanks. 
• Also, special music for Palm Sunday or Easter would be appreciated such as solos, duets, instrumentals. Please talk with Jane or Pastor Teresa.

COMMUNITY CHAPEL SERVICES

• KINSHIP POINTE Pastor will lead chapel at Kinship Pointe on Wednesday, April 2^nd at 3:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of April 14^th – 18^th at 5:40am.

FPC COMMUNION CALENDAR

• Sunday, April 6^th at 10:00am. The communion elder will be Mark Hammer.
• Sunday, May 4^th at 10:00am. The communion elder will be Suzanne Sjuts.

COFFEEHOUSE WORSHIP

There will be no CoffeeHouse Worship in April. Join us instead for Easter Brunch, which falls on April 20^th, followed by Easter Worship at 10:00 a.m.

SESSION

The Session will meet Monday, April 28^th, at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN SPRING GATHERING

“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace;

the mountains and hills will burst into song before you,

and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”

Isaiah 55:12   NIV

Homestead Presbyterian Women

Saturday, April 15^th, 2025

9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Come join us in person at the North Bend Presbyterian Church

940 Chestnut St., North Bend, NE 68649

402.652.8361 phone

There is no charge for this gathering,

there will be complimentary coffee and treats available in the morning and lunch will be provided.

Hope to see you there!

For questions please contact: Maggie Horak 402-429-0523, mmhlin@outlook.com

Wayne Public Library is seeking volunteers to help with upcoming events.

The annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for 4/5/2025. We are looking for help with hiding 4000 eggs in the library on 4/4 at 6:00 PM. Also looking for help with the actual hunt, 4/5 at 11:00 when we begin to clean up from the event. Anyone interested in helping can contact the library by emailing hheadley@cityofwayne.org.

SUMMER CAMP @ CALVIN CREST

Summer is coming! We promise! And what better way to spend your summer than going to camp learning about Jesus with friends? Calvin Crest is officially open for summer camp registration: http://www.calvincrest.camp Pick out your week of camp and register your kid(s) or grandkid(s). Our young people may apply for a scholarship to pay ½ of the cost of registration.  Additional scholarships, based on financial need may be available. Please ask Jenny or Pastor Teresa for an application.

SYNOD SCHOOL

Want to go to camp as a family this summer?  Plan to Join Presbyterians from all over the Midwest at Buena Vista College, in Storm Lake, IA July 20-25, 2025.  Plan on a week of inspiring worship, educational speakers, arts and crafts, and lots of new friends for the entire family.  There is programming available for every age and every interest.  Want more information?  Go to http://www.lakesandprairies.org/SynodSchool

FELLOWSHIP HALL PIANO

The Fellowship Hall piano is available to anyone who would like it and will move it. The Aerosonic piano is in good useable condition, however, would likely need tuning after moving. Please speak to Pastor Teresa if you are interest in the piano. The Session would like to piano to have a new home soon. 

APRIL BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here? 

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

April 4 – Bev B.

April 6 – Shari D.

April 26 – Levi H.

April 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

FPC Service Recordings

can be found at:

*Facebook @ First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

*Our website @ fpcwayne.com

*YouTube @ FPC of Wayne Nebraska

FPC Online Worship Bulletins can be found at:

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

[*] Wight, N.T.. From Wilderness to Glory; Lent and Easter for Everyone. Westminster John Knox. Louisville.2025. Pages 86-89. Accessed 3/27/2025.

Presbytidings – March 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.”

A Listening

Ann Weems, From the book “Kneeling in Jerusalem”

Going through Lent 

is a listening. 

When we listen 

to the word, 

we hear

where we are so 

blatantly 

unliving.

If we listen to the word, 

and hallow it

into our lives, 

we hear

how we can so

abundantly 

live again. 

LENTEN WORSHIP

March 5^th to April 9^th

“From Wilderness to Glory”

For our Lenten worship will be using as inspiration the book by N. T. Wright, “From Wilderness to Glory.” We will explore the stories of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection during the Lenten season.  We will hear from each of the gospel writers during our Lenten worship series. Soup suppers begin March 12^th at 6:00 p.m., worship at 7:00 p.m. Please sign up at the Fellowship Hall to provide soup, sandwiches or dessert.

