Weekly Updates 05.17.2024

Tomorrow

FBCP Work Day—Saturday, May 18th, from 9am-1pm

• Option #1: Text “paint” to 626.727.9498 to help freshen up the youth room! Wear old clothes as you’ll be pulling up carpet, painting walls and re-imagining this beloved space. Thanks to Jonathan and Edwin for providing lunch for the helpers, and thanks to many of you who have brought frames in! We could still use more helpers for the work day.

• Option #2: Text “plant” to 626.727.9498 to help Renee and Brian update our landscape with some of their beautiful plants! Bring a shovel or gardening tools if you have any, and get ready to roll up your sleeves. We need everyone!

Sunday

• Our Spring Sunday School classes finish up this Sunday, May 19th. Thanks to Rene, Sally, John Jay, Charles, Brian Y, Alex and Bailey for teaching this round. We are taking a summer break from Sunday School classes but keep an eye out for new options in the fall.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the sanctuary! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our youth are invited to join us for our regular lunch and fellowship after service. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• The FBCPride Group invites the LGBTQ+ community and allies to hear our own Mary Glenn, Assistant Professor of the Practice of Chaplaincy and Community Development at Fuller Seminary, this Sunday, May 19th, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Mary will speak to us about knowing ourselves, our belovedness, and our giftings, all of which help us to be a loving presence in Pasadena for the LGBTQ+ community. Text "pride" to 626.727.9498 if it's your first time to the group. And lastly, if you can help out with the potluck, please sign up here :).

• This week we invite you to consider giving beyond your contributions to FBCP by supporting a special offering called One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS). When you give to OGHS, your funds support disaster relief around the world including the crisis in Gaza. Gifts also support development projects and refugee ministries of the American Baptist Churches and its partners. You may give online or use the OGHS envelopes on the pews this Sunday.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is rice and beans.

Looking Ahead

• Help us prepare for our Blessing of Graduates on Sunday, June 2, as we take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages. Please fill out this form if you are graduating from high school or any higher education so we can include you in the blessing!

Next Week

• Calling all service-oriented folks to our final recruitment meeting for our October missions trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. Pastor John Jay would love for you to join him on this trip! We’ll gather for lunch after worship on Sunday, May 26th, for about an hour to nail down details and solidify our team. The cost for this week-long trip will be about $1000 plus your airfare. Text “Oaxaca” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for the team lunch on the 26th.

• Join us as we pray for our global servants around the world for 30 minutes after worship on Sunday, May 26th, in the Parlor. We use this time to remember our FBCP-supported American Baptist servants in Mexico, Lebanon, Turkey and Thailand as they love and support others around the world and share the light of Christ through service.

• Join us for our next Passive-Aggressive Pickleball Group practice at 7pm on Sunday, May 26th, in the gym off Union St. Bring a sweater and water, and text “pickle” to 626.727.9498 if you haven’t already. Email Tim with questions. We have paddles and balls available to use.

Treasure Exchange

• The 55+ Group is having a "Spring Treasure Exchange Party" on Friday, May 31, at 6:30pm. To celebrate the Spring season, we're asking everyone who attends to bring 2-3 gardening or kitchen items from your home. This can be an opportunity for you to do some Spring cleaning and to discover a new treasure. Be sure not to purchase anything. We will also be having a potato bar potluck—we’ll furnish the potatoes and ask you to bring a topping if you can! Email Pastor Chip with questions.  

June

• Give the gift of life! Sign up to participate in the American Red Cross’ Blood Drive FBCP is hosting on Sunday, June 2nd, in the Gym from 9am - 3pm. Schedule an appointment here: June 2nd Blood Drive Sign-up (NOTE: Be sure to sign up for the one in Pasadena located at 75 N Marengo Ave.)

• Instruments of Praise is a community nonprofit organization based in Pasadena and is part of the Clergy Community Coalition. They would like to invite any musically talented teens to a training week on the APU campus. To learn more, check out their website and share this flyer with a friend!

Kids Camp Registration

• We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! Youth families, please note that the youth are invited to help again this year, and this can count for community service hours if they have any requirements through school or other organizations. Also!  At FBCP, we do a special version of camp which has a general theme but is made up from lessons taught by a combination of our pastors and lay leaders like you. If you have a love of gymnastics, painting, butterflies or anything that you might want to share with the kids, please talk to us and we’ll figure out how to incorporate your lesson into camp. We are less without you. 

Pride Events

We hope you can join us for these fun Pride events in June:

• On Saturday, June 1, from 12:30-1:00pm the City of Pasadena will raise a Pride flag at 100 N. Garfield Ave (City Hall) in honor of Pride Month. Stop by if you have time! More details can be found here.

• Join us at the Altadena Walkabout in Altadena on Saturday, June 8th, with activities from 10am-6pm. FBCP will participate in an 11:30am Spiritual Event at the Altadena Baptist Church, and have a booth at the Altadena Senior Center from 2pm-6pm. Contact pride@fbcpasadena.com if you would like to volunteer for a 2-hour shift.

• The Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department presents its 3rd annual Love, Loud & Proud Pride Month celebration on Saturday, June 22nd, from 5-9pm. The event features drag performances and story time, live music, dance competitions, local food trucks, arts & crafts activities, face painting, and resources from local LGBTQ+ organizations, community partners and allies. This is a free, family-friendly event with food available for purchase.

Gift from Pastor John Jay

• Did you get your copy of Ordinary Theology? John Jay’s first published booklet is a condensed treatment of the core beliefs motivating the leadership of our church community, written from the context of the primary teaching pastor. We printed these booklets small enough to fit in your back pocket or purse/fanny pack, and the costs have been covered by the Foundation (many thanks). If you love what you read, take a second copy and share with a friend. Yay books!

Ways to Serve

• Join us in providing meals for Bea as she recuperates from knee surgery at her home in Temple City. Check out her Meal Train.

• Ian is also having knee surgery on Monday due to a ski accident. Please consider providing a meal to him in the Hastings Ranch area. Check out his Meal Train.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Sundays through 5/19 | 9-10am

• Grief Group | 5/19 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 5/19 at 12pm | Parlor

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 5/19 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 5/25 | 9am | TBD

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 5/26 at 7pm | Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

5/18 - Work Day: Gardening + Youth Room Renovation
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting
5/26 - Oaxaca Meeting
5/26 - Prayer for Global Servants
5/31 - 55+ Group Event
6/01 - Pasadena Pride Flag-Raising Event
6/02 - Blessing for Graduates
6/08 - Altadena Pride Walkabout
6/16 - Father’s Day Massages
6/19 - Juneteenth
6/22 - Men’s Breakfast
6/22 - Pasadena Pride Event

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 05.11.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

I know that May can be a busy month for families with kids, especially as the school year comes to an end and graduation season unfolds. I am praying that you and your kids feel permission to rest and play in the midst of all the work and hustle.

As we honor the mother figures in our lives tomorrow, I wanted to share this post by Kat Armas (author of Abuelita Faith) on the topic of God and Jesus as mother figures. If you don't have time to read the whole post, then I encourage you to take a look at the poem provided at the end. It's called "God Our Mother" by Allison Woodard, and it is the poem read over me by members of FBCP at my baby shower when I was pregnant with Emma Kate. May we feel the expansive and tender heart of God as a mother figure who loves and nurtures us without end.

Youth Room Renovation

We are so excited to begin fixing up our youth room to make it more inviting and useful for our gatherings. If you want to help us beautify our space, we could use some help in a few ways. First, we are collecting used (but in good condition) picture frames of various sizes and styles. If you have any you don't want anymore, we would gladly take them! And if you're a pro at thrift stores and happen to see any there, we would gladly take those, too. Second, we are planning a work day to rip out carpet and paint the walls. If you're up for helping, join us on May 18th! More details to come, but you can email me if you want to sign up or get more information. Thanks for supporting our growing youth as they reimagine their space and all the ways they can share it with the congregation at large! 

Mark Your Calendars for June 2!

On Sunday, June 2, our kids and youth will be joining our adult choir in singing during worship. We will be practicing during our regular Sunday time with kids and youth in the coming weeks, and you can help them practice at home, too. You can play the listening track and sing along with these lyrics. We'll ask kids and youth to arrive at 9:30 am that day to practice, and we'll have pastries for parents so y'all can hang out before worship. On that Sunday we will also take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages, so it will be a full and beautiful service with a chance to bless those in this milestone moment. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! Youth families, please note that the youth are invited to help again this year, and this can count for community service hours if they have any requirements through school or other organizations. 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Our nursery staff will be ready starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service and 10:20 AM for those coming just to worship. This week our nursery kids will explore how Jesus taught and healed people.

