Announcements
Click on the Ministries above to be taken to that section!
Click on the arrow in the bottom right to bring you back to this section!
Phase II Capital Project
FPC's construction project has received three permits from the City of Atlanta. These permits are required because the project will proceed in three stages: the construction and delivery of the third floor, followed by the second floor, and finally the first floor. This sequence allows staff to be consolidated on the third floor, freeing up space on the first and second floors for reconfiguration.
With permits secured, the pace of construction has picked up over the past week. Demolition of the structure for the Commons (first floor) is underway and visible from Peachtree Street. Simultaneously, demolition of the third floor has begun in preparation for the construction of the staff suite and the children’s ministry suite.
The windows of the Senior Pastor's suite are temporarily covered as materials are being removed from the third floor through a window opening.
On 16th Street, construction fencing indicates that work will begin shortly. The 16th Street entrance will remain accessible.
Inside the 16th Street entrance (near the vestry), a ramp has been installed where steps previously led down from street level. This modification prepares for the closure of the north driveway, ensuring that PMO teachers can easily move their buggies in and out through alternative entrances.
Arts Ministry
George Wirth Scholarship Recipients
The George Wirth Committee has accepted a fifth scholarship student for this school year. When Erick Gonzales, 15 year old violist, made it to the finals of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's Talent Development Program he was given trial lessons by the principal violist of the ASO, Zhenwei Shi. Zhenwei recommended Erick for our scholarship and will now be teaching him through the FPC School of Fine Arts. Our other scholarship students are: Annabelle An, harp, Inara Stewart, trombone, Daniel Sundaram, viola, Osiris Sanchez, bassoon who is also studying with an ASO musician. This scholarship program is now a collaborator with the ASO and its Pathways initiative (ASO TDP) that has become a national model for training young musicians for acceptance into music conservatories.
Children’s Ministry
Let’s Mahjong
Are you interested in learning how to play Mahjong or enhancing your existing skills? Want to meet more people in the church and have some fun, we have the perfect program for you! We will meet in Fifield Hall from 12:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m., on 4 Sundays in November, the 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th. Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience level! Bring your own Mahjong set if you have one, or feel free to use one of ours. Two knowledgeable instructors will be there to guide us through the fundamentals and intricacies of Mahjong. Lunch will be organized within the group to make the experience more enjoyable. No childcare will be provided.
Intergenerational Advent Festival
Join us Sunday, November 24th at 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m., during the Sunday School hour, for fellowship, crafting, decorating cookies and learning about what the Advent season is all about.
Annual Christmas Parade & Hanging of the Greens
Join us for our Annual FPC Christmas Parade & Hanging of the Greens on Sunday, December 1, from 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. I hope you can join us as we walk through the story of Christ's birth and celebrate this sacred time together. After the parade please join us for dinner and our traditional Hanging of the Greens. We will make ornaments to decorate FPC's Christmas tree, listen to Holiday music and enjoy each other's company. Make sure you select a parade start time that works for you and your family. Each start time will include a dinner option following the parade. Please plan on arriving 5 minutes before your scheduled time slot to receive your parade packet with route information. We will be gathering in the Lanier Parking Lot, directly across from the Church on Peachtree.
Dinner will be from Willy’s Taco Bar.
Family - $30 , Two - $17, Individual - $15
2024 FPC Annual Christmas Pageant
It is that time of year! We hope you and your family will make plans to be part of our annual FPC Christmas Pageant. The pageant is a children-led church service and a special way to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season. This year's Christmas pageant will be Sunday, December 15 during the 11:00 a.m. service. Children ages 3 (as of August 1, 2024) thru 5th grade are able to participate. Rehearsals begin on Sunday, October 27th, during the Sunday School hour. They are a critical part of the Christmas pageant and we ask families to commit to attending at least 3 practices PLUS the mandatory dress rehearsal on December 8. We would love to see your family be part of this service!