March 5^th Ash Wednesday – Worship (7:00 p.m. no meal)

March 12^th – Jesus in the wilderness

March 19^th – Jesus among the crowds

March 26^th – Jesus in prayer

April 2^nd – Jesus among friends

April 9^th – Jesus among enemies

April 17^th – Maundy Thursday – Jesus in the city – Worship with Communion

(7:00 p.m. no meal)

LENTEN SOUP SUPPERS TO BEGIN MARCH 12^th

Lenten Soup and Sandwich suppers will begin on Wednesday, March 12^th and continue until April 9^th. Soup suppers will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by our Lenten worship service at 7:00 p.m. Sign-up on the sheet in Fellowship Hall to bring soup, sandwiches, dessert or other items for the meal.

SPECIAL INVITATION TO WSC INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

On December 22^nd FPC hosted WSC international students for a soup supper. We had 6 students, and 12 congregation members were present. That event has spurred the Session to plan to invite the international students to join us for a meal on Wednesday, March 12^th at 6:00 p.m. This will be our regular Wednesday Lenten supper followed by worship, students are welcome to join us for the meal and if they desire to join us for worship. We hope everyone marks the date and plans to join us to welcome the students to FPC and enjoy a meal together. All are welcome.

From the Pastor…..

      At the local coffee shop a group of senior citizens were gathered round the table. The conversation turned to complaining about ailments, one said his arm was so weak, he could hardly hold a cup of coffee. Another said his cataracts were so bad, he could hardly see his coffee. A third said his arthritis wouldn’t allow him to turn his neck, but added: “Well, it’s not all bad. We should be thankful that we can still drive.” We can chuckle at this little story but each of us has had our litany of complaints from time to time. When we find ourselves anxious and frightened or feeling overwhelmed the words of Scripture offer comfort. 1^st Thessalonians 5:15-18 reminds us to Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

      Being grateful to God in all circumstances doesn’t mean that every situation in life is good. The members of the Exodus generation escaped from slavery in Egypt enroute to the land God promised them. These chronic complainers wandered in the desert for 40 years till God allowed them to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 21:5-7). During that journey, the Hebrews complained, a lot, they complained about the lack of food and water and then when the manna and quail were provided in time they complained about that as well. Complaining is often a sign of unbelief and often characterizes the self-centered life. The Hebrews however didn’t go without, despite their complaints, God took care of them and provided what they needed.

      The antidote for complaining is developing an attitude of gratitude. If you develop a mindset of gratitude, your outlook on life will change dramatically. The God-centered life is one of contentment and thanksgiving in all circumstances, not thanksgiving for every situation but in every situation. Please don’t mistake this mindset for passivity or naivety. Amid accepting one’s circumstances as providential, there’s often a holy discontent in wanting to see the grace of God transform each situation. Instead of complaining about what you lack, or what is difficult, name several things or people for whom you are grateful. Refocus your attention on giving thanks in all situations, not for all situations but in all situations. 1^st Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us that we are to Rejoice, Give thanks and pray, for this is the will of God in Christ. 

Peace be with you,

Pastor Teresa 

COMMUNION

• Communion will be held on Sunday, March 2^nd. Communion Elder will be Gerard Ras.
• On April 6^th we will celebrate Communion with Mark Hammer serving as the communion elder.

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME!

Spring forward one hour Sunday, March 9th. You might be caught walking into church just as worship is finishing up!

PASTORAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVICES – March 2025

• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of March 3^rd – 7th at 5:40am.
• WAYNE COUNTRYVIEW: Pastor will lead chapel service on Sunday, March 23^rd beginning at 1:30pm.

SESSION

The Session will gather on Monday, March 24^th, at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

LOOKING AHEAD TO LENT & EASTER

Observe a holy Lenten season this year.

