First Presbyterian Youth

Spring Break--Washington DC

2012-01-20T14:03:00.001-06:00

Our youth group is going to Washington DC for Spring Break along with youth from the Methodist Church. We're really excited for this trip and so lucky to be able to participate. Our trip includes The Capitol, The Smithsonian and the VA Hospital. Below is the Devotional we'll be using on our trip.

Washington DC Youth Devotional 2012

A Revelation Study

2012-01-11T11:24:00.004-06:00

This is currently the study our youth group is working through. I wrote it myself with the help of the Horizons Women's Bible Study from 2010-2011.

A Revelation Study for Youth

2012 Chili Cook-Off

2012-01-10T09:18:00.002-06:00

Our annual Chili Cook-Off is coming up soon! This year it will be on January 29 and the usual rules apply!

Drop your Chili off at the church, in the gym, at 4:00PM so we can set up. Our Judges will begin tasting at 5:00PM and the rest of the crowd will being chowing down at 5:15PM. We're so excited to do this again and we're looking forward to seeing how many people turn out to cook up that Chili.

Youth need to be there at 4:00PM as well to help set up and organize. Can't wait to see everyone!

Youth Holiday Party

2011-12-29T10:18:00.004-06:00

Revelation: A Youth Study

2011-11-17T10:27:00.003-06:00

We have started a new study in Youth Group! We're officially studying the last book of the Bible: Revelation. This came as a request from some of the youth who were very interested in learning what Revelation had to say. So we put together a study and we're working our way through the whole book. So far in our first two lessons we've learned the who, when and where of the book. As we move into our next lesson we're going to start learning the "WHY? and WHAT?" Revelation can be a super confusing book but we're working to learn how it can be a book full of hope! Hope??? When we first introduced this possibility everyone was shocked, how could this book be about Hope? But it is! We hope to see you in Youth Group the next few weeks to learn about Revelation!

Youth Sunday Video

2011-11-04T08:15:00.002-05:00

So sorry it's been awhile since we've had a post. Youth Sunday was amazing! We had such a wonderful turn out and we honored our saints so dearly. Here is a link to our Sermon video!

Youth Sunday Sermon

A Poem for Austin B & His Friends

2011-10-18T08:34:00.003-05:00

Heavy hearts
New hearts
Beating hearts
Trembling heats
Heavy heads and hands
Voices raised in deep prayer
New life and old life
Broken life meets young life
Sad life meets joyful life
Loss meets new body
Every beat is a new journey
Every beat is a memory
Miles to go yet miles already traveled
Stillness in the air
Blood flowing freely
Life begins again.

Leaves are changing

2011-10-04T11:03:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's already October and Youth Sunday is just 26 days away! How did we get this close? Youth Sunday is a huge event here at FPC and we're blessed to have so many talented youth who love our congregation and enjoy leadership opportunities. This October we're going to explore the story of Jesus healing the paralytic from the Gospel of Mark. The question we'll ask is "Who would carry you to Jesus?" We're really looking forward to seeing all of you there with us on Sunday, October 30, 2011 in the gym.

Mission Work in Alabama

2011-09-13T09:08:00.000-05:00

/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyjzrL8XdnE

Please watch this short video that was made by our Senior Pastor, Todd Jenkins after our day of Mission Work in Harvest, AL.

Mission Matters to Youth

2011-09-09T11:18:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow on September 10, 2011 a group of church members, including 9 Youth are heading to North Alabama to help rebuild the homes of people hit by tornadoes in April. Even though it's been a few months since these natural disasters people are still trying to put their lives back together. Our youth group had been planing to do a mission trip at the end of the summer but it just seemed like nothing could come together. Then we heard about the Presbyterian Church sending volunteers to Alabama. Immediately people were interested. We started doing our research and pretty soon we had a team together.

People want to help. Youth want to help. What is important to youth is finding a place to fit in. They want to be accepted in school and church. They want to know they can help. They want to know they're needed and the work they can do is important. Tomorrow our youth get their opportunity. It's not costing them any money just a few hours of their Saturday. We couldn't be more proud of their dedication. Pictures to come soon!

Why come to Youth Group?

2011-09-02T10:31:00.002-05:00

Betsy says she comes to youth group because she loves doing crafts and seeing her friends and because Jessi is the best youth pastor ever! Thanks Betsy, you all make my day!

Blog Make-Over

2011-08-26T12:15:00.001-05:00

Our blog got another makeover! Paper lanterns is our new theme and we love it! More to come soon!

Breonna Talks About Youth Group

2011-08-23T10:40:00.004-05:00

What I love about youth group is the people, food and experiences. I hope we'll go to Montreat again next year. I'm looking forward to all the events and activites, especially Montreat.

Talking about Youth Group...

2011-08-19T10:53:00.002-05:00

Alyssa tells you all what she loves about youth and what she's looking forward to this year...

We always love youth because we LOVE Jessi and she always has fun activities for us to do! We love First Presbyterian Church! What I love about youth is spending time with the youth family. I hope this year we'll get to know each other better and I'm looking forward to more fun activities.

A New Youth Season

2011-08-18T12:41:00.003-05:00

Below you will see some videos made by the youth at our first youth group session of this season. We had a great time. The youth made some really funny videos about the things they want to learn this year and what they love about youth. Keep checking back for more. Pictures from last night's art and prayer stations are included as well.

Youth Group is Back!

2011-08-18T12:18:00.007-05:00

Reflecting on who would carry us to Jesus

Supposedly sharing some ideas for youth group this year.

Praying in color for Curt.

Linking together our strengths!

Putting our hand prints together with what we love about church.

Filling out youth surveys and interpreting the Brief Statement of Faith into our own words.

Brileigh gets comfy.

Macy praying in color.

Video Blogs
By: Will, Jim, Thomas, Sarah, Travis & Mattie

Youth Group Starts August 17

2011-08-10T12:32:00.002-05:00

Youth Group starts up again next Wednesday at 6:00PM and if you are reading this then you are going to get a sneak peek at our 10 different stations. Each station will have an activity to do that pertains to our next year of youth group. We'll do everything from explore our Youth Sunday text (Mark 2:1-12) to put together goodie bags for the kids at Junior's House. In between youth will look at their individual talents, they'll begin a mural for our bicentennial celebration, and they'll each write or record a video for our blog.

Hope to see as many of you there as possible, we're going to have a great time!

Blueberries

2011-08-08T10:36:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, a group of youth went to pick blueberries from a local farm. All the berries went to a local food bank that feeds people in need in our area. It was a wonderful experience and a lot of fun. We ended up with 88 Pounds of berries!

We hope to have another opportunity like this very soon and when we do you'll all be invited.

Volleyball Results

2011-08-01T10:09:00.003-05:00

Our youth had an amazing time at the Methodist Church playing volleyball, eating dinner and listening to great music. We played a tough game and won in the end but I have a feeling a re-match is coming! Below you'll see some pictures from our evening. We looked great in our matching t-shirts and tie-dyed socks.