Community Ministries
Women’s Transformation Center & Donation Needs
The construction of the Women’s Transformation Center is now complete, and preparations for our winter opening are in full swing. To ensure a welcoming and comfortable environment for our future residents, we are stocking essential items specifically tailored to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide everything necessary to create a restful space that supports their journey towards self-sufficiency. We invite you to support this initiative by considering a donation from our Amazon Wishlist. Click the button below to access the Amazon Wishlist! Your generous contributions will play a vital role in making the WTC a hospitable home for the women we serve. Thank you in advance for your support!
Foot Care Volunteer Opportunity
Community Ministries is thrilled to revive the historic Foot Care Ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta! This vital program supports our neighbors, many of whom depend on walking as their primary means of getting around. Our dedicated Foot Care volunteers provide essential non-clinical care to help keep clients' feet clean, healthy, and comfortable. If you’re interested in joining us as a volunteer, please fill out the inquiry form below!
Our Community Needs Us
These items are the most needed for our vulnerable neighbors. Please drop them off at the reception desk & mark for Community Ministries.
Soap/Bodywash
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Dental Floss
Shampoo/Conditioner
Deodorant
Razors
Lotion
Chapstick
Wet Wipes (for hands, body, or baby wipes)
Nail Clippers
Hairbrushes/Combs
Feminine Hygiene Products
Hand Sanitizer
Blankets
Backpacks, Sling Bags, or Luggage
Reusable/Strong shopping bags
Hand Warmers
Washcloths
Ziplock bags — 1-gallon, 1-quart, and sandwich size
Sunday Prayer Breakfast
After a brief summer hiatus, the Sunday Prayer Breakfast has returned! The breakfast will be held in Fifield Hall from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m., and everyone is welcome to attend!
Those interested in volunteering to help make and serve the breakfast can sign up to do so by clicking the button below. Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6:00 a.m. in Fifield Hall.
Winter Clothing Drive
As winter approaches, our unhoused neighbors face the critical need for warm clothing. With temperatures dropping, access to essentials like coats, hats, and gloves becomes vital for their comfort and well-being. First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta is dedicated to supporting our community through a Winter Drive! FPCA Community Ministries aims to gather warm winter clothing to help our unhoused neighbors stay safer and more comfortable during the cold months.
We welcome donations of new or gently used, clean items, including coats, scarves, hats, and gloves in all sizes. Please drop off donations in the designated bins located in the Smith Building Lobby. We accept donations on Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Your generosity can make a difference this winter—thank you for helping us keep our community warm!
Community Ministries: Lunch Bags
Did you know that Community Ministries serves lunch to over 300 of our homeless neighbors every week? You can help by signing up to purchase, make, and deliver sandwich bags to be served to Community Ministries clients. Sandwich bags consist of a PB&J sandwich a small bag of chips and two additional snack sized items. Donations of sandwich bags can be brought to the church lobby security desk, Sunday through Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Click the button below to sign-up and learn more:
Faith Formation
College Christmas Party
Calling all college students! Join us for the 4th Annual FPC College Christmas Party on Friday, December 20, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Busko Household! We'll gather together for a festive evening of dinner, fellowship with our Prayer Pals, and a White Elephant gift exchange (bring a $15 gift to participate!). Please RSVP by December 13 to let us know you’re coming. No Prayer Pal? No worries! You're still invited to connect with your FPC Family. We can’t wait to welcome all college students back home for the holidays!
New Men's Small Group
A new small group for men! Join us for a regular coffee meet-up where we can chat about living our faith in today's world. It’s a chance for us to hang out, support each other, and simply take a breath from our everyday.
The event will take place every other Thursday at 8:00 AM at Bellwood Coffee, located at 1776 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. Free parking is available in the garage behind the building off 26th Street, and the barista will validate your parking. We’ll talk about all sorts of things that matter as we try to navigate life with faith. Whether you’re looking for some encouragement, advice, or just good company, this is for you. Contact Zach Hamilton (zheazey@gmail.com) or Barry Gaeddert (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org) for more information.
