Weekly Updates 02.24.2023

Today

• Pray for our twelve youth and five adult leaders heading to a youth retreat this weekend! Thank you to those who helped them raise money by buying tamales, and for those who sponsored meals for their retreat. We appreciate your generosity!

• This week we shared a text of Pastor John Jay’s live score from our Ash Wednesday service. Scripture recordings return next week; click here to listen to the music that settled us in to a time of reflection during Pastor Lindsay’s words on Wednesday.

Sunday

• Lenten Sunday School starts this Sunday from 9-10 a.m. We invite you to study the last words of Jesus using curriculum written by our dear friend John Kelly. See you in the parlor!

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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 on a retreat this weekend, so we will not have our usual fellowship time 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 monthly FBCPride Group will meet this Sunday, February 26th, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We will have our first female speaker share her story on growing as a Christian while also reconciling her LGBT identity with her faith. We will also get to hear what her experience has been like with family and church through the last several years. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community 16+, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Our global partners Rich and Laura Freeman sent this update in response to your giving toward relief efforts in Turkey:

  Dear First Pasadena family,

  Thank you for standing with your brothers and sisters in Turkey during this devastating period of earthquakes. Here is an update from Pastor Demokan and his team in Turkey. They are doing remarkable relief work on a "shoestring budget." Pastor Lindsay and Pastor John Jay have met Demokan, and your monthly gifts go to his relief work throughout the country.

  Many blessings,

  Rich Freeman

  If you would still like to join us in generosity towards this urgent need, go to our website and select the drop-down menu labeled “Turkey Relief Efforts,” and we will make sure any donations will go to help in the earthquake relief efforts. Thank you for your prayers for Turkey and the surrounding regions, including refugees and those who have been displaced.

• This week, the Friends In Deed food pantry item is canned chicken or tuna.

Next Week

• All women and girls are invited to our Women’s Brunch on Saturday, March 4th, at 10 a.m. in the Southside Room. It will be a time to share a delicious meal and hear a story of faith. Text “brunch” to 626.727.9498 to sign up. Email Pastor Lindsay if you have any questions.

• Join us on March 5th after worship service for a 20-minute prayer circle for our global partners to pray for Mel Baggao (Lebanon) and Kit Ripley (Thailand). We will meet in the chapel.

• Our Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, will continue to meet every other Sunday after worship. Their next meeting will be March 5th in the parlor, and there will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

Weekly + Biweekly Happenings

• Lenten Sunday School | Sunday mornings thru 4/2 | 9:00 a.m. | Parlor

• Thursday Noon Bible Study | Weekly at 12 p.m. | Parlor

• Yarn Crafts Group | Biweekly at 12 p.m. | March 5th in the Chapel

• Easy-Going Basketball | Biweekly at 7 p.m. | March 5th in the Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

2/24-2/26 - Winter Youth Retreat
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting
3/4 - Women’s Brunch
3/5 - Prayer for Global Servants
3/12 - Public Theology Meeting
3/18 - Elena Hill’s Memorial Service
3/19 - FBCPride Meeting
4/2 - Palm Sunday
4/2 - Lenten Sunday School Ends
4/6 - Maundy Thursday Service
4/7 - Good Friday Service
4/9 - Easter Sunday | Brunch & Service

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 with Kids | 02.17.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

I am so pumped for our potluck this Sunday! Potlucks are one of my favorite ways to hang out as a church family, and it's always a joy to see people of all generations share a meal and get to know one another. I hope you and your families can stay and experience all the delicious food and wonderful people. Y'all are such a gift!

In case you missed the Friday email, Pasadena is hosting its 41st annual  Black History Parade and Festival today from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This year’s theme is “Celebrating our Excellence—The Legacy of Councilmember John J. Kennedy.” You can find out the parade route and other information—including a children's zone and live music—here.

And finally, don't forget that you can pick up your tamales on Sunday at the potluck! We'll have instructions for heating so you can enjoy them at home. Thanks for supporting our youth so generously. We are so thankful for all your orders and are looking forward to our retreat next weekend. 

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.  

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 and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. This week we will spend some time spreading love to members in our community who are celebrating a joyous milestone and those who are experiencing grief and loss. We look forward to inviting our kids to use their creativity and compassion to share some blessings with others in our church family.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• Think about a time when someone helped you celebrate a joyous time in your life. What was it like to have their support and celebration?

• Think about a time when someone gave you encouragement and love during a difficult time. What did they do that helped you?

• How can we love others in both joyful and difficult times? Do you know anyone who could use some kindness this week?

YOUTH

Our youth are invited to join us for the potluck after service this week, so we hope they will stay and hang out with their church family. Next Sunday we will be off on our retreat adventure! 

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

With gratitude and deep affection for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 02.17.2023

Saturday

• Pasadena is hosting the 41th annual Black History Parade and Festival from 10am-4pm, and we hope you consider joining this special event. This year’s entries will highlight the theme “Celebrating our Excellence—The Legacy of Councilmember John J. Kennedy.” See link for route details.

• In preparation for Sunday’s worship, we encourage you to listen to Pastor John Jay’s scripture recording of Romans 6.

Sunday

• Winter Sunday School concludes this Sunday with its last class from 9-10 a.m. We invite you to the Lenten Sunday School six-week series starting next Sunday at the same morning hour.

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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.

• Join us after worship this Sunday for one of our favorite traditions, the Mardi Gras Potluck. Potlucks are a special time for us to come together as church family and meet a new friend or say hi to a dear one. Based on your last name, if you’re able, please bring a side or salad (A-I), dessert (J-N), or main dish (O-Z) of about 10 servings to share with your friends here at FBCP. Thank you for your generosity!

• Our global partners Rich and Laura Freeman work with pastors in Turkey, and their nonprofit is sending aid directly to some of the Turkish ministers they support who are already on the front lines in the earthquake areas offering food, warm clothing, clean water, and hygiene centers for showers and laundry. If you would like to join us in generosity towards this urgent need, go to our website and select the drop-down menu labeled “Turkey Relief Efforts,” and we will make sure any donations will go to help in the earthquake relief efforts. If you have been looking for a way to send some financial support for relief in Turkey, this is a trusted way to do that with one of our church partners. Thank you for your prayers for Turkey and the surrounding regions, including refugees and those who have been displaced.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is vegetable or fruit juice.

Next Week

• We know some of you have a heart for our young people but may not be able to serve directly in ministry to them. If you are looking for ways to spread some love to our youth and you enjoy cooking, then we would welcome a contribution from your kitchen to take up to Big Bear on our Youth Retreat February 24th-26th! We will also be bringing some bulk store-bought snacks and other food, so we don't expect you to feed us the whole trip. This is really a chance for some intergenerational kindness to be shared. Trust me when I say that food is one of their biggest love languages, and we will receive anything on this sign-up sheet as a great act of generosity.

