One of our most sacred responsibilities as a church is nurturing the faith of children and youth. Faith is not just taught—it is formed through relationships, a sense of belonging, opportunities to serve, and meaningful encounters with God. A key part of youth ministry is creating space for this formation to happen. Experiences like Unidiversity Camp, Fall Retreat, and Mission Trips provide students with a chance to step away from the busyness of daily life and constant digital distractions, allowing them time and space to grow in faith.
To help make these experiences accessible to all, we hold one major fundraiser each year for the Youth Ministry. Starting Sunday, February 23, you’ll find a bulletin board in the Narthex filled with envelopes numbered $1 to $200. Choose an envelope, place the corresponding amount inside (cash or check), and return it by Youth Sunday, March 2. By supporting this effort, our church family ensures that every student can participate in these life-shaping experiences and deepen their faith. Thank you for investing in the spiritual growth of our youth!
Youth Sunday—March 2, 10:30am
Join us on March 2 as our youth share their gifts, voices and faith with the congregation. This is more than just a service—it’s a reminder that they are already the people of God, even as they continue to grow in faith.
Ash Wednesday—March 5, 6:00pm
Join us for an experiential Ash Wednesday Worship Service on March 5 at 6:00pm in the Sanctuary as we embark on the sacred journey of Lent. Children and youth are encouraged to participate. Worship Care is available for children 3 and under, if needed. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, a time of introspection, repentance, and spiritual renewal leading up to Easter. During Ash Wednesday worship, we’ll receive ashes on our foreheads, symbolizing our mortality and dependence on God. This year, our Ash Wednesday Worship Service will also serve as the kick-off for our Lenten Worship Series: Living Lent: Drawing Near to Jesus through Fasting, Confession, Giving and Lament. In his book, How to Inhabit Time, James K.A. Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing our place in the unfolding story of Christian history. He reminds us that we do not live in isolation but are deeply connected to the faithful who have gone before us. This awareness can be both grounding and comforting, especially in times of uncertainty. As such, our Lenten season invites us to engage in traditional practices that have shaped the faith of countless Christians across centuries. These practices are the means, the rituals, by which the Church has historically sought to encounter God in times of both trial and renewal. Through these Lenten practices, we remember that we are part of a living tradition—a people shaped by rhythms of repentance, renewal and hope. Engaging in them draws us deeper into the story of God’s work in the world, anchoring us in the wisdom of the past as we journey toward the future. As you depart from worship, Lenten Kits for Families with Children and Lenten Devotional Booklets will be available in the Narthex.
Sunday Worship—March 9, 10:30am
On Sunday, March 9, many from our First Baptist family, including several of our sound and broadcast team members, will be away on retreat. Because of this, we will have a simplified worship service at 10:30am in the Fellowship Hall.
Matt Rollins will be preaching, and Fred Defoor will lead us in music. Benjamin Barker, hammered dulcimer player, will provide special music. There will be no Sunday School that morning, but Worship Care for those 3 and under will be available.
—Carol