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week we look at the beautiful ways that God is our Heavenly Mother. We are so excited to share in this special time together!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are some traits you love most about your mom?

• How can our moms and mother figures help us understand God's love and presence in our lives?

YOUTH

Parents, my apologies—we will NOT have youth this week so that youth can spend time with their moms. We will be back on for our time together next week!

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 05.10.2024

Tonight

• Watch the movie Why in the World with us tonight, May 10th, at 6pm in the Sanctuary (note: change from the Chapel). This movie explores the deeper questions of life as two friends follow a wise, slightly eccentric homeless man who they hope will show them the meaning of life.  Armed with nothing in their quest but five basic questions, they cross more than 50 countries in search of answers, piling one uproarious misadventure on top of another as they seek to crack the code of existence. See you soon!

Sunday

• Our Spring Sunday School classes continue through May 19. This Sunday, the Reconstructing Bible Basics class will be on a break for Mother’s Day, but Spiritual Values in Literature: Lila will meet as usual.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the Sanctuary this Sunday! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our regular youth gathering is postponed this week due to Mother’s Day. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• We invite all women to enjoy a five-minute complimentary massage on Mother’s Day, May 12th. Massage chairs will be set up in the back of the sanctuary and will be available throughout the service.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is toiletries, including baby items and feminine products.

Gift from Pastor John Jay

• Did you get your copy of Ordinary Theology? John Jay’s first published booklet is a condensed treatment of the core beliefs motivating the leadership of our church community, written from the context of the primary teaching pastor. We printed these booklets small enough to fit in your back pocket or purse/fanny pack, and the costs have been covered by the Foundation (many thanks). If you love what you read, take a second copy and share with a friend. Yay books!

Elbow Grease

FBCP Work Day—Saturday, May 18th, from 9am-1pm

• Option #1: Jessica H and Jensen are so excited to begin fixing up the youth room to make it more inviting and useful for gatherings. Here are a few ways you can help. First, we are collecting used (but in good condition) picture frames of various sizes and styles. Second, they are planning a work day to rip out carpet and paint the walls. Lastly, if you would like to prepare some lunch or snacks for the work day, that's another way you could join the fun. Text “paint” to 626.727.9498 to let us know you want to help. Thanks for supporting our growing youth as they reimagine their space and all the ways they can share it with the congregation at large! 

• Option #2: On Saturday, May 18th, also from 9am-1pm, we invite you to join us for a landscape beautification project. We especially need strong diggers and folks with shovels on the front end of the time frame. We are grateful for Renee and Brian leading this venture. Text “plant” to 626.727.9498 if you can make it for any amount of time. Mark your calendars!

• The FBCPride Group invites the LGBTQ+ community and allies to hear our own Mary Glenn, Assistant Professor of the Practice of Chaplaincy and Community Development at Fuller Seminary, on Sunday, May 19th, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Mary will speak to us about knowing ourselves, our belovedness, and our giftings, all of which help us to be a loving presence in Pasadena for the LGBTQ+ community. She will facilitate a conversation and exercises for growing our self-awareness and self-kindness, and emphasize that everyone is needed. As Pastor John Jay closes his emails, we are "less without you," and we hope you can join us for this meeting--and for the continued journey of LGBTQ+ inclusion in Pasadena. Text "pride" to 626.727.9498 if it's your first time to the group. And lastly, if you can help out with the potluck, please sign up here :).

• Calling all service-oriented folks to our final recruitment meeting for our October missions trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. Pastor John Jay would love for you to join him on this trip! We’ll gather for lunch after worship on Sunday, May 26th, for about an hour to nail down details and solidify our team. The cost for this week-long trip will be about $1000 plus your airfare. Text “Oaxaca” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for the 26th.

• Join us as we pray for our global servants around the world for 30 minutes after worship on Sunday, May 26th, in the Parlor. We use this time to remember our FBCP-supported American Baptist servants in Mexico, Lebanon, Turkey and Thailand as they love and support others around the world and share the light of Christ through service.

• Join us for our next Passive-Aggressive Pickleball Group practice at 7pm on Sunday, May 26th, in the gym off Union St. Bring a sweater and water, and text “pickle” to 626.727.9498 if you haven’t already. Email Tim with questions. We have paddles and balls available to use.

• The 55+ Group is having a "Spring Treasures Exchange Party" on Friday, May 31, at 6:30pm. To celebrate the Spring season, we're asking everyone who attends to bring 2-3 gardening or kitchen items from your home. This can be an opportunity for you to do some Spring cleaning and to discover a new treasure. Be sure not to purchase anything. We will also be having a potato bar potluck—we furnish the potatoes and ask you to bring a topping if you can! Email Pastor Chip with questions.  

June

• Help us prepare for our Blessing of Graduates on Sunday, June 2, as we take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages. Please fill out this form if you are graduating from high school or any higher education so we can include you in the blessing!

• Help give the gift of life! Sign up to participate in the American Red Cross’ Blood Drive FBCP is hosting on Sunday, June 2nd, in a mobile clinic parked on Holly St. from 9 am - 3 pm. Schedule an appointment here: June 2nd Blood Drive Sign-up (NOTE: Be sure to sign up for the one in Pasadena located at 75 N Marengo Ave.)

Pride Events

We hope you can join us for these fun Pride events in June:

• On Saturday, June 1, from 12:30-1:00pm the City of Pasadena will raise a Pride flag at 100 N. Garfield Ave (City Hall) in honor of Pride Month. Stop by if you have time! More details can be found here.

• Join us at the Altadena Walkabout in Altadena on Saturday, June 8th, with activities from 10am-6pm. FBCP will participate in an 11:30am Spiritual Event at the Altadena Baptist Church, and have a booth at the Altadena Senior Center from 2pm-6pm. Contact pride@fbcpasadena.com if you would like to volunteer for a 2-hour shift.

• The Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department presents its 3rd annual Love, Loud & Proud Pride Month celebration on Saturday, June 22nd, from 5-9pm. The event features drag performances and story time, live music, dance competitions, local food trucks, arts & crafts activities, face painting, and resources from local LGBTQ+ organizations, community partners and allies. This is a free, family-friendly event with food available for purchase.

Scholarships Available

• The FBCP Foundation is a separate entity established in 1958 by members committed to contributing financially to the church in the present and future years. Each year the Foundation has some funds set aside to disburse to FBCP members for post-secondary educational scholarships. Members interested in applying for the 2023-2024 academic year can apply here. Applications are due Monday, June 24, 2024.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Sundays through 5/19 | 9-10am

• Grief Group | 5/19 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 5/19 at 12pm | Parlor

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 5/19 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 5/25 | 9am | TBD

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 5/26 at 7pm | Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

5/12 - Mother’s Day Massages
5/18 - Work Day: Gardening + Youth Room Renovation
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting
5/25 - Holy Walkamolies Hike
5/26 - Oaxaca Meeting
5/26 - Prayer for Global Servants
5/26 - Passive-Aggressive Pickleball
5/31 - 55+ Group Event
6/01 - Pasadena Pride Flag-Raising Event
6/02 - Blessing for Graduates
6/08 - Altadena Pride Walkabout
6/16 - Father’s Day Massages
6/19 - Juneteenth
6/22 - Men’s Breakfast
6/22 - Pasadena Pride Event

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 05.04.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

We just had a Family Ministry training, and let me tell you—the folks showing up to connect with our kids are just so fabulous! We focused a lot on what our ministry with kids is about as well as what it is not. When kids show up on Sunday, they are just as vital to our worship and growth and learning and community as any adult. Our calling is to give them the proper value and place to show up, be themselves, and form us as much as we help form them. Coincidentally, this week I came across this review of a book on children in liberation theologies. It's a powerful reminder that children have always been part of the story God is telling, and our wholeness and freedom are tied up in how we relate to kids. Pastor Mary and I are so thankful that we get to introduce our kids to a new group of awesome adults—and to introduce a new group of adults to our amazing kids.

Read on for all the upcoming fun related to kids and youth.