A Quiet Advent
Before the hustle and bustle of the holidays, join us for "A Quiet Advent", December 1, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in Women’s Bible Room. During this mini retreat we will create a space for quiet reflection, prayer and creative ways to prepare our hearts for God to draw near . All are welcome. For more information, contact Saranell Hartman, shartman@firstpresatl.org.
A Women's Christmas
A Women’s Christmas is an Irish tradition that creates space for rest, reflection at the end of the busy Christmas season. Join us for a mini retreat, January 5th, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Women’s Bible Room. We will rest, reflect and celebrate the God who has drawn near with readings, silence and creativity.
For more information, contact Saranell Hartman, shartman@firstpresatl.org
Pop-Up Bible Study
Join Chris Holmes and DeMeeta Hulett for a short-term Bible study exploring the theme of giving thanks. The class will meet at 9:00 a.m. in Room 230 on November 10, 17, 24, and December 1. All are welcome to this discussion-based study. Contact DeMeeta Hulett (dhulett@firstpresatl.org) for more information and to sign up.
Annual Women’s Retreat
Restored: Healing and Wholeness in Christ
Come be part of our Annual Women's Retreat on January 24-25, 2025. This year's theme, "Restored: Healing and Wholeness in Christ," will be led by Saranell Hartman and will focus on sharing stories, exploring scripture and reflecting on God's love for us as whole human beings. No matter your age or life stage, the retreat is a wonderful opportunity to build sisterhood at FPC across generations and backgrounds. Enjoy a potluck fellowship dinner on 1/24, and join us on Saturday, 1/25 for programming. Lunch and breakout sessions will also be included. The registration fee is $55. Scholarships and childcare are available upon request. Click below to register!
Contact Saranell Hartman at shartman@firstpresatl.org for more details.
Men's Breakfast
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 7:30-9:00
Join us on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024, from 7:30-9:00 a.m. where Tony Sundermeier will reflect on "Making the Most of the Christmas Season" followed by discussion/dialogue/connection with other men at your table. Cost is $15, Register below!
Questions? Contact Barry Gaeddert (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
First Presbyterian Preschool
First Presbyterian Preschool Holiday Market
On Friday, December 6th from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., join us at the First Presbyterian Preschool Holiday Market in Founders Hall. Shop a wide array of local retailers and artisans this holiday season - accessories, books, gifts, holiday wreaths and arrangements, food items, stationery, and more!
The Holiday Market raises funds to support the teachers at First Presbyterian Preschool. This year, proceeds will go directly to professional development in the Reggio Emilia inspired approach and early math initiatives from Erikson Institute's Early Math Collaborative.
Global Mission
What in the World?
What is God doing in Guatemala? On November 14th - 19th, 9 current and former members of the Global Mission Council will travel to Guatemala City to begin an assessment of a potential future partnership with CEDEPCA. FPC youth will also travel to partner with them in June. CEDEPCA’s work with Guatemalans impacted by migration, natural disasters, and education challenges along with their commitment to the role of women in the Guatemalan culture place them as leaders in the new ventures of mission in the world today. We invite you to join us by praying for God’s wisdom as we make this assessment. For information on this or any of the partnerships of FPC’s Global Mission Council, please contact Barry Gaeddert (bgaeddert@firstpresatl.org).
Mission Market
Mission Market offers you unique and creative ways to support FPC’s Global Mission partners by giving a gift to honor a friend, family member, or colleague this Christmas. Stop by the Information Desk on Sundays during Advent to look at the catalog. For each gift purchased you will receive an acknowledgement card that you can give to the person you are honoring. Thank you for prayerfully supporting our partners in mission at FPC.
Samaritan Counseling Center of Atlanta
Navigating the Holidays
Support for Depression, Grief, and Loneliness - Facilitated by Asher Burk, Domestic Violence Advocate at Women's Resource Center & Graduate Student Therapist-in-Training at Agnes Scott College and Julia Spinolo, Doctorate of Nursing Practice, APRN, FNP-BC, and Graduate Student Therapist-in-Training at Georgia State University
Starting December 2 at 6pm , this group is designed to help individuals struggling with depression, grief, and loneliness during the holiday season. Join us for a supportive, compassionate space to explore your feelings and find comfort with others who understand. Sessions will be held weekly for 5 sessions at $20 per session.