• We will begin Lent with an Ash Wednesday service on March 5^th beginning at 7:00pm.
• Palm Sunday Service on Sunday, April 13^th at 10:00am.
• The Maundy Thursday service will be held Thursday evening, March 28^th, 7:00pm.
• Celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord at our Easter Sunday service at 10:00am on Sunday, April 20^th, 2025.

FELLOWSHIP HALL PIANO

The Fellowship Hall piano is available to anyone who would like it and will move it. The Aerosonic piano is in good useable condition, however, would likely need tuning after moving. Please speak to Pastor Teresa if you are interest in the piano. The Session would like to piano to have a new home soon. 

FPC DIRECTORY UPDATE

Jenny is working on an update to the FPC Church Directory. Please submit any changes by March 31^st to fpcwayne@gmail.com or call the office at 402-375-2669. Thank you!

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN SPRING GATHERING

“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace;

the mountains and hills will burst into song before you,

and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”

Isaiah 55:12   NIV

Homestead Presbyterian Women

Saturday, April 15^th, 2025

9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Come join us in person at the North Bend Presbyterian Church

940 Chestnut St., North Bend, NE 68649

402.652.8361 phone

There is no charge for this gathering,

there will be complimentary coffee and treats available in the morning and lunch will be provided.

Hope to see you there!

For questions please contact: Maggie Horak 402-429-0523, mmhlin@outlook.com

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

(Would you like to see your birthday listed here? 

Just contact the church office 402-375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com)

24        Jacob B.

25        Leigh S.

March 2025– First Presbyterian Church

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office – Wayne Food Pantry – Coat Closet

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

FPC Service Recordings

can be found at:

*Facebook @ First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

*Our website @ fpcwayne.com

*YouTube @ FPC of Wayne Nebraska

FPC Online Worship Bulletins can be found at:

Pastor Teresa Bartlett

402-375-2669 (office)

319-795-2911 (cell)

GET OUR NEWSLETTER BY E-MAIL

If you would like to receive this newsletter by e-mail (save a stamp, save a tree!), go to www.fpcwayne.org; on the home page, in the right hand column, there is a widget that says, “NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION: Enter your e-mail address to receive Presbytidings, our church’s newsletter, by e-mail.” Enter your address in the white box, and click on the button that says, “Sign me up!” You will need to confirm your subscription through an e-mail message that will be sent to your inbox; this is safe! It is designed to keep spammers out of the picture! Share our newsletter with all your friends and family. Simple!

Presbytidings –

December 2024/January 2025

The Newsletter of First Presbyterian Church

216 West Third Street, Wayne, Nebraska 68787

(402) 375-2669 + www.fpcwayne.org

“Our chief end is to glorify and enjoy God forever.

Advent poetry reading

A poem  by J. Barrie Shepherd

An invitation to go deeper,
to penetrate the hard-worn surface
of our habitual this-and-that, permit entry
to images, suggestions, even fears
that normally are held up at the gate.
A summons to release your grip, filter beneath the spoken words, and let your mind be led far past the hard and fast and on toward  the soft and slow, the tender and the wise.

A passport to an unacquainted realm where stables shelter royalty, sheep and oxen kneel,
shepherds join the heavenly chorus,
and the secret of the ages is disclosed
within the midnight-piercing cry
of an infant newly born.

J. Barrie Shepherd is an award-winning poet and an honorably retired PC(USA) pastor, the author of many books.[*]

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE: December 24^th, 5:30pm

Worship Christ, the newborn King! Tuesday, December 24, at 5:30pm. Bring your loved ones for a special candle-lit service celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

COMMUNION

• We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper on December 1^st. Gail McCorkindale will be the communion elder.
• January 5^th will be the next worship service with communion. John Fuelberth will be the communion elder.

Advent Series – The Gifts of Christmas

Christmas is a traditional time for giving presents.  Christian gift giving was influenced by the nativity story and presentation of the gifts of the Wise Men, or Magi. The Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to Baby Jesus in the manger. These precious items showed the respect and reverence the Wise Men had for the Son of God. Likewise, we bestow presents on family members, friends and the needy as a way of remembering the Three Wise Men honoring of the Christ Child.

