Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church

Newsletter 05/23/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Wed, 23 May 2012 13:28:46 PDT

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Top Stories:

Pentecost THIS Sunday, May 27
Graduation Sunday, May 27
Youth Summer Mission Trip
VBS News

Vacation Bible School

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:11:52 PDT

About VBS
Each year at First Presbyterian Church over 120 children from the community join us the week after school lets out for an exciting time of Bible lessons, games, crafts and music. Over 60 volunteers come together to provide a fun, safe and adventuresome learning atmosphere for God’s precious children of Walla Walla.

VBS 2012: Babylon - Daniel's Courage in Captivity
June 11th - 15th 2012
Daniel was way more than the guy who survived a den of hungry lions!
Travel back to Babylon and join Daniel - torn from his home and forced into the king's service. Imagine the pressure of learning a new language and culture... and the shock of discovering your best friends have been tossed into a fiery furnace. Explore exotics sights and smells in a Babylonian bazaar! Kids and adults will find that they're not much different from Daniel and his friends, who kept their faith in a faithless culture.

Register to come to Babylon now at the 2012 VBS website.

Volunteer for 2012 now! Contact Sarah Thomson: 509-525-1093
WORK DAYS: Every Saturday until June 11th we will have VBS prep/work days from 9am until noon. If you have the time, come help open supplies, prepare decorations, and even build sets! No need to sign up, just drop in anytime between 9am and noon on a Saturday and there will be stuff to do!
SUPPLIES: While we are able to come up with much of the necessary items for this epic week, there are a few that you can help us with. Grab a paper lion from the Atrium at the church and bring in the donated/borrowed items on it, or contact Sarah for a list. Thanks for making this possible!

Check out last year's VBS video:

Sermon 5/20/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 21 May 2012 10:03:08 PDT

"Their Eyes Were Opened" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Sermon 5/13/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 21 May 2012 09:57:52 PDT

"Living Hope" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Newsletter 05/09/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Sat, 19 May 2012 09:36:32 PDT

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Top Stories:

VBS article(s)
Craig & Shelley Rice, partners in mission
Youth Worker Training Day
Baccalaureate & Graduation Sunday

Sermon 5/6/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:52:25 PDT

"As It Was In The Beginning" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Mother's Day Luncheon Fundraiser

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:49:30 PDT

Walla Walla’s Best of the Best 2012, A Chef’s Creation, partnered with First Presbyterian’s Youth Group to host a Mother’s Day Lunch & Fundraiser on Sunday, May 13th. Lunch included salad, bread, main course, and dessert, all served by our Youth Mission Team. A string quartet added to the ambiance and enjoyment of this fine meal. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Youth Summer Mission Trip.

Tickets and/or reservations were available between services on Sundays, at the church office during the week, or by contacting kevin@wwpcusa.org. We thank you for helping make this Mother's Day Event a success! We will see you next year on Mother's Day.

The Menu was:

Salad: Tuscan Grilled Bread, Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato, Olives, Crisp Romaine, Garlic-Dijon Vinaigrette.

Entree: Chicken Marsala, Tri-tip Steak, Cheese Ravioli (for children). Yukon and red potato au gratin with sour cream, chive and smoked Gouda. Roasted fresh asparagus with onion and fresh herbs.

Dessert Fuji Apple Walnut cake with Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch ice cream.

Look for more information on the upcoming Youth Mission Trip that this raised funds for.

Youth Mission Team 2012

Sermon 4/29/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:20:14 PDT

"Questions and Answers" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Newsletter 04/25/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:19:55 PDT

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Top Stories:

National Day of Prayer
Mother's Day Lunch
Alpha Course
Mother's Day Men's Choir

Remembering Jim Woods...

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:48:28 PDT

Jim Woods went to be with the Lord Wednesday, April 18th, and we rejoice in his Peace with God as we mourn the loss to family, congregation, and community. Our prayers are with Jim's family during this time.

A Memorial Service was held in the Sanctuary on Friday, April 27th.

Herring Funeral Home has an online guest book for those who wish to sign and leave their condolences with the family.

Jim's Obituary may be viewed here. Gifts may be made in memory of Mr. Woods to the Memorial Fund of First Presbyterian Church.

Sermon, 4/22/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:30:00 PDT

"Not As Those Who Have No Faith" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Sermon 4/15/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:10:57 PDT

"Power Over Sin" (10:31 service)
Rev. Albert Gillin

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Newsletter 04/11/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:18:38 PDT

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Top Stories:

Mother's Day Lunch
Sweet Adelines Concert
Church Staff Opening
Alpha Field Trip

Palm Sunday 2012 - Photos and Video

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:45:51 PDT

click here to watch on YouTube (higher quality)

Highlights from our Palm Sunday celebration service, sandwich bar lunch, and Easter egg hunt.