• Join us for a special worship service on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel. The service includes a time of intercessory prayer, confession and absolution, and it will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger.

• Our Lenten Sunday School session will begin next Sunday, February 26th, from 9-10 a.m. We will study the last words of Jesus, a six-week series written by our friend John Kelly. We hope you can join us in the parlor and no RSVP is needed; however, if you need childcare please let Pastor Lindsay know.

• Our monthly FBCPride meeting will also be next Sunday, February 26th, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We will have our first female speaker share her story on growing as a Christian while also reconciling her LGBT identity with her faith. We will also get to hear what her experience has been like with family and church through the last several years. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community 16+, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

Two Weeks

• All women and girls are invited to our Women’s Brunch on Saturday, March 4th, at 10 a.m. It will be a time to share a delicious meal and hear a story of faith. Text “brunch” to 626.727.9498 to sign up. Email Pastor Lindsay if you have any questions.

• Join us on March 5 after worship service for a 20-minute prayer circle for our global partners to pray for Mel Baggao (Lebanon) and Kit Ripley (Thailand). We will meet in the parlor.

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

Weekly + Biweekly Happenings

• Winter Sunday School Session | Last session this Sunday | 9:00 a.m. | Escribio Divino in Rm. 211 | The Passover & Crucifixion of Jesus in the Southside Room | Learning from MLK’s Letter from Birmingham Jail in Room 214

• Thursday Noon Bible Study | Weekly at 12 p.m. | Parlor

• Yarn Crafts Group | Biweekly at 12 p.m. | February 19th at the potluck

• Easy-Going Basketball | Biweekly at 7 p.m. | February 19th in the Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

2/19 - Winter Sunday School Ends
2/19 - Church Potluck/Tamale Pickup
2/20 - President’s Day—Office Closed
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/24-2/26 - Winter Youth Retreat
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting
3/4 - Women’s Brunch
3/5 - Prayer for Global Servants
3/12 - Public Theology Meeting
3/18 - Elena Hill’s Memorial Service
3/19 - FBCPride Meeting
4/2 - Palm Sunday
4/2 - Lenten Sunday School Ends

FBCP Families with Kids | 02.11.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Our youth worked hard making tamales today, and they are so excited to share them with you next Sunday! It was a fun day of intergenerational work and play as youth, younger siblings, and adults worked together to make something yummy. Cynthia's friend Felipe helped us again (this is his third year working with us!), and his family's recipe is always a gift to our community. Thanks to all the helping hands today and to our church family for supporting this youth fundraiser. If you ordered tamales, you can pay for them at our potluck next Sunday, February 19th, and take them home then, too. 

If you are looking for something fun (but free!) to do at home to celebrate your family this Valentine's Day, this is a great activity that you could do any time of the year. It's a heart treasure hunt with notes about why you love someone, and it's something you could do to encourage your family members or housemates. Enjoy!

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.  

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 and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. This week we will learn about the ways we can love each other well as we celebrate Saint Valentine. We'll have some fun things for them to make, too!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• Who made you feel loved this week?

• We don't have to buy chocolates or gifts to prove we love each other, but it is fun to show our love in special ways. What is one thing you can do that doesn't cost money to show love to your family this week?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular  youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. You can pick your youth up in the church park at the Union Street gate at 1:30 PM. 

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 02.10.2023

This Afternoon

• Pray for our ten brave skiers/snowboarders to have a safe drive up to Big Bear and fun on the slopes tomorrow. Thank you, Pastor Chip, for arranging this exciting trip!

• This week's scripture audio features backwards text and vocoder processing, representing the way in which Jesus undoes the curse of Adam. It’s worth a listen as we prepare for Sunday worship and soak in this week’s Romans 5:12-21 text.

Sunday

• We would like to invite any new folks to enjoy a cup of coffee and scone with Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. this Sunday, February 12th, in his office (enter on Holly St.). Sign up by texting “coffee” to 626.727.9498. Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church through this casual conversation.

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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.

• Join us after worship this Sunday for our Public Theology meeting. We will continue to study the cycle of organizing and the value of intentional one-on-one conversations. We value all voices, and we hope you can join us for lunch in the Southside Room.

• Our global partners Rich and Laura Freeman work with pastors in Turkey, and their nonprofit is sending aid directly to some of the Turkish ministers they support who are already on the front lines in the earthquake areas offering food, warm clothing, clean water, and hygiene centers for showers and laundry. If you would like to join us in generosity towards this urgent need, go to our website and select the drop-down menu labeled “Turkey Relief Efforts,” and we will make sure any donations will go to help in the earthquake relief efforts. If you have been looking for a way to send some financial support for relief in Turkey, this is a trusted way to do that with one of our church partners. Thank you for your prayers for Turkey and the surrounding regions, including refugees and those who have been displaced.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is peanut butter.

More Fun!

• Sunday, February 19th, kicks off the lenten season with our Mardi Gras potluck in the gym after service. Based on your last name, if you’re able, please bring a side or salad (A-I), dessert (J-N), or main dish (O-Z) of about 10 servings to share with your friends here at FBCP. We also need several volunteers to set-up and take-down the potluck, so please see the Volunteer Squad sign-up poster in the lobby.

• We know some of you have a heart for our young people but may not be able to serve directly in ministry to them. If you are looking for ways to spread some love to our youth and you enjoy cooking, then we would welcome a contribution from your kitchen to take up to Big Bear! We will also be bringing some bulk store-bought snacks and other food, so we don't expect you to feed us the whole trip. This is really a chance for some intergenerational kindness to be shared. Trust me when I say that food is one of their biggest love languages, and we will receive anything on this sign-up sheet as a great act of generosity.

• Join us for a special worship service on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, at 6:00 pm in the chapel. The service includes a time of intercessory prayer, confession and absolution, and it will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger.

• Our Lenten Sunday School session will begin Sunday, February 26th, from 9-10 a.m. before worship. We will study the last words of Jesus before his crucifixion. The class will run for six weeks and conclude on Palm Sunday, April 2nd.

• Our next monthly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, February 26th, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We will have our first female speaker share her story on growing as a Christian while also reconciling her LGBT identity with her faith, and what her experience has been like with family and church through the last several years. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community 16+, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Save the Date for our next Women’s Brunch at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 4th!