A modern interpretation of the gift giving custom is the recognition that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Since giving material birthday presents to Him is not possible, instead people give gifts to each other in celebration of the day.

During the season of Advent, we celebrate God’s gift of his son, Jesus and that by his birth Jesus’ kingdom has come, but we await the kingdom coming in its fullness when Christ returns. This year our Advent candle lighting and worship will focus on what gifts Christ has brought us. During the Advent candle lighting and worship, we will be pairing passages from the book of Romans with the narratives about Jesus’ birth. What are the implications of Christ’s birth, and life for each of us What are the gifts of Christmas for us as Christians? Romans 8 reminds us that Jesus’ birth means that we are accepted as children of God. Jesus has given us the gifts of hope, love, joy and peace.

Advent Candle Lighting                            Advent Candle Lighters

December 1^st – The Gift of Hope                  Tiffanny & Larry Heese

December 8^th – The Gift of Love        

December 15^th – The Gift of Joy                   The Ras/Sjuts family

December 22^nd – The Gift of Peace.              Austin & Michelle Galles & family

December 24^th – The Gifts of Christmas       Mark & Gail McCorkindale

PRESBYTERIAN PEALERS

The Presbyterian Pealers will be performing at the Sunday morning worship service on December 8^th and December 22^nd, 2024.

PMC ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

The PMC Annual Tree Lighting Remembrance Service will be held Sunday, December 1^st at 2:00pm in the Providence Medical Center Auditorium.

A STAR IS BORN

The FPC Sunday School program is planned for December 22^nd, the students and their teachers are busy preparing their proclamation of the Christmas story. Plan to join us for worship on December 22^nd for the message from our youth. 

CHRISTMAS JOY OFFERING

The Christmas Joy Offering has been a cherished Presbyterian tradition since the 1930s. The Offering distributes gifts equally to the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions and to Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color. The Assistance Program provides critical financial support to church workers and their families. Presbyterian-related schools and colleges provide education and leadership development while nurturing racial and ethnic heritage. This has been a Presbyterian commitment for nearly 140 years. We will receive the Christmas Joy offering on Sunday, December 22^nd, however you may make your gift any time before the end of the year. Please note on your check or offering envelope that the gift is for the Christmas Joy offering.

SEASON OF GIVING

        In this season of giving, you are encouraged to support local non-profit agencies such as Salvation Army, Haven House, the Backpack Program, Wayne Food Pantry, Coat Closet, and WACAM. 

You may also give toward an international mission through your donation to the Presbyterian Giving Catalog. For example, a pair of goats cost $175.00.  If you give by check to the Giving Catalog through FPC make the check out to FPC Wayne with a notation of your gift of choice to allow it to be recorded by the financial secretary and forwarded to PC(USA).

Peanut Butter and Jelly & More Challenge!

The Wayne Food Pantry finds many of the shelves empty.  Staples of the Wayne Food Pantry include peanut butter and jelly which is used both in the school Backpack Program with the school and in the regular food boxes. Pastor Teresa issued a challenge to the congregation to collect 50 jars of peanut butter and jelly by December 8^th.

The next challenge to the congregation will be for canned soups, both condensed and chunky style, crackers and granola bars for the weeks of December 15^th and 22^nd. Are you up for the challenge? Let’s help fill up some shelves at the Wayne Food Pantry. 

PASTORAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERVICES – December 2024/January 2025

December 2024:

• KINSHIP POINTE: Pastor will lead a chapel service at Kinship Pointe on Wednesday, December 4^th beginning at 1:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of December 9^th – 13^th at 5:40am.
• WAYNE COUNTRYVIEW: Pastor will lead chapel service on Sunday, December 29^th, beginning at 1:30pm.

January 2025:

• KINSHIP POINTE: Pastor will lead chapel service on Wednesday, January 8, beginning at 3:30pm.
• RADIO DEVOTIONS: Pastor Teresa will be giving devotions on 104.9 Big Red Country KTCH the week of January 20^th – 24^th at 5:40am.

