In response to many expressions of concern about the conflict, division, and violence in our country and around the world, our pastors will be leading a contemplative service of prayer as we lift our concerns to God and pray for healing for our nation and world. We hope that you will join us for this special time of worship and prayer.
In this two-part retreat, we’ll look at common stressors in marriage and learn practical, grace-filled ways to respond that build resilience instead of resentment. This will be a judgment-free, “you don’t have to have it all together” space to be honest about both the joys and the hard parts of marriage, and to connect with other couples who get it. Our facilitator will be Dr. Tommy Bischoff, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Saturday’s session will conclude with a simple “homework” assignment: a date just for the two of you. Childcare will be provided, as well as breakfast and two lunches. Registration will be $25 per person ($30 if childcare is needed). Registration will open January 1–February 7. Retreat Schedule Saturday, Feb. 14 | 9:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. – Main retreat sessions, breakfast and lunch included Sunday, Feb. 15 | 12:30–2:00 p.m. – Closing luncheon and debrief Cost & Registration $25 per person (includes meals) $30 per person with childcare Registration opens January 1 and closes February 7
Stop by for a brief moment to receive ashes. Pastors will be stationed on Poplar Street near the CDC carpool and driveway exit.
We will join with First United Presbyterian for worship, including the imposition of ashes. Interfaith Conversation in Partnership with MeckMIN, 12 p.m., Frances Browne Dining Room - Join guests from the Charlotte community for an interfaith conversation following our Ash Wednesday service, where we'll discuss how different faith traditions address mortality and suffering. To keep the conversation intimate, the number of guests is limited to the first 15 registrants. Lunch will be provided. RSVP for lunch
Stop by for a brief moment to receive ashes. Pastors will be stationed on Poplar Street near the CDC carpool and driveway exit.
Children ages 3 through 5th grade are invited to enjoy a pajama party hosted by the church youth to support missions and summer trips! Drop your children off at FPC and enjoy some free time while the children watch movies and play games. Dinner will be provided (pizza). Cost: ($30/child with a family cap of $60) Junior Helpers: 4th and 5th-graders can either register to participate in the event or register to act as a "Junior Helper" to assist with the younger children. Logistics: Meet and pick up in the Welcome Center Lobby
Join us for a churchwide youth fundraiser breakfast on Sunday, February 8 at 10 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. This fun and festive event supports our youth summer trips and mission projects. Enjoy a delicious breakfast served by the youth and connect with others in the congregation while helping us reach our goals. Registration is required. The cost for the breakfast is $15. Children 4 and under are free. All are welcome! Come hungry and ready to support our youth. $15/ticket with a cap of $30 per family
The Session has called a congregational meeting for the purpose of electing the Pastor Nominating Committee charged with searching for our next senior pastor.
What is special about being human? What do we forget when we talk to machines? What are practical steps to maintain human connection in a digital world? We live in a world of smartphones, smart homes, and “smart” AI that remember what we like, respond to our questions, and even become our companions. But what happens to us—and to our relationships—when our devices shape our capacity for real conversation and genuine connection? In this year’s Willard Lecture, bestselling author and MIT sociologist Sherry Turkle will help us think carefully and hopefully about AI and invite us to imagine how we might use technology in ways that enhance, rather than erode, the sacred work of being present with one another. Schedule: Lecture: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Q&A: 6:30-7 Meet-and-greet and book sales: 7-8 p.m.
Mark your calendars for our Great Big Egg Hunt on March 27 at 4:30 p.m. on the front lawn! Children ages birth to 5th grade are invited for eggs, pizza, and springtime fun on the front lawn. We are celebrating and sharing God’s great big love, and we ask every family to bring a stuffed bunny or Easter candy to share with our local food pantry so we can pass that joy forward to our neighbors in need. We’ll provide pizza. Bring your own basket and get ready to hunt! Registration opens March 11.
The 11 a.m. service will open with a palm processional. All children and youth (birth through 18) are invited to take part in this meaningful tradition. Processional Details: Children and youth should meet in the Fellowship Hall at 10:40 a.m. to line up. Families are invited to attend the Children’s Musical at 10 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall and then stay afterward for the processional lineup. Parents, please remember to save pew space for your children (including choir members), as this will be a high-attendance Sunday. Important Notes: Children who are dropped off in the Fellowship Hall must be old enough and comfortable walking down the aisle independently. Parents of toddlers and younger children are encouraged to walk with them during the processional. We can’t wait to see palms waving and children leading us into worship as we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.