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

Weekly + Biweekly Happenings

• Winter Sunday School Session | Weekly thru 2/19 | 9:00 a.m. | Escribio Divino in Rm. 211 | The Passover & Crucifixion of Jesus in the Southside Room | Learning from MLK’s Letter from Birmingham Jail in Room 214

• Thursday Noon Bible Study | Weekly at 12 p.m. | Parlor

• Easy-Going Basketball | Biweekly at 7 p.m. | February 19th in the Gym

• Yarn Crafts Group | Biweekly at 12 p.m. | February 19th at the potluck

Six Weeks at a Glance

2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear
2/12 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
2/12 - Public Theology Meeting
2/19 - Winter Sunday School Ends
2/19 - Church Potluck/Tamale Pickup
2/20 - President’s Day—Office Closed
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/24-2/26 - Winter Youth Retreat
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting
3/4 - Women’s Brunch
3/5 - Prayer for Global Servants
3/12 - Public Theology Meeting

FBCP Families | 02.04.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

I pray you experience rest, joy, and connection with your families this week. As I think about what Sabbath means for families with kids, those three things feel most resonant to my own household. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow and sharing in worship together as a way to access rest, joy, and connection with our larger church family. (And if you're looking to get out and about after worship, tomorrow is a Museums Free-For-All Day in Los Angeles, and there are lots of places that have kid-centered activities and events.) See you tomorrow for a full morning together! 

Tamales

We are so pumped to bring back a longstanding tradition of making and selling tamales as a youth retreat fundraiser, so get ready for this delicious chance to support our youth. Here is an order form and you can pick them up at our next all-church potluck after worship on February 19th. Our youth will make the tamales on Saturday, February 11th, from 11:00AM-3:30PM at the church. Lunch and snacks will be provided. 

Kids Camp Dates

Parents, just a reminder to mark your calendars for Kids Camp June 19-23. 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.

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.  

Our kids five to ten years old will join their families in the sanctuary for worship since this is a first Sunday of the month. We love their presence in our sanctuary and the chance to be together to share in communion and worship. Don't forget that Pastor Mary always has snacks and a fun survey for kids to fill out during worship. They can pick those up in the lobby on their way into the sanctuary. After a first Sunday, it's a great week to nurture some discussion at home about how your kids are experiencing church and what kinds of questions they are holding in wonder.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What moment stood out to you in worship this week?

• What does it mean that we call ourselves a "church family" and a "community" at FBCP?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular  youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. You can pick your youth up in the church park at the Union Street gate at 1:30 PM. 

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 02.03.2023

Tonight

• Enjoy fellowship tonight at our Community Dinners around the city. Thank you to our seven host homes—Henson, Boctor-Winchell, Laski, Linscott, Loose, James and Ellis households. If you missed signing up for this dinner, keep an eye out for our next round in May.

• Did you catch our Thursday text of this week’s audio? Pastors Lindsay and John Jay created a whimsical musical collab of Romans 5:1-11, and it’s worth a listen as we prepare for Sunday worship.

Sunday

• Winter Sunday School continues from 9-10 a.m., before worship service, through February 19th. See details in the last section of this email if you would like a reminder of our fabulous classes.

• Join us for worship in the sanctuary at 10:30 am as we partake in communion together! 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.

• This Sunday we are taking up a special offering called the Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering (RMMO). The RMMO acknowledges and shares our collective appreciation for the extraordinary commitment of those who serve God’s people. By participating in the RMMO, all congregants can celebrate the strength and perseverance of ministers, missionaries, and their widowed spouses by contributing to provide emergency assistance and “Thank You” checks. We are blessed to have many retired ministers and missionaries in our congregation, and their faithful service is a reminder of all those who have served in American Baptist churches. Through RMMO, we hope you are inspired to give to those who continue to transform and embody the spirit of Christ—and may we each be transformed by the opportunity to be generous in giving. To give, go here (select “RMMO” from the drop down menu).

• After service this Sunday, we invite you to join our mission trip planning meeting. A group plans to serve in Oaxaca, Mexico this October 23-27 with Adventures in Life Ministry.  All are welcome to join the meeting as we get to know one another and prepare for an incredible week of ministry. Contact Nori or Pastor Chip for more info. Lunch will be provided.

• Have you ordered your tamales? You can order tamales online here or by texting "tamale" to 626.727.9498. We will also have a paper sign-up at the Connections Desk on Sunday. You can pick your tamales up at our next all-church potluck after worship on February 19th. If you aren't able to pick them up then, you can email Pastor Lindsay to make other arrangements. Thank you for supporting our youth fundraiser!

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is pasta and pasta sauce.

Future Happenings

• We would like to invite any new folks to enjoy a cup of coffee with Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. next Sunday, February 12th, in his office (enter on Holly St.). Sign up by texting “coffee” to 626.727.9498 (limited to the first eight people). Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church through this casual conversation.

• Our next Public Theology meeting will be next Sunday, February 12th, after service. We will continue to study the cycle of organizing and the value of intentional one-on-one conversations. We value all voices, and we hope you can join us for lunch in the Southside Room.

• Sunday, February 19th, kicks off the lenten season with our Mardi Gras potluck in the gym after service. Based on your last name, if you’re able, please bring a side or salad (A-I), dessert (J-N), or main dish (O-Z) of about 10 servings to share with your friends here at FBCP. We also need several volunteers to set-up and take-down the potluck, so please see the Volunteer Squad sign-up poster in the lobby.

• Join us for a special worship service on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, at 6:00 pm in the chapel. The service will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger.

• Our Lenten Sunday School session will begin Sunday, February 26th, from 9-10 a.m. before worship. The class will run for six weeks and conclude on Palm Sunday, April 2nd.

• Our next monthly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, February 26th, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We will have our first female speaker share her story on growing as a Christian while also reconciling her LGBT identity with her faith, and what her experience has been like with family and church through the last several years. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community 16+, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Save the Date for our next Women’s Brunch on Saturday, March 4th!

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

Weekly + Biweekly Happenings

• Winter Sunday School Session | Weekly thru 2/19 | 9:00 a.m. | Escribio Divino in Rm. 211 | The Passover & Crucifixion of Jesus in the Southside Room | Learning from MLK’s Letter from Birmingham Jail in Room 214

• Thursday Noon Bible Study | Weekly at 12 p.m. | Parlor

• Easy-Going Basketball | Biweekly at 7 p.m. | February 5th in the Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

2/5 - Oaxaca Missions Meeting
2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear
2/12 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
2/12 - Public Theology Meeting
2/19 - Winter Sunday School Ends
2/19 - Church Potluck/Tamale Pickup
2/20 - President’s Day—Office Closed
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/24-2/26 - Winter Youth Retreat
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting
3/4 - Women’s Brunch
3/5 - Prayer for Global Servants
3/12 - Public Theology Meeting

FBCP Families | 01.28.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Thanks for your patience with today’s email. The stomach bug went through my family this week, but we are grateful to finally be back to health today.

Last Sunday we gathered for worship right after receiving news about the shooting in Monterey Park, and this week has unfolded with more tragedy and pain in the headlines. I know depending on the age of your kids, you may have been navigating various conversations and feelings this week in your home on top of your own emotions and need to process. We are here to pray with you or to be a space to process, so let us know how we can come alongside you. I also wanted to share this resource from our own Zach Hoover, who received it from his son's school as a tool to help parents have conversations about violence with their kids.

