4.16.23 Worship Preview and Special Events

Press Release First United Methodist Church This Weekend: Sunday at 10:30am “Giving to Change Lives” Scriptures: Psalm 112, 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 10-11 and Matthew 25:14-30 – with Rev. Dr. Dustin Petz preaching. Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen, Indeed! We continue to celebrate Easter and the forgiveness and wholeness of the new life Christ offers, an eternal life that begins here and now with our discipleship. We are called to follow Jesus on pathways of compassion, generosity, and trust and away from trails of fear and anxiety. We are called to acknowledge that all we have is a gift from God. And we do not do that alone, no matter where you are on your own journey of faith, you are invited to join in worship and celebration at 10:30am at 301 S. National, coming just as you are, with your questions, doubts, and hopes - and to experience the fullness of Christ’s transformative, healing love and grace - which makes us whole. Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen, indeed! One of the places we often have questions or struggle with how to be most responsible and effective centers around generosity. This week we welcome a guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Dustin Petz, who will help us consider how we use our "talents," giving to change lives. Then at 2pm in our Fellowship Hall, you are invited to a presentation by Rev. Petz, on “Leaving a Lasting Legacy.” During his afternoon presentation, you will have the opportunity to learn more about how to maximize your giving during life and considerations for giving through your estate to benefit your church and other charitable organizations you support. This free presentation is open to all (you do not have to be United Methodist to attend and much of the information would be applicable to other organizations). It is people and organizations who have followed this sort of planned generosity model that make programs like our Feeding Families meal a reality. After 18 years as a pastor in Kansas and Nebraska churches, Rev. Petz has served with the Kansas Methodist Foundation since July 2018. He is passionate about helping individuals and families be good stewards of the resources God entrusted them. Dustin also has a desire to see churches, agencies, and institutions invest their resources in socially responsible ways. In his role, Dustin helps individuals, churches, and related organizations activate their ministry potential in their community. Upcoming Events: Monday, April 17th at 10am OR Thursday, April 20th at 6pm, We begin a short-term (6 weeks or so) study of the book “The First Paul” by Marcus Borg and Dom Crossan. Delve into the letters of the New Testament to see how the early church grew, and sometimes struggled with hard questions, just as we do today. Books are $11 and all are welcome to join this seminar structured discussion group. Pastor Christopher Eshelman will lead the groups and says this study is a great way to learn more about the New Testament and United Methodism’s Wesleyan approach to theology. Wednesday, April 19, 5:30pm Feeding Families in His Name– this weekly free meal is available to everyone without obligation. A “to-go” meal is distributed under the portico at 301 S. National. Note: Please do not block nearby driveways while waiting. Thank you. Rev. Christopher EshelmanPastor, Fort Scott First UMC Know, Grow, Serve, Share Cell Phone (316) 833-4974