Reminder: Youth Group doesn't start until August 17 and it will be a really fun opening event this year. Look forward to seeing you all there!

Junior's House Mission Day

2011-07-28T10:38:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, the youth went to Junior's House, our local Child Advocacy Center. We took a tour and learned about the different services they offer children and families here in Lincoln County. After our tour we went to work helping them clean up their basement. There was lots to be done and we were happy to pitch in and do what we could. Above are some pictures of our adventure.

Mission Trip Update

2011-07-15T12:36:00.002-05:00

MISSION TRIP 2011-Postponed

Due to the high demand for help in N. Alabama after the recent tornadoes our Mission Trip has been postponed so that we can re-focus our efforts to help our neighbors. More information will be available soon.

Pool Party

2011-07-11T09:45:00.003-05:00

Ready for some fun in the sun? We're having a pool party Wednesday. An email went out today with details and I hope everyone is able to join us. We'll also be doing some volleyball practice for our big match coming up. Woop!

Also, some great changes are occurring on our church website. Check it out!

Tie-Dying

2011-07-07T11:34:00.002-05:00

This is just a sample of the awesome tie-dye work that the youth did in youth group last night. More to come when we take on the Methodist Youth in a volleyball match. We'll be sporting our dyed socks and youth t-shirts looking mighty fine!

Methodists: beware! We're ready for you!!!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-05T11:02:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th of July to all our blog followers out there! 235 is going to be a great year for our country!

This Wednesday we're tie-dying in youth group so come prepared with a pair of crew socks to dye. We're going to wear them all together for our volleyball match coming up. Stayed tuned for more details.

Also, if you have a chance check out our church website, a lot of new things are popping up!

Happy Birthday Blog

2011-06-29T22:05:00.002-05:00

Forgot to tell you all that on June 1 our blog turned 2 years old! Can't believe we've been blogging and sharing pictures and adventures for 2 years! It's also a miracle that Pastor Jessi remembers to post as she is terrible with journals and blogs but here we are! A look back over our blog posts shows so many adventures and fun as well as lots of learning and growth.

Hope you're all continuing to check back with us and read about all the great things we're doing. In just a few short weeks we'll be blogging from Nashville, TN about our Mission Trip. Can't wait!

Lock-In Pranked!!!

2011-06-27T10:56:00.000-05:00

Sliding Rock

2011-06-21T09:46:00.002-05:00

Sliding Rock, Brevard, NC

What will 11 Youth do with 40 Degree Water? They'll slide down sliding rock! This was our Wednesday afternoon activity and the youth had a blast!

Asheville Youth Mission

2011-06-20T10:13:00.009-05:00

Our group participated in the Asheville Youth Mission on Sunday before MYC started. We did clean up work on the grounds of the Presbyterian Home for Children in Black Mountain, NC. It was a wonderful experience and we met some great people!

We pulled weeds and cleaned up their garden area.

Our whole group of 42 including members from St. Giles Pres in Orange Park, FL where Pastor Jessi went to church growing up.

Montreat Is...

2011-06-20T09:29:00.007-05:00

Montreat Is...
a great experience to meet new people and learn about God. --Shane Stewart

Montreat Is...
an amazing Spiritual place wehre we can learn about God and ourselves. --Thomas Killebrew

Montreat Is...
a great chance to learn how to approach your faith. I learned how to slow down and list all I am thankful for. I have learned how to quickly make friends and trust them with my heart. --Andrew Adams

Montreat Is...
a unique experience for everyone. We are truly blessed to be able to come here every year and I now feel much closer to both my youth group and God. --Will Ralston

Montreat Is...
a place where I can grow Spiritually while making friends and having fun. It is a place where you learn to hlep people in need and have a great time in doing so. --Lauren Schrimsher

Montreat Is...
a place where I get to be me with no shame. A place where even when I'm in the worst of moods there is always someone...even a stranger to pick me up. --Alicia Rico

Montreat Is...
a great new experience. A great way to meet new friends. I way to get into shape! Fun! A great way to find yourself. A good place for youth to socialize. Peaceful. Wonderful to grow closer to God. All together amazing! --Breonna Williams

Montreat Is...
a place to meet new people and bond with old friends while searching and interpreting God's signals in your life. --Jim Ralston

Montreat Is...
an absolutely amazing place where young and old people can explore their faith with God to a deeper meaning. It is an inspiring and praising place. Montreat is a great place for people to find God. It is a place where people feel more confident about their faith. --Lauren Schoenrock

Montreat Is...
inspirational and beautiful. --Lee Ann Dawkins

Montreat Is...
a safe place where people can come together, regardless of differences, and grow together in faith, share about their lives without judgment, and learn that there are always people there for you. --Sarah Ledbetter

Montreat Is...
a place where youth go to learn more in their faith in God. It is a place where people feel closer to God. It is a place the youth can go to meet others their age. --Nicholas Horsman

Montreat Is...
an action filled campus with music and friends, and a sanctuary that offers a chance to meet new people and worship and praise God. --Isabel Rico

Decorating Pictures

2011-06-09T11:48:00.007-05:00

VBS Decorations

2011-06-08T09:41:00.003-05:00

I can't wait to post pictures of the youth making decorations for Vacation Bible School! Tonight in Youth Group we're breaking out our arts and crafts skills and making some giant size decorations for VBS. Our theme this year is "Shake it Up" and it's all about God's Kitchen. So of course, we're going all out with food and cooking decorations. Tonight we'll be making everything from a giant fork to a giant candy bar. We're also putting together a fun surprise for the kids. It's something that isn't related to the theme but it's going to be loads of fun and add to the excitement.

This Saturday we leave for Montreat: the priceless experience our youth take part in every summer. There will be lots of reports and pictures from this week so stayed tuned.

Lock-in Added to Calendar

2011-05-25T10:19:00.004-05:00

Youth: A lock-in has been added to the Calendar for June 5-6.
Meet at the church at 7PM

Summer Newsletter is Here!

2011-05-24T12:17:00.002-05:00

Our Summer Newsletter went out this week with your P & P and we have so much to share with you. In the newsletter you'll see announcements about summer events (Including a Lock-In added for June 5-6) and stories about what we're up to this summer. We had a super cold winter so I know everyone is excited for shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops and most importantly swimming!

Youth if you aren't able to go to Montreat this year that's ok! We'll miss you but we have a great summer mission trip planned for July 24-30. We'll be traveling to Nashville to help clean up from the flooding that happened last Spring. Believe it or not there is still a ton of work to be done. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is ready for our group to come and pitch in. There are jobs for helpers of all ages so join us please and lend a helping hand to those in need.

Makeover!

2011-05-20T11:30:00.000-05:00

We hope you like our blog makeover! With a little inspiration and a little creativity we got quite a face lift today. Our new British-themed blog is fun isn't it?

Once again we'd like to congratulate our grads and we hope to see all of you at graduation tonight! We're ready to see those tassels turned.