PASTOR’S VACATION & STUDY LEAVE

• Pastor will be on vacation December 25^th, 2024– January 2^nd, 2025.
• The Christmas Eve service will be held at 5:30pm.
• On Sunday, December 29^th Gail McCorkindale will be the worship leader.
• Communion will be held on January 5^th, 2024.
• If you have a pastoral need while Pastor Teresa is away, please contact the office at (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS

• The church office will be closed December 25^th – January 1st. We will re-open on Thursday. January 2^nd, 2025.
• Pastor Teresa will be on leave Wednesday, December 25 – Wednesday, January 2^nd 2025. Please leave a message if you have a need at either (402)375-2669 or fpcwayne@gmail.com

TAX REMINDER

All donations for the 2024 calendar year need to be to Anita Fuelberth no later than December 30^th for tax purposes. Any mailed donations should  be postmarked no later than December 28^th.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING: November 24^Th, 2024

        At the November 24^th Congregational meeting the budget for 2025 was presented which included the terms of call for the pastor. Copies of the budget are available in Fellowship Hall.

The Nominating Team presented the following slate of officers;

Elder –       Brian Bowers (1^st term)

                 Suzanne Sjuts (2^nd term)

Deacon –    Karen Johnson (1^st term)

                Tiffanny Heese (2^nd term)

The slate of officers was approved. Thank-you to these folks who said yes to be leaders in the congregation. The installation of officers will be January 12^th during worship.

COFFEE HOUSE TO RETURN IN 2025

CoffeeHouse Worship will return on February 16, 2025. Please contact Jane to volunteer or share ideas for topics. We will also need volunteers for treats and to make the coffee so please watch for the sign-up sheet to volunteer. We look forward to more discussion about the Scriptures’ and how they impact our lives. Coffee House begins February 16^th.

SESSION

• The Session will not meet in December.
• The Session will gather for a retreat Saturday, January 18^th, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a time of training and planning for 2025. All Session members including the incoming class of elders should plan to attend. We will be reviewing polices of the congregation as well as planning for communion, monthly devotions and organizing Session teams. 
• If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Friday, 1/17/2025.

FPC ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

Our annual congregational meeting will follow worship on Sunday, January 28^th. If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Friday, 1/17/2025.

SESSION & DEACON TEAM REPORTS DUE

If you are responsible for a particular ministry (e.g., deacons, music, nominating, church school, property), please submit a brief report to the church office (fpcwayne@gmail.com) by Friday, 1/17/2025.

December 2024 – First Presbyterian Church

January 2025 – First Presbyterian Church

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

5      Tiffanny H.

7      Candyce P.

 14     Randy D.

18     Beau B.

22     Nina H.

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

             2        Larry H.

             5        Terry B.

             9        Jenny H.

             20      Kent P.        

             27      Jim P.

             28      Jackie O.

             31      Shannon P.

This New Year
Poet:  Catherine Pulsifer[†]

For the year that has passed, Lord we thank you.
For the coming year, Lord we thank you.
For the people you have put in our path, Lord we thank you
For the blessings you have generously given us, Lord we thank you.

Let us being your shining light in this new year.
Let us always see and help with the needs of others this new year.
Let us share what we have this new year.
And, let us praise and worship you in freedom this new year.

Contact Information:

First Presbyterian Church

216 W. Third Street

Wayne NE  68787

FPC Office & Wayne Food Pantry:

402-375-2669

fpcwayne@gmail.com

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 12 noon

Websites:

Church: https://fpcwayne.com/

Wayne Food Pantry: https://fpcwayne.com/food-pantry/

Wayne Coat Closet: https://fpcwayne.com/wayne-coat-closet/

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First Presbyterian Church – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Food Pantry – Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne Coat Closet – First Presbyterian Church

[*] https://pres-outlook.org/2021/12/advent-poetry-reading-a-poem/ Accessed 11/25/2024

[†] https://www.stresslesscountry.com/christianpoemsnewyear.html  Accessed 11/25/2024