Sunday Mornings 9:40 am - 10:40 am
The Present Word
Every Sunday
Session House - Parlor
Taught by George Evans
The Present Word is an in-depth Bible study for adults that dives deep into God’s Word, studying the Bible for over six years and focusing on a specific theme each quarter. The goals of The Present Word curriculum are to engage in a serious study of Scripture to discover its deeper meaning and how it is relevant today. This fall, the study is titled “God’s Exceptional Choice,” which traces the arc of salvation history from Abraham to Jesus and on the early church. Contact George Evans with any questions.
Every Sunday
Session House - Parlor
Taught by George Evans
The Present Word is an in-depth Bible study for adults that dives deep into God’s Word, studying the Bible for over six years and focusing on a specific theme each quarter. The goals of The Present Word curriculum are to engage in a serious study of Scripture to discover its deeper meaning and how it is relevant today. This fall, the study is titled “God’s Exceptional Choice,” which traces the arc of salvation history from Abraham to Jesus and on the early church. Contact George Evans with any questions.
The Letter to the Church in Ephesus
September 25 & October 2
Taught by Anna Pinckney Straight,
Session House - Main Room
“To the saints who are in Ephesus and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Come and join in a conversation about the letter Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus. How is it similar to Paul’s other letters? How is it different? What do his words have to say to us today?
September 25 & October 2
Taught by Anna Pinckney Straight,
Session House - Main Room
“To the saints who are in Ephesus and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Come and join in a conversation about the letter Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus. How is it similar to Paul’s other letters? How is it different? What do his words have to say to us today?
Prayer Beads - Postponed
October 2. 9, and 16
Taught by Lynn Gorges and Janet Bryan,
Ministry Center - Hawkins Library (2nd Floor)
Have you heard of Protestant prayer beads? Do you know how to use them or do you wonder if it is okay to use them? We will explore the history and art of using prayer beads as a tool for prayer during this three-session class held from 9:40-10:40 am on October 2, 9, and 16 in the Owl Room. You will also have the opportunity to make your own set of prayer beads. We’ll be using A Bead And A Prayer: A Beginner's Guide to Protestant Prayer Beads by Kristen E. Vincent as our text;- copies will be available on the first day of class! Class size is limited to 12, so please sign up in advance: by emailing church@firstpresnb.org or calling the church at 252-637-3270.
October 2. 9, and 16
Taught by Lynn Gorges and Janet Bryan,
Ministry Center - Hawkins Library (2nd Floor)
Have you heard of Protestant prayer beads? Do you know how to use them or do you wonder if it is okay to use them? We will explore the history and art of using prayer beads as a tool for prayer during this three-session class held from 9:40-10:40 am on October 2, 9, and 16 in the Owl Room. You will also have the opportunity to make your own set of prayer beads. We’ll be using A Bead And A Prayer: A Beginner's Guide to Protestant Prayer Beads by Kristen E. Vincent as our text;- copies will be available on the first day of class! Class size is limited to 12, so please sign up in advance: by emailing church@firstpresnb.org or calling the church at 252-637-3270.
The Civil War and the Genesis of Black Church in New Bern
October 9
Taught by Bernard George
Session House - Main Room
We are pleased to welcome Bernard George to First Presbyterian Church for a second time to share more about New Bern history, generally, and New Bern African American history, specifically. A retired city planner, former member of the Board of Directors of the New Bern Historical Society, and current member of the Tryon Palace Commission, in 2018 Mr. George received the Education Award from the New Bern Historical Society, acknowledging all his accomplishments work to share New Bern history, especially our African American history. He was instrumental in the creation of the New Bern African American Heritage Trail. His family has lived in Craven County for nine generations in Craven County.
October 9
Taught by Bernard George
Session House - Main Room
We are pleased to welcome Bernard George to First Presbyterian Church for a second time to share more about New Bern history, generally, and New Bern African American history, specifically. A retired city planner, former member of the Board of Directors of the New Bern Historical Society, and current member of the Tryon Palace Commission, in 2018 Mr. George received the Education Award from the New Bern Historical Society, acknowledging all his accomplishments work to share New Bern history, especially our African American history. He was instrumental in the creation of the New Bern African American Heritage Trail. His family has lived in Craven County for nine generations in Craven County.
Early Christianity to the Reformation
October 16, October 30, November 6, 13, 20
Taught by Chip Chagnon
Ministry Center - Owl Room (2nd Floor)
We often study the Bible in church, but many Christians know much less about the history of the Christian church itself. Chip Chagnon will cover the history of Christianity from Jesus’ ministry to the Council of Nicea (which settled church doctrine—and gave us our Nicene Creed); from the rule of Constantine to the fall of the Roman Empire; through the early Middle Ages, the rise of Islam, and the rule of Charlemagne; from the Great Schism of the church to the Crusades; and through the late Middle Ages and Western Schism to the onset of the Reformation.
October 16, October 30, November 6, 13, 20
Taught by Chip Chagnon
Ministry Center - Owl Room (2nd Floor)
We often study the Bible in church, but many Christians know much less about the history of the Christian church itself. Chip Chagnon will cover the history of Christianity from Jesus’ ministry to the Council of Nicea (which settled church doctrine—and gave us our Nicene Creed); from the rule of Constantine to the fall of the Roman Empire; through the early Middle Ages, the rise of Islam, and the rule of Charlemagne; from the Great Schism of the church to the Crusades; and through the late Middle Ages and Western Schism to the onset of the Reformation.
Religious Community Services (RCS)
October 23
Taught by Zeb Hough, Executive Director of RCS
Session House - Main Room
Religious Community Services is one of First Presbyterian’s long standing outreach partners (after all, we were there at its beginning!). Come hear (and talk with) Zeb Hough about where RCS is and where God is calling it to go. How are we a part of it, and what is God asking of us in this partnership? (And..… Zeb is also our guest preacher on the 23rd—so of course, come hear him lead worship at the service!!)
October 23
Taught by Zeb Hough, Executive Director of RCS
Session House - Main Room
Religious Community Services is one of First Presbyterian’s long standing outreach partners (after all, we were there at its beginning!). Come hear (and talk with) Zeb Hough about where RCS is and where God is calling it to go. How are we a part of it, and what is God asking of us in this partnership? (And..… Zeb is also our guest preacher on the 23rd—so of course, come hear him lead worship at the service!!)
Advent Craft Fair!
November 27 - 9:40 – 10:40 am
Led by Catherine Campbell
J. Murphy Smith Center
Come and make an Advent wreath, pick up a devotional, and enjoy other crafts as well as refreshments and fellowship., This event is for all ages and will replace our Coffee Fellowship and all Sunday School classes on this day – It will be a wonderful way to start the Advent Season!
If you have fresh greens you can donate or are willing to volunteer, please contact Catherine Campbell at catherine@firstpresnb.org
November 27 - 9:40 – 10:40 am
Led by Catherine Campbell
J. Murphy Smith Center
Come and make an Advent wreath, pick up a devotional, and enjoy other crafts as well as refreshments and fellowship., This event is for all ages and will replace our Coffee Fellowship and all Sunday School classes on this day – It will be a wonderful way to start the Advent Season!
If you have fresh greens you can donate or are willing to volunteer, please contact Catherine Campbell at catherine@firstpresnb.org
C.S. Lewis’s Narnia
December 4, 11, 18
Taught by Jessica Skinner,
Session House - Main Room
Advent in Narnia. Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love are themes throughout the Advent Season. Take some time to join us in discovering and reflecting on these themes with a special Advent Sunday School offering for ALL ages using the classic novel, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis. We will spend three weeks in Advent using the book and a variety of other sources to help guide the discussions about Advent and the reflections in Narnia. If you would like a copy of the C. S. Lewis book, please let us know. A copy of The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe is $9.00 and a box set of the Chronicles of Narnia is $21.00. This class is suitable for Narnia fans of all ages—children and youth are welcome!
December 4, 11, 18
Taught by Jessica Skinner,
Session House - Main Room
Advent in Narnia. Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love are themes throughout the Advent Season. Take some time to join us in discovering and reflecting on these themes with a special Advent Sunday School offering for ALL ages using the classic novel, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis. We will spend three weeks in Advent using the book and a variety of other sources to help guide the discussions about Advent and the reflections in Narnia. If you would like a copy of the C. S. Lewis book, please let us know. A copy of The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe is $9.00 and a box set of the Chronicles of Narnia is $21.00. This class is suitable for Narnia fans of all ages—children and youth are welcome!
New Member Class!
December 4 and 11
Ministry Center - Conference Room (1st Floor)
Taught by Rev. Dr. Anna Pinckney Straight
For those who feel called to become a part of the First Presbyterian Church family, these classes provide an introduction to the Presbyterian history, theology, and practice both generally and specifically at First Presbyterian Church in New Bern. At the end of the second class, new members will be received and welcomed in worship that day at 11:00 (11/18 or 12/11) or the next week (9/September 25 or 12/December 18) at 8:30. Contact Anna Pinckney Straight at anna@firstpresnb.org with questions.
December 4 and 11
Ministry Center - Conference Room (1st Floor)
Taught by Rev. Dr. Anna Pinckney Straight
For those who feel called to become a part of the First Presbyterian Church family, these classes provide an introduction to the Presbyterian history, theology, and practice both generally and specifically at First Presbyterian Church in New Bern. At the end of the second class, new members will be received and welcomed in worship that day at 11:00 (11/18 or 12/11) or the next week (9/September 25 or 12/December 18) at 8:30. Contact Anna Pinckney Straight at anna@firstpresnb.org with questions.
Sunday & Mid-Week Opportunities
Calvin and Hops (Men’s Beer and Theology)
Generally the third Sunday of the month at 4:00 pm
The next gathering of “Calvin and Hops” will be on Sunday, September 18 at 4:00 at Brewery 99 (1014 Pollock St.). Led by Ken Wilkins, this is a casual men’s gathering for fellowship and conversation around topics of theology and faith.
Generally the third Sunday of the month at 4:00 pm
The next gathering of “Calvin and Hops” will be on Sunday, September 18 at 4:00 at Brewery 99 (1014 Pollock St.). Led by Ken Wilkins, this is a casual men’s gathering for fellowship and conversation around topics of theology and faith.
Divine Sleep Yoga class
Mondays, 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Taught by Diane Elliott
Lighthouse
This class, taught by Diane Elliot, starts with 10 minutes of mindfulness, followed by 30 minutes of restorative yoga to therapeutically open and relax the body. Restorative yoga will transition into Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra. This guided meditation systematically guides and relaxes you at every level of being, including physical, energetic, mental, emotional, and spiritual layers. Everyone can practice Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra, regardless of age. Participants may bring a prop, such as a yoga mat and blanket for comfort. Contact Diane Elliott with questions. The class is free but donations will be accepted.
Mondays, 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Taught by Diane Elliott
Lighthouse
This class, taught by Diane Elliot, starts with 10 minutes of mindfulness, followed by 30 minutes of restorative yoga to therapeutically open and relax the body. Restorative yoga will transition into Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra. This guided meditation systematically guides and relaxes you at every level of being, including physical, energetic, mental, emotional, and spiritual layers. Everyone can practice Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra, regardless of age. Participants may bring a prop, such as a yoga mat and blanket for comfort. Contact Diane Elliott with questions. The class is free but donations will be accepted.
Monday Women’s Bible Study
Monday Evening 7:30 – 8:30 pm Starting September 12
Taught by Wendy Moeller and Marice DeBruhl
Zoom Class online
Did you enjoy the summer sermon series on texts left out of the Revised Common Lectionary? If so, you should consider joining our Monday Evening Women’s Bible Study group as we transition from obscure passages to obscure persons utilizing Neglected Voices: Biblical Spirituality in the Margins by retired pastor and author John Indermark. He wrote for many years for the Upper Room devotional series. Indermark, draws on stories of Biblical characters whose names are not exactly household familiar, yet whose life examples offer us encouragement in our spiritual journeys.
For more information, contact Wendy Moeller or Marice Debruhl. To be placed on the Zoom list, contact Cathy Wingfield at cathy@firstpresnb.org.
Monday Evening 7:30 – 8:30 pm Starting September 12
Taught by Wendy Moeller and Marice DeBruhl
Zoom Class online
Did you enjoy the summer sermon series on texts left out of the Revised Common Lectionary? If so, you should consider joining our Monday Evening Women’s Bible Study group as we transition from obscure passages to obscure persons utilizing Neglected Voices: Biblical Spirituality in the Margins by retired pastor and author John Indermark. He wrote for many years for the Upper Room devotional series. Indermark, draws on stories of Biblical characters whose names are not exactly household familiar, yet whose life examples offer us encouragement in our spiritual journeys.
For more information, contact Wendy Moeller or Marice Debruhl. To be placed on the Zoom list, contact Cathy Wingfield at cathy@firstpresnb.org.
Rebuilding – Divorce Recovery Group
Third Monday, 12:00 – 1:00
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
This new group hopes to be just the right balance of a shoulder-to-cry-on and a kick-in-the-pants to support your getting through this confusing and often painful process and putting your life back together. You need not have attended before nor do you have to commit to attending every month. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
Third Monday, 12:00 – 1:00
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
This new group hopes to be just the right balance of a shoulder-to-cry-on and a kick-in-the-pants to support your getting through this confusing and often painful process and putting your life back together. You need not have attended before nor do you have to commit to attending every month. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
Grief Support Group
2nd Second Tuesday, 12:00 – 1:00
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
An The ongoing Grief Support group provides its members with understanding and support after someone they love dies. You need not have attended before nor do you have to commit to attending every month. Come and bring a friend. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
2nd Second Tuesday, 12:00 – 1:00
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
An The ongoing Grief Support group provides its members with understanding and support after someone they love dies. You need not have attended before nor do you have to commit to attending every month. Come and bring a friend. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
A Life of Prayer – the Practice of Contemplative Living.
Wednesdays, 12:00 – 1:00 pm Re-starting Wednesday, September 21
Led by Lloyd Griffith,
Ministry Center - Owl Room (2nd Floor) on Zoom and in-person
This group journeys together along a way that Jesus taught in hopes of nurturing a heavenly perspective that is more aware of the spiritual dimension in our lives. Everyone is welcome! We support each other on the fascinating trek. We will study and discuss Promptings from Paradise by John Philip Newell as a guide in strengthening our life of prayer. The book is available on Amazon. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions or to get the Zoom link.
Wednesdays, 12:00 – 1:00 pm Re-starting Wednesday, September 21
Led by Lloyd Griffith,
Ministry Center - Owl Room (2nd Floor) on Zoom and in-person
This group journeys together along a way that Jesus taught in hopes of nurturing a heavenly perspective that is more aware of the spiritual dimension in our lives. Everyone is welcome! We support each other on the fascinating trek. We will study and discuss Promptings from Paradise by John Philip Newell as a guide in strengthening our life of prayer. The book is available on Amazon. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions or to get the Zoom link.
Wednesday Evening Worship
Wednesdays, 5:00-5:30, Beginning September 14
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
An ancient worship practice of Lectio Divina is offered each Wednesday from 5:00 to 5:30 pm evening in the chapel Chapel, beginning September 14. This quiet service is focused on silence, prayer, and shared reflection on the Biblical text chosen for worship the following Sunday. The Lord’s Supper is observed on the 4th Wednesday of the month. This opportunity offers a mid-week pause in our busy lives to ponder God’s living Word presented to us in Scripture. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
Wednesdays, 5:00-5:30, Beginning September 14
Led by Lloyd Griffith
Ministry Center - Chapel (1st Floor)
An ancient worship practice of Lectio Divina is offered each Wednesday from 5:00 to 5:30 pm evening in the chapel Chapel, beginning September 14. This quiet service is focused on silence, prayer, and shared reflection on the Biblical text chosen for worship the following Sunday. The Lord’s Supper is observed on the 4th Wednesday of the month. This opportunity offers a mid-week pause in our busy lives to ponder God’s living Word presented to us in Scripture. Contact Lloyd Griffith at lloyd@firstpresnb.org with questions.
Church Building Tour
Sunday, October 9, and Sunday, October 23 at 2:00 pm
Led by Jerry Elliott
Sanctuary
Did you know that a Greek goddess welcomes you to First Presbyterian or that First Presbyterian is the oldest church building in New Bern? These bits of history will be discussed when Jerry Elliott will present the history of the First Presbyterian Church. New church members are invited to attend. This is a good opportunity for both new and long-term members to learn a bit more about FPC! You’ll meet at the New Street Entrance to the sanctuary.
Sunday, October 9, and Sunday, October 23 at 2:00 pm
Led by Jerry Elliott
Sanctuary
Did you know that a Greek goddess welcomes you to First Presbyterian or that First Presbyterian is the oldest church building in New Bern? These bits of history will be discussed when Jerry Elliott will present the history of the First Presbyterian Church. New church members are invited to attend. This is a good opportunity for both new and long-term members to learn a bit more about FPC! You’ll meet at the New Street Entrance to the sanctuary.
Sea Level Change in Eastern North Carolina: Past, Present, and Predicted - Rothermel Lecture
Sunday, October 16 at 2:00 pm
featuring Dr. Stanley Riggs
Sanctuary
www.rothermelfoundation.org for more information.
Sunday, October 16 at 2:00 pm
featuring Dr. Stanley Riggs
Sanctuary
www.rothermelfoundation.org for more information.
Presbyterian Women
Gatherings once a month for study and fellowship
Celebrating Sabbath: Accepting God’s Gift of Rest and Delight
Five Circles available at FPC click button below for more information on PW
Gatherings once a month for study and fellowship
Celebrating Sabbath: Accepting God’s Gift of Rest and Delight
Five Circles available at FPC click button below for more information on PW