As people of faith, we know Jesus, even when we aren't sure where our next steps will take us. The good thing is, Jesus is leading the way. Come and See as we discover together the path God is calling us to follow as we welcome our Interim Minister, Rev. Dr. Mary Alice Mulligan, this Sunday in worship. 

First and foremost, the apostle Paul was a pastor. As he spread the message of Christ and planted new faith communities wherever he traveled, Paul stayed in touch with his congregations by writing letters of encouragement, direction, correction, and love. The wisdom in Paul’s correspondence with ancient churches still has much to teach the church today about how we are called to change, grow, and welcome others in Christ’s name.

The Mission Council called to ministry, Mary Alice Mulligan as Interim Minister.

Mary Alice has a MA in Theological and Religious Studies from Drew University and a PhD in Preaching and Social Ethics from Vanderbilt. She was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1988 and has enjoyed a career serving churches primarily throughout Indiana. In interviews, Mary Alice expressed experiencing a growing call to interim ministry. We are excited that discernment will bring her to FCC.

Mary Alice will begin her ministry at First Christian this Sunday, September 1. Please join us in worship as we welcome her to Birmingham and join our hands in  ministry. 

Interested in a ladies' small group for fellowship and study? Ona Ruth Women’s group typically meets the second Sunday of the month. Our next meeting is on Sunday, September 8th, following worship. We will meet in the gym for lunch and fellowship. Our study will be a visit from a Samaritan woman. You won’t want to miss this as it is sure to be enlightening. All women are welcome! Come and enjoy good food, fellowship, and prayer with this caring group of ladies. Planning to attend? Please call Barbara Ray (864-313-5059) or Linda Byrd (205-960-2442) so they can provide our hostesses, Carole Rudd, Donna Strickland, Linda Hamilton, and Virginia Nall a head count to plan for food. If you have questions, feel free to call Joye Taylor at 205-447-0209.                                                                                                           

 
The Connections Mission oversees several vital elements of congregational life. It is responsible for direction and oversight in the areas of Fellowship and Hospitality, Evangelism and Church Growth, and New Member Inclusion. Pot-luck meals, Greeters, Trunk or Treat, and many other activities are coordinated by the volunteers on this team. Our goal is to help people feel connected to First Christian and to each other.
 
Would you like to join us? Please do! The first organizational meeting will be Tuesday, September 17 at 6:30 pm in the Farkas Room. You are important to the life in this church and your talents would be welcome. I hope to see you the 17^th!
 
Clarissa Harms, Chair

Acolytes carry the light of Christ into worship on Sundays. It is a wonderful opportunity for school-age children to assist in worship leadership. We will have a training on Sunday, September 22 after worship for those 5K and older interested in participating in this important ministry. For more information contact Robin.

Pickleball is currently being offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7 pm and Saturdays from 9-11 am unless otherwise noted. No need to bring any equipment, and if you aren't familiar with the game, we will teach you! All members and friends are welcome to join in on the fun or just come by to watch the players in action!