Category: Rundown

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a fabulous time at their October social when they dined at Mackinaw’s Grill & Spirits. There were four Chix in attendance and they found the food to be excellent and the conversation lively. The Chix are taking a hiatus until February of 2025. Watch our new year’s newsletter for details on when and where the Chix will eat then!

Fall Clean-up

We had an absolutely beautiful day for our Fall Clean-up on Saturday, October 19th. The weather was more like summer than fall! The yard got cleaned up from bush and tree trimming to the garden beds to raking and the windows were washed as well. Following everyone’s hard work we enjoyed fellowship during lunch. Thanks to everyone who came out to help with the clean-up!

October Fourth Sunday Forum Recap

Our Fourth Sunday speaker for the month of October was our very own Bruce Deadman who spoke about his recent trip to Kenya with Sandy, their “son” Ben Mwai and his family. Bruce shared with us about the amazing wildlife encounters they had but mostly talked about his strictly personal impressions of the Kenyan people and culture. It was one of those old-time illustrated travelogues!

International Foods Potluck

Forty plus people enjoyed a tasty international potluck following our World Communion worship service.  Wonderful dishes were shared such as German potato salad with bratwurst, a Mediterranean soup with lamb, a spicy but not too hot dish from Africa, a casserole from Mexico just to name a few. The selection was so delicious that many went back for seconds!

Fall Women’s Retreat

The Women’s Retreat was a smashing success, even though Jacki Jensen took a tumble and sprained her wrist and bruised a few ribs! We enjoyed the camp, cooked great food, made potholders with Lyn Early, decorated our recipe booklet covers, and worshipped together. We will definitely do it again next year!

Trunk-or-Treat

Trunk or Treat saw its biggest turnout ever, with more than 300 costumed kids and lines backed up all around the parking lot. Many trunks ran out of candy several times. Gumby, the grim reaper, witches, a jellyfish, and more were there—and that was just those of us hosting the trunks! Check out our photo gallery!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a fabulous time at their September social when they dined at Narrow Bridge. There were six Chix in attendance and they found the food to be excellent and the conversation lively. The next social is planned for Thursday, October 3rd at 6pm when we’ll be dining on the East Side of town at Mackinaw’s Grill & Spirits located at 2925 Voyager Drive. There’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or you can call (920) 437-8121 to RSVP or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

Back to School Drive

Since Tank Elementary School is now closed, this year our Back to School Drive benefited students at Lincoln Elementary School. Members of First Presbyterian were once again very generous as we filled Stephanie Fahringer’s jeep and delivered everything before school started. THANK YOU to everyone for your generosity!

Dinner for 2 @ the U

Our event for UWGB students held annually at the Mauthe Center was a huge success! We had quite a few students in attendance and all were very appreciative of the dinner we offered. Thank you to everyone who donated food items and those who volunteered to help serve!

Blessings of the Backpacks

More backpacks, purses, tote bags and briefcases than ever were piled up in the chancel area of the Sanctuary and blessed on our Kick-Off Sunday on September 8th. Each piece of “baggage” blessed was given a special scripture tag to clip on, with the reminder to carry our faith with us however we carry the rest of our “stuff” in our daily lives. If you missed it, Pastor Katie still has some scripture tags if you’d like to receive this reminder.  

September Fourth Sunday Forum Recap

Our Fourth Sunday Forum returned on September 22nd when our speaker for the month of September was Outreach Committee Member and Board Member of the Presbyterian Pantry, Stephanie Fahringer. Stephanie shared with us stories about how the Pantry affects the lives of Pantry guests along with the Pantry’s history and the number of families that they impact in the community.

N.E.W. Pride Festival 2024

Our congregation was represented along with several other open and welcoming churches at the Green Bay Pride Festival on Saturday September 21st. We handed out stickers and rainbow chip cookies along with information about each church and their welcome for members of the LGBTQ community. Check out our photo gallery!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a hiatus for the month of August but are excited to be returning for another social on Thursday, September 5th at 6pm when we’ll be dining on the East Side of town at Mackinaw’s Grill & Spirits located at 2925 Voyager Drive. There’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or you can RSVP to office@firstpresgreenbay.org or call (920) 437-8121.

August Confirmation Social

The August confirmation social was another great gathering! Originally planned to be at the Deadman’s home, our host changed to Pastor Katie’s house. Bruce still grilled out the best brats and hot dogs, and everyone brought a side dish or dessert to pass. We played ladder golf and the youth went out in the paddle boat on the pond, with a few fishing while out there. What a great time it was! Thank you to Bruce Deadman for being our chef and to Pastor Katie for being our host!

Synod School

Eleven members from our church were part of the 550+ folks who gathered at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake Iowa for the 70th annual Synod School of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies. We traveled to Storm Lake on a very comfortable coach bus, had a wonderful week of classes, worship, food and fun. Five of us were teachers, two children, three youth, and all were filled with the Spirit!

