May 9th, 2008
Twenty-Two Students Confirmed
On Sunday, April 27, twenty-two young disciples affirmed their faith during the 11:00 a.m. service. The confirmands blanketed the altar rail as they prepared for a blessing, many donning handmade stoles that they had constructed with their parents. "Stir up the gift of your Holy Spirit," the pastors repeated to each student, "the spirit of joy in your presence, both now and forever." Following the reading of each student's confirmation verse each student recieved a startling sprinkle of water to remind them of their baptism.

The service featured a wide range of musical styles and worship leaders. The traditional liturgy was used, however, the service employed a guitar, saxaphone, and djembe ensemble for one hymn, and a cello and violin duet for a postlude. The musical highlight of the service was clearly a jazzy combined choral arrangement of "Jesus Loves Me," sung by the chancel choir and the confirmation students.

In all, the service was a celebration of God's call to discipleship. Let us continue to pray for our newly confirmed students--that they would continue to grow in faith, love, and service.

May 9th, 2008
Bible Song Training
On May 9 and 10 First St. Paul's is hosting a Bible Song training in the Celebration Center. Bible Song is our Sunday morning pre-K through 6th grade curriculum.

The training will feature a nationally renowned Christian Educator, Debbie Streicher, who serves as the National director of Children and Family Ministries for Faith Incubators.

On May 9 from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. all current and potential future mentors, grandparents and team leaders are invited to leadership training. At the training you will gain knowledge and skills, have an opportunity to ask an expert about our curriculum, and learn new strategies for "doing it better."

On May 10 from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. we are offering a parent training for all current and future Bible Song parents. Learn home to take Bible Song home, and get a grasp of what's going on Sunday
mornings. Lunch will be provided.

Please RSVP to the Church office by Monday May 5. Child care will be provided for both events.