This evening I am grateful for our church community and the ways we can hold lament and tragedy together with gratitude and love. I look forward to tomorrow's worship as a place to ground my own body in the love and peace of Christ as I worship alongside each of you. Today we had a training for nursery volunteer leaders, and it was an encouragement to my soul to be with a team of people willing to love our youngest kids and to tell them the story of God's love in the world. Thank you for being my church family and the church family for my kids. May we gather tomorrow and sense God's presence in each tender moment together.

Kids Camp Dates

Parents, just a reminder to mark your calendars for Kids Camp June 19-23. We are excited to help our kids encounter God's love together with people from our church family. I know it's still January, but 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!

Tamales

Thanks to all who have placed their orders to support our youth fundraiser! There is still time to order before February 8th, and we will have some to sell on the 19th on a first-come, first-served basis. Here is an order form, and you can pick them up at our next all-church potluck after worship on February 19th. Our youth will make the tamales on Saturday, February 11th, at the church. 

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.  

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 and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. (If you need help finding the upstairs classrooms, just text Pastor Lindsay and we will help you find your way!) This week we will learn more about Jesus' journey and examine our own spiritual journey with a creative activity. We'll also explore what it means to be fishers of men. 

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• Who has been important in your own spiritual journey?

• What have been some memorable moments in your life when you felt God's presence or help?

• What does it mean to be fishers of people?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular  youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. You can pick your youth up in the church park at the Union Street gate at 1:30 PM. 

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 01.27.2023

Sunday

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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.

• Basics Class will take place immediately following worship service this Sunday, January 29th, 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.

• The tamale order form is here! Our Winter Youth Retreat will take place February 24-26. We are pumped to bring back a longstanding tradition of making and selling tamales as a youth retreat fundraiser, so get ready for this delicious chance to support our youth. You can order tamales online here or by texting "tamale" to 626.727.9498. We will also have a paper sign-up at the Connections Desk on Sunday. You can pick your tamales up at our next all-church potluck after worship on February 19th. If you aren't able to pick them up then, you can email Pastor Lindsay to make other arrangements.

• Grab some earphones and catch up on this week’s latest recordings.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is soup/chili/stew.

Future Happenings

• Community Dinners are set for Friday, February 3. If you signed up, keep an eye out for an email from your host family this week regarding details like time and address. Email Pastor Chip if you have any questions or would like to participate in the next round in May.

• After service on February 5th, we will continue planning for our church mission trip to Oaxaca, Mexico this October 23-27 with Adventures in Life Ministry.  All are welcome to join the meeting as we begin establishing the team and set the schedule for the coming months to prepare for an incredible week of service and ministry. Contact Nori or Pastor Chip for more info. Lunch will be provided.

• Join us for a weekend of fun in the snow as we take a ski/boarding trip to Big Bear February 10-12. The cost is $250, and we have four spots left. Text "ski" to 626.727.9498 if you're interested, and secure your spot with a $50 deposit. Contact chip@fbcpasadena.com for more information.

• We would like to invite any new folks to enjoy a cup of coffee with Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. on Sunday, February 12th, in his office (enter on Holly). Sign up by texting “coffee” to 626.727.9498 (limited to the first eight people). Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church through this casual conversation.

• Save the date for a potluck lunch after service on Sunday, February 19. Potlucks are a special time here at FBCP, so we hope you can make it for some fantastic food and fellowship.

• Join us as we begin the Lenten season on Wednesday, February 22nd.  We will gather at 6:00 pm in the chapel for a worship service which will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger. Stay tuned for a Lenten Sunday School session beginning February 26th as well.

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

Weekly + Biweekly Happenings

• Winter Sunday School Session | Weekly thru 2/19 | 9:00 a.m. | Escribio Divino in Rm. 211 | The Passover & Crucifixion of Jesus in the Southside Room | Learning from MLK’s Letter from Birmingham Jail in Room 214

• Thursday Noon Bible Study | Weekly at 12 p.m. | Parlor

• Easy-Going Basketball | Biweekly at 7 p.m. | Next 2/5 in the Gym

Six Weeks at a Glance

1/29 - Basics Class
2/3 - Community Dinners
2/5 - Oaxaca Missions Meeting
2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear
2/12 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
2/12 - Public Theology Meeting
2/19 - Winter Sunday School Ends
2/19 - Church Potluck/Tamale Pickup
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/24-2/26 - Winter Youth Retreat
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting
3/4 - Women’s Brunch
3/5 - Prayer for Global Servants
3/12 - Public Theology Meeting

FBCP Families | 01.21.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

Last summer our theme for kids camp was based on a theology of wonder. We invited our kids to explore how we are wired for wonder and asked them to consider why God designed us with such a capacity. This week I came across an article with some fun food for thought on what research says about the importance of wonder. Among many things, wonder helps us get outside ourselves and "self-preoccupation" while also calming our nervous systems and turning down the noise of negative self-talk. Yay for wonder and thanks be to God for creating so many opportunities for wonder in the natural world and in our relationships with one another.

On that note, we are already making plans for camp this summer, so parents please mark your calendars for June 19-23. 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. I know it's still January, but 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!

In the meantime, it's clearly still winter, and that means that our youth winter retreat is coming up soon. We are also so pumped to bring back a longstanding tradition of making and selling tamales as a youth retreat fundraiser, so get ready for this delicious chance to support our youth. We will be sending out an order form next week, and you can pick them up at our next all-church potluck after worship on February 19th. Our youth will make the tamales on Saturday, February 11th, at the church. Parents, I'll send out more information on the retreat and our tamale-making day this 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.  

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 and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. (If you need help finding the upstairs classrooms, just text Pastor Lindsay and we will help you find your way!) This week we will explore the story of John the Baptist and Jesus' baptism. It's a great week to talk about baptism as a family and to make room for questions and wonder about what God was revealing in this story of John and Jesus.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What is baptism like in our church? 

• What do we believe about the sacrament of baptism, and why do we do it?

• Have you seen a baptism? What stood out to you?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular  youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. You can pick your youth up in the church park at the Union Street gate at 1:30 PM. 

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 01.20.2023

Tomorrow

• You are invited to join the Ropp Family in honoring the life of our beloved friend Bill Ropp on Saturday, January 21st, at 10 a.m. at Crescenta Valley Church  (4001 La Crescenta Ave, Glendale, CA 91214). Refreshments following the service.

Sunday

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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.

• Pastor Chip is taking sign-ups now for Community Dinners on Friday, February 3. Email Pastor Chip or text “dinner” to 626.727.9498 if you would like to participate by either attending or hosting, and more details will follow. This is a wonderful time to share a meal, and it is a great way to get to know other church members better. We hope you can participate!

• Grab some earphones and catch up on this week’s latest recordings.