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School was a huge success! Our theme this year was We are God’s People and we went through different stories in the bible that included Solomon from Solomon’s Temple, Jesus and the Resurrection, the man who was lowered through the roof for Jesus to heal, and on the final night our focus was We are the Body when we reflected on how we all have different gifts but together we form the body of Christ.

There were 15 children in attendance and 4 youth volunteers that included Nathan Behnke, Alaina Erickson, Jessica Gauthier and Kaylee Blade. Thank you to our adult volunteers that included Deb Gauthier, Loni McCormick, George and Brenda Hubbard, Kevin Kabacinski, Olivia Crooks, Grace Estes-Collins, Pastor Katie and Joel Morien. Special thanks to Mike Melton who wrote the curriculum! Check out our photo gallery!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a small but delightful gathering at their July 11th social. There were 5 Chix in attendance when they dined at Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza. Everyone enjoyed ribs, nachos, salads and more! The food and fellowship is always fun! The Chix are taking a break during the month of August so watch next month’s newsletter for when and where they’ll dine in September. Once the day and location are confirmed we’ll have a sign up sheet on the bulletin board.

July Confirmation Social

The July confirmation social was another great gathering! There were fun games as always. A wonderful taco bar meal was provided by Deb Shober and everyone brought a dish to pass. We’re looking forward to our August social and then it’ll be just a few weeks before confirmation class resumes in September with our confirmation taking place sometime in the fall. Thank you to Deb Shober for hosting an amazing event!

Installation

The Installation to the office of elder was held on Sunday, July 14 for Kirke Ryder and Deb Shober. Kirke demonstrated his leadership skills by playing “Follow the Leader” with the
children during the service! We sincerely appreciate their willingness to serve our Session for a three-year term. Kirke will represent Session on the Generosity Team where he has served for many years, and Deb will chair the Worship Committee. Thank you!

From the Meltons — Thank you!

Mike and I find ourselves walking a new journey. Not one we would have chosen, nevertheless it is ours to share, and we shall walk it together. We both thank you all for the calls made, cards sent, and wonderful meals made with such love. We especially appreciate the love and prayers from our wonderful church family. We’ve been with you such a short time, but we love each and every one of you, just as we feel the love from you. God bless you and keep you safe.  Lovingly, Mike and Kris Melton

Softball Stats

We played our last game of the regular season on July 14th and unfortunately walked away with a 10-16 loss. Our first playoff game was the following Sunday and we again walked away with a 1-18 loss and our second playoff game on July 28th was another 10-11 loss. Although our season wasn’t a grand slam everyone enjoyed the opportunity to socialize and play the game. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported us this season!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a fabulous time at their June 6th social. There were 5 Chix in attendance when they dined at Highland Howies Pub & Grill. The food and service were excellent and there was an abundance of laughter throughout the evening. The next social is planned for July 11th at 6pm when the Chix will dine on the West side of town at Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza located at 2851 S. Oneida Street. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

Graduation Sunday

On Sunday, June 9th we celebrated the graduation of Nana Berko and Gaby Jimenez. It was a fantastic celebration where we recognized all their accomplishments and the pursuit of their gifts. Nana graduated from Xavier High School on May 29th and will study Biology/Pre-med at Macalester College. Gaby graduated early in January from Preble High School and will be attending Empire Beauty School with the goal of owning her own beauty salon post graduation. They were reminded that their church family is here for them as they journey forward. Check out our photo gallery!

Lillian Walker Baptism

Congratulations and blessings to Lillian Walker and family on her baptism last month. She was surrounded by her extended family and friends, and it was wonderful to have so many guests with us in worship. While Pastor Katie was expected to carry Lilly down the aisle to introduce her, it was decided that carrying an 11-year-old was not necessary! Check out our photo gallery!

Confirmation Cookout

The confirmation cookout was an awesome experience with everyone in attendance. Several games were played, prizes were awarded and it was a fantastic time. Everyone brought a dish to pass and George grilled out the main course. It was an amazing evening that had the 3 F’s—fun, food and fellowship. Thank you to everyone who attended and to our hosts George and Brenda Hubbard who put together an incredible party for the confirmands and mentors.

Parking Lot Resurfacing

Big thanks to everyone who helped make the parking lot project such a success! We were able to communicate the need to our neighbors who park with us to clear the lot for several days and church members mostly stayed away also, so the company had an easy time of cleaning, sealing, and then striping the newly refreshed surface. It is great to have the wider parking spaces as well.

Outdoor Worship & Potluck Picnic

Our annual outdoor service was great fun this year, though once again we had to move inside due to weather.  We did have plenty of people and a hilarious re-telling of the story of Jonah the prophet, with a jellyfish and singing sailors. We are grateful to the large cast of characters who quickly pivoted to a sanctuary setting—it still worked!  We all have a better understanding of what it must have been like in the belly of that great fish, how to befriend a jellyfish when you need help, and what it means to wear sackcloth and ashes when you have to repent. The potluck picnic was especially delicious this year, too.

