First Presbyterian Church

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is "The Gathering?"

The Gathering is a brief time of worship, coffee, and fellowship before
Sunday School. A music ensemble will lead us in praise and worship music. Each
week we will hear a brief testimony by someone who will tell us about where he
or she has seen God at work. We will offer "good" coffee and snacks, and our
time will be casual and relaxed.

Who is "The Gathering" for?"

The Gathering is for all ages, from the very youngest to the most seasoned.

When will "The Gathering" happen?

It will start at 9:30 a.m. and conclude about 9:50 a.m. All Sunday School
classes will begin following "the Gathering" but no
later than 10 a.m. The John Knox class will begin at 9:30 a.m.

Does this mean Sunday School will be shorter?

For most classes, Sunday school will be a little shorter, concluding at
10:45 a.m. We will no longer have a 30 minute "fellowship time" before
worship. "The Gathering" will effectively replace it. There will be 10 - 15
minutes of transition between Sunday School and worship.

Why are we beginning "The Gathering?"

1. It offers access to a style of worship in which many people have asked to
   participate.
2. It creates a new entry point to which people can invite their friends -
   friends who are looking for a more contemporary flavor of music.
3. It creates a place where members of our church can offer their gifts in
   service to God.
4. It creates excitement before Sunday School and may boost participation in
   Sunday School and 11 a.m. worship.
5. It will add vitality to the overall life of the church.

How did this idea come about?

For the past year, the Acts 16:5 Vision Team has been studying the concepts
of congregational transformation through the Acts 16:5 Initiative. As they
began thinking of ways to apply the Acts 16:5 principles, this idea emerged.
It grew out of much prayer and reflection. The members of the Acts 16:5 Vision
Team are: Joy Harman, Mac Ingraham, Ann Kiefer, Ann McMurray, Robin Team, and
Pastor Lee.

Who will be involved in the leadership of "the Gathering?"

A team of musicians and technicians are being formed to provide the music and
run the technology needed for the contemporary worship portion. Pastor Lee is
putting together the musicians, and Tom Eller will be training the "tech" team.
If you are interested in helping out with music, technology, greeting, making
coffee, or hosting the snacks, please let us know.