Youth Room Renovation

We are so excited to begin fixing up our youth room to make it more inviting and useful for our gatherings. If you want to help us beautify our space, we could use some help in a few ways. First, we are collecting used (but in good condition) picture frames of various sizes and styles. If you have any you don't want anymore, we would gladly take them! And if you're a pro at thrift stores and happen to see any there, we would gladly take those, too. Second, we are planning a work day to rip out carpet and paint the walls. If you're up for helping, join us on May 18th! More details to come, but you can email me if you want to sign up or get more information. If you would like to prepare some lunch or snacks for the work day, that's another way you could join the fun. Thanks for supporting our growing youth as they reimagine their space and all the ways they can share it with the congregation at large! 

Mark Your Calendars for June 2!

On Sunday, June 2, our kids and youth will be joining our adult choir in singing during worship. We will be practicing during our regular Sunday time with kids and youth in the coming weeks, and you can help them practice at home, too. You can play the listening track and sing along with these lyrics. We'll ask kids and youth to arrive at 9:30 am that day to practice, and we'll have pastries for parents so y'all can hang out before worship. On that Sunday we will also take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages, so it will be a full and beautiful service with a chance to bless those in this milestone moment. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! Youth families, please note that the youth are invited to help again this year, and this can count for community service hours if they have any requirements through school or other organizations. 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Our nursery staff will be ready starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service and 10:20 AM for those coming just to worship. This week our nursery kids will continue to explore the story of the prodigal son. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for worship and communion since this is the first Sunday of the month. Make sure your child picks up a fun survey to fill out during worship—Pastor Mary will have that ready in the lobby, and it's always a favorite activity for our kids (and youth!). We will begin a four-week focus on forgiveness in our teaching time. It will be a beautiful morning together as a church family, and we welcome the presence of our kids in worship!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• Think of a time you forgave someone. What was that like?

• Think about a time you found it hard to apologize. Why was it so hard?

• Is there anything you need to forgive yourself for?

YOUTH

This week our youth will join us for the all-church potluck after worship! We'll be back on for our regular youth gathering next Sunday.

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 05.03.2024

Tomorrow

• Our gardening project has been postponed to Saturday, May 18th, from 9am-1pm. We especially need strong diggers and folks with shovels on the front end of the time frame. We are grateful for Renee and Brian leading this fun time of communal landscape beautification. Text “plant” to 626.727.9498 if you can make it for any amount of time. Mark your calendars!🌸🌵

• Ready for fun while you serve in our nursery or kids classes? Join the Family Ministry Training on Saturday, May 4th, from 11am-1pm in the Southside Room. Pastors Lindsay and Mary will go over how they thoughtfully connect with kids of all ages during worship. Lunch provided. Thanks for considering this fun way to partner in nurturing the community at FBCP! Text “train” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for the training, and email Pastors Lindsay and Mary with questions.

• End the afternoon with some music in the front yard of the Ellis home. Bennett shared a gratitude last week about the excitement of putting on a musical show with other neighborhood kids, and his family was kind enough to share this flyer if anyone is interested in attending from 3-6pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy!

Sunday

• Our Spring Sunday School classes continue through May 19. Details can be found here. Email Pastor Chip with questions.

• Come get a copy of Pastor John Jay’s first book(let)! Ordinary Theology is a condensed treatment of the core beliefs motivating the leadership of our church community, written from the context of the primary teaching pastor. We printed these booklets small enough to fit in your back pocket or purse/fanny pack, and the costs have been covered by the Foundation (many thanks). We printed a few hundred in this first run, so plenty to go around. This booklet is just the beginning in a series of public writings for our church community and beyond, so keep your eyes peeled for more writings in the months ahead. If you love what you read, take a second copy and share with a friend. Yay books!

• Name Tag First Sundays—we invite you to find the table in the lobby on each first Sunday of the month and write out your name as a step towards learning new faces and meeting new friends.

• Join us for worship in the sanctuary at 10:30am as we partake in communion together (note: crackers are gluten free)! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Please note that because this will be the first Sunday of the month, our kids five years old and up will join us in the sanctuary for service. Our youth are invited to join the all-church potluck in the gym after worship this week. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• This Sunday, May 5th, is our all-church potluck after worship in the gym. Thank you to our Volunteer Crew Kathy, Carol, Susan, Matt, Cindy, Michael S, Mary W, Rich, Dave E, Cindie and Eric. The church will provide drinks and desserts for this Cinco de Mayo potluck, and we encourage you to bring a main dish for 8-10 people to share if you can.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is soup/chili/stew.

Coming Up

• Movie producer and FBCP member Bruno invites us all to a sneak peek showing of his latest project Why in the World on Friday, May 10th, at 6pm in the Chapel. This movie explores the deeper questions of life, and Bruno can’t wait to hear your thoughts!  In it, two friends follow a wise, slightly eccentric homeless man who they hope will show them the meaning of life.  Armed with nothing in their quest but five basic questions, they cross more than 50 countries in search of answers, piling one uproarious misadventure on top of another as they seek to crack the code of existence. Text “movie” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. See you there!

Also in May

• We invite all women to enjoy a five-minute complimentary massage on Mother’s Day, May 12th. Massage chairs will be set up in the back of the sanctuary and will be available throughout the service.

• Pastor Lindsay and team are so excited to begin fixing up the youth room to make it more inviting and useful for gatherings. If you want to help, we could use some help in a few ways. First, we are collecting used (but in good condition) picture frames of various sizes and styles. If you have any you don't want anymore, they would gladly take them! And if you're a pro at thrift stores and happen to see any there, they would gladly take those, too. Second, they are planning a work day to rip out carpet and paint the walls. Lastly, if you would like to prepare some lunch or snacks for the work day, that's another way you could join the fun. If you're up for helping, join the group on May 18th! More details to come, but you can text “paint” to 626.727.9498 to let Pastor Lindsay know you want to help. Thanks for supporting our growing youth as they reimagine their space and all the ways they can share it with the congregation at large! 

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, May 19th, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. We always enjoy our potluck together, so please sign up here if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new, and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

• Calling all service-oriented folks to our final recruitment meeting for our October missions trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. Pastor John Jay would love for you to join him on this trip! We’ll gather for lunch after worship on Sunday, May 26th, for about an hour to nail down details and solidify our team. The cost for this week-long trip will be about $1000 plus your airfare. Text “Oaxaca” to RSVP for the 26th.

• Join us as we pray for our global servants around the world for 30 minutes after worship on Sunday, May 26th, in the Parlor. We use this time to remember our FBCP-supported American Baptist servants in Mexico, Lebanon, Turkey and Thailand as they love and support others around the world and share the light of Christ through service.

June

• Help us prepare for our Blessing of Graduates on Sunday, June 2, as we take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages. Please fill out this form if you are graduating at any level high school or above so we can include you in the blessing!

• Help give the gift of life! Sign up to participate in the American Red Cross’ Blood Drive FBCP is hosting on Sunday, June 2nd, in a mobile clinic parked on Holly St. from 9 am - 3 pm. Schedule an appointment here: June 2nd Blood Drive Sign-up (NOTE: Be sure to sign up for the one in Pasadena located at 75 N Marengo Ave.)

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Sundays through 5/19 | 9-10am

• Grief Group | 5/5 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 5/19 at 12pm | Parlor

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 5/19 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 5/25 | 9am | TBD

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 5/26 at 7pm | Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening
5/12 - Mother’s Day Massages
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting
5/26 - Prayer for Global Servants
5/31 - 55+ Group Event
6/01 - Pasadena Pride Flag-Raising Event
6/02 - Blessing for Graduates

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 04.27.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Tomorrow will be another full day of worship as we wrap up our series on Genesis. We are so excited to gather and be together as a church family. It's also Pastor Mary's birthday, which will make it extra special! We are so thankful for her and all the ways she loves our church family of all ages. Happy Birthday, Pastor Mary! 

Read on for all the upcoming fun related to kids and youth…

Youth Room Renovation

We are so excited to begin fixing up our youth room to make it more inviting and useful for our gatherings. If you want to help us beautify our space, we could use some help in a few ways. First, we are collecting used (but in good condition) picture frames of various sizes and styles. If you have any you don't want anymore, we would gladly take them! And if you're a pro at thrift stores and happen to see any there, we would gladly take those, too. Second, we are planning a work day to rip out carpet and paint the walls. If you're up for helping, join us on May 18th! More details to come, but you can email me if you want to sign up or get more information. If you would like to prepare some lunch or snacks for the work day, that's another way you could join the fun. Thanks for supporting our growing youth as they reimagine their space and all the ways they can share it with the congregation at large! 