• A new exciting Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, invites all crafty folks ages 7 & up (all skill levels) to an initial interest meeting after service this week in the Southside Room. The purpose of the group will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Lunch is provided. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our monthly FBCPride meeting will be this Sunday from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. Our resident therapist Michael Mann will lead us through an exploration and expansion of how we understand identity. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community, parents and allies alike ages 16+. Dinner included. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Our new easy-going basketball group will continue this Sunday, and it will continue every other week. This group is for all non-competitive ages and it meets in the gym at 7 p.m. Email Misterjchen@gmail.com if you have questions.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is cereal.

Future Happenings

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service next Sunday, January 29th, at 12:30 pm 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.

• After service on February 5th, we will continue planning for our church mission trip to Oaxaca, Mexico this October 23-27 with Adventures in Life Ministry.  All are welcome to join the meeting as we begin establishing the team and set the schedule for the coming months to prepare for an incredible week of service and ministry. Contact Nori or Pastor Chip for more info. Lunch will be provided.

• Join us for a weekend of fun in the snow as we take a ski/boarding trip to Big Bear February 10-12. The cost is $250, and we have limited spots available. Text "ski" to 626.727.9498 if you're interested, and secure your spot with a $50 deposit. Contact chip@fbcpasadena.com for more information.

• Save the date for a potluck lunch after service on Sunday, February 19. Potlucks are a special time here at FBCP, so we hope you can make it for some fantastic food and fellowship.

• Join us as we begin the Lenten season on Wednesday, February 22nd.  We will gather at 6:00 pm in the chapel for a worship service which will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger. Stay tuned for a Lenten Sunday School session beginning February 26th as well.

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

Weekly Happenings

Winter Sunday School Session (9:00 a.m., Room Assignments Posted)
Sunday Worship Service (10:30 a.m., Sanctuary)
Thursday Noon Bible Study (12 p.m., Parlor)
Easy-Going Basketball (January 22nd and every other Sunday at 7 p.m.)

Six Weeks at a Glance

1/21 - Bill Ropp’s Memorial Service (Crescenta Valley Church)
1/22 - Yarn Crafts Group
1/22 - FBCPride Meeting
1/22 - Easy-going basketball
1/29 - Basics Class
2/3 - Community Dinners
2/5 - Oaxaca Missions Meeting
2/5 - Easy-going basketball
2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear
2/12 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
2/19 - Winter Sunday School Ends
2/19 - Church Potluck
2/19 - Easy-going basketball
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/26 - Lenten Sunday School Begins
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting

FBCP Families | 01.14.2023

Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,

As we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. this weekend and Monday, I thought you might enjoy reading this poem by Gwendolyn Brooks as a family. It's a reminder that we, too, are called to go "forth with gifts" God has given each of us as we proclaim that God's Kingdom is come, in Pasadena as it is in Heaven. We are excited to worship with you tomorrow and to enjoy learning and growing alongside our kids and youth.

As a reminder, the Rose Bowl Half Marathon will be taking place tomorrow morning with limited street access around the church from 6 am - 1 pm. Be sure to check out the road closure map so you can plan your route and give yourself extra time to get to service, especially if you live south of Green Street. 

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.  

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 and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. (If you need help finding the upstairs classrooms, just text Pastor Lindsay and we will help you find your way!) This week we will continue with our exploration of Epiphany and the ways that God leads and guides us (like God guided the Magi!). We'll also look at the way that Martin Luther King, Jr. was a guiding light for others by sharing his vision for justice and the Kingdom of Heaven. It's going to be a full and fun morning with our kids!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are you wondering about as you think about the star that guided the Magi?

• What are ways that God leads and guides you? 

• Think about the way that God has made you (your talents, interests, things you enjoy and are good at). How might God be inviting you to lead others as you follow God?

YOUTH

We are on for our regular  youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. We are so thankful to be back with our youth!

Youth parents, I wanted to let you know that tomorrow during the preaching time, we will be exploring the theology behind our value and practice of inclusion. Since our youth will be present during worship, we will create space for our youth to discuss and ask questions after service during our youth gathering. We look forward to the chance to engage in thoughtful conversations with our youth around a theology of inclusion in light of their perspective and questions.

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 01.13.2023

Sunday

• The Rose Bowl Half Marathon will be taking place Sunday morning with limited street access around the church from 6 am - 1 pm. Be sure to check out the road closure map so you can plan your route and give yourself extra time to get to service, especially if you live south of Green Street.

• Winter Sunday School classes will start this week and end on Sunday, February 19. Classes will meet from 9-10 a.m., and childcare will be available so parents can attend, too. We’ll be offering the following four classes:

  • Escribio Divino | Led by Tyler & Galvin Brewington-Mathis

  • Passover & the Crucifixtion of Jesus | Led by Jerry Brown

  • Gilead | Led by Rene Scheys

  • Learning from MLK Jr.’s The Letter from Birmingham Jail | Led by Nori Ochi

  You can read more about each class and sign up online here.

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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.

• Grab some earphones and catch up on this week’s latest recordings. One is from Scripture and the other is a special reading for Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend. Enjoy!

• Our Public Theology meeting will be held in the Southside Room following service. We will review the listening campaign that we launched in 2022 and look at ways to more deeply involve the greater church community in this ongoing conversation. Our hopes are to set some goals around potential local organizing opportunities and harness our power to serve the least of these. Lunch is provided and childcare is available for those who need it. To RSVP text “local” to 626.727.9498 and please email lindsay@fbcpasadena.com if you need childcare.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is canned chicken or tuna.

Future Happenings

• You are invited to join the Ropp Family in honoring the life of our beloved friend Bill Ropp on Saturday, January 21st, at 10 a.m. at Crescenta Valley Church on La Crescenta Ave. between Montrose Ave. and Honolulu Ave. Refreshments following the service.

• A new exciting Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, invites all crafty folks ages 7 & up (all skill levels) to an initial interest meeting after service on January 22nd in the Southside Room. The purpose of the group will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Lunch is provided. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our next montly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, January 22nd, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. Our resident therapist Michael Mann will lead us through an exploration and expansion of how we understand identity. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• We will have our Basics Class after worship service on Sunday, January 29th, at 12:30 pm 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.

• Save the Date for our beloved Community Dinners on February 3. Email Pastor Chip or text “dinner” to 626.727.9498 if you would like to participate by either attending or hosting, and more details will follow. This is a wonderful time to share a meal, and it is a great way to get to know other church members better. We hope you can participate!

• After service on February 5th, we will continue planning for our church mission trip to Oaxaca, Mexico this October 23-27 with Adventures in Life Ministry.  All are welcome to join the meeting as we begin establishing the team and set the schedule for the coming months as we prepare for an incredible week of ministry later this year. Contact Nori or Pastor Chip for more info. Lunch will be provided.