Personal Hygiene Supply Drive

Thank you to everyone who supported our personal hygiene drive that benefited the Child Protective Services and Foster Care systems in Brown County. Special thanks to our confirmands and kids from the Nativity of Our Lord on Oneida Street who made substantial donations.

Softball Stats

Our softball season got underway in May and the team was so excited to be back on the field. Unfortunately our efforts didn’t result in a win for games 2 thru 5 in June. We’ve put up a good fight and gotten better with each game but haven’t been able to bring home a win yet this season. But we’re not going to get discouraged! We keep swinging and shooting for a win. Our last game of the season will be on Sunday, July 14th at Field 3 and we play ball at 6:45pm. Please come out and join us for the final game of the season before play offs!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had a fabulous time at their May 2nd social. There were 10 Chix in attendance when they dined at Narrow Bridge Plate + Pour. The food and service were excellent and there was an abundance of laughter throughout the evening. The next social is planned for June 6th at 6pm when the Chix will dine on the East side of town at Highland Howie’s Pub & Grill located at 3605 Humboldt Road. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

Letter Carriers & Boy Scout Food Drive

The Boy Scout food drive and the Letter Carriers drive in May sure filled our pantry. We’ve been averaging around 40 families during each week of Pantry so we’re always in need of help filling the pantry shelves. The Pantry crew thanks all who helped for the Letter Carriers drive with picking-up, sorting and putting away all the food. The Outreach Committee really appreciates all your help and so do our Pantry guests! The many new items offered will surely brings smiles to many.

Youth & Christian Educator Sunday

A BIG THANK YOU to our youth and youth group leaders who led us in worship on Pentecost Sunday! It was an opportunity for our youth to let their talents and abilities shine. They showcased their gifts in a number of ways from performing the readings to giving the sermon. As a group they chose the prayers and music that fit Pentecost Sunday and also chose all of the music. The steps in preparation of, and the actual worship service was a spiritual experience that has drawn each youth closer to their faith. Check out our photo gallery!

During worship the teachers and leaders were also recognized and thanked for all their contributions. Special thanks to Brenda Hubbard, Lisa Olson, Sara Bostedt, Loni McCormick, Deb Gauthier, Stacy Bostedt, Olivia Crooks, Jessica Gauthier, Mike Melton, Grace Estes Collins, Bobbi Holl, Joel Morien and Katie Estes for your contribution as educators!

Softball Stats

Our softball season got underway on Sunday, May 19th and the team was so excited to be back on the field. Unfortunately our efforts didn’t result in a win for our first game. We played Our Savior, fought a good fight but came out with a loss with the final score of 17 to 7. But we’re not going to let that dampen our spirits. We had a week off for the Memorial Day holiday weekend and then we’re back to playing on Sunday, June 2nd when we play Green Bay Community 1 at 5:30pm on Field 3. We hope that you can join us and cheer us on!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix unfortunately were unable to gather on April 4th because the snowstorm two days prior on April 2nd knocked the power out at the restaurant and they were still in the dark waiting for their power to return. So the plan for the May gathering is to try it again in the hopes that their won’t be any more snowstorms and the power will be on this time. We’ll gather Thursday, May 2nd at 6pm where we were supposed to gather in April at Narrow Bridge Plate + Pour located on the West side of town at 2840 Shawano Avenue. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

April Fourth Sunday Forum

On Sunday April 28th we wrapped up our program year with our final Fourth Sunday Forum. We were fortunate to have Ellen Smith speak, a member of our congregation and long-time mission co-worker for the PC(USA) to Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, and Poland. Ellen’s presentation “Seeking Hope From the Margins” provided an update on her recent travels and what they prompt her to pray and think about.

Henry Holl’s Baptism

On April 21st Henry Holl received the sacrament of baptism. Baptism is one of just two sacraments in our Presbyterian tradition and is always a blessing as we welcome a new person into the family of God. Henry’s loving big brother, Peter, stood with proud parents Bobbi and David along with extended family and friends for this special occasion. Check out our photo gallery!