Mark Your Calendars for June 2!

On Sunday, June 2, our kids and youth will be joining our adult choir in singing during worship. We will be practicing during our regular Sunday time with kids and youth in the coming weeks, and you can help them practice at home, too. You can play the listening track and sing along with these lyrics. We'll ask kids and youth to arrive at 9:30 am that day to practice, and we'll have pastries for parents so y'all can hang out before worship. On that Sunday we will also take time to honor and celebrate our graduates of all ages, so it will be a full and beautiful service with a chance to bless those in this milestone moment. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family!  If you’re interested in helping out, please let me know. The more, the merrier!

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Our nursery staff will be ready starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will get to explore the story of the prodigal son. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then will be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week we will continue to explore the story of Joseph and his reunion with his brothers. It will be an interactive time to ponder the story together, and we are so excited to share in this special time with our kids!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What do you think it was like for Joseph to see his brothers again?

• Which character do you most identify with in the story of Joseph and his brothers?

YOUTH

This week we will have our regular youth gathering after worship. We look forward to a meaningful time of discussion, lunch, and connection with our amazing youth!

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 04.26.2024

Tonight

• Community Dinners are happening around town tonight! Thanks to our hosts—Christophers, Chiu-Kawanos, Berry-VanStelle, Ekstrands, Linscotts, Looses and Powells. We hope you all enjoy breaking bread together!

Tomorrow

• It’s not too late to join our Holy Walkamolies hiking group tomorrow morning, Saturday, April 27th, at 9am. Park near the Casting Pond for the Lower Arroyo Trail in South Pasadena. This 3-mile hike is accessible for beginners and is even dog-friendly. Email Matt and Susan with any last-minute questions and don’t forget your sunscreen and water!

Sunday

• Our new Spring Sunday School classes continue through May 19! Details can be found here. Email Pastor Chip with questions.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the sanctuary! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our youth are invited to join us for our regular lunch and fellowship after service. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• Anyone new-ish to the church is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship this Sunday, April 28th! Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. It’s a great way to meet others and speak to our lead pastor in a smaller setting. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Join us for our Passive-Aggressive Pickleball Group this Sunday, April 28th, at 7pm in the gym off Union St. Bring a sweater and water, and text “pickle” to 626.727.9498 if you haven’t already. Email Tim with questions. We have paddles and balls available to use.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is canned tuna/chicken.

Planting Project

• Our friends Renee and Brian are kindly donating some succulents from their property. We are excited for the opportunity to beautify our space, but we need your help! Text “plant” to 626.727.9498 if you’re free to help on Saturday, May 4, anytime between 10am-2pm. Bring gloves, gardening tools you may have, a hat and a water bottle. If anyone has shovels and pitchforks we can borrow, please email Kathy. Thanks! 🌸🌵

Cinco de Mayo Potluck Next Week

• Next Sunday, May 5th, is our next all-church potluck after worship in the gym. Sign up in the lobby Sunday to help Pastor Chip with set-up or clean-up. The church will provide drinks and desserts for this cinco de mayo potluck, and we encourage you to bring a main dish for 8-10 people to share if you can.

Also Around the Corner

• Next Thursday, May 2nd, is the Pasadena Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast from 7:30-9:00am at the Pasadena Convention Center. You may email Pastor Chip to see if any seats are available or purchase individual tickets via this link. This is an interfaith breakfast hosted by Friends In Deed that coincides with the National Day of Prayer.

• Ready for fun while you serve in our nursery or kids classes? Join the Family Ministry Training on Saturday, May 4th, from 11am-1pm in the Southside Room. Pastors Lindsay and Mary will go over how they thoughtfully connect with kids of all ages during worship. All staff and volunteers go through a background check process, and we take our family ministry seriously so they receive the best care we can give them. Thanks for considering this fun way to partner in nurturing the community at FBCP! Text “train” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for the training, and email Pastors Lindsay and Mary with questions.

• Movie producer and FBCP member Bruno invites us all to a sneak peek showing of his latest project Why in the World on Friday, May 10th, at 6pm in the Chapel. This movie explores the deeper questions of life and Bruno can’t wait to hear your thoughts!  In it, two friends follow a wise, slightly eccentric homeless man who they hope will show them the meaning of life.  Armed with nothing in their quest but five basic questions, they cross more than 50 countries in search of answers, piling one uproarious misadventure on top of another as they seek to crack the code of existence. See you there!

• We invite all women to enjoy a five-minute complimentary massage on Mother’s Day, May 12th. Massage chairs will be set up in the back of the sanctuary and will be available throughout the service.

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, May 19th, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. We always enjoy our potluck together, so please sign up here if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new, and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Sundays through 5/19 | 9-10am

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 4/27 | 9am | Lower Arroyo Trail

• Yarn Crafts Group | 4/28 at 12pm | Parlor

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 4/28 at 7pm | Gym

• Grief Group | 5/5 at 9am | Room 214

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 5/19 at 5pm | Southside Room

Six Weeks at a Glance

4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/02 - Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast
5/04 - Succulent Planting Day
5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening
5/12 - Mother’s Day Massages
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting
5/26 - Prayer for Global Servants
5/31 - 55+ Group Lunch
6/01 - Pasadena Pride Flag-Raising Event
6/02 - Blessing for Graduates

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 04.20.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Thanks to all of our families who were able to join us for our potluck hangout last Sunday. We had a great time getting to connect with other families and are so grateful for the community of families with kids at FBCP. A very special thanks to Saskia and Natalee for all their help in organizing and hosting—y'all did such a great job! We look forward to more family gatherings and the chance to connect across generations.

Tomorrow is a special day for our congregation because we have a baby dedication. Each time we welcome a new child into our community we are reminded of the gifts of intergenerational formation and worship. I'm so excited for our time together tomorrow! 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will get to explore the story of when Jesus blessed the children (a core story for the way we understand what intergenerational community looks like!). 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week we have a special guest with us—Jenn Edic will be sharing about her connection with kids on the other side of the world, and it will include music and her heart for God's love everywhere.  We are so excited to share in this special time together!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• Why is it important to learn from people who are different from us?

• How can music and dance be an important part of worship and connecting with others?

YOUTH

This week we will be back on for our regular youth gathering after worship. We look forward to a meaningful time of discussion, lunch, and connection with our amazing youth!

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 04.19.2024

Sunday

• Our new Spring Sunday School classes continue this week! “Reconstructing Bible Basics” meets in the Southside Room and “Spiritual Values in Literature: Lila” meets in the Parlor. Details can be found here. Email Pastor Chip with questions.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the sanctuary! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our youth are invited to join us for our regular lunch and fellowship after service. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• Our Basics Class will meet after worship this Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning about our church. Pastors John Jay and Chip will walk you through our church history, our American Baptist denomination, and the meaning behind some of our practices like baptism, communion and membership. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, April 21st, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Our speaker this month will share his story growing up genderqueer, and we hope to learn how to best love others processing their gender identity. Our potluck this month is Taco Bar themed, so please sign up here if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new, and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is baking items (oil, small bags of flour or sugar, etc).

Next Week

• Community Dinners are happening Friday night, April 26th, at various times around the city in host homes. Let Pastor Chip know if you RSVP’d but haven’t received an email from your host. We hope you all enjoy breaking bread together!

• Our Holy Walkamolies hiking group will enjoy their second hike on Saturday, April 27th, at 9am. Susan and Matt will be leading this hike, and they have chosen the Lower Arroyo Trail in South Pasadena. This 3-mile hike is accessible for beginners and is even dog-friendly. We hope you can join the group, and to make sure you’re on the church hiking text thread, text “hike” to 626.727.9498 if you have not yet joined. Email Matt and Susan if you would like to carpool from the church for this hike at 8:30am. Nicole will be planning future hikes for the fourth Saturday of each month.

• Anyone new-ish to the church is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 28th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our next All-Church potluck is coming up on Sunday, May 5th, after worship in the gym. Sign up in the lobby to help Pastor Chip with set-up or clean-up. The church will provide drinks and desserts for this cinco de mayo potluck, and we encourage you to bring a dish for 8-10 people to share if you can.