Congrats to our Grads

2011-05-19T10:22:00.001-05:00

Graduation is a really special time. It's when we move from one place to the next. Maybe it's not such a big deal in the moment but in years to come you'll look back and see how much it really did mean. Keep all the memories, especially the fun ones. Remember your close friends but don't be afraid to move forward. Life after graduation is exciting and new so embrace it. We're so proud of our graduates!

Summer is Coming

2011-05-12T12:03:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the school year is almost over! Summer is fast approaching and we have lots of great things planned for the youth this summer. Here are a few very important dates:

Youth Group: June 1, 8, 22 & 29 and July 6, 13 & 20
Montreat: June 11-18
VBS: June 23, 24 & 26
Mission Trip: July 24-30

Hope you all had a great school year and we can't wait to start our summer activities. Check back for more fun to come!

Confirmation Class Graduates

2011-05-04T16:16:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to our 2011 Confirmation Class! Alyssa Howell, Brileigh Gentry, Isabel Rico, Hannah McCulloch, Mattie McCulloch, Macy Allen, and Madison Montgomery (all pictured above). I'm sure the 2010 Confirmation Class is excited to have their giant picture removed from the header of this blog. So let's welcome the 2011 ladies to the top of the blog for awhile. Congrats to them all and what a wonderful class they were. They have so much to offer this wonderful congregation.

Palm Sunday and Confirmation???

2011-04-15T12:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's Palm Sunday this Sunday! Time has flown by. It feels like just last month I was posting pictures from last Easter. In just one week there will be a new group of Confirmed Church Members. This class has meant so much to me (Pastor Jessi) as a teacher and I hope the students have learned a lot as well. I've posted a few pictures from their retreat and can't wait to post pictures from Youth Sunday and Easter.

Call to Action!

2011-03-21T08:38:00.000-05:00

This week in Confirmation we learned all about Jesus. Was Jesus God? Did Jesus know he was God? We answered those questions. At the end of our lesson we talked about predicting the future and what we can do to help. Our answer: A Call to Action! In the next week the members of the Confirmation Class will be out in the world helping someone. While this might be an easy task they're mission is to realize as they're doing it that they are helping someone and what that means to them as a Christian. It's a fun task and I know they're going to do a great job. Mr. Dan joined us this week in class and had a great time. We were so blessed to have him. Take a look at our latest pictures.

Fat Ash Wednesday and Pancakes

2011-03-10T09:55:00.003-06:00

Thank you to everyone who came out and had pancakes with us! We had a great time and the youth really enjoyed making the pancakes. Here are some pictures.

Newest Confirmation Video!

2011-03-08T09:01:00.000-06:00

Brileigh explains her genogram (a picture using shapes that explains your family tree, very official).

The Trinity: 3-in-1

2011-03-01T08:24:00.000-06:00

Some fun pictures from this week's Confirmation Class. We studied The Trinity! We'll be picking this lesson back up soon and talking about it much more. Glad to have everyone in the class its been really fun!

This is not our youth leader:

The whole class (minus Isabel, we missed you!)

Alyssa makes an awkward face with Mel, he kind of makes you do it. Reeeeeely?

Palm Sunday Preview

2011-02-24T09:20:00.000-06:00

The youth will be leading worship on April 17, 2011 also known as Palm Sunday. These are a few pictures of what we're working on right now.

Is God Male?!?!

2011-02-23T10:31:00.000-06:00

The girls in Confirmation explore whether or not God is male. They learned....we'll I'll let them tell you.

Great News!

2011-02-16T12:58:00.001-06:00

Fun and exciting news has come our way! Our videos and picture were featured in the Re:form gallery! While they are a part of our personal gallery of photos and movies Re:form picked them to be featured in the main gallery as well! We're so excited and thanks to Alyssa and Macy for making our first two videos. Great job girls!

Who wrote the Bible? God or humans?

2011-02-14T11:13:00.000-06:00

Confirmation Class 2011

Souper Bowl Results....etc.

2011-02-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

Wow! I can't believe how well we did this year collecting money and canned good on Souper Bowl Sunday! We collected over $400 and 80 cans of food to be donated to our local food bank. The congregation here at FPC really cares about our community and the youth did a wonderful job collecting and supporting.

In other news Confirmation starts this Sunday! If you haven't poked your head into the youth room lately you'll be shocked to see that it is re-arranged. It's been set up especially for Confirmation and will remain that way until Easter Sunday. Looking forward to surprising the youth this Sunday. Hope they like it :)

Finally, we as a Youth Committee are looking at doing a day of mission in April in Nashville. This summer we'll spend a week in Nashville with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance helping flood victims but this is completely different. It is sponsored by Group and it is called 1 by Youth. The idea is one day of mission work with lunch and fellowship. We're looking into it and we'll have more information for everyone very soon. See you all Sunday!

Souper Bowl of Caring

2011-02-08T08:55:00.001-06:00

Congrats to our wonderful youth who collected 80 cans of food and $414.81 during the Souper Bowl of Caring 2011. All our donations go to Good Samaritan a local organization aimed at feeding the hungry and helping people in need. We're so blessed and privileged to be able to help out in times of need. The youth will also be participating in several other mission opportunities this year including a day with Asheville Youth Mission in North Carolina this summer.

Confirmation Again!?

2011-02-04T10:03:00.000-06:00

Can't believe it's time for Confirmation again! We start classes next Sunday, February 13, at 9:45am. This year we're using Re:form Curriculum which is brand new to us. We're excited about our classes, mentors, and new exciting projects. Can't wait to get started and see all the new students. Something new that we're doing this year as well is a Confirmation Retreat on April 1-2. At this retreat we're going to specifically address being Presbyterian. Looking forward to the 2011 Confirmation class!

Youth Sunday Videos

2010-11-02T11:17:00.001-05:00

Here is one of the videos shown on Youth Sunday.

Youth Sunday: WOW

2010-10-31T17:48:00.000-05:00

I know I can't be the only one out there who was blown away by what the youth did today during worship. I can't believe how well the service went but then again they always amaze me. Like Joey used to say on the TV show Blossom: "Woah!" It was perfection. The music was a completely new experience. With djembe, guitar and flute blasting out one of the greatest hymns in our hymnal "Come Thou Fount" the youth kicked off a fantastic service. The Communion of the Saints was also one of the parts that stuck out to a lot of people. It was a beautiful celebration of those we had lost in the past year. One of the youth looked at me after and said "People were crying." She was shocked but the truth is it was a very moving part of the service. To see our young people coming down the center aisle carrying candles for each person moved people to tears. It was a wonderful part. To say it was a good service is an understatement. It was fantastic and it can only be topped by next year's service. Can't wait to start working on that one! Lots of love and congrats to all our young people!!

Pastor Jessi

YOUTH SUNDAY

2010-10-26T10:39:00.000-05:00

Youth Sunday 2010

Sunday, October 31
10:00AM in the Gym!!!

Can't wait to see everyone there.
So what are we going to do? What will you see? Who's running this show?!?

Harry Potter
Micah 6:8
Ghandi
Youth
And so much more!