• Join us for a weekend of fun in the snow as we take a ski/boarding trip to Big Bear February 10-12. The cost is $250, and we have 12 spots available. Text "ski" to 626.727.9498 if you're interested, and secure your spot with a $50 deposit. Contact chip@fbcpasadena.com for more information.

• Save the date for a potluck lunch after service on Sunday, February 19. Potlucks are a special time here at FBCP, so we hope you can make it for some fantastic food and fellowship.

• Join us as we begin the Lenten season on Wednesday, February 22nd.  We will gather at 6:00 pm in the chapel for a worship service which will conclude with the imposition of ashes. Childcare is provided for children four years old and younger.

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

Weekly Happenings

Sunday Worship Service (10:30 a.m., Sanctuary)
Thursday Noon Bible Study (12 p.m., Parlor)
Easy-Going Basketball (January 22nd and every other Sunday at 7 p.m.)

Six Weeks at a Glance

1/15 - Winter Sunday School Begins
1/15 - Public Theology Meeting
1/21 - Bill Ropp’s Memorial Service (Crescenta Valley Church)
1/22 - Yarn Crafts Group
1/22 - FBCPride Meeting
1/29 - Basics Class
2/3 - Community Dinners
2/5 - Oaxaca Missions Meeting
2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear
2/12 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
2/19 - Church Potluck
2/22 - Ash Wednesday Service
2/26 - FBCPride Meeting

FBCP Families | 01.07.2023

Hi Friends,

I hope that you have a gentle start to 2023, and I am praying for your families as many of you get back to regular school rhythms in the coming weeks. Because our kids love to create and express themselves with art, I wanted to share an opportunity for kids at Vroman's, our local bookstore. They are hosting a bookmark contest for kids in K-3rd and 4th-6th grades, and the winner will receive a Vroman's gift card and sets of bookmarks to share at school and home. You can check out all the contest details here, and we will gladly make a set of bookmarks for any design you want to share with us, too. Happy reading and drawing!

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 10:20 AM. 

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 and me in the front pews. This week we will be celebrating Epiphany and the gifts brought to Jesus. We sure are excited to be back with our kids! Parents, please send your children in warm clothing in these colder months as our building can get a little chilly.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What does "epiphany" mean?

• What does the story of the Magi make you wonder about? What can we learn from it?

YOUTH

We are back on for our youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather after service for lunch and discussion, and then we will help take down decorations with our church family. We are excited to be back with our youth this week!

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 01.06.2023

Sunday

• New folks, please join Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. in the parlor for a cup of coffee and pastries. Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church and our lead pastor through this casual time of conversation.

• Join us at 10:30 a.m. 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 lunch and fellowship before helping to take down the Christmas decorations. 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 us after service for Taking Down of the Greens. The more hands the merrier, and lunch will be provided!

• Pray with us for our global servants Mel Baggao (Lebanon) and Kit Ripley (Thailand) at our 20-minute prayer circle after service as well! Those who pray with us will still have time to join the group taking down Christmas decorations afterwards.

• Sunday is also the start of a new easy-going basketball group. This group, headed by Jason C, is for all non-competitive ages. The group will meet every other Sunday at 7 p.m. in the gym. Email Misterjchen@gmail.com if you have questions.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry item is peanut butter or any kind of nut butter.

• We would love to incorporate new vocalists into our beautiful FBCP choir in the new year. Practices resume Wednesday, January 11th, at 7 p.m. Please email Pastor Leslie leslie@fbcpasadena.com to let her know if you’re interested!

• Grab some earphones! In case you missed yesterday’s two new audio reflections for you, one is from Scripture and the other is a special reading from Pastor Lindsay and Pastor Leslie. Enjoy!

Next Week

• Winter Sunday School classes will start January 15 and end on Sunday, February 19. Classes will meet from 9-10 a.m. before service, and childcare will be available so parents can attend, too. We’ll be offering the following four classes:

  • Escribio Divino | Led by Tyler & Galvin Brewington-Mathis

  • Passover & the Crucifixtion of Jesus | Led by Jerry Brown

  • Gilead | Led by Rene Scheys

  • Learning from MLK Jr.’s The Letter from Birmingham Jail | Led by Nori Ochi

  You can read more about each class and sign up online here.

• Our next Public Theology meeting will be held next Sunday following the worship service. How fitting to meet on MLK weekend as we remember the life and work of this beloved baptist preacher. We will review the listening campaign that we launched in 2022 and look at ways to more deeply involve the greater church community in this ongoing conversation. Our hopes are to set some goals around potential local organizing opportunities and harness our power to serve the least of these. Lunch is provided and childcare is available for those who need it. To RSVP text “local” to 626.727.9498 and please email lindsay@fbcpasadena.com if you need childcare.

Future Happenings

• You are invited to join the Ropp Family in honoring the life of Bill Ropp at his Memorial Service on Saturday, January 21st at 10 a.m., at Crescenta Valley Church.

• A new exciting Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, invites all crafty folks ages 7 & up (all skill levels) to an initial interest meeting after service on January 22nd in the Southside Room. The purpose of the group will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Lunch is provided. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our next montly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, January 22nd, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Join us after service on Sunday, January 29th, for our Basics Class. Learn about FBCP and what it means to be a member here. Lunch is provided.

• Save the Date for our beloved Community Dinners on February 3. Email Pastor Chip if you would like to participate by either attending or hosting, and more details will follow. This is a wonderful time to share a meal, and it is a great way to get to know other church members better. We hope you can participate!

• Join us for a weekend of fun in the snow as we take a ski/boarding trip to Big Bear, Feb 10-12. The cost is $250 and we have 12 spots available. Text "ski" to 626.727.9498 if you're interested, and secure your spot with a $50 deposit. Contact chip@fbcpasadena.com for more information.

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

Weekly Happenings

Sunday Worship Service (10:30 a.m., Sanctuary)
Thursday Noon Bible Study

Upcoming Events 2022

1/8 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
1/8 - Prayer Circle for Global Servants
1/8 - Taking down of the Greens
1/8 - Easy-Going Basketball
1/15 - Winter Sunday School Begins
1/15 - Public Theology Meeting
1/21 - Bill Ropp’s Memorial Service (Crescenta Valley Church)
1/22 - Yarn Crafts Group
1/22 - FBCPride Meeting
1/29 - Basics Class
2/3 - Community Dinners
2/10-2/12 - Ski Trip to Big Bear

FBCP | 12.31.2022

Hi Friends,

Thank you for such a special Advent and Christmas season with your families! It was such a joy to anticipate the birth of Christ with you and to see some of you on Christmas morning as we worshiped together (with instruments, too!). I look forward to seeing you tomorrow for New Year's Day as we begin 2023 together.