• Are you energized by hangin’ with kids? Join the Family Ministry Training on Saturday, May 4th, from 11am-1pm in the Southside Room. Pastors Lindsay and Mary will go over how they thoughtfully care for kids of all ages during worship. All staff and volunteers go through a background check process, and we take our family ministry seriously so they receive the best care we can give them. Thanks for considering this fun way to partner in nurturing the community at FBCP! Text “train” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for the training, and email Pastors Lindsay and Mary with questions.

Bring in your old glasses! 👓

• Kathy Oliver, our Operations Admin, has partnered with the Pasadena Lions Club to collect used glasses via a box at the Hospitality Desk. The Lions Club offers free vision screenings to raise awareness of eye disease. They also make eye exams and prescription glasses more affordable for everyone in the community.  Please bring in glasses only—no cases, no cleaning cloths and no accessories; broken glasses are fine. Thank you for considering new life for your old lenses!

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Sundays through 5/19 | 9-10am

• Grief Group | 4/21 at 9am | Room 214

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 4/21 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 4/27 | 9am | Lower Arroyo Trail

• Yarn Crafts Group | 4/28 at 12pm | Parlor

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 4/28 at 7pm | Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting
4/26 - Community Dinners
4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening
5/12 - Mother’s Day Massages
5/17 - 55+ Event
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 04.13.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

We had a great time with the kids last night! A huge thanks to our volunteers Michael, Ada, Tilli, and Pastor Chip who helped make it such a fun time. We love our families and pray for continued rhythms of rest and play for all.

Tomorrow we are excited for all our families with kids or youth to join us after worship for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. We are looking forward to a time of connection and fellowship for parents and kids alike. Youth parents, please note that this will take the place of our regular youth gathering—and you are invited to attend, too! We will gather in the park if weather permits or switch to the gym in the case of rain. Bring a dish to share, and we will provide drinks and desserts. You can drop off food with Natalee and Saskia in the morning when you arrive in the lobby for worship. Yay for families having extra time to connect! 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will get to explore the story of when Jesus blessed the children (a core story for the way we understand what intergenerational community looks like!). 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week the kids will continue to explore the story of Joseph and his brothers. We are so excited to share in some storytelling together!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are you wondering about after hearing the story of Joseph and the dreams?

• What is one gift that you have—one way God has made you that helps you bless others?

YOUTH

As noted above, our youth are invited to attend our family potluck with their parents. We'll have space for them to hang out and connect with each other and other families. Next week we will be back on for our regular youth gathering after worship.

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 04.12.2024

Tonight

• Thank you to our Parent Night Out volunteers for providing a fun evening for kids tonight while parents get time for a date (or a nap). Thanks to our volunteers Ada and Michael for helping the staff!

Sunday

• Our new Spring Sunday School classes start this week! “Reconstructing Bible Basics” will meet in the Southside Room and “Spiritual Values in Literature: Lila” will meet in the Parlor. Details can be found here (or text “school” to 626.727.9498, and we’ll send you the link). Email Pastor Chip with questions. Please email Pastor Lindsay if you’re planning to attend and need childcare.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the sanctuary! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our youth and their parents are invited to join the Family Potluck after service in the Park. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• Families with babies, kids or youth, join us in the park after worship this Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. It takes a village to raise kids, and it’s nice to find some friends as you raise your own. Bring a simple dish to share, a picnic blanket if you have one, and enjoy some time with other families! Drinks and dessert will be provided. Feel free to show up even if you haven’t RSVP’d, and email Natalee or Saskia with any questions.

• Join us for our Passive-Aggressive Pickleball Group this Sunday, April 14th, at 7pm in the gym off Union St. Bring a sweater and water, and text “pickle” to 626.727.9498 if you haven’t already. Email Tim with questions. We have paddles and balls available to use.

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is cereal.

Join in the Fun

• Community Dinners are happening on Friday, April 26th, thanks to our host homes! If you would like to attend a dinner around the city with other folks from FBCP, please text “dinner” to 626.727.9498. These dinners fill up, so reserve your spot today. They are always a great time for connecting with others old and new. Email Pastor Chip with any questions.

• Pastor Leslie invites anyone interested in singing to join in the fun for these last couple months of the season. Choir rehearses on Wednesdays at 7pm, and they finish up in mid-June to enjoy a summer break before starting up rehearsals again Labor Day weekend. Email Pastor Leslie to let her know you’re interested!

Coming Up

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning more about our church and/or becoming a member. Pastors John Jay and Chip will go over our history as an American Baptist church and what it means to be part of the FBCP community. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, April 21st, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Our speaker this month will share his story growing up genderqueer, and we hope to learn how to best love others processing their gender identity. Our potluck this month is Taco Bar themed, so please sign up here if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new, and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

• Our Holy Walkamolies hiking group will enjoy their second hike on Saturday, April 27th, at 9am. Susan and Matt will be leading this hike, and they have chosen the Lower Arroyo Trail in South Pasadena. This 3-mile hike is accessible for beginners and is even dog-friendly. We hope you can join the group, and to make sure you’re on the church hiking text thread, text “hike” to 626.727.9498 if you have not yet joined. Email Matt and Susan if you would like to carpool from the church for this hike at 8:30am. Nicole will be planning future hikes for the fourth Saturday of each month.

• Anyone new-ish to the church (or anyone who has been around but thought of some questions for our lead pastor) is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 28th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

Bring in your old glasses! 👓

• Kathy Oliver, our Operations Admin, has partnered with the Pasadena Lions Club to collect used glasses via a box at the Hospitality Desk. The Lions Club offers free vision screenings to raise awareness of eye disease. They also make eye exams and prescription glasses more affordable for everyone in the community.  Please bring in glasses only—no cases, no cleaning cloths and no accessories; broken glasses are fine. Thank you for considering new life for your old lenses!

Race + Place

• The Center for Restorative Justice invites all of you to join a local “race + place” tour of Pasadena from 8:30am-4:30 on Saturday, April 27th. The tour focuses on the racial history of our city and how we can and should play a part in restoration of love and justice among our neighbors. Check out this link for more information and registration. Scholarships available upon request.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Spring Sunday School | Starts 4/14 | 9-10am

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 4/14 at 7pm | Gym

• Grief Group | 4/21 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 4/21 at 12pm | Parlor

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 4/21 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 4/27 | 9am | Lower Arroyo Trail

Six Weeks at a Glance

4/14 - Spring Sunday School Begins
4/14 - Family Lunch Hangout
4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting
4/26 - Community Dinners
4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening
5/12 - Mother’s Day Massages
5/15 - 55+ Event
5/19 - Spring Sunday School Ends
5/19 - FBCPride Group Meeting

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 04.06.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Happy Easter! It was such a beautiful morning with Roman's baptism, our beautiful choir voices, and our time of potluck to start the morning off with joy and fellowship. Thank you for making this community such a special place to live into the reality of resurrection. We are Easter people, and your presence is part of that mystery and hope. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow as we continue to rejoice and worship together. He is risen, indeed! 

Parent Night Out 

We are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM this coming Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

Families with Kids Potluck

Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. We are looking forward to a time of connection and fellowship for parents and kids alike. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. This week our nursery kids will continue to explore the story of Easter. Don't forget to grab a take-home sheet with some simple ways to engage the story at home.

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for worship and communion since this is the first Sunday of the month. Make sure your child picks up a fun survey to fill out during worship—Pastor Mary will have that ready in the lobby, and it's always a favorite activity for our kids (and youth!). will be a beautiful morning together as a church family, and we welcome the presence of our kids in worship.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What is one way you experienced God's love this past week?

• How would you describe our church? How would you describe our worship? 

YOUTH

We are on for our regular youth gathering this Sunday! Parents can pick up their youth in the park at 1:30pm. 

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 04.05.2024

Sign up today—classes start next week

• Our new Spring Sunday School classes are open for sign-ups! We have three to choose from: 1) Reconstructing Bible Basics 2) Seeing the Sacred: Film Reflections on God’s Presence in Everyday Life and 3) Spiritual Values in Literature: Lila. Details can be found here (or text “school” to 626.727.9498 and we’ll send you the link). Email Pastor Chip with questions. We hope to see you for six weeks starting April 14th from 9-10am. Please email Pastor Lindsay if you’re planning to attend and need childcare.