Youth 2009-2010

2010-10-26T10:37:00.001-05:00

Customize a digital slideshow

A Lock-In Report

2010-09-09T09:46:00.000-05:00

The lock-in went really well! 20 youth showed up for games, food, fun, and lots of activities. Movies were watched, pranks were played and laughs were had. It was a great time. These past few weeks we've been working hard on planning our Youth Sunday, which is October 31, 2010.

Our next fun event is October 10,we're going bowling! Can't wait to see you all there!

Lock-In Info!

2010-08-26T10:25:00.001-05:00

The youth will have a lock-in Sunday, September 5 to Monday the 6th. This is Labor Day weekend so there is no school on Monday, yay! Lock-ins are a great opportunity to bond with each other and have a lot of fun. Late nights are very likely and fun is guaranteed. So bring your air mattress and a friend and we'll have a great time. Show up at church at 6:00PM and be ready to get out of here at 8:00AM! What fun would it be if we didn't get up super early?

Youth Group Starts!!!! Lock-In Soon!!!

2010-08-24T14:12:00.000-05:00

Youth Group is Back!!!
I'm so excited to be seeing all the old faces and new faces this Wednesday at 6:00PM!!! I can't wait to introduce a new kind of lesson, eat a great meal, and start planning our Youth Sunday. Also in the works is a Lock-In. But this will be a completely different lock-in. We'll spend the evening in the gym doing some really fun activities including games and team building exercieses. We'll learn all kinds of things about each other and ourselves. Then we'll end the night with a fun movie. I can't wait to poll the group on Wednesday and see who wants to invite friends because I'm sending out special postcard invitations to kids all over the community to join us. This is going to be a great year and I'm looking forward to seeing everyone.

-Pastor Jessi

Schooooool Days

2010-07-20T11:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to the blog! We've had a wonderful summer vacation and now the school year is only 12 days away. *Disappointed booooooo!*

But with the ringing in of the new school year comes Youth Group starting August 25 from 6:00-7:30PM!! Welcome to our newest members: Millicent, Mattie, Hannah, Brileigh and Alyssa! We're so excited to have these 7th Graders with us this year. Right off the bat things get rolling as we're planning for our annual Youth Sunday! This year Youth Sunday takes place on October 31st so expect fun and excitement and maybe a little taste of All Hallows Eve!

Our theme for Youth Sunday will be "A Revolution" and we'll explore what that means for the first few weeks in Youth Group.

Don't worry when Youth Sunday is behind us we'll immediately launch into Christmas plans! This Christmas the youth will join the rest of the church (all ages) in a Christmas production. Can't wait to see what it is???? Me either! It's going to be wonderful so stay tuned for updates on that.

We've got so much to do this Fall with youth group that you'll forget you have to go to school. We look forward to seeing you all on August 25!

Congrats Grads!

2010-05-18T09:22:00.000-05:00

Sunday afternoon we celebrated the end of the school year by honoring our graduates and welcoming the rising 7th Graders into the youth group! Here is a pic of some of the youth in their t-shirts! They looked fantastic!

Hands On Nashville

2010-05-11T15:24:00.001-05:00

I signed our church and youth up today for the email list from Hands on Nashville. This program is currently organizing all the releif effort in Nashville. I will let anyone interested know about plans to put a group together to do some releif work in Nashville over the next few weeks. An overnight stay might also be in the works. This is an opportunity for anyone, youth or adults, to help out in our very own state! I will keep you posted with anything I learn!

-Pastor Jessi

Be The Resolution

2010-04-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

Just ordered a surprise for the Youth Group to be presented at the May 16 Cook-Out. Can't wait for them to see it! This picture is a hint. It's something I've been working on for awhile now and I know they're going to love it. Don't forget we're hosting the whole church for a cook-out and youth presentation. We'll be honoring our 2 graduates and welcoming all the new members of the youth group. See you all there!

12 Youth Going to Montreat!

2010-04-13T12:09:00.000-05:00

I must say I am beside myself with glee for our trip to Montreat. Today I registered 12 Youth and 1 Adult. I can't wait. Our church and youth group should be so proud to know we are sending out our young people to go and learn about ministry in the world.

This Wednesday in youth group the youth will get a special treat for all their hard work during Confirmation. We're going to Sonic for dinner! Yay! Even if someone wasn't in the confirmation class they're still invited to come. Can't wait to have tots and drinks with everyone!

Summer Plans!

2010-04-09T11:53:00.000-05:00

Well we are just 2 days away from the deadline for knowing who is going to Montreat. What's really important is that by Sunday I know who is going and who isn't going. And I gotta say, I can't wait. I can't believe how close we are. I'm going to a conference myself the first week of May and I can't wait to check it out and see.

Meanwhile, I have some other great plans for summer. We're going to have movie days where we sit around and watch movies together or go out to the movies together. We're going to have a lot of fun this summer including spending some time at Junior's House in July working during the day helping out an organization within our community.

The next few weeks are going to include some fun planning. Can't wait!

Confirmation

2010-04-08T11:31:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the 2010 Confirmation Class (picture above). I'm so very proud of them. What I loved the most about Easter Sunday was that it felt like the class really stepped up to the plate and expected more from themselves. The smiled and hugged more people than I'm sure they ever wanted to hug but all the while they were perfect angels. I was so pleased and I haven't stopped getting compliments about them. They have so much to be proud of and so much to look forward to as young adults in this congregation now. What a wonderful Easter it was indeed!

March Already?

2010-02-22T08:02:00.000-06:00

Whew! February has flown by and I can't believe it! The youth have been very very busy with Confirmation, Youth Group, and snow! We have had lots of snow around here and the youth have been enjoying their snow days off from school. Last week we celebrated Ash Wednesday with our traditional pancake dinner. The youth flipped pancakes for everyone who stopped by and any donations made went to the Pastor's Fund for helping people within the community. It was a great evening and we were thrilled to see everyone who came by. The worship service at 7:00 was a nice start to Lent.

There are so many things going on in the life of the church right now. I encourage everyone to inquire about how they can get involved. The youth have many things on the calendar leading up to their big Montreat trip in June. They're also working hard at Confirmation and at becoming more active members of the church. I look forward to blogging about the many adventures we'll be having in March as well.

Confirmation and Caring

2010-02-01T13:08:00.000-06:00

Confirmation class started yesterday. I have to confess: I've never taught Confirmation before. Second Confession: I didn't go through Confirmation! I was very nervous about the class. A couple of the kids don't attend youth group on a regular basis so I was worried that they didn't know me very well and that they might not like me (I know! Even the Pastor worries about people liking her!). But sure enough everyone was on their best behavior and it went really well. I had the students gather together around a huge table, get their workbooks and Bibles and we went to work. I told them at the beginning that these are their Bibles, they can write in the, circle things, highlight things or just make notes in the margin if they want. They were a little hesitant but a few brave souls led the pack and we were off and running.

We had a great time. I'm actually looking forward to this Sunday's class! Maybe even more so than the students!

