Program Details during COVID-19

The Bible defines the church not as a building, but as a movement of people. We personally invite you to lean into your journey by participating in any of the programs described on this page.

Covid Protocol at First Pres

A Change to First Pres COVID Safety Measures, Starting, February 27

Church Family,
I am writing today to share an upcoming change in our congregation’s approach to our COVID-19 safety measures. As you may be aware, the State of Illinois is in the process of removing the state-wide indoor mask mandate, effective Monday, February 28.
At its February 14 meeting, the session voted to change our facility’s onsite policy from face-coverings required to face-coverings optional, beginning Sunday, February 27. Our new approach will be “Masks Optional and Welcome.”
A few comments on this change, and an invitation for you:
We, as a community of Christ, always need to be guided by Jesus’ commandment to love another and his model of caring for the outcast and the vulnerable.
Because of that commitment, as well as our desire to both “submit to governing authorities” in keeping with Romans 13, and to support the health care workers who have been so burdened and taxed during the pandemic, we have, up to this moment in time, continued to ask that individuals wear masks when on campus, regardless of one’s vaccination status.
With the news that the state of Illinois is planning to remove its statewide indoor mask mandate on February 28, the session spent significant time at its February meeting discerning how we can best move forward as a community in this new season.
Individuals within our congregation have varied levels of comfort with exposure to the COVID-19 virus as well as varied levels of vulnerability. Our desire is to be together as a community for worship, fellowship, and mission; and to create the most hospitable, welcoming environment possible when we gather.
This is an instance of managing competing tensions between values we all share. We all want to be free from fettered or incumbered gatherings. And we all want to feel safe and to have others feel safe participating in the life of the congregation.
As we move to an approach of “Masks Optional and Welcome” on the First Pres campus, we will strive to create an environment that is hospitable and secure. If you have concerns about this change in our communal life, we would love to hear from you and explore ways to help make you feel comfortable in your church home. Please reach out to a pastor, staff member, or church elder to share ideas or questions about how we can achieve this goal together.
Looking forward to being with you soon,
Chris Griggs
Senior Pastor

Worship

Online Worship on Sunday Mornings

We take joy in worshipping the God of the universe. Even during hard times, we know we can experience God’s presence no matter where we are and who we are with. We worship God each Sunday morning at 8:45am and 10:30am. All people are welcome to join us for a time of community prayer and the opportunity to participate in worship in the sanctuary or from your home. Join us in the sanctuary or online shortly before 10:00 each Sunday morning.

Past Worship Services

In case you’ve missed a previous service, you can view past online worship services.

Children's Ministry

Overview of Children's Ministry during Covid

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever” – Hebrews 13:8.
We hope your child will be encouraged to know that in a world full of changes, Jesus doesn’t change. His love for us never stops, his grace is constant, and his presence is always there to guide us. Because Jesus is who he is, we can build our lives on his teaching which is rock solid. We hope that this is a year that your child’s faith will grow and blossom.

This time of covid has reminded us that faith formation starts at home. The church is always here to support you but when you take ownership of growing your child’s faith at home, your child will start to take ownership of their faith and internalize it at a much deeper level. That in turn makes what we do as the church much more effective. It’s a partnership and we’re so happy to be in it with you. We are rooting for you and here to support you with whatever you may need.

We have a number of opportunities for your family to grow in faith together so keep reading. Please Text FPKids to 94090 to stay up to date on all First Pres Kids news, and text SPARK to 94090 for the latest Spark information.

Westminster Preschool

Westminster Preschool has joyfully re-opened for learning following all covid guidelines. Classes are for children, almost age 3 through Kindergarten. Even in this unusual time, the children are learning, playing and growing – while appropriately distanced and wearing masks.

Watch our video: What a School Day will be like: Part One
Watch our video: Part Two: What the School Day will be like

We prepare students to succeed in kindergarten and beyond through a daily balance of “free-play” and interactive structured learning time. We learn about the world around us while building a strong foundation for reading and math skills. We also practice cognitive skills, fine motor skills, healthy self-concepts, socialization, and negotiation so kids graduate with a strong foundation for school.

Select enrollment openings are still available. Please contact Sue Clary, Director of Westminster Preschool, if you need more information. Or call the preschool office at 630-469-2090.

Student Ministry

Overview of Student Ministry during Covid

In Student Ministry at First Pres, we hope to give students an onramp to adulthood, preparing them to participate fully in life. We want them to be socially and emotionally engaged, able to identify how God is at work in their lives. Middle School and High School programs encourage students and point them to Christ. Our mission in Student Ministry this season is to provide opportunities for in-person gatherings that protect our young people while still growing their faith.

Keep reading for details and registration links; new students are welcome to join us throughout the year. Questions about any Student Ministry program? Contact Blake Riboli or Michel Curth.

Adult Ministry

Overview of Adult Ministry during Covid

Adults at First Pres have opportunities to live out their faith anywhere, all the time. Adults of all ages can participate in engaging activities within the First Pres community. If you want more — more opportunity for personal growth, more connection with others and with God, and more ways to expand your knowledge and deepen the foundation of your faith — you’ve come to the right place.

Adult Ed

The teaching ministry of the church is vital for a dynamic and growing life in Christ. Our classes are designed to help deepen your faith, engage your heart and mind, and encourage you to love and serve God and each other. We would love to have you join us for Adult Education. Classes are typically held September – May. View the classes being offered in 2022-2023.

Lunch Bunch for Older Adults

Lunch Bunch normally meets for lunch, fellowship and a special program on the third Wednesday of the month, 12noon-2:00. Call the church office (630-469-2007) to add your name and address to the Lunch Bunch mailing list and we will invite you to the next Lunch Bunch.

MOPS Meets Here

Mothers of Preschoolers is an International Organization dedicated to hosting women’s gatherings that welcome moms to share life, motherhood and Jesus. Whether you are a first time mom, mom of 5, or grandmother caring for children, this time will be for you to receive refreshment, encouragement, inspiration and affirmation for the important job you hold of MOTHERHOOD.  Bring a friend, share with a neighbor you know.  MOPS is for everyone. To join our invitation list for future events, contact Sue Clary.

New Members Classes

Are you new to First Pres? We offer New Member classes twice each year. The two-session classes meet in-person on Sundays, early evenings, at First Pres. Pastor Chris leads the informative classes. You will learn more about following Jesus, and about the programs and ministry of First Pres. The class provides a great opportunity to meet other folks who, like you, are new to First Pres. If you would like to attend a future class, contact Cinda Siligmueller. We look forward to meeting you!

Small Groups

God can uniquely work in our lives every day through relationships. We know everyone craves close, meaningful connection, and we believe in the impact these relationships can have on faith. We work intentionally to cultivate Christ-centered relationships, strong marriages, healthy families, and transformative friendships. First Pres offers a variety of Small Groups: Mens, Womens, Co-ed, Couples and Family Groups; some groups even meet via Zoom during this time. The Small Group leadership team would love to help you find or build a group that is a great fit for you. Contact Cinda about joining a small group.

News Posts

Most current news

To read the most recent First Pres news, return to the First Pres home page and scroll to the bottom of the page.