Spaces are limited, so please contact Samaritan Counseling Center of Atlanta to register or learn more about each group.
LGBTQ+ Support Group
Facilitated by Brittany Walsh, APC and Therapist at SCCA since 2021 and Charlotte Warren, former Episcopal Student Chaplain at Wake Forest University and Graduate Student Therapist-in-Training at Agnes Scott College
Beginning January 16 at 6pm and meeting every other Thursday, this group offers a safe, affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect and share experiences. Join us to discuss the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ community members and find support among peers. This group will meet for 7 sessions at $40 per session.
Spaces are limited, so please contact Samaritan Counseling Center of Atlanta to register or learn more about each group.
Youth Ministry
Youth Group is Back!
All 6th through 12th graders are invited to Youth Group, every Sunday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Fifield Hall! We'll gather for dinner, epic games, age-specific small groups, and tons of fun! Throughout the year our Youth Group program offers various opportunities for building relationships and spiritual connection, including several message series, special holiday celebrations, and community service nights. Please RSVP at prior to each Youth Group gathering to ensure ample food for dinner.
FPC Youth Sees "A Christmas Carol"
All 6th-12th graders are invited to join FPC Youth on December 15th for a festive evening and inspiring message as we see "A Christmas Carol" at the Alliance Theater next door! We'll gather for pizza at the church at 6:00 p.m., then head to the 7:00 p.m. show. The performance wraps up around 9:30 p.m., with pick-up in the church’s back parking lot. .
Discounted tickets include dinner, but space is limited—sign up by December 1st!
Youth Guatemala Impact Trip
FPC Youth is heading to Guatemala for a brand new impact trip, and all current 8th-12th graders are invited! Partnering with CEDEPCA ministries, we will join the work that God is already doing in Guatemala City. We’ll collaborate with churches, listen to the experiences of local Guatemalans, build relationships, and explore Guatemala’s vibrant culture through unique adventures. We are so excited about this incredible opportunity to partner, learn, explore, and grow together! Three mandatory training sessions will be held in the spring for all participants (dates TBD). Head to the Youth Ministry page of the FPC website to register by the December 1 deadline. Scholarships are available. Please reach out to Ben or Lauren with any questions. Click the button below to register by paying the $500 initial deposit.
Registration deadline is December 1, 2024.
Youth Ski Trip
All 8th-12th graders are invited to join us February 14-17, 2025 for a weekend of skiing & snowboarding, warm fires, hot chocolate, & spiritual formation. For 2025, FPC Youth will return to the beautiful mountains of Winterplace, WV with the same incredible housing as last year - two side by side, ski in/ski out homes! Whether you're skiing for the first time or ready for black diamonds, there will be something for everyone. Deadline to submit the initial deposit is December 1, 2024.
Middle School Montreat
Middle schoolers, want to experience the joy of Montreat?! From July 16-20, 2025, we’re heading to the Middle School Montreat Conference at Maryville College in Tennessee. Open to all students who are currently in 5th-8th grade, this week is packed with activities like worship, small groups, games, and recreation! We hope you can join us on this new adventure! Head to the Youth Ministry page of the FPC website to register by the December 1 deadline. Scholarships are available. Please reach out to Ben or Lauren with any questions. Click the button below to register by paying the $100 initial deposit.
Registration deadline is December 1, 2024.
High School Montreat
Our current 8th - 12th graders are returning to Montreat, NC on July 13-19, 2025 for WEEK 4 of the Montreat Youth Conference!!! We’ll join hundreds of youth from PCUSA groups across the country for a week of energizers, keynote speakers, small groups, recreation, worship, and a Wednesday whitewater rafting adventure! We hope you can join us for one of our favorite youth group trips! Head to the Youth Ministry page of the FPC Website to register by the December 1 deadline. Scholarships are available. Please reach out to Ben or Lauren with any other questions. click this link for the initial deposit.
Regirstion deadline is December 1, 2024.