This Sunday is the Souper Bowl of Caring. At churches all over the US youth collect money and canned goods for a selected charity. We've selected Good Samaritan. They do amazing work within our community and I can't wait to bring our check and goodies over to them after next Sunday. I'm hoping we'll collect a good deal :)

Finally, today I talked to several places about renting our van for Montreat!! I did some pricing and it looks like we're going to get a great deal. I can't wait to be trekking down the high way in our big van with all the youth! I'm going to be inventing car games (haha come on! I hope they'll get into it) and insist on bonding time! Just talking about planning for Montreat gets me excited. Today I started calculating how many youth will be going and how many possible youth will be going. There is a possibility of 17 youth!!!!!!! YIKES!!! Hope our chaperons are prepared! I personally can't wait.

-Pastor Jessi

Chili times 27

2010-01-27T14:06:00.000-06:00

As you can see we had a LOT of entries in the Chili Cook-Off! 27 to be exact! The youth had a great time, pitched in and helped out, and ate a lot of chili. They were great. We were so excited to see everyone there and even more excited to have the winner's announced. The winning chili was delicious and I know I wasn't the only one licking my bowl after enjoying it. I'm so very proud of all the youth and I went home buzzing with excitement. I couldn't wait to share with my friends and family how well it went and how amazing of a turn-out we had. It only encouraged me to do more because I know they enjoy it. Many thanks to everyone who entered and helped out. A big thanks to all the parents who provided deserts and clean up help. Can't wait for the next event!

Chili Chili Everywhere!

2010-01-21T12:05:00.000-06:00

Come to the Youth Chili Cook Off this Sunday starting at 4:00PM. Drop off your Chili in the gym and register to win the fabulous prizes! The youth are very excited about this and can't wait to see the heated competition. So come one and all and bring an empty stomach.

Drop off your Chili at 4:00PM and start eating at 5:15PM. The judges will be doing their thing starting at 5 and the prizes will be awarded at 6. Don't worry there will be plenty to eat and plenty of excitement. Can't wait to see you there!

A Prayer for Haiti

2010-01-19T08:19:00.001-06:00

Heavenly Father,
We ask that you be with the people of Haiti at this time. We ask that you give them food and clean water. That you provide them with shelter. That you bring to them the medical care they need. That you give strength to their leaders. That you love them and be there for them. Give them support from other countries and safety from other natural disasters. Give them hope for survival, help, and relief. We know you are Abba, our Father, and you are an almighty God who is with us always. In the name of the Triune God we pray, Amen.

Written by the youth.

Coming Up

2010-01-13T11:23:00.000-06:00

Two really fun events coming up on our youth calendar are a lock-in this Sunday night (Jan. 17). Drop off is at 6:00PM we'll have dinner, watch movies, and play games. Bring your sleeping bag, pillow (extra blanket because its been quite cold) and a Bible. Can't wait to see you all there!

Our next fun event is the Youth-Sponsored Chili Cook-Off on Jan. 24. Drop your chili off in a crockpot at 4PM and judging begins at 5PM. Fellowship and eating starts at 5:15PM. Awards and Prizes will be given out for the top 3 best chilies and the crowd favorite. First place gets a beautiful quilt. The youth are very excited about this and can't wait to see how many crockpots turn up.

We're Back in Action

2010-01-07T11:07:00.000-06:00

And it is cold!! I thought the new blog theme would reflect a sense of winter time but I had no idea it would be perfect for the cold weather we're having here in Tennessee.

Youth Group started back up last night and we were all in a silly mood, even me. We talked briefly about the Chili Cook-Off coming up on January 24 but didn't get far. Everyone was hungry and there was great smelling chili drifting in from the room next door. We sat around tables and laughed and goofed off. We started planning for our prank war at camp this summer (girls v. boys, the boys are in serious trouble).

We're also having a Lock In in 2 weeks on January 17. There's no school on the 18th so we'll lock ourselves in here at the church that night, keep warm, watch some movies and pig out on junk food. I hope a bunch of the youth who couldn't make it last time will make it this time. Pictures to come and maybe even some of the snow!

Stay warm everyone!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-14T11:30:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

From the FPC Youth Group!

Wordle

2009-12-11T08:19:00.000-06:00

This week we worked on Wordles in the office. The youth have been working hard on their worship service coming up in just a week. I know it's not easy to get up and talk in front of people so we're practicing hard and learning every step of the way what Advent means. In the office I shared a website wordle.net. Wordle allows you to put in words and it will make a word bubble out of the words depending on how often a word occurs. It's one of my favorite websites and the graphics turn out amazing. I really can't wait to share it with the youth and work on future projects.

It's exciting to see the youth take part in a worship service the way they are. I'm so proud of them for stepping up and working hard. I'm also surprised by their abilities to read in front of people and their excitement. Youth Sunday will also include my first Baptism so I'm very excited about that!

I hope to see you all there!

Advent Before Christmas

2009-12-04T09:34:00.000-06:00

Advent has begun. I love Advent. It's the time of year when we can really get in to the things we believe as Christians and the time of year we start to realize how truly privileged we are. The other day in Youth Group I was talking about Advent and I asked the Youth what comes after Advent? I got a chorus of "Easter!" and "Lent!" While this might make some people sigh with defeat I was actually a little excited. The Youth had forgotten Christmas! Of course this isn't a good thing but it did show me that even at this time of year their hearts aren't so focused on Christmas it's the only thing they think about.

The Youth are planning a worship service for December 20th. I'm excited to not only share this with them but have them share the stories of some of our most favorite Christmas Hymns with you all. I'm also excited about Baptizing one of the youth. It will be my first solo Baptism and I am so thrilled.

Before the worship service the youth are hosting a breakfast. Please check your email and the P&P for the breakfast list. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Pastor Jessi

Angel Tree

2009-11-10T11:07:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, December 6 the Youth Group will have lunch and go shopping for 2 Angel Tree Children. This is a tradition here at FPC and I'm really excited about participating. We'll pick out gifts for these lucky kids and take our time planning out what to get for them. I think this is going to be a wonderful experience especially for the youth. The youth are asked to bring a small donation and we'll pool our money for the gifts.

The Angel tree is something I've done ever since I can remember going to church. As a kid we always used to pick an angel or a family to prepare gifts for. I remember how awesome it felt knowing that something I picked out was going to someone who other wise wouldn't get any gifts on Christmas morning.

In the state of Tennessee, in 2006, there were 198,000 families living below the poverty level. That's 12.4% of the state population.

Chili Cook-Off

2009-11-03T08:20:00.000-06:00

The Spaghetti Lunch was a great success so it's time to move on to out next Youth Sponsored event! January 24 the Youth will host our first Chili Cook-Off! This is how the cook-off will work: The Youth will provide drinks, crackers, and desert while YOU the congregation provide the chili. Bring your crock pot of chili before worship (TouchPoint or 11:00 Service). After the 11:00 worship join us in the Fellowship all for Chili tasting and voting. 2 Separate votes will happen: The Congregation will vote for the "fan favorite" and a panel of carefully selected judges will cast their votes for first, second, and third place Chili. The highest honor of First Place will receive an exciting prize and everyone who enters will be recognized. So mark it on your calendars and don't worry we'll also provide the Tums, Malox, and Pepto!

