Events
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The Third Sunday in Advent (Chapel)
What the World Needs Now: Joy
Isaiah 35:1–10 and Luke 1:39–56
Lauren Tucker, preaching
The Third Sunday in Advent (Contemporary Service)
What the World Needs Now: Joy
Isaiah 35:1–10 and Luke 1:39–56
Lauren Tucker, preaching
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
The Fourth Sunday in Advent (Chapel)
8:15 a.m.
What the World Needs Now: Love
Isaiah 43:1–7 and John 3:16–21
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
The Fourth Sunday in Advent (Contemporary)
9 a.m.
What the World Needs Now: Love
Isaiah 43:1–7 and John 3:16–21
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
First Look
This Advent, we remember that God often does God’s best work along long journeys. Since 2017, our congregation has been on such a journey of discernment, generosity, and vision as we worked to renew our campus for future ministry.
We are thrilled to share that many of our newly renovated and expanded spaces will be open for a “first look” on Sunday, Dec. 21, from 10 to 10:50 a.m. Thanks to the generosity of 470 households who pledged more than $40 million, these spaces are now ready to welcome you.
During this time, you may walk through the new areas, ask questions, reconnect, and celebrate what God is making possible.
Open for visiting are The Correll Family Commons; renovated DuPre, Robinson, Memorial, and Memory Gardens; Four of six new adult Sunday School rooms with state-of-the-art Zoom Room technology (including the Wirth Room overlooking the DuPre Garden); First Grade Sunday School classroom; renewed DuPre pre-function space and two new prayer/baptism rooms; new Robinson Garden entry and DuPre Gathering/Gallery Hall connecting to the Correll Commons; redesigned Arts Center Way parking lot and north driveway providing two-way traffic from Peachtree Street; Preschool reception area, workroom, and staff offices; Preschool recreation room and two classrooms; two School of Fine Arts practice rooms and the bell choir room, and newly renovated restrooms throughout the building.
The Fourth Sunday in Advent (Traditional)
11 a.m.
What the World Needs Now: Love
Isaiah 43:1–7 and John 3:16–21
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Community Ministries Volunteer Christmas Party Volunteer Fellowship Hour
Community Ministries volunteers—both new and longtime—are invited to a Christmas Volunteer Fellowship Hour on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 12:15 p.m. in the Smith Building, 1st floor. We will celebrate the past year of service with an hour of fellowship and Advent cheer. Sweet treats and finger foods will be provided. RSVP here.
Christmas Eve: Younger Children and Family Service
11 a.m.
Younger Children and Family Service
Sanctuary
Candle Lighting
Christmas Eve: Lessons and Carols
1 p.m.
Lessons and Carols Service
Chapel
Sandy Gould, music
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Candle Lighting
Christmas Eve: Traditional
3 p.m.
Traditional Service
Sanctuary
Organ, Choir and Orchestra,
with Tom Bara and Dan Bara
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Candle Lighting
Christmas Eve: Traditional
5 p.m.
Traditional Service
Sanctuary
Organ, Choir and Orchestra,
with Tom Bara and Dan Bara
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Candle Lighting
Epiphany Sunday (Chapel)
8:15 a.m.
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Communion at all three services
Epiphany Sunday (Contemporary)
9 a.m.
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Communion at all three services
Epiphany Sunday (Traditional)
11 a.m.
Tony Sundermeier, preaching
Communion at all three services
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
20s and 30s - Christmas Party at the Fletcher-Josey House
Email lghighi@firstpresatl.org for more information.
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
December Circle Meeting
Join us for our December Circle Meeting on Monday, Dec. 1 at 10 a.m. at Second Ponce de Leon Church. Chris Holmes will lead Lesson #4, The Prodigal Son Story. Come for conversation, coffee, and community. Questions? Contact Pam Covington at pamcovington1929@gmail.com.