Click here for photos on our Shutterfly site.

Easter Brunch

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:07:01 PDT

Bring your family in for Easter Brunch at First Presbyterian on April 8th. Seating begins at 8:45am and the last seating is at 10:30am. The meal is provided by A Chef's Creation Catering (Walla Walla's Best of the Best 2012) and there are no reservations necessary to enjoy!

The menu includes Biscuits & Gravy, Cheese Blintzes with Melba Sauce & Berries, Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Cottage Fries, Blanched Asparagus with dips, Fruit Trays, a variety of Pastries, Juice and Coffee.
Suggested donation for this meal is $8.50 per person for ages 11 years – adult, $5.00 for ages 5-10 years old, and $25 for immediate families (children under 5 years eat for free).

Brunch will be served in the Fellowship Hall and payment will be taken at the door.

Meanwhile, Easter Worship services will be at 7:45am, 9:01am, and 10:31am. We hope you will join us to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus! *click for service details*

Palm Sunday: Drama, Lunch, & Egg Hunting...

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:31:09 PDT

This Sunday, April 1st, we are having one Celebration service at 10:31am, with music by the praise band, choirs, and children as we all shout "Hosanna" to the King of kings. The Parable drama of the day is based on the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22:1-14). After worship, stay for a free build-your-own sandwich bar out of the dozens of combinations of breads, meats, veggies, cheeses, and condiments.

The kids won't want to miss our annual "Easter" Egg Hunt (not an April Fool's prank - it really IS a week before Easter!) for eggs filled with candy, chocolate, and prizes! Fun for everyone, we hope that you will join us!

**if you would like to be a part of the Easter Choir, please stay for a one-time rehearsal after lunch. This is a great chance for those of us who aren't usually able to sing with the choir to join in! This expanded choir has the opportunity to sing at the Maundy Thursday service and/or the Easter morning service. Contact Eric if you have questions or just show up; we'll see you there!

Holy Week: Focusing on Jesus...

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:08:49 PDT

"What is the new message of Grace that Christ has for us this Easter?" - Pastor Albert

Maundy Thursday, April 5th

6:15pm Dinner, 7:00pm Worship

This celebration of The Last Supper and Jesus' Arrest in the Garden plans to be a quiet, introspective evening of preparation. A candlelight soup dinner will be held in the Fellowship Hall prior to this Tenebrae Worship (A Service of Gathering Darkness) begins our journey toward Christ’s crucifixion.

Prayer Vigil, April 5th - April 6.

Thursday @ 6:00pm - Friday @ 6:00pm

The prayer vigil will be held in the chapel beginning Maundy Thursday and continuing through Good Friday.

Our goal is to have 24 hours of unbroken prayer. Sign up for a half-hour slot(s) or simply come and pray when you are able. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation." (Matthew 26:41)

Youth Midnight Worship

Thursday at midnight

Middle and High School students will spend an hour reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus during this time of song, prayer, Scripture readings, silence, and togetherness. This will take place as a part of the 24 Hour Prayer Vigil, and all are welcome to join us during this time.

Good Friday Worship

Friday, April 6th, at 12:00, 12:30, and 1:00 pm

A continuous service in 30-minute segments will be held in the Chapel. Come for a portion, or the whole time as we meet at the foot of the cross to reflect on the Crucifixion and what Jesus did for all of us.

Easter Sunday Worship

Sunday, April 8th, 7:45, 9:01, and 10:31am

Three varying services will be held on Easter, a reflective Service of Gathering Light at 7:45am; a family-friendly Contemporary service at 9:01am where we encourage children to stay with their parents and enjoy this time where kids have the opportunity to interact with the worship by playing handbells, releasing helium balloons, and enjoying an Easter skit; and a traditional service at 10:31am featuring Brass, Organ, and Choir (childcare available).

Easter Brunch

8:45am - 11:00am

A special buffet of delectable foods for Easter brunch is available, beginning at 8:45am with the last seating at 10:30 AM. The menu includes: Biscuits & Gravy, Cheese Blintzes with Melba Sauce & Berries, Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Cottage Fries, Blanched Asparagus with dips, Fruit Trays, a variety of Pastries, Juice and Coffee. Suggested donation for this meal is $8.50 per person for ages 11 years – adult, $5.00 for ages 5-10 years old, and $25 for immediate families (children under 5 years eat for free). Pay the door Easter morning (cash or check).