Grazie!

2009-10-27T12:56:00.000-05:00

Hope you enjoyed seeing some pictures from the Youth Spaghetti Lunch.

The Spaghetti Lunch was wonderful! The youth had a great time, the spaghetti was yummy, and the congregation members were very generous with their donations. I can't wait for our next event (The Chili Cook-Off in January) and I know the youth are looking forward to it too.

Before we start planning for chili we have to start working on our youth-led worship service coming up on December 20th. The youth will tell stories that go along with some of our favorite Christmas Hymns. I'm excited to pick the hymns with the youth and figure out what stories we'll be telling. Before the worship service the youth will host a breakfast for the entire church and I'm looking forward to hearing the traditional singing of "12 Days of Christmas."

An important part of youth group is planning for the future and looking forward to what we'll be doing. I know the youth are starting to get excited about Montreat. I am too!

Don't forget Montreat: June 13-19, 2010

Inspiration

2009-10-13T11:33:00.001-05:00

Just a few images to inspire the youth and hopefully get you all excited for the Spaghetti Lunch coming up on October 25th!!!

Is It Fall Already?

2009-09-29T11:35:00.001-05:00

Wow the weather is changing here in Tennessee and school is in full swing. Fall break starts next week and I know everyone is excited to have some time off. These past few weeks we've been watching Les Meserables and talking about justice in youth group. Meanwhile the younger kids have been enjoying fun times at the after school program. Everyone is loving what they're doing and I can't believe how fast the time is flying.

Coming up in just a few short weeks on October 25th the Youth Group is hosting a Spaghetti Lunch after church. At this lunch the youth will serve and we'll learn about Montreat. This will also be an opportunity to hear about our plans for the next year (until our big Montreat trip) and how you can contribute to the youth fund. This fund helps send kids on trips and take part in retreats and activities. Every little bit helps.

Our youth are so involved in the church its amazing! Anything we are doing they are there even when the activity isn't specifically for them. The youth love this church just as much as the adults and I am so excited to get to work with them. Thank you to everyone who has made this youth program possible and thank you to the youth who are willing to come hang out with me every week.

Busy Busy

2009-09-15T09:59:00.001-05:00

I've been so busy lately with everything going on that I haven't had a chance to blog! The first two weeks of Youth Group have come and gone and we're having a blast. We began watching Les Meserables last week and talking about justice. I love the movie because it has one of my favorite scenes from a movie of all time. As Jean ValJean is caught in the act of stealing he is drug back to the priest to return what he has stolen. The priest forgives him and gives him more. When the police leave the priest tells ValJean that he has given these things and wants his soul in return. "With this silver I have purchased your soul. I have ransomed it from fear and hatred and I give it back to God. Remember you have promised to be a new man." The priest tells ValJean. It is such a powerful scene. I hope the youth are enjoying the movie and learning what it means to seek out justice in our lives and what it means to get a second chance.

News: We are hosting a spaghetti lunch the last Sunday in October. At the lunch we'll be talking about Montreat and discussing what we'll learn next summer when we return to Montreat for the first time in over 10 years! I can't wait to bring the youth to a place that has meant so much to me throughout my life.

I am signing off now for a week-long vacation. I hope the youth have fun Wednesday night with Pastor Todd. I can't wait to hear what they do and I will miss them all while I am vacationing with friends.

Pastor Jessi

Team Work

2009-09-04T09:19:00.000-05:00

Youth group is back and in full swing. We had a great time this past week doing our part in redecorating the upstairs playroom for the K-6ers. While the big strong guys moved the old couch out the technologically inclined guys unplugged the TV and DVD player from the crown room and moved the big screen in. We then moved the smaller TV upstairs to the playroom. Meanwhile, the others swept the floor, washed the windows and listened to music. In just an hour we had the room clean and rearranged. I know the older kids are just as excited to see how it turns out as the younger kids are now. It has officially become a construction zone.

Next week we'll be watching a movie and having pizza as a treat for all their hard work. I didn't hear anyone complain at all and they deserve a week of relaxing and having fun.

By the way, we had 14 kids in Youth Group and 2 sent me texts to say they couldn't make it. We would have had 16 if they had! The youth group is a wonderful group of spirited kids who love this church and love hanging out with each other. I'm so excited to be a part of it and I love being around them.

Welcome Back Youth Group!

2009-09-01T08:55:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Pastor Jessi's desk! September has begun which means Youth Group is baaaaack! I'm so excited for the different things we'll be doing this fall. This week we're going to pitch in and help out with the remodeling of the playroom upstairs. Then next week youth group really gets started with pizza and a movie night.

I've been working hard to plan fun things for the fall like a camping trip, a day at Six Flags, a Spaghetti Lunch, a Chili Cook-off, lock-ins and much more. Keep checking the blog for updates on what we're doing and I look forward to sharing our activities with you all.

See you Wednesday at 6:00PM for Youth Group!

Spaghetti Lunch!

2009-08-18T09:35:00.001-05:00

As the new school year starts and youth group kicks back in I'm excited to announce that we (the Youth Group) will be hosting an after-church Spaghetti Lunch on October 25th. This is an opportunity for church members to come and get to know the youth and hear all about our up-coming activities including our Summer 2010 Montreat Trip. At the lunch we'll be serving spaghetti and sharing a presentation on Montreat. There will be time to ask questions and hear all about what Montreat means to youth and to this church. I can't wait to eat spaghetti with you all (it's my favorite food) and share Montreat stories and pictures. This is a great time for bonding and learning what it means to be a member of a church.

This is YOUR time!

2009-08-05T10:59:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to announce that September is K-6 Focus Month! We'll spend the entire month of September focusing on our Kindergarten through 6th Grade members. We're going to redecorate their play room, start providing worship bags for them, and organize a once a week after school program for them! I am so excited about these new opportunities for the youngest members of our church. Myself and parents are going to be working hard for the next few weeks so check in the office and on the blog to see what's up and look for before and after pictures of the playroom in the future! Thanks to everyone for your support, prayers, and help!

Pastor Jessi

Link to Church Calendar

2009-07-31T10:42:00.000-05:00

Pastor Jessi here! Just wanted to provide a link for you all to our temporary church calendar. I say temporary because we in the office are working hard to have a church calendar on the church website. For now this is one that I have put together. It covers August and September. Keep checking back for updates as I continue to schedule things and remember to put them on the calendar.

Blessings!
Pastor Jessi

Signing off for Summer

2009-07-30T09:01:00.000-05:00

This summer has been so much fun! I have loved getting to know all the youth while hanging out and having fun. The Mission Trip taught me a lot about the youth and youth group has been great.

As the summer comes to an end (I can't believe it's over!!) I'm starting to think about what we'll be doing this fall, winter, and spring. I'll be posting a calendar for the youth on the blog as well as on the website in hopes that we will be able to fill it in together and keep up with all the fun things going on.