Sunday

• Join the biweekly Grief Group this Sunday, April 7th, at 9am in Room 214. It is a space for anyone experiencing grief or loss to be with others in a similar season. Reach out to Jon Rinkus if you are interested in joining this group. Jon is a trained Hospital Chaplain through Fuller and provides a rich space for folks to process grief.

• Join us for worship in the sanctuary at 10:30am as we partake in communion together (note: crackers are gluten free)! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Please note that because this will be the first Sunday of the month, our kids five years old and up will join us in the sanctuary for service. Our youth are invited to join us for worship and for our regular youth gathering and lunch afterward. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• Join our Yarn Crafts Group this Sunday in the Parlor for knitting, crocheting, and beyond. If you have materials, bring them with you! If not, let us know and we'll bring yarn, needles, and crochet hooks. Light snacks provided. Bring your own water bottle. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 if you’re new!

• The Friends In Deed food pantry item this week is fruit & vegetable juice.

Coming Up

• We are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

• Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. It takes a village to raise kids, and it’s nice to find some friends as you raise your own. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event.

• Join us for our next Passive-Aggressive Pickleball Group practice at 7pm on Sunday, April 14th, in the gym off Union St. Bring a sweater and water, and text “pickle” to 626.727.9498 if you haven’t already. Email Tim with questions. We have paddles and balls available to use.

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning more about our church and/or becoming a member. Pastors John Jay and Chip will go over our history as an American Baptist church and what it means to be part of the FBCP community. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, April 21st, from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Our speaker this month will share his story growing up genderqueer, and we hope to learn how to best love others processing their gender identity. Our dinner is potluck style, so please consider bringing a dish if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new, and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

• Our yummy Community Dinners will return on Friday, April 26th, around the city in various homes. If you would like to host a dinner for 5-6 other folks from FBCP, please contact Pastor Chip soon and let him know. Keep an eye out for sign-ups to attend these special dinners in a few weeks! They are always a great time for new and seasoned folks to meet.

• Anyone new-ish to the church (or anyone who has been around but thought of some questions for our lead pastor) is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 28th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

In the news

• Check out this recent Easter story about our friends Renee Dominique, Brian Smith, and their dog, Kirby. They have shared in service about their house fire and this article chronicles their hope and new beginnings, written by Steve Scauzillo.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Grief Group | 4/7 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 4/7 at 12pm | Parlor

• Spring Sunday School | Starts 4/14 | 9-10am

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 4/14 at 7pm | Gym

• FBCPride Group Meeting | 4/21 at 5pm | Southside Room

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 4/27 | Time + Place TBA

Six Weeks at a Glance

4/12 - Parent Night Out
4/14 - Spring Sunday School Begins
4/14 - Family Lunch Hangout
4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting
4/26 - Community Dinners
4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 03.30.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to our kids, youth, and adult choir in leading us in worship last week for our Palm Sunday service. It was such a beautiful picture of our church family and the beauty that comes from intergenerational worship and formation. Thanks also to the parents for bringing kids early to help make the morning run smoothly. It was a beautiful beginning to Holy Week, and the past two evenings were really powerful services as we retold the story of Jesus' last moments with his disciples and his crucifixion. Thank you to all who were able to join us in those services to live more fully into the path of Christ, even and especially in suffering. Today we honor a space of waiting as we look toward tomorrow and the resurrection. May we stay with Christ in a spirit of hope even as we mourn and wait.

Easter Plans

We are so excited to celebrate the resurrection with you! Because of the rain, we will host our Easter brunch in the gym tomorrow. Please note that we will have a staggered egg hunt for kids in the nursery on the first floor. We will have signs to direct families to the nursery when it's time for the egg hunt, and we'll make a general announcement as well. Parents, please note that the brunch begins at 10:00 AM. Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30AM for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45 AM we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will also have some available for anyone who needs one. Yay! 

Parent Night Out 

Pastor Mary and I are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

Families with Kids Potluck

Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. We are looking forward to a time of connection and fellowship for parents and kids alike. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 10:55 AM. This week our nursery kids will explore the story of Easter. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for our Easter worship which includes the baptism of one of our youth! We welcome their presence as part of our congregation and look forward to worshiping with them.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are ways that we see mini resurrections in nature throughout the year? How do they help us understand the way God works to make things new?

• What are you wondering about as you hear the story of Easter this year? What stands out to you?

YOUTH

This Sunday the youth will not gather after worship so they can spend Easter with their families. Next week will be back on for our regular youth gathering. 

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 03.29.2024

Good Friday

• Join us tonight for our Good Friday service, 6pm in the Chapel. This reflective service features the reading of scripture, our FBCP Choir, and a silent recession out of the Chapel as we reflect on Christ’s death on the cross. Childcare will be provided for nursery-aged children.

Easter Sunday, starting with flowers 🌸

• Snip and bring in some flowers from all around the city! Attach the flower(s) to the FBCP Cross when you enter the park on Union St. for brunch at 10am on Easter morning, March 31st. For information about parking and where activities are happening, see this map.

Easter Brunch

• We will celebrate Easter Sunday on March 31st beginning with a potluck brunch and mariachi band at 10am in the gym on Union St!  Based on your last name, if you’re able, we’re asking you to bring about 10 servings of something savory (A-Q) or sweet/fruit (R-Z) to eat and share with your friends here. Due to the potential for rain, food will be set up in the Fellowship Hall next to the kitchen. If you have allergies, keep an eye out for a table dedicated to allergy-sensitive dishes (gluten-free, vegan, etc).

Egg Hunt

• Pastors Lindsay and Mary are planning an egg hunt for the kids during the Easter Brunch! Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30am for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45am, we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Due to the potential for rain, these egg hunts will take place in the nursery (one floor above the gym). Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will have some available for anyone who wants one.

Easter Worship Service

• Our Easter worship service will follow the brunch and starts at 11am with the children joining us for service to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Nursery care will be provided for ages four and under.

---

April

• The biweekly Grief Group meets next on April 7th at 9am in Room 214. It is a space for anyone experiencing grief or loss to be with others in a similar season. Reach out to Jon Rinkus if you are interested in joining this group. Jon is a trained Hospital Chaplain through Fuller and provides a rich space for folks to process grief.

• Pastors Lindsay and Mary are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

• Our new Spring Sunday School classes are open for sign-ups! We have three to choose from: 1) Bible Basics 2) Seeing the Sacred: Film Reflections on God’s Presence in Everyday Life and 3) Spiritual Values in Literature: Lila. Details can be found here (or text “school” to 626.727.9498 and we’ll send you the link). Email Pastor Chip with questions. We hope to see you for six weeks starting April 14th from 9-10am. Please email Pastor Lindsay if you’re planning to attend and need childcare.

• Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. It takes a village to raise kids, and it’s nice to find some friends as you raise your own. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event.

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning more about our church and/or becoming a member. Pastors John Jay and Chip will go over our history as an American Baptist church and what it means to be part of the FBCP community. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

• You’re invited to our next FBCPride Group Meeting on Sunday, April 21st from 5-7pm in the Southside Room. Our speaker this month will share his story growing up genderqueer, and we hope to learn how to best love others processing their gender identity. Our dinner is potluck style, so please consider bringing a dish if you are able. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP if you are new,s and email Kevin and Sally if you have any questions. This group is open to the LGBTQ+ community, parents and allies ages 16+.

• Our yummy Community Dinners will return on Friday, April 26th, around the city in various homes. If you would like to host a dinner for 5-6 other folks from FBCP, please contact Pastor Chip soon and let him know. Keep an eye out for sign-ups to attend these special dinners in a few weeks! They are always a great time for new and seasoned folks to meet.

• Anyone new-ish to the church (or anyone who has been around but thought of some questions for our lead pastor) is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 28th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Check out our new Inclusion Language on the FBCP website. We love our LGBTQ+ members and want to make clear our love and support.

• Thanks to Michael for continuing to update our staff photos. Read about our building attendant Ryan’s college major, Kathy’s favorite pet, Dave’s favorite thing to look at from the choir loft, and Kenny’s favorite hobbies!