Joy Jar

If you haven't met Tyler Brewington-Mathis, then you should definitely get to know her and her husband Galvin! They have been part of our church family for some months now, and we are so glad they have chosen to be part of our community. Tyler shared a fun and meaningful practice she does each year, and I wanted to pass it on in case it is something you want to try. It's a simple practice of taking note of joys in big and small ways. All you need is a jar of some kind and some sticky notes or slips of paper. Anytime you experience a joy or blessing (no matter how big or small), write it down on a piece of paper, fold it up, and drop it in the jar. At the end of the year, take them out and read them as a practice of remembering and giving thanks to God as you look ahead to a new year. Thanks for bringing us so much joy at FBCP!

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 10:20 AM. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join their families in the sanctuary for worship. We love their presence in worship and the chance to be together to share in communion on this first Sunday of the month (and first Sunday of 2023!). This is a great week to have some discussion about how God might be inviting your family into a new practice to grow in faith and connection with each other. Invite your kids to help you brainstorm something that might be meaningful for your family's context. You could consider something like a joy jar, a monthly service opportunity, a practice of giving, or a weekly prayer time as a family where different family members lead it each week. Or, maybe just start by praying about it together! We would love to know if your family decides to try something new this year.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What are ways we could grow in our faith as a family this year?

• Sometimes it helps to add something to our routine, and other times it helps to subtract. What do you think our family needs most in the coming year?

YOUTH

For this Sunday, we will take a break from our youth gathering so our youth can spend time with their families. We will be back on for our regular youth lunch next Sunday January 8th. Parents, stay tuned for more information about a youth winter retreat coming up in 2023!

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

With much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay

Weekly Updates 12.30.2022

Sunday

• Join us for worship in the sanctuary at 10:30 am as we partake in communion together and celebrate the new year! 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. Our regular youth gathering after service will resume January 8th. 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 would love to incorporate new vocalists into our beautiful FBCP choir in the new year. Practices resume Wednesday, January 11th, at 7 p.m. Please email Pastor Leslie leslie@fbcpasadena.com to let her know if you’re interested!

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry will take any items that you may have previously purchased but not had a chance to bring in, or any other non-perishables you wish to donate.

• Thank you for your generosity in supporting Brian and Jen with meals! They welcomed baby Janie Emmalyn Young into the world on Monday, December 12th. There are a couple slots left if you would like to join in blessing them:

January 8th

• We would like to invite any new folks to enjoy a cup of coffee with Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. on Sunday, January 8th, in the parlor. Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church through this casual conversation.

• Join us after service for Taking Down of the Greens. The more hands the merrier, and lunch will be provided!

• Pray with us for our global servants Mel Baggao (Lebanon) and Kit Ripley (Thailand) at our 20-minute prayer circle after service. Those who pray with us will still have time to join the group taking down Christmas decorations afterwards.

• Also on January 8th is the start of a new basketball group. This group, headed by Jason C, is for everyone who loves the game but isn’t fresh off the college bench. The group will meet every other Sunday at 7 p.m. in the gym. Email Misterjchen@gmail.com if you have questions.

January 15th+ Happenings

• Winter Sunday School classes will start January 15, and classes will end on Sunday, February 19. Classes will meet from 9-10 a.m. before service, and childcare will be available so parents can attend, too. We’ll be offering the following four classes:

  • Escribio Divino | Led by Tyler & Galvin Brewington-Mathis

  • Passover & the Crucifixtion of Jesus | Led by Jerry Brown

  • Gilead | Led by Rene Scheys

  • Learning from MLK Jr.’s The Letter from Birmingham Jail | Led by Nori Ochi

  You can read more about each class and sign up online here.

• Our next Public Theology meeting will be held on Sunday, January 15th, following the worship service. How fitting to meet on MLK weekend as we remember the life and work of this beloved baptist preacher. We will review the listening campaign that we launched in 2022 and look at ways to more deeply involve the greater church community in this ongoing conversation. Our hopes are to set some goals around potential local organizing opportunities and harness our power to serve the least of these. Lunch is provided and childcare is available for those who need it. To RSVP text “local” to 626.727.9498 and please email lindsay@fbcpasadena.com if you need childcare.

• Save the Date for an exciting new group starting at FBCP! The Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, invites all crafty folks ages 7 & up (all skill levels) to our initial interest meeting after service on January 22nd in the Southside Room. The purpose of the group will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Lunch is provided. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our next montly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, January 22nd, from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We would like to invite the LGBTQ community, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

• Join us after service on Sunday, January 29th, for our Basics Class. Learn about FBCP and what it means to be a member here. Lunch is provided.

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

Weekly Happenings

Sunday Worship Service (10:30 a.m., Sanctuary)
Thursday Noon Bible Study - on break this week

Upcoming Events 2022

1/8 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
1/8 - Prayer Circle for Global Servants
1/8 - Taking down of the Greens
1/8 - Easy-Going Basketball
1/15 - Winter Sunday School Begins
1/15 - Public Theology Meeting
1/22 - Yarn Crafts Group
1/22 - FBCPride Meeting
1/29 - Basics Class
2/3 - Community Dinners

Weekly Updates 12.23.2022

Tomorrow

• Join us as we share the candlelight of Christ at our Christmas Eve Communion Service Saturday evening at 6 pm in the chapel. This will be a special time to light the Christ candle and spread the light with candles to one another.

Sunday

• Join us Christmas Day for a service of lessons and carols at 10:30am in the sanctuary. The nursery will be open as usual for our toddlers and babies. Our kids four years old and up will join us for service to worship together as a family this Christmas morning. Youth are also invited to join us for worship. Please note there will be no youth gathering after service this Sunday.

• The church office will be closed next week December 26th to 30th, but feel free to reach out with any prayer requests by text to 626.727.9498. Office transactions such as year-end giving may be made online or by email to marcie@fbcpasadena.com.

• Our Thursday Noon Bible Study will be on break this week for the Christmas holiday.

• Planning on checking out the Rose Bowl Parade this year? We have one parking pass left for our garage available for the Rose Bowl Parade happening on January 2nd. If you’d like the pass, please email our office for more details.

• This week, the Friends In Deed Food Pantry will take any items that you may have previously purchased but not had a chance to bring in, or any other non-perishables you wish to donate. We will resume our regular food item requests in two weeks.

• We are so excited to share that Brian and Jen welcomed Janie Emmalyn Young into the world on Monday, December 12th. We have a meal train set up, and you can sign up to provide a meal using the link below. We rejoice and give thanks for this precious blessing and newest part of our church family!

Future Happenings

You’ll find a list of our regular weekly happenings and the upcoming events for the next six weeks at the very bottom of this page.

• We would like to invite any new folks to enjoy a cup of coffee with Pastor John Jay from 9-10 a.m. on Sunday, January 8th, in the parlor. Come with any questions or comments, and get to know more about our church through this casual conversation.