Things to look for: lots of Montreat promotions as this will be our first time going in many many years, trips (including camping and Six Flags), dinners and picnics, and of course confirmation! Start checking the website and blog for more great info on youth group and start looking for new info for K-6th graders as well!

Signing off for the Summer,
Pastor Jessi

Mission Trip Report

2009-07-28T09:03:00.000-05:00

As we gathered in the parking lot on Saturday to leave for the mission trip to Mississippi I couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. This was my first big trip with First Pres and I did not want to disappoint people. I had worked hard on planning fun activities and was hoping everything worked out. Our road trip down south was fun and full of enthusiasm. We stopped for the traditional Cracker Barrel lunch and arrived in Mississippi around 4:00.

Cyndi and I had been planning Saturday night dinner for a few weeks. We had both heard about a great restaurant nearby called “The Shed” that supposedly had the country’s best BBQ. We’d done our research and were really excited to take everyone. We arrived to find a huge outdoor party going on with live music and plenty of food. We were not disappointed. The youth loved the outdoor environment and the tasty BBQ ribs that literally fell off the bone.

Sunday morning we joined the congregation of Long Beach Presbyterian Church for worship. After worship we hit the road for the New Orleans Zoo. They have a wonderful zoo!! We spent the afternoon seeing hundreds of animals and then headed to the French Quarter for site seeing and dinner. We enjoyed Cajun seafood at Bubba Gump’s just off Jefferson Square.

Monday began our working. We were assigned two sites. The first site was led by Joseph and included Farris, Will, Barrett, Own, Jonathan, Donna, and Debbie. They spent the week getting to know a man who had survived Katrina by loading up onto a bus he had converted into a home. They worked on his bathroom, heard his stories, and shared lunch with him every day. By the end of the week he was like family. The second site was led by Bob and included myself (Jessi), Luke, Patrick, Jim, Adam and Margie. We worked on a home where the roof had been blown off during Katrina and the house had been flooded. We installed cabinets in the kitchen, worked on the bathroom and painted the outside. The home belonged to the cousin of our site coordinator, Mitch, so we heard lots about his family and their situation since Katrina.

Each night we had a devotional led by the mission team members. We sang songs, read Scripture, and thought about the text and how it related to our situation (copies of our devotionals are available in the church office). Friday night we had communion on the beach. We prayed for those in Long Beach as well as those back home in Fayetteville. We talked about how the people of Long Beach are our brothers and sisters in Christ and how we came to be with them in their time of need because when they are hurting we are hurting.

As we headed home I was overjoyed with how well the week had gone. How wonderful it was to share this time together getting to know each other, how amazing it was to see the young and the young at heart working side by side doing God’s work, how fun it was getting to know the members of another church and what a blessing it was for me to spend one of my first weeks at First Pres on a trip with a mission.

“Lord prepare me to be a sanctuary. Pure and holy, tried and true. With thanksgiving I’ll be a living sanctuary for you.” –The 2009 Mississippi Mission Trip Team.

First Pictures from Mission Trip

2009-07-23T16:16:00.001-05:00

Workin'

2009-07-22T07:49:00.000-05:00

Hello from Long Beach! We miss you all so much, especially Pastor Jessi. We've started working on our job sites and man it is fun. We've been installing cabinets, re-doing bathrooms, raking yards, and many other different things. The sun is hot in the sky but the beach is beautiful and the people are amazing. I am so thrilled to be with such wonderful people!

Everyone is loving the surprises and goodies they've been receiving in their mail boxes and our group is busy putting together a 1000 piece puzzle! Keep thinking of us and praying for us and know we are thinking of you too. We can't wait to see you when we get back. I am currently writing from our breakfast table so I'm not able to upload some pictures but I'll get some up soon.

See you soon!!!
Pastor Jessi

On a Mission

2009-07-21T06:47:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Long Beach, Mississippi!! This trip has been so much fun so far. We arrived safe and sound on Saturday and had lunch at the best BBQ joint in the US, The Shed (it won the Food Network's best BBQ contest AND FPC's approval). It literally was a shed! We sat outside on picnic tables, ate ribs that were falling off the bone, and listened to live music. The youth all got t-shirts and took lots of pictures. Despite the long drive during the day everyone mustered up enough energy to enjoy themselves.

Sunday morning we were up for Church here in Long Beach. We heard a great sermon about Moses and Pharaoh. After church we ate a quick lunch and hit the road again. This time for New Orleans! Blaring CCR's "Proud Mary" as we rolled into the city we were all super excited for the day. We immediately hit the Zoo which was truly wonderful. It was huge and had everything you could imagine. Animals galore! Everyone had a great time. After the Zoo we explored the French Quarter and historic New Orleans. It was great. For dinner we enjoyed Bubba Gumps Cajun seafood.

Our first day of working was very productive. We got the lay of the land and we know what we'll be doing for the rest of the week. I can't wait to share pictures and the rest of the trip's activities with you all. We miss everyone in Fayetteville and our prayers are with you. Thank you for your gifts and cards and good thoughts as we work and play.

Pastor Jessi

Wizardly Adventures

2009-07-17T10:31:00.001-05:00

As Vacation Bible School came to an end I started to plan something fun for the younger youth who will not be joining us on the Mission Trip (leaving tomorrow!). Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince seemed like an awesome idea! I invited several of the youth to join me for lunch and a movie in Huntsville. I had 8 youth total! I was so pleased so many of them wanted to go and what a wizardly adventure we did have. We piled into a big van and headed south for the afternoon. First I picked up tickets for the show then I took them to Five Guys for burgers and a mountain of french fries!
We inhaled our lunch and ran back over to the movie theater. I have to say, these kids were so well behaved I was shocked. They barely made a peep during the movie and they listened to every word I said. The car ride back was filled with chatter about the movie and 8 excited hyper teens.
Enjoy a few photos of our adventure!

Pastor Jessi

VBS Begins!

2009-07-13T14:03:00.000-05:00

The first night of VBS was a blast! The Youth helped out in many ways: from leading the younger kids in song to taking pictures their talents were much needed! I have added some great pictures of them helping out, having fun and just being silly! More VBS updates to come as the week goes on.

Pastor Jessi

Happy Birthday Calvin!

2009-07-10T09:11:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday John Calvin!! Calvin turns 500 today and was the founding father of the Presbyterian Church!

" However many blessings we expect from God, His infinite liberality will always exceed all our wishes and our thoughts. "

-John Calvin

Music Moves the World

2009-07-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

Last night's youth group kicked off the first in a series of many musical devotionals. From this point on we'll occasionally be doing devotionals that center around what we can learn from musicians and songs. Last night we talked about one of my favorite artists: Ben Harper. We listened to his song "Better Way"

I'm a living sunset

Lightning in my bones

Push me to the edge

But my will is stone

Fools will be fools

And wise will be wise

But I will look this world Straight in the eyes

What good is a man

Who won't take a stand

What good is a cynic With no better plan

Reality is sharp

It cuts at me like a knife

Everyone I know Is in the fight of their life

Take your face out of your hands

And clear your eyes

You have a right to your dreams

And don't be denied

I believe in a better way

The youth listened and read along with the lyrics. Then we talked about social justice and how human rights have influenced Ben Harper. Finally, I had the youth draw a picture of something they learned or discovered from the song and our discussion. Stay tuned for a report from one of the youth on what he learned and gathered from our lesson.