Regular-ish Happenings

• Grief Group | 4/7 at 9am | Room 214

• Yarn Crafts Group | 4/7 at 12pm | Parlor

• Spring Sunday School | Starts 4/14 | 9-10am

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 4/14 at 7pm | Gym

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 4/27 | Time + Place TBA

Six Weeks at a Glance

3/31 - Easter Potluck Brunch + Service
4/12 - Parent Night Out
4/14 - Spring Sunday School Begins
4/14 - Family Lunch Hangout
4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting
4/26 - Community Dinners
4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/03 - All-Church Game Night
5/05 - All-Church Potluck
5/10 - All-Church Movie Screening

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 03.23.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

It's finally here—we are so excited for our kids and youth to join our adult choir in leading us in worship this Sunday for our Palm Sunday service! They have begin practicing on Sundays during our kids class each week, and Pastor Mary and I can verify that your kids are great singing worshippers. Please bring your children and youth to the sanctuary lobby at 9:30 AM tomorrow to practice and get set for the morning. We'll have some pastries and coffee for parents at that time so you can hang out together in the courtyard. Please note that our kids and youth who are singing will sit with the adult choir in the pews at the back of the sanctuary for the start of service. It's going to be such a fun morning! To help your kids practice at home (and to have a family dance party), here are links to the song and lyric sheet. You could invite them to teach you the words, too!

Easter Plans

This year we will host our Easter brunch in the church park, and we will have a staggered egg hunt for kids in the park as well. Parents, please note that the brunch begins at 10:00 AM. Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30AM for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45 AM we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will also have some available for anyone who needs one. Yay! 

Parent Night Out 

Pastor Mary and I are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

Families with Kids Potluck

Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. We are looking forward to a time of connection and fellowship for parents and kids alike. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event. 

Kids Camp Registration

We are already making plans for camp this summer, and registration is now open! Camp will run June 24-28 from 9am-12pm each day. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will explore the story of Easter. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. As noted above, our kids and youth who are singing will sit with the adult choir in the pews at the back of the sanctuary for the start of service. This week the kids will explore Holy Week and all the symbols and meanings associated with it. We are so excited to share in some storytelling together in this special season in the life of our church.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are the different days we honor during Holy Week?

• What are you wondering about as we ponder the events leading up to the resurrection?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular youth gathering this Sunday! Parents can pick up their youth in the park at 1:30pm. 

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 03.22.2024

Tomorrow

• Our new hiking group, the Holy Walkamolies, has its first hike tomorrow, March 23rd! Meet at the Millard Canyon Campground Parking Lot at 8:30am. Text “hike” to 626.727.9498 if you would like to join in the fun and get information about future monthly hikes.

Sunday

• Our Lenten Sunday School finishes up this Sunday at 9am in the Parlor. Pastor Chip will finish the discussion on Prayer, and you may attend even if you missed previous weeks.

• Join us at 10:30am for Palm Sunday worship in the Sanctuary this Sunday! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old have special instructions from Pastor Lindsay this week (parents have received info via email) and after their triumphant palm participation they will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. Our youth are invited to join us for our regular lunch and fellowship after service. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• The Friends In Deed Food Pantry item for this Sunday is peanut butter and other nut butters.

Monday

• The Center for Restorative Justice extends a special invitation to FBCP folks to join a book club starting this coming Monday, March 25th, from 7-8:30pm in Room 314. The book club will run a total of five Mondays in a row and serves as an opportunity to think critically about the intersection of race and Christianity in the history of our country. $20 fee. For more information, click here.

Holy Week Next Week

Maundy Thursday

Join us at 6pm on Thursday, March 28th, for our Maundy Thursday service in the Chapel. This is an intimate service that includes a reflective time of prayer, communion and foot washing. Childcare will be provided for nursery-aged children.

Good Friday

Our Good Friday service on Friday, March 29, at 6pm in the Chapel will serve as an invitation to listen to scripture and our wonderful FBCP Choir as we remember Christ’s crucifixion and His death on the cross. The service ends with a procession out of the Chapel in silence. Childcare will be provided for nursery-aged children.

Flowers for the Cross

Snip and bring in some flowers from all around the city! Attach the flower(s) to the FBCP Cross when you enter the Park on Union St. for brunch at 10am on Easter morning, March 31st.

Easter Brunch + Egg Hunt

We will celebrate Easter Sunday on March 31st beginning with a potluck brunch and mariachi band at 10am in the Park on Union St!  Based on your last name, if you’re able, we’re asking you to bring about 10 servings of something savory (A-Q) or sweet/fruit (R-Z) to eat and share with your friends here. 

Pastors Lindsay and Mary are planning an egg hunt for the kids during the Easter Brunch! Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30am for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45am, we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will have some available for anyone who wants one.

Easter Worship Service

Our Easter worship service will follow the brunch and starts at 11am with the children joining us for service to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Nursery care will be provided for ages four and under.

We look forward to Holy Week with you!

---

Coming Up

• The Grief Group meets next on April 7th at 9am in Room 214 and biweekly after that. It is a space for anyone experiencing grief or loss to be with others in a similar season. Reach out to Jon Rinkus if you are interested in joining this group. Jon is a trained Hospital Chaplain through Fuller and provides a rich space for folks to process grief.

• Pastors Lindsay and Mary are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

• Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. It takes a village to raise kids, and it’s nice to find some friends as you raise your own. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event.

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning more about our church and/or becoming a member. Pastors John Jay and Chip will go over our history as an American Baptist church and what it means to be part of the FBCP community. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

• Anyone new-ish to the church (or anyone who has been around but thought of some questions for our lead pastor) is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 28th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 3/23 at 8:30am

• Lenten Sunday School | 3/24 | 9-10am | Parlor

• Yarn Crafts Group | 3/24 at 12pm | Parlor

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 3/24 at 7pm | Gym

• Grief Group | 4/7 at 9am | Room 214

Six Weeks at a Glance

3/24 - Lenten Sunday School Ends
3/24 - Palm Sunday Service
3/28 - Maundy Thursday Service
3/29 - Good Friday Service
3/31 - Easter Potluck Brunch + Service
4/12 - Parent Night Out
4/14 - Spring Sunday School Begins
4/14 - Family Lunch Hangout
4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting
4/26 - Community Dinners
4/28 - Lunch for Newer Folks
5/03 - All-Church Game Night
5/05 - All-Church Potluck

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 03.16.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Many thanks to our Deacons for a beautiful service they provided last week! My family stayed home and rested while we recovered from a bug we all caught, but we are so excited to be with you tomorrow for worship. Thanks for joining us in this season as we approach Easter together. Read on for the important happenings in the life of our church in the coming weeks!

Palm Sunday |  Kids and Youth Singing

We are so excited for our kids to lead us in worship on Sunday, March 24, for our Palm Sunday service! They will begin practicing on Sundays during our kids class each week, and Pastor Mary and I can verify that your kids are great singing worshippers. Because they will be joining Pastor Leslie and the adult choir in processing with palm branches at the start of the service, we need them here at 9:30 AM that Sunday to practice and get set for the morning. We'll have some pastries and coffee for parents at that time so you can hang out together. It's going to be such a fun morning! To help your kids practice at home (and to have a family dance party), here are links to the song and lyric sheet. You could invite them to teach you the words, too!

Easter Plans

Though I'm trying to engage with all that Lent has to offer through various practices and postures, we are also excited to look ahead to Easter with our church family. This year we will host our Easter brunch in the church park, and we will have a staggered egg hunt for kids in the park as well. Parents, please note that the brunch begins at 10:00 AM. Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30AM for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45 AM we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will have some available for anyone who wants one. Yay! 

Parent Night Out 

Pastor Mary and I are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

Families with Kids Potluck

Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. We are looking forward to a time of connection and fellowship for parents and kids alike. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event. 

Save the Date: Kids Camp!

We are already making plans for camp this summer, so parents please mark your calendars for June 24-28. This year we are pleased to announce a track for our rising Kindergarteners/5 year olds! We are excited to reveal our new camp theme (shhh…not yet, though!) and to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family. We have learned in years past that parents plan early for summer camps and trips, so we hope it's helpful to get the dates to you now. We can't wait for summer fun together!  Registration will open next week.

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will continue to explore the story of Jonah. Don't forget to grab a take-home sheet with some simple ways to engage the story at home.

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week the kids will explore St. Patrick and all the meaning behind his life and the symbols we associate with him. We are so excited to share in some storytelling together!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What is St. Patrick known for?

• What does the bell of St. Patrick symbolize?

• What meaning might we associate with the shamrock?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular youth gathering this Sunday! Parents can pick up their youth in the park at 1:30pm. 