• Join us after service on January 8th for Taking Down of the Greens. The more hands the merrier, and lunch will be provided!

• Pray with us for our global servants Mel Baggao (Lebanon) and Kit Ripley (Thailand) at our 20-minute prayer circle after service on January 8th. Those who pray with us will still have time to join the group taking down Christmas decorations afterwards.

• Also on January 8th is the start of a new basketball group. This group, headed by Jason C, is for everyone who loves the game but isn’t fresh off the college bench. The group will meet every other Sunday at 7 p.m. in the gym. Email Misterjchen@gmail.com if you have questions.

• Winter Sunday School classes will start January 15, and classes will end on Sunday, February 19. Classes will meet from 9-10 am before service, and childcare will be available so parents can attend, too. We’ll be offering the following four classes:

  • Escribio Divino | Led by Tyler & Galvin Brewington-Mathis

  • Passover & the Crucifixtion of Jesus | Led by Jerry Brown

  • Gilead | Led by Rene Scheys

  • Learning from MLK Jr.’s The Letter from Birmingham Jail | Led by Nori Ochi

  You can read more about each class and sign up online here.

• Our next Public Theology meeting will be held on Sunday, January 15th, following the worship service. How fitting to meet on MLK weekend as we remember the life and work of this beloved baptist preacher. We will review the listening campaign that we launched in 2022 and look at ways to more deeply involve the greater church community in this ongoing conversation. Our hopes are to set some goals around potential local organizing opportunities and harness our power to serve the least of these. Lunch is provided and childcare is available for those who need it. To RSVP text “local” to 626.727.9498 and please email lindsay@fbcpasadena.com if you need childcare.

• Save the Date for an exciting new group starting at FBCP! The Yarn Crafts Group, led by Whitney and Justine, invites all crafty folks ages 7 & up (all skill levels) to our initial interest meeting after service on January 22nd in the Southside Room. The purpose of the group will be fellowship, fun, and charity projects created by 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. Lunch is provided. Text "yarn" to 626.727.9498 to RSVP.

• Our next montly FBCPride meeting will be on Sunday, January 22nd from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Southside Room. We invite the LGBTQ community, parents and allies alike. Text “pride” to 626.727.9498 to sign up if you’re new!

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

Weekly Happenings

Sunday Worship Service (10:30 a.m., Sanctuary)
Thursday Noon Bible Study - on break this week

Upcoming Events 2022

12/24 - Christmas Eve Service
12/25 - Christmas Day Service
12/29 - No Noon Bible Study
1/2 - Limited Rose Parade Parking Available
1/8 - Coffee with Pastor John Jay
1/8 - Prayer Circle for Global Servants
1/8 - Taking down of the Greens
1/8 - Easy-Going Basketball
1/15 - Winter Sunday School Begins
1/15 - Public Theology Meeting
1/22 - Yarn Crafts Group
1/22 - FBCPride Meeting

FBCP Families | 12.23.2022

Hi Friends,

As we approach Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, I am so thankful to have experienced Advent with you and your families. It is a gift to retell the story of Jesus' birth with your kids and youth as we lean into hope, peace, joy, and love. I pray that you find moments of awakened wonder and simple joys this weekend, whether it's in the light of a candle, laughter around a table, or a song that you sing. God is truly with us!

Meal Train for the Young Family

We are so excited to share that Brian and Jen welcomed Janie Emmalyn Young into the world on Monday, December 12th. We have a meal train set up, and you can sign up to provide a meal using the link below. We rejoice and give thanks for this precious blessing and newest part of our church family!

Christmas Services

We will have our annual Christmas Eve service in the chapel at 6:00 PM tomorrow. Families with kids of all ages are welcome to join us for this special evening of worship with candlelight. On Christmas Day we will have regular nursery childcare for our 10:30 AM worship service, but nursery kids are also welcome to join us in the sanctuary if they want. Our older kids are invited to be in worship with their families that morning. There will be a yummy Christmas treat for families with kids to enjoy before service if you would like to come a little early!

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What is the importance of the manger in the story of Jesus' birth?

• Which part of the Christmas story gives you the most hope? 

• What does the Christmas story teach us about God's love?

YOUTH

For this Sunday and next, we will take a break from our youth gathering so they can spend time with their families. We will be back on for our regular youth lunch on January 8th. Parents, stay tuned for more information about a youth winter retreat coming up in 2023!

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

With much love and prayers for a very merry Christmas,

Pastor Lindsay

FBCP Families | 12.17.2022

Hi Friends,

Kids and Youth, thank you for your beautiful and inspiring participation in worship at the Carol Service! You worked so hard leading up to last Sunday, and we thank God for your leadership and presence in our church. Thanks to the parents for bringing your kids to extra rehearsals. It was an absolute joy to sing and celebrate Christmas with your kids!

This week we will light the Advent candle for love. I have learned so much about love from this community and the ways you care for one another. May we grow in our understanding and willingness to love well as we reflect on God's love this Christmas. (And if you love poetry, you might enjoy this poem about experiencing love in the simple light of a Christmas tree.)

Welcome, Baby Young!

We are so excited to share that Brian and Jen welcomed Janie Emmalyn Young into the world on Monday, December 12th. Mom and baby are doing well, and they are hoping to head home today. Brian’s mom is in town to help until next week, so we have a meal train set up for when she leaves. You can sign up to provide a meal using the link below. Thanks for your prayers as they bring Janie home and for Elliot as he adjusts to having a baby sister. We rejoice and give thanks for this precious blessing and newest part of our church family!

Christmas Services

We will have our annual Christmas Eve service in the chapel at 6:00 PM this Saturday. Families with kids are welcome, and we will open up the doors between the chapel and parlor if any families need more space to worship that evening. On Christmas Day we will have regular nursery childcare for our 10:30 AM worship service, but nursery kids are also welcome to join us in the sanctuary. Our older kids are invited to be in worship that morning.  Pastor Mary is planning a yummy Christmas treat for families with kids to eat before service if you would like to come a little early! 

SUNDAY

KIDS

Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:55 AM for those whose parents are attending a Sunday School class. 

Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship, and then they will be dismissed with their leaders to their classrooms. They are welcome to start service with their parents or to join Pastor Mary and me in the front pews. This week we will continue to explore the season of Advent and make some decorations to remind us of God's hope, peace, joy, and love. Here are some questions to ponder together as a family.

Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:

• What part of the Christmas story stands out most to you this year?

• What are you wondering as you think about the birth of Christ and all the people involved in his birth?

YOUTH

We are on for our youth programming after worship this Sunday, and this week is the youth Christmas party edition! They can gather in the front pews after service ends, and then we’ll have a fun time of lunch and Christmas joy. We’ll wrap up at 1:30 PM, and parents can pick up their youth at the park entrance off Union Street. 

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

So much love and gratitude for you,

Pastor Lindsay