Caring
Deacons
The Board of Deacons is responsible for leading the congregation in the care of members and participants. They visit homebound and nursing home patients as well as those who are ill, recovering from surgery, or in need. They often arrange for meals or assist with transportation when needed. They assist with the Lord’s Supper as well as home communion. They provide hospitality at worship through greeters and ushers. There are nine active deacons in three classes of three each.
Fellowship Opportunities
Volleyball - Our church volleyball team offers a great way to participate in small group fellowship while being physically active and working as a team. We even won the sportsmanship award in the church league!
Men's Breakfast - On the first Sunday of each month from September through May, Men’s Breakfast provides an informal setting where men can gather to share their experiences over a common meal. Men’s breakfast is held from 8:30 a.m. to 9:20 a.m. on the first Sunday of each month. Some breakfasts include a special speaker and presentation.
Ladies' Spring Luncheon - The Ladies’ Spring Luncheon is an annual event hosted by the Outreach, Fellowship, and Mission committee. The luncheon provides an opportunity for Presbyterian women and invited guests to enjoy fellowship on a spring Saturday. Every year the luncheon is planned around a different theme, such as music, teaching, reading, or cooking!
Harvest Dinner - The Harvest Dinner is a wonderful, festive meal shared by our church family and hosted by Presbyterian Women. At the beginning of the dinner we take up a Thank Offering that supports programs that relieve pain, provide clean water, alleviate homelessness, provide educational opportunities and life up the lives of womena nd children throughout the world.
Outdoor Worship and Lunch - The first Sunday of September, we worship outdoors under the shade of a large tent directly on the church lawn. Lunch afterward is catered by Niemerg's. Outdoor worship is a wonderful way to experience an alternative service that puts the congregation directly in the nature God created for us all.
EIU Tailgate Party - Each year the Outreach, Fellowship, and Mission committee hosts a picnic in Morton Park followed by an EIU football game at O'Brien Stadium.
Game Nights - Game nights offer opportunities for all church members, regardless of age, to come together for fun, snacks, and prizes!
Coffee Fellowship - On the first Wednesday of each month, the church offers a morning coffee fellowship at 9:30 a.m. Come join us for coversation and homemade treats. Every is invited!
New Member Classes - When the need arises, we offer a new member class for those who wish to be recieved into membership before the end of the year. If you experience our church and believe that this community of faith is palce where you can share your gifts in service to others, contribute ot the spiritual growth of others, and grow in your own faith, please feel free to speak ot Pastors Jan and Thomas about membership.
Prayer Shawl Ministry - If you know how to knit, or would like to learn how, join the Prayer Shawl Ministry on the final Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the church. Each shawl competed is dedicated during a Sunday service and goes to comfort the ailing friends and family of parishoners.
Praying for Others
Prayer Chain - This service allows for church members to stay abreast of the current prayer needs of those who attend First Presbyterian Church. Updated from the church office whenever the need arises, this e-mail chain is open to all who feel open to providing their prayerful support of those in need.
Prayer Group - At 3:00 p.m. on Monday afternoons, you are welcome to join others for an open time of prayer for individuals in our church and in our world. The group meets in the prayer center.
Counseling and Pastoral Care
Pastoral care and counseling refer to the dimension of the Christian life where we seek to extend the witness of the church in response to loss, grief, uncertainty, and joy. The pastors are available for brief counseling and can assist you in reflecting on your own experience and making connections between your experience and the Christian faith. They also can help you find a referral for longer-term counseling.