Christmas at First Pres
Welcome to a season of joy, wonder, and hope. At First Pres, we’re excited to invite you to our advent celebrations. This guide is your pathway to learn about upcoming programs and events.
Care & Prayer for our College Students
Monday, November 27th | 7-8pm | Parlor
This year, we have a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and make a difference in the lives of our students. At First Pres, we’re excited to announce our College Care Packages: packing boxes filled with love and care for our beloved college students.
Here’s what you can expect:
What to Bring: Each person is encouraged to donate items that will fill these boxes with joy. Things like veggie straws, gum, goldfish crackers, and rice Krispie treats—items that are sure to bring smiles to our students’ faces.
Together in Spirit: We will also share a brief reflection and devotion led by Pam Gilbert.
Your Box, Your Way: Once the boxes are packed, you get to take one home. And here’s the beauty of it—you can choose to when to mail it to your student, tailored to their schedule. (or your designated mom/friend who helps you can take your boxes to you)
Getting Involved: If you wish to participate, please register here! After registering, you’ll receive a link to a sign-up genius to choose an item to donate. 😊
Looking forward to ministering to our students, praying for them, and gathering as a community.
Equipped Class: Astronomy, Faith, and Wonder
Sundays, December 3-10 | 10-10:45am | Parlor
The Psalms proclaim that “the heavens declare the glory of God” – but how so? What can we learn about God from studying the sky? In these classes on faith and astronomy, astronomer Luke Leisman will share a bit of his journey as a Christian and a scientist, and some of the ways he sees the heavens declaring the glory of God. We’ll also discuss conflict between Christian and scientific views and communities, and explore ways thinking about the sky might help us grow closer to God and each other. Come with your questions and pondering!
Outreach Christmas Store
Saturday, December 9
his year we’ll be collecting 1000 hats for families in need. To participate you can:
put them under the Christmas Trees by the entrances.
2. Purchase a gift: Gift ideas can be found on the Christmas trees filled with paper ornaments in the Gathering areas and the entrances to the church. Each paper ornament will provide suggested gift items to help you purchase and donate gifts. Gifts may be sent directly to Outreach in Carol Stream or set under the trees in the church. The gifts are need by Sunday, December 3.
ome to First Pres at the 8:45 and 10:30 services to write Christmas Cards for kids.
4. Volunteer: On Saturday, December 9, serve at the Christmas store handing out hats and mittens. To volunteer, sign up here. Select FPGE Gift Table as your volunteer assignment.
Christmas Eve
- 10am | Acoustic Service
- 2pm | Christmas Eve Kids & Family Service
- 3:30pm | Christmas Eve Kids & Family Service
- 5:30pm | Modern Service
- 8pm | Classic Service
Join us this Christmas Eve at First Pres for candlelight services. We look forward to meeting you and yours on this special night.