Newsletter 03/28/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:19:29 PDT

Click here to view (pdf)

Top Stories:

Palm Sunday -- Easter, Holy Week Activities
Special Children's and Youth activities for spring break
Women Equipping Women Spring Bible Study
Sweet Adelines concert
YoungLives Baby Bottle Fund Raiser

Lent: A Journey of Discovery & Growth

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:32:13 PDT

"Lent at First Presbyterian Church of Walla Walla is designed to be a time for us to grow and mature in our spiritual life. Through special celebrations and services we will walk together the path of preparation, sacrifice, and resurrection..." - Pastor Albert

We invite you to join us as we walk this path to the Cross. Whether you come with a life-long commitment or are simply investigating what Lent means, all are welcome to attend any of these worship opportunities and experience the community of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Parables
Worship Services on Sunday mornings will feature a Dramatic Presentation of the Parables of Jesus, adding another angle to how we understand and interpret these teachings.
- February 26th: The Lost Son (Luke 15:1-32)
- March 4th: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
- March 11th: The Sower (Matthew 13:1-23)
- March 18th: The Talents & the Tenants (Matthew 25:14-30)
- March 25th: The Vineyard Workers (Matthew 20:1-16)

Palm Sunday
April 1st, 10:31am
Both regular worship services combine for a Celebration Service at 10:31am to celebrate the Triumphant Entry of Jesus at Jerusalem. A free light lunch will be provided following the service, with an Easter Egg hunt for Children.

Newsletter 03/14/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:52:06 PDT

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Top Stories:

Palm Sunday activities
One Great Hour of Sharing
Events of Passion Week (Holy Week)

New Members Class

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 22:31:15 PDT

Pastor Albert will be leading a New Members class on Sunday, March 18th from 11:45am - 2:00pm. A light lunch will be served during this time of information, beliefs, and questions about what it means to be a member of our congregation.

Email or call the church office to reserve your spot or with questions.

Spring Rummage Sale

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:34:12 PST

Come find treasures, odds 'n' ends, household items, clothes, books, furniture, electronics, and so much more at the Presbyterian Women's Spring Rummage Sale in the Church basement on Friday, March 9th 9am - 3pm, and Saturday, March 10th 9am - noon.

Proceeds go to benefit missions and local outreach here in Walla Walla.

30 Hour Famine

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:52:47 PDT

The Youth of First Presbyterian Church are participating in World Vision's 30 Hour Famine as a way to raise both awareness and funds as a way to help those around the world who face malnutrition and starvation. Almost a billion people face the reality of food shortage, unclean water, and lack of education due to poverty.

Thousands of children under the age of 5 will die today due to hunger and hunger related illness. This is why the teens of our congregation and community will be undergoing a 30 hour fast on February 24th & 25th to understand the pains of hunger, if for just over a day. At 1pm on Friday the fast will begin, and students participating will have a lock-in at the church Friday night through Saturday as they play, learn, worship, serve, and pray, breaking their fast together Saturday evening.

*click image to learn more*

We pray that you might consider sponsoring one or more of the youth as they undergo this time of going without and reflecting on the situation of so many around the world. Our goal is to raise $5400.00, enough to feed, clothe, and educate 15 children for an entire year, which also contributes to their families, villages, and communities as World Vision partners with entire villages when a child is sponsored. If each of our youth gain the support of 12 people for $30 (a dollar an hour without food), then we will reach this goal.

A table in the Atrium near the CE Wing will be set up Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings in February if you have questions or would like to financially support the youth as they seek to help those around the world and here in Walla Walla in the name of our Lord. Also feel free to contact Kevin with any questions you may have. Help us impact the world today...

Hunger Teaching Session

@ the Food Pantry Service Project

Food Pantry Service Project

30 Hour Candlelight Worship

Famine Sunday

Donate Peanut Butter for Those in Need...

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:47:09 PST

At the beginning of February, Children's Sunday School classes started collecting money and jars of Peanut Butter for the Pantry Shelf. Over the past few weeks students, parents, and congregation members have been faithful to donate jars of Peanut Butter. With the price of peanuts on the rise, this staple of many households will be beyond the reach of those who are already struggling financially. Your giving brings the opportunity for families and children to enjoy an old fashioned PB&J!!!

When you are at the church, look at the giant paper Peanut Butter jar in the foyer to see how many jars of Peanut Butter have been collected so far (a paper peanut represents each jar) by each grade level. Sunday the 26th is the last day of the drive, so please continue to support the kids in their mission and encourage them to keep bringing in those jars of peanut butter!

If you have any questions, please contact Sarah or ask a Sunday School teacher.

Newsletter 02/22/12

wwpcusa@gmail.com (Walla Walla First Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:04:50 PST

Click here to view (pdf)

Top Stories:

30-Hour Famine
New Adult Lenten Bible Study
Church Swap - Lenten Services with Emmanuel Lutheran
Spotlight on Missions