Augusta Jeffrey 2024 Awarded

On April 21st we presented Becky Christiansen with the 2024 Augusta Jeffrey Award. She was nominated by several Session members who noted her exemplary service as Clerk of Session for the last two years. While much of her volunteer work is behind the scenes and not visible to the whole congregation, we all benefit greatly from her commitment and diligence. Thank you, Becky!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had an amazing social in March when we dined at Hagemeister Park Restaurant. There were 6 Chix in attendance with one being a newbie Chick. The social is ALWAYS open to new Chix joining the fun! The service was great (we heard that it might not be but it was) and the food was amazing with the conversation even even better! Our April social is planned on the West side for Thursday, April 4th at 6pm at Narrow Bridge Plate + Pour located on the west side at 2840 Shawano Avenue. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

March Fourth Sunday Forum

Nancy Siewert presented an informative Fourth Sunday Forum on March 24th regarding “period poverty” and menstrual equity. Her focus was on these issues in the United States, though they affect women worldwide of course. We learned that 20% of American teen girls live in poverty and struggle to obtain the feminine hygiene products necessary for their monthly cycles. We also heard that the state of Wisconsin does not require prisons and juvenile detention centers to provide feminine hygiene products to inmates, and Nancy shared some anecdotes about correction centers using the withholding of such products as punishment. It was an eye-opening Forum, and the women of Esther Circle are very grateful for the good response to their collection of products to be donated to St. John’s women’s shelter.

Lydia Morien’s Baptism

Lydia Ann Morien was baptized on Sunday March 17th. Her big sister Aubrey was thrilled to be part of it by pouring the water into the font, and Lydia was so eager to be baptized that she almost dove into the bowl! Lydia’s uncle (Brittany’s brother) as well as dear friends of Joel & Brittany stood as sponsors of her baptism. Lydia turns one this month, so we were pleased to get her baptized before she could run down the aisle on her own—she’s just that close to walking!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had an amazing social in February when we dined at White Dog, Local Green Bay Eatery. There were 9 Chix in attendance. The service was great, the food was fabulous and the conversation was even better! Our March social is planned for Thursday, March 7th at 6pm at Hagemeister Park Restaurant located at 325 N. Washington Street, downtown. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

Souper Bowl of Caring

Our Souper Bowl of Caring was a great time of food and fellowship! Using muffin tins with cup inserts this year (genius!) everyone had the opportunity to sample 8 amazing soups. The judging was tough because all were delicious! We had nearly 60 votes and the grand prize winner was chef Cassandra Aceituno with her stuffed pepper soup. Cassandra was awarded the golden ladle during worship on February 18th. We raised $387 for the Presbyterian Pantry. Thanks to everyone who attended and voted, and thanks to our amazing chefs— Cassandra Aceituno, George Hubbard, Al Smith, Lisa Olson, Joel Morien, Patty Kabacinski, Loni McCormick and Patti Mancheski. Thanks also to our CE Committee who made the event possible and to Mary Belanger who helped configure our crockpot outlets so we didn’t blow a circuit!

February Fourth Sunday Forum

Our Fourth Sunday Forum on February 25th featured a representative from NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) of Brown County. During the presentation, Jenna humanized the often misunderstood, highly stigmatized topic of mental illness by showing that it’s possible—and common—to live well with a mental health condition.

Cozy Kids

THANK YOU to everyone who made our Cozy Kids January Campaign such a success! This year our campaign benefited the kids of Presbyterian Pantry guests. The kids were so grateful for all the generous contributions! Our community of faith is truly blessed to have so many members who give back to our local community, especially to our friends and families in need that visit the Pantry.

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!

Church Chix Socials

The Chix had an amazing social in January when we dined at Greystone and we had 9 Chix that attended. The service was great, the food was fabulous and the conversation was even better! Our February social is planned for Thursday, February 1st at 6pm at White Dog, Local Green Bay Eatery located at 201 S. Broadway Avenue. To RSVP there’s a sign up sheet on the bulletin board or email office@firstpresgreenbay.org.

APCE Conference

During the week of January 22nd Joel attended the Association of Partners in Christian Education (APCE) annual event for pastors and educators. The experience was both spiritual and fulfilling. There were a myriad of different classes to choose from, all centered around this year’s theme “Let everyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift” from Revelation 22. There were worship services, keynote addresses and more. Thank you for making continuing education experiences possible for our staff.

New Ministry Luncheon

The new ministry luncheon on January 29th was well attended and there were a lot of great ideas shared by everyone. Next on the agenda is choosing a name for the group, so stay tuned for that. Beginning February 26th, the group will meet the fourth Monday of each month in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome to join! If you’re able to attend the monthly luncheon, please bring a bag lunch. Desserts will be provided.

Annual Ski Trip

Our annual ski trip the last weekend of January was a great success! There were 31 people in attendance from our congregation and the congregation of First United Presbyterian Church of De Pere. This year Elliott and Max took on the challenge of the Black Diamond hill which has a higher level of difficulty than what they skied last year. The weather was beautiful for a day on the slopes and everyone walked away with no broken bones. Check out our photo gallery!

Rundowns will publish with our Connections issue on a monthly or bimonthly basis. To submit rundowns for consideration contact us at communications@firstpresgreenbay.org by the 15th of the month to be included in the following month’s publication. And, as always, we look forward to receiving your Rundown of what’s been Happening Now!