Upcoming Events
Upcoming events at First Pres Fort Worth
DIGITAL CAMPUS CHURCH SCHOOL CLASS
Join this Bible study on the book of John, led by the Rev. Ashley Drake Mertz, in person or online!
FALL PREACHING SERIES: JONAH
What if Jonah’s story is not primarily about a prophet who runs from God, but about a God whose mercy outruns our expectations? Beginning September 13 and concluding on October 18 with a special guest preacher, we’ll explore “The God of Jonah: Mercy Moves Fast.” Through Jonah’s flight, prayer, preaching, frustration and transformation, we’ll discover a God who pursues us when we flee, awaits us when we pray, works through us when we try, stretches us when we resist and amazes us with patience and persistence. This series reminds us that God’s mercy is faster than our fear and reaches farther than we ever imagined. Through every storm and every second chance, God remains present, compassionate and ready to meet us. Whether you are encountering Jonah’s story for the first time or returning to it with fresh questions, come discover a mercy that pursues, restores and transforms.
mission connections church school class
This September and October, we will hear from some of the remarkable mission partners with whom we partner in our community and beyond. Each Sunday morning we’ll learn about their work, the people they serve, and the ways we can deepen our connections and join together in God’s work in the world. Classes meet Sundays at 10 a.m. in room 235.
- October 4: Tres Rios Border Foundation
- October 11: DRC Solutions
- October 18: Presbyterian Night Shelter
- October 25: Trinity Habitat for Humanity
New Prayer Groups this Fall: October 1 - November 23
This fall, explore new ways to experience God’s presence through prayer. Three small groups will gather weekly for eight weeks to practice ancient and contemplative forms of prayer, engage Scripture, and lift up the needs of others. Each group meets in Room 239, with space for up to 10 participants.
Mondays 9 a.m. - Lectio Divina/Sacred Reading
Group members will experience this ancient prayer practice that combines slow, attentive reading of Scripture with silent reflection. Participants will ask themselves “What is God saying to me through this text today?” The passage for each gathering will be scripture read in worship the following Sunday. Led by Lisa Connolly.
Thursdays 10 a.m. - Centering Prayer
To be still and know God’s presence. That is the intention of this contemplative prayer practice. Group members will practice quieting their minds and keeping silent so that they can open themselves up to the presence of the Living Creator. Led by Margaret Sudderth.
Thursdays 5:30 p.m. - Intercessory Prayer
This prayer group will have the blessing of praying to God on behalf of others. Led by Mary Salazar.
PRESCHOOL FAMILY PLAYDATE & MEET-UP: OCTOBER 3
Calling all families with kiddos 0-5 years old - lets meet up on the First Pres playground on October 3 from 9-10:30 a.m. for play and breakfast snacks!
BORDER MINISTRY UPDATE WITH REV. DR. JOHN NELSEN: OCTOBER 4
Gain a deeper understanding of the realities of immigration and border ministry through the lens of faith on Saturday, October 4, with presentations at 10 a.m. in Room 235 and 3 p.m. in Room 237. Rev. Dr. John Nelsen, Partner Coordinator for Tres Rios Presbytery Border Ministry and former pastor of University Presbyterian Church in El Paso, brings more than three decades of experience in border ministry. He will provide an up-to-date look at conditions along the border, explore how faith communities are responding, and address common misconceptions surrounding immigration. Grounded in the ministry's guiding principle, "We are not on the red team or the blue team, we are on the Love God/Love Neighbor team," this session will examine how our faith informs our understanding of immigration and highlight opportunities for meaningful ministry and engagement.
PENN STREET ARTS PRESENTS TEXAS BOYS CHOIR: OCTOBER 6
Experience an inspiring evening of choral music as the renowned Texas Boys Choir performs as part of the Penn Street Arts Concert Series on Tuesday, October 6, at 7 p.m. in the First Pres Sanctuary. Known for their exceptional artistry and beautiful vocal sound, the choir will present a captivating repertoire that showcases the talent and tradition of one of Texas's premier boys' choirs. This concert is free and open to the public.
FAMILY CAMPING TRIP: OCTOBER 9-11
Come hang out with your church family for a fun, family camping trip during Fall Break, October 9-11 at Caddo Lake! This highly rated and coveted camping spot boasts the only naturally occurring lake in Texas, lush foliage, and diverse wildlife. We’ll be camping for two nights, but if any families are not up for an “in tents” camping experience, you’re still encouraged to consider lodging nearby and/or joining us for the daytime activities, including hiking, exploring, meals, and more! Please note: Children participants (grades K-5) and any youth student lodging offsite must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Contact Josh or Ann with any questions!
Click here to register by October 4
HEART HAT TOUR OF TRANSFORM 1012: OCTOBER 17
The First Pres Advocacy Subcommittee invites you to a special "heart hat" tour of The Transform 1012 Center on Saturday October 17, from 10-11 a.m. at 1012 N. Main Street. Transform 1012 is the former Ku Klux Klan auditorium that is being transformed into a center for arts, community healing, and reparative justice. This behind-the-scenes opportunity offers a sneak peek at this remarkable project that is repurposing a monument to hate into a beacon of truth-telling, reparative justice, and liberation. Registration is required to sign the waiver and receive parking instructions. Learn more about the project at transform1012.org.
CONTEMPLATION IN CLAY: OCTOBER 20
Join us at Possum Pottery Art Studio, 1910 Tremont Avenue in Fort Worth, on Tuesday, October 20 5:30-7 p.m. as we work with clay to quiet our minds, open our hearts, and connect with the beauty of the present moment. The studio and First Pres' Spiritual Formation group will lead the participants in handbuilding pottery and meditation. No art experience is required! Registration is $20 and is limited to 16 adults due to size of studio.
Click here to register by October 16
THE SANDWICH GENERATION: OCTOBER 25
As parents, we have kids under our watch, and many times, we are also called upon to care for and support our aging parents. Dr. Katherine Woods, Staff Psychologist at The Center, will provide insight and tips for managing the stress that can come with the demands of being in the middle of loved ones needing our attention. Sponsored by the Congregational Care Committee, this event will be held on Sunday, October 25, from 12-2 p.m. in Room 235 with lunch included. Questions? Contact Pastor Ashley.
In Memory Of… All Saints Labyrinth Walk
Sunday, November 1 in the outdoor Stone Labyrinth, Memorial Garden. The labyrinth walk gives us a sacred space to remember family and friends who have gone before us. As we move along the labyrinth’s winding path, we are reminded that our God walks alongside us while we carry both our love and grief for those who have passed away. All are invited to bring a memento of a loved one to hold as they walk the outdoor labyrinth anytime between 8 and 11 a.m. on November 1. Members of Spiritual Formation will be at the labyrinth to answer questions and give guidance to participants.
TAI CHI: MONDAYS AT 10 A.M.
Tai Chi has resumed! Wellness Together is excited to offer Tai Chi to the First Pres community every Monday morning at 10 a.m. in the Atrium. Tai Chi is a graceful form of exercise that can reduce stress and promotes general physical and mental health. Often described as meditation in motion, tai chi promotes serenity through gentle, flowing movements.
Caregiver Support Group: 1st mondays
Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. If you're a primary caregiver looking for a space to connect, share experiences, and find support, join us for meaningful conversation on the first Monday of each month at 10:30
a.m. in Room 102. Questions? Reach out to
(817.335.1231, ext. 264) for more information.
THIRD THIRD OF LIFE MONTHLY GATHERINGS: 3RD WEDNESDAYS
The Third Third of Life gathering is for those seeking connection and purposeful living in the third third (60ish and over) of life. Our gatherings will focus on topics such as spiritual growth and discernment, community and connection, health and well-being, and life planning and purpose. Join us for conversation and fellowship on the 3rd Wednesdays at 9:15 a.m. for fellowship and 9:30-10:30 a.m. for programming in Room 102. Pastries and coffee provided. Reach out to or with any questions.
MONTHLY GRANDPARENTS GATHERING
Join fellow grandparents who are actively involved in raising grandchildren or supporting their adult children in parenthood. This monthly gathering offers a welcoming space to connect, share ideas, and encourage one another on this unique journey. Enjoy morning coffee and conversation in the Parlor every second Thursday from 9:30–10:30 a.m. All are welcome! Questions? Contact .
FAITHFUL ACTION & RESPONSE: 3RD TUESDAYS
Faithful Action and Response (FAR) meets on the third Tuesdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m. in the Youth Center for those discerning how to live out their faith intentionally in a divisive world. Each gathering has time for spiritual practices and ways to engage faithfully in a polarized and political climate. Reach out to or with any questions. “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together.” (African Proverb)
CIRCLES OF CHRIST COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Join Circles of Christ for coffee and conversation on the third Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. Come share a cup of coffee and your ideas for loving and learning together! For location or questions, contact .
Men's WEEKLY BIBLE STUDY
Monday morning Bible Study meets weekly from 6:30-7:45 a.m. Become part of a group of more than a dozen men who meet weekly to grow in their relationship with God and one another through Bible Study, prayer and sharing.
PICKLEBALL IN THE GYM
The Wellness Committee is excited to offer a number of opportunities to play Pickleball in the First Pres gym! Pickleball is a fun, social sport for all ages and skill levels that combines elements of ping-pong, badminton, and tennis, has simple rules, and is easy to learn. With two courts available, up to 8 players can get together for a fun game that is as competitive or as casual as you want it to be. Times currently available are 12-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. each Tuesday through Friday, and 6-8 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Click here to reSERVE A COURT TIME
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