I've also added some pictures of the youth helping set up for VBS....or rather playing with the VBS set.

Pastor Jessi

Summmmmmer Time!!!

2009-07-08T14:45:00.000-05:00

As the summer gets hotter (and believe me it's getting hotter) and the days get longer we are approaching VBS. Vacation Bible School was my favorite part of the summer when I was a teen. I loved feeling grown up and important enough to help the adults with the little kids. Sometimes I was even better with the little kids then they were! I'm so thrilled to see how many of the older youth are involved with VBS. We have actors and actresses, photographers, athletes and helpers. Everyone is pitching in. I can't wait to share a blog written by one of the youth about VBS. I'm proud of them and how mature they are and how they are putting their skills towards doing God's work in the church and in their community.

Look for pictures of VBS and other upcoming youth activities. Also I look forward to sharing parts of the youth journal we'll be keeping on the mission trip. I hope each of the young people as well as the adults will contribute their thoughts and I'll be sure to pass them along on the blog. Until then keep us in your thoughts and prayers and the planning stages of the mission trip continue.

Pastor Jessi

A Lock-In Report

2009-07-05T13:34:00.000-05:00

The youth lock-in was an amazing night! We started off with pizza and a movie. What could be a better start? We watched The Count of Monte Cristo, and had a discussion about it afterward. We then talked about how to use our Bibles. To use the time before we went to play our cemetery game, we all went to the gym and played various games. In the cemetery, we divided into teams, and tried to find the headstone of the person we picked out of the bowl. It was a very fun game, but some were scared. After that, some divided into two teams to play capture the flag. The game included skill, running, jumping, scaring, screaming, and high heart rate. While a few then went to sleep, the others stayed up for most of the rest of the time, but eventually, everyone went to sleep. I’m sure everyone who came would agree that the lock-in was awesome!

Survived!

2009-07-02T17:37:00.000-05:00

We survived our first lock-in together! As you can see I've posted some new pictures of the youth doing lock-in like activities. Eating a whole bag of Oreos, playing music, and setting up their sleeping territories! Stay tuned for a blog entry from one of the youth. Can't wait to read what she has to say about it :)

Joyful! Joyful!

2009-06-30T08:27:00.001-05:00

Pastor Jessi is back from a brief trip to Florida to be ordained as a minister in the Presbyterian Church!!

I return to Tennessee excited about the lock-in and ready to be back to work with the Youth. Tomorrow's lock-in is a great opportunity to get to know each other and find out ways in which we can become great active members of this church. Don't worry it won't be all serious! We're going to have tons of fun and hopefully make it out of here in one piece :)

I look forward to seeing you all. After the lock-in look for our first youth blog entry!! I can't wait to hear what the youth have to say. See you tomorrow!!!

Pastor Jessi

Lock In Info

2009-06-23T11:16:00.000-05:00

Since I won't be here the rest of this week or this weekend (due to my ordination service in Florida!) here is the info for the lock-in. It is also in flyer form that I'll be passing out at youth group and have someone pass out this Sunday at both services. See you there!!

The Youth Lock-In is scheduled for Wednesday, July 1st. Be here at regular youth group time (6pm) for pizza and a movie. If you can't make it at 6 feel free to come late as we will be here all night (how late is up to your parents but after 10 is probably too late). Breakfast will be pancakes with Pastor Jessi in the morning. Be ready to get up and be out of here by 8am!

Bring:

Flashlight
YOUR Bible
Sleeping gear (sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, binkie.....you know you have one).
A friend (optional but friends are welcome!)
Snack or candy (if you're picky, Jessi will have lots of snacks)

Can't wait!!!!

Pastor Jessi

Youth & Church

2009-06-22T09:19:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's sermon would not have happened had I not been spending so much wonderful time getting to know the Youth here at FPC! Last week's Youth Group especially helped me. We talked about the story of David and Goliath and I got to hear them read Scripture and ponder over the story.

It's such a famous story so many of them already knew it but we read it together anyway and broke it down talking about all the different details. We asked questions, thought David was crazy, and looked at images depicting the events.

I was so excited to have the youth participate in the sermon. Even if all they had to do was hold on to some very heavy books I think the act of pointing them out in the congregation had an impact on the church. Sometimes I think we forget to see them sitting in the pews and forget that in a few years they will be the ones on our committees making decisions about the church. And they won't ever forget the impact that the adults in their lives had on them.

It is at this point in their lives in which we should be attempting to reach out to them and influence them because these are the times that will affect them forever. As a young person at St. Giles I was being told I should be a minister! I'll never forget the people who cared for me, who loved me and who encouraged me to be where I am today.

Meanwhile the lock-in is on!!!! Plans for movies, staying up late, eating junk food and oh yeah being together in community are underway!

At midnight we'll have a vespers session. This is like a mini-worship. We'll sing songs and read Scripture and pray together. Midnight worship will include a prayer to the saints!! Oooooh wonder what that means?! Bring your flashlights!!!!!

Pastor Jessi

David & Goliath

2009-06-15T14:20:00.000-05:00

Plans for the Youth Lock-In are underway! I'm super excited and it seems like a lot of the youth are too. I've already been asked by several if they can bring friends. OF COURSE YOU CAN!!! In fact one of the first things I participated in at St. Giles was a lock in and I brought a friend because I was new and didn't know anyone. Of course that's also where I met my future two besties at church Kristen and Heather. For the next few years we were thick as thieves (I never got that phrase, are thieves close? Is there a thieves banquet every year?).

Any who, I'm also thinking into the future. I've heard buzzings about a youth ski trip and I think I can put this on my list of things to look in to. I only went skiing once with the youth group but I loved it. Plus: SNOW! Who doesn't like snow?!

As youth group starts up in the fall, (**also on Wednesday nights look for more info on this in the future**) I'm going to start following a lesson plan I've been putting together in my head for a long time now. It's an awesome plan based on current music paired with Bible verses. Each song and artist will teach us something about the Christian life. I'm not going to give away any of the musicians but let's just say I've scoped out a few youth iPods and I don't think they'll be unfamiliar.

So back to David and Goliath. Guess who is preaching this Sunday?! Me! I'm doing a great sermon on...you guess it: David and Goliath. I'm going to pair these two historically famous figures with a little church past and a little church future. I'm excited and youth I'll need your help!!! This week at Youth Group we'll talk about how you can pitch in and help me out with my sermon. Don't worry no one has to talk :)

Don't forget Youth Group is at 5:30 this week and its a potluck with the choir. Bring a desert or bread side (I'm bringing my world famous mint brownies...YUM!). Don't leave me all alone to pig out while the choir watches! See you then!

Pastor Jessi