Christmas Concert Lecture
This year’s Christmas Concert and Lecture will highlight Camille Saint-Saëns’s Christmas Oratorio. Join Chris Holmes and Tom Bara for an introductory lecture on Nov. 30 at 10 a.m. in Fifield Hall.
The choir and orchestra will present the full work in the Sanctuary on Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.
For more information, contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org or Tom Bara at tbara@firstpresatl.org.
Intergenerational Advent Festival
Join us on Sunday, November 23, at 10 a.m. in Fifield Hall for our annual Intergenerational Advent Festival. We’ll explore the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, enjoy games, decorate cookies, and learn more about the Advent season.
Everyone is welcome—come celebrate the gifts of Advent together!
Concerts@First: Bach’s Lunch
Take a musical break at Concerts@First: Bach’s Lunch on Friday, Nov. 21, at noon.
Virtuoso harpist Elisabeth Remy Johnson joins flutist Christina Smith and the Vega Quartet for a luminous program featuring works by Ravel, Debussy, Tournier, and Piazzolla. Experience world-class artistry in our stunning sanctuary—free admission and open to all.
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
Loss and Wonder Worship Service
Loss, change, grief, sadness, and loneliness are part of every life — sometimes quiet, sometimes overwhelming. For those walking through these times or for those who love someone who is, this service will offer a space of comfort and reflection. Through the quiet mystery of song and prayer and the stillness of wonder, pastors Katie Sundermeier and Rob Sparks will guide those gathered to the place where, even in the darkest night, God’s light breaks through. Come, not because everything is merry and bright, but because in the shadows, there’s a promise that God will meet us right where we are—just as we are.
For more information, contact:
Rev. Dr. Katie Sundermeier – ksundermeier@firstpresatl.org
Rev. Rob Sparks – rsparks@firstpresatl.org
Celebrate the Power of Music with the ASO and FPC
Join us for a powerful musical afternoon on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 3 p.m., as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concludes its yearlong Beethoven Celebration. Under the direction of Nathalie Stutzmann, the ASO will perform Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony and two works by Bach.
Only a few tickets remain. To inquire, contact sgiedd@firstpresatl.org.
Pop-Up Wreath Making
Prepare your heart and home for the Advent season with a hands-on afternoon of wreath making at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. This intergenerational event, supported by the FPC Flower Guild, includes all materials and step-by-step instruction to help you create a festive wreath for your home.
Cost: $30 per person. Space is limited—please register in advance to reserve your spot and materials.
Contact Saranell Hartman at shartman@firstpresatl.org.
Community Ministries Blanket Drive
As the weather turns colder, many of our Midtown neighbors need warm blankets. You can help by donating a new or gently used blanket by Sunday, Nov. 16.
Please place all donations in the blue bins and carts located in the Smith Lobby or outside the Sanctuary.
Friendsgiving: 20s and 30s November Social Event
Join us on Friday, Nov. 15, for the annual 20s and 30s Friendsgiving at the McDonalds’ home! We will gather at 6 p.m. for appetizers and enjoy dinner around 7 p.m. Come for great food, conversation and a chance to share gratitude together.
20s and 30s - Friendsgiving at the McDonald's House
Email lghighi@firstpresatl.org for more information.
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Do all religions lead to God? Is science in conflict with the Bible? Why does God allow suffering? You're invited to explore these questions and more for a Taste of Small Group experience!
The event takes place the following Sundays at 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and 26, and Nov. 9 in the Orchestra Room.
The event is led by Rev. Dr. Barry Gaeddert.
Please pre-register by email as we will be serving a light meal (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
FPC Choir at The Temple
The FPC Atlanta Choir will join our friends at The Temple for a special concert, “Kristallnacht — Beyond the Broken Glass: A Concert of Healing & Light,” on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 4 p.m.
This concert brings together multiple choirs in a moving musical commemoration of Kristallnacht, transforming remembrance into a shared journey of resilience, hope, and harmony. A reception will follow.
