Two college students are the recipients of financial assistance from First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem. Elizabeth Escott is the recipient of a $10,000 award from the Barry Brandt Educational Assistance Fund of our church’s endowment. This grant, which is awarded on academic standing and financial need, will be applied to...
The poet W.H. Auden summed up how many people view the week after Christmas in his poem, For the Time Being. As he sits in the aftermath of Christmas celebrations, he reflects: Well, so that is that. Now we must dismantle the tree, putting the decorations back into their cardboard boxes...
Christmas is almost here! The busyness of the season is in full swing, I know, and that is certainly the case here at First Pres over the next few days. But in the midst of that busyness, I hope that you will both seek and find time for reflection, celebration,...
A MESSAGE FROM REV. J.C. AUSTIN: AN EXPERIENCE OF HOPE Advent has become an increasingly unusual season in the Christian church because it stands in significant contrast to the way in which the general culture prepares for Christmas. In terms of our theology and worship, Advent is not simply intended...
A MESSAGE FROM REV. J.C. AUSTIN: GROWING IN STRENGTH This Sunday we will be receiving new members at both the Contemporary and Traditional services. It’s always a wonderful and special service when we welcome new members into the life and ministry of this congregation, and I hope you will all...
The second annual Giving Tree will be in place starting Sunday, Dec. 1 through Tuesday, Dec. 24 in Fellowship Hall. As last year, you can purchase everything from a family of chickens to water systems for people around the world, where they are needed – this is a great way...
We invite you to join us! #WelcomingToAll Tuesday, December 24 – Christmas Eve services: 5 p.m.: Intergenerational Service (designed for all ages with elements of both traditional and contemporary music, including music by the Children’s Christmas Choir and Chancel Ringers Handbell Choir); child care available 7:30 p.m.: Traditional Candlelight Service (featuring music by the...
FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1: THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT We will offer a Combined Worship Service at 10 a.m. in our Sanctuary, featuring elements of both our Contemporary and Traditional services. It is Communion Sunday, and all who would like to partake are welcome. The Children’s Christmas Choir will sing during this service....