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 03.15.2024

Sunday

• Our Lenten Sunday School meets for two more Sundays at 9am in the Parlor to explore spiritual practices with a book by Henri Nouwen called The Way of the Heart.  Bailey will begin the topic of Prayer this week, and you may attend even if you missed previous weeks. More information can be found here. Please let Pastor Lindsay know if you need childcare.

• The Grief Group meets this Sunday, March 17th, at 9am in Room 214 and biweekly moving forward. It is a space for anyone experiencing grief or loss to be with others in a similar season. Reach out to Jon Rinkus if you are interested in joining this group. Jon is a trained Hospital Chaplain through Fuller and provides a rich space for folks to process grief.

• Join us at 10:30am for worship in the Sanctuary this Sunday! The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids five years old and up can join us for the first part of worship and then will be dismissed to their classrooms with their leaders. They can sit with their parents or join us in the front rows at the start of service. Our youth are invited to join us for our regular lunch and fellowship after service. The Prayer team will be available at the front of the sanctuary toward the end of the service to pray with those who would like to receive prayer.

• Our FBCPride Group invites everyone to join them for a showing of the movie Milk this Sunday, March 17th, at 5pm in the Chapel. Milk is a 2008 American biographical drama film based on the life of gay rights activist and politician Harvey Milk, who was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Email Sally and Kevin with questions.

• The Friends In Deed Food Pantry item for this Sunday is buyer’s choice.

Coming Up

• Folks ages 55+, join us for our next potluck lunch this Wednesday, March 20th, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room. It’s always a yummy spread of food and a fun time together, and we look forward to the fellowship. Email Pastor Chip with any questions.

• Our new hiking group, the Holy Walkamolies, has its first hike scheduled to meet at the Millard Canyon Campground Parking Lot at 8:30am on Saturday, March 23rd. Nicole hopes to plan about one hike per month in different areas around LA. Text “hike” to 626.727.9498 if you would like to RSVP and join in the fun. The weather is looking perfect for time outdoors!

Holy Week

Palm Sunday | March 24 | Regular Worship Time @10:30am

Join us as we hear the children and youth sing with the FBCP Choir and welcome Holy Week with palms waving.

Maundy Thursday | March 28 | 6pm in the Chapel

This will be an intimate service that includes a reflective time of prayer, communion and foot-washing. Childcare will be provided for nursery-aged children.

Good Friday | March 29 | 6pm in the Chapel

This special service will serve as an invitation to listen to scripture and our wonderful FBCP Choir as we remember Christ’s crucifixion and His death on the cross. The service ends with a procession out of the Chapel in silence. Childcare will be provided for nursery-aged children.

Flowers for the Cross

Help us decorate the cross on Easter with greenery from all over our city! Snip and bring in some flowers when you come for brunch at 10am on March 31st.

Easter Brunch + Service | March 31 @10am

We will celebrate Easter Sunday on March 31st beginning with a potluck brunch and mariachi band at 10am in the Park on Union St!  Based on your last name, if you’re able, we’re asking you to bring about 10 servings of something savory (A-Q) or sweet/fruit (R-Z) to eat and share with your friends here. Worship service will be immediately afterward at 11am with the children joining us for service to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Nursery care will be provided for ages four and under. We hope you can join us for both!

Coming Up

• Anyone new-ish to the church (or anyone who has been around, but thought of some questions for our lead pastor), is invited to Lunch for Newer Folks with Pastor John Jay after worship on Sunday, April 7th. Bring your curiosity and conversation, and enjoy lunch and fellowship in the Southside Room. Text “new” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Pastors Lindsay and Mary are planning a night of fun for kids so parents can enjoy an evening out (also known as "Parent Night Out"). You can drop off and pick up your child anytime between 5:30-8:30 PM on Friday, April 12th, and then go do whatever you want. We'll serve dinner and provide activities for your kids! You can register your kid(s) with this link.

• After our Lenten Sunday School ends on March 24th, we’ll have a two-week break and then begin a set of Spring Sunday School Classes. Stay tuned for the class options!

• Calling all families with kids or youth to join us in the Park after worship on Sunday, April 14th, for a potluck lunch to hang out and get to know one another better. It takes a village to raise kids, and it’s nice to find some friends as you raise your own. Bring a dish to share and enjoy some time with other families! Text “village” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP for this event.

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:30pm in the Southside Room for those who are interested in learning more about our church and/or becoming a member. Pastors John Jay and Chip will go over our history as an American Baptist church and what it means to be part of the FBCP community. Lunch will be provided. Text “basics” to 626.727.9498 to RSVP. Email Pastor Chip for more details and/or if you are attending and will need childcare.

Regular-ish Happenings

• Grief Group | 3/17 at 9am | Room 214

• Holy Walkamolies Hiking Group | 3/23 at 8:30am

• Lenten Sunday School | Sundays thru 3/24 | 9-10am | Parlor

• Yarn Crafts Group | 3/24 at 12pm | Parlor

• Passive-Aggressive Pickleball | 3/24 at 7pm | Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

3/17 - FBCPride Group Meeting
3/20 - 55+ Event
3/24 - Lenten Sunday School Ends
3/24 - Palm Sunday Service
3/28 - Maundy Thursday Service
3/29 - Good Friday Service
3/31 - Easter Potluck Brunch + Service
4/07 - Lunch for Newer Folks
4/12 - Parent Night Out
4/14 - Spring Sunday School Begins
4/14 - Family Lunch Hangout
4/21 - FBCP Basics Lunch
4/21 - FBCPride Group Meeting

Grace and peace to you as we head into the weekend. We can’t wait to worship with you in our sanctuary on Sunday!

Less without you,

The FBCP Community

FBCP Families | 03.09.2024

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

This Sunday is our annual Deacon-led worship service, which is a beautiful gift on many levels. Our staff will get the chance to have a different Sunday rhythm (Gavin and I are hoping to get our kids to snow or the beach!) as we prepare for a staff retreat on Monday and Tuesday. It is a unique gift to spend this Sunday with my family even though we certainly love our usual Sunday routine. It is also a gift for our congregation to receive the worship leadership of our Deacons, and I am so thankful that y'all will experience a liturgy with their giftings. I cannot wait to listen to the service online and create a space for worship next week on my own time. Pastor Mary will take March 17th as a day she can also experience a different sabbath rhythm instead of teaching the children's class. Thank you for these special Sundays to receive from God in a different way. I cannot wait to see you the following week!

Palm Sunday |  Kids and Youth Singing

We are so excited for our kids to lead us in worship on Sunday, March 24, for our Palm Sunday service! They will begin practicing on Sundays during our kids class each week, and Pastor Mary and I can verify that your kids are great singing worshippers. Because they will be joining Pastor Leslie and the adult choir in processing with palm branches at the start of the service, we need them here at 9:30 AM that Sunday to practice and get set for the morning. We'll have some pastries and coffee for parents at that time so you can hang out together. It's going to be such a fun morning! To help your kids practice at home (and to have a family dance party), here are links to the song and lyric sheet. You could invite them to teach you the words, too!

Easter Plans

Though I'm trying to engage with all that Lent has to offer through various practices and postures, we are also excited to look ahead to Easter with our church family. This year we will host our Easter brunch in the church park, and we will have a staggered egg hunt for kids in the park as well. Parents, please note that the brunch begins at 10:00 AM. Our first egg hunt will happen at 10:30AM for kids 6 years old and younger. At 10:45 AM we will have an egg hunt for kids ages 7-10 years old/5th grade. Bring an Easter basket from home if you have one, and we will have some available for anyone who wants one. Yay! 

Save the Date: Kids Camp!

We are already making plans for camp this summer, so parents please mark your calendars for June 24-28. We are excited to reveal our new camp theme (shhh…not yet, though!) and to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family. We have learned in years past that parents plan early for summer camps and trips, so we hope it's helpful to get the dates to you now. We can't wait for summer fun together! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will continue to explore the story of Jonah. Don't forget to grab a take-home sheet with some simple ways to engage the story at home.

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary in the front pews. This week the kids will explore the story of Jonah with fun storytelling and applications to our world today.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What does the story of Jonah teach you about people? 

• What does it teach you about God?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular youth gathering this Sunday! Jensen will be leading in my absence. Parents can pick up their youth in the park at 1:30pm. 

Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families!

With deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay