September 20, 2026 – “Figuring Out Fairness”
Overview
On Sunday September 20, 2026, we gathered for worship at First Presbyterian Church and explored Matthew 20:1-16, the parable of the workers in the vineyard. Pastor Katie Estes delivered the message “Figuring Out Fairness,” reflecting on a landowner who paid every worker the same wage regardless of when they started their labor. Through this story, we were invited to reconsider what fairness really means and to embrace God’s generosity as a gift freely given rather than something earned through effort or seniority.
This service also marked the launch of our Sunday School 2.0, kicking off this month’s theme, “Ways to Pray.” Worship included congregational hymns, prayers of confession and dedication, the Affirmation of Faith, and special music, led by Pastor Katie Estes alongside our worship team and musicians. Whether you tuned in live or are catching the recording now, we’re glad you worshipped with us.
September 13, 2026 – Blessing of the Backpacks – “Who is my neighbor?”
Overview
On September 13, 2026, First Presbyterian Church gathered for a Backpacks & Blessings worship service centered on the Gospel parable of the Good Samaritan and the question “Who is my neighbor?” Pastor Katie Estes preached on Luke 10:25-37, while the congregation also heard from Romans 14:1-12, sang hymns including “Step By Step” and “Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song,” and offered a special blessing over students’ backpacks as the new school year began.
The service wove together themes of grace, belonging, and neighborly love, closing with a Mr. Rogers-inspired charge reminding worshippers that they are valued simply for who they are, not for what they achieve. Turnout was strong enough that the church ran out of the backpack tags it had ordered, capping off a morning full of community spirit and gratitude.
September 6, 2026 – Communion Sunday – “Take A Moment”
Overview
On Sunday September 6, 2026, our congregation gathered for a worship service centered on “Take A Moment,” drawing from Exodus 12:1-14 and Romans 13:8-11. Together we reflected on the story of the first Passover, remembering how God delivered His people from bondage, and considered Paul’s call in Romans to love one another as an ongoing debt that’s never fully repaid. The service culminated in Communion, a fitting way to hold both threads together: remembering God’s faithfulness while recommitting to love the people around us.
The morning also carried some special moments of community. We paused to sing happy birthday to Ms. Connie Early, celebrating her birthday together as a church family, a genuinely heartwarming highlight of the service. It was a Sunday marked by quiet reflection, meaningful ritual, and the kind of togetherness that reminded us why we gather each week.