Tickets are available here.
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
November Daytime Circle Meeting at Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church
Come enjoy a warm cup of coffee, meaningful conversation, and fellowship with friends old and new. and join us as we continue our study “Finding Resilience, Joy, and Our Identity in Jesus Christ” with Lesson 3: “Temptation in the Wilderness.”
Rev. Rob Sparks will be the session's leader.
As part of our ongoing outreach, we’re also collecting non-food items for the Community Ministries Pantry.
Requested donations include:
7–12 oz. bottles of dish soap
Toilet paper and paper towels
40 oz. laundry detergent or 15–30 count tablets
Glass cleaner, toilet cleaner
Boxes of Parmalat milk
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Do all religions lead to God? Is science in conflict with the Bible? Why does God allow suffering? You're invited to explore these questions and more for a Taste of Small Group experience!
The event takes place the following Sundays at 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and 26, and Nov. 9 in the Orchestra Room.
The event is led by Rev. Dr. Barry Gaeddert.
Please pre-register by email as we will be serving a light meal (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
Trunk or Treat
Trunk or Treat takes place Oct. 26 following worship from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. Children can meet in the North Drive Lane that includes bouncy houses, apple bobbing, arts and crafts, and a cake walk.
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Do all religions lead to God? Is science in conflict with the Bible? Why does God allow suffering? You're invited to explore these questions and more for a Taste of Small Group experience!
The event takes place the following Sundays at 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and 26, and Nov. 9 in the Orchestra Room.
The event is led by Rev. Dr. Barry Gaeddert.
Please pre-register by email as we will be serving a light meal (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
Circle at SPDL
Join friends at the Daytime Circle on Oct. 6 at 10 a.m. at Second Ponce de Leon Church as Tony Sundermeier teaches Lesson 2 'Mary, of a Certain Village' from the study book, 'Finding Resilience, Joy and Our Identity in Jesus Christ'. The church is located at 2715 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, 30305. Questions? Contact Pam Covington at pamcovington1929@gmail.com
Reading the Bible Together
Fall Study on Ezra & Nehemiah
Join us for Reading the Bible Together, a weekly, come-as-you-are Bible study that invites honest questions and thoughtful conversation. This fall, we will explore the books of Ezra and Nehemiah—two powerful narratives about rebuilding after exile. These texts speak to communities seeking restoration, spiritual renewal, and faithful leadership in times of transition.
Each week, we will focus on one or two chapters, with summaries and discussion prompts provided in advance via email. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your lunch.
Contact Chris Holmes at cholmes@firstpresatl.org for more information or sign up here to receive weekly emails: tinyurl.com/rtbtsignup.
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Hard Questions of Faith Small Group
Do all religions lead to God? Is science in conflict with the Bible? Why does God allow suffering? You're invited to explore these questions and more for a Taste of Small Group experience!
The event takes place the following Sundays at 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 12 and 26, and Nov. 9 in the Orchestra Room.
The event is led by Rev. Dr. Barry Gaeddert.
Please pre-register by email as we will be serving a light meal (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
All Events
MILESTONE Moments
Weddings
Weddings at First Presbyterian Church are worship services during which two people are united in the presence of God. From the historic beauty of the Tiffany stained-glass windows to our stately stone edifice, every element of a wedding here supports this sacred union.
Read more about weddings at FPC.
Baptisms
As a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we share the sacrament of baptism of people of all ages during our worship services.
For more information or to schedule a baptism, For more information or to schedule a baptism, contact Katie Covington via email at kcovington@firstpresatl.org or phone: (404) 228-7712.
Memorial Services
Our Care Ministry is available to provide spiritual support and assist with the planning of funerals and memorial services.
For more information about services, receptions, and interment in the Memorial Garden at First Presbyterian Church, contact Rev. Rob Sparks via email at rsparks@firstpresatl.org or phone: (404) 228-7763.