First Presbyterian Church and Preschool of Salem

Tag: worship

  • June 21, 2026: 4th Sunday after Pentecost / Father’s Day

    Service Details

    • Theme: 4th Sunday after Pentecost
    • Sermon Title: “Found by God” Pastor Annie Parker
    • Special Vocal Solo: “I Can Only Imagine” (Bart Millard), performed by Mike Newman.
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    • First Reading: Genesis 21:8-21 — Hagar and Ishmael in the wilderness .
    • Second Reading: Romans 6:1-11 — Dead to sin, alive to God in Christ .
    • Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:24-39 — Whosoever loses his life for my sake will find it .

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    June 21, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Community News

    • Father’s Day Treats Today: A big thank you to Genevieve and Judson Smith, owners of the Brimfield Bread Oven, for providing our special Father’s Day treats following worship today!
    • Summer Polka Concert Tonight: Head down to Waterworth Park at 6:00 p.m. tonight to catch The Chardon Polka Band for an energetic evening of music.
    • Shafer Graduation Party: Next Saturday, June 27, a graduation celebration for the Shafer family will be held in Fellowship Hall from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
    • Deacon College Scholarships Deadline: This is a final reminder for church students enrolled in a college or university—applications for limited scholarship funds must be turned into the Church Office by Tuesday, June 30 .
    • Denise’s Big Back Yard: Don’t forget that our big neighborhood community fellowship program kicks off under the big tent on Wednesday, July 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. with Vacation Bible School night ! Complete with picnic tables and a weekly ice cream cart at 7:15 p.m.
    • Flower Dedications: Today’s flowers are given by Paul and Barb Fennema in memory of Joseph Edward Woods and Ruurd Gabes Fennema, and by Alice Jackson in honor of Allison Bodnar’s birthday.
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We continue to receive gifts for the Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center) supporting greenhouses and youth nutrition programs in remote Nepal . Please write “Nepal” on your check memo line.

  • June 14, 2026: 3rd Sunday after Pentecost

    Service Details

    • Theme: 3rd Sunday after Pentecost
    • Sermon Title: “Seeing Ourselves Through God’s Eyes”
      Pastor Annie Parker
    • Special Music Features: An organ and piano duet arrangement of “This is My Father’s World” performed by
      Jan Cox (Organ) and Kara Craig (Piano) .
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    • First Reading: Genesis 18:1-15; 21:1-7 — Abraham’s hospitality at Mamre and the birth of Isaac .
    • Second Reading: Romans 5:1-8 — Justified by faith and God’s proven love .
    • Gospel Reading: Matthew 9:35-10:8 — Compassion for the crowds and the sending of the Twelve .

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    June 14, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Community News

    • Summer Concert Tonight: Join your neighbors at Waterworth Park at 6:00 p.m. for a performance by Pipe Dreams, covering contemporary hits from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
    • Salem History Walk Next Saturday: On June 20 at 11:00 a.m., the church will host a Salem History Walk sponsored by Mahoning Valley Sojourn to the Past . Meet in Fellowship Hall.
    • Denise’s Big Back Yard (Starting July 8!): Get ready for our big community outreach fellowship initiative in the church “park” and parking lot . Gathering every Wednesday evening from 6:00–8:00 p.m. under the large tent, featuring picnic tables and an Ice Cream Cart around 7:15 p.m. Mark your calendars for the July 8 kickoff featuring Vacation Bible School themes!
    • Flower Dedications: Today’s sanctuary flowers are given by Alice Jackson in loving memory of Jim Wilson, and anonymously to the Glory of God.
    • Deacon College Scholarships: Applications are still available in the church office for members currently enrolled in a college or university . Completed requests must be submitted by Tuesday, June 30.
    • Nepal Mission Focus: We continue to welcome donations for Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center) providing sustainable farming resources, greenhouses, and nutritional support to families and school children in remote regions of Nepal . Please note “Nepal” on your check memo line.

  • June 7, 2026: 2nd Sunday after Pentecost

    Service Details

    • Theme: 2nd Sunday after Pentecost
    • Sermon Title: “Getting Up and Going” Pastor Annie Parker
    • Sacrament: We will share in the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper today .
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    June 7, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Special Announcements

    • Coffee Hour Today: Following worship, join us in Fellowship Hall for a Coffee Hour hosted by the Christian Education Committee.
    • Summer Concert Series Tonight: Head over to Waterworth Park tonight at 6:00 p.m. to enjoy the Salem Quaker City Band celebrating the music of Rogers and Hammerstein.
    • Healthy Congregations Workshop: A workshop for Session members will be held next Saturday, June 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall .
    • Flower Dedications: Today’s flowers are given by Margaret Winch in honor of Mary’s Birthday and Paul and Barb Fennema’s Anniversary, and by Lu Ann and Rob Cole in loving memory of Ann Waters .
    • Deacon Scholarship Funds: Limited scholarship funds are available for church students enrolled in a college or university. Applications can be obtained from the office and must be returned by Tuesday, June 30.

  • May 31, 2026: Trinity Sunday

    Service Details

    • Theme: Trinity Sunday
    • Sermon Title: “The Everywhere and Every Time God”
      Pastor Annie Parker
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    May 31, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Special Announcements

    • Communion Tomorrow (June 7): Join us tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m. as we gather at the Lord’s Table to celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
    • Adult Church School: Adult class meets tomorrow morning at 9:00 a.m. in the Library.
    • Coffee Hour Tomorrow: Following worship tomorrow, please join the Christian Education Committee in Fellowship Hall for light refreshments and fellowship.
    • D-Day Remembrance: Today’s bulletins and a vase of flowers were given by Tim and Melissa Costa in proud memory of the bravery and sacrifices made on D-Day, June 6, 1944.
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We are continuing our focus on Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center) helping provide food security, greenhouses, and infant nutrition in remote villages of Far Western Nepal . Checks can be made out to the church with “Nepal” written on the memo line.
    • Deacon Scholarship Funds: Reminder for our college students—completed scholarship applications must be returned to the Church Office by Tuesday, June 30 .

  • May 24, 2026: Pentecost / Youth Sunday

    Service Details

    • Theme: Pentecost / Youth Sunday
    • Special Presentation: Today’s service features a youth skit titled “Wind and Fire”.
    • Youth Participants: Special thanks to Tyson Jackson, Tegan Jackson, Joseph Seefeldt, and Knox Tonkinson.
    • Special Guest Musicians: Featuring the Western Reserve Brass: Terry Gale & John Veneskey (Trumpets), Rob Cole (Horn), Jonathan Willis (Trombone), Benjamin Ammon (Tuba), and Robert Barnett (Percussion).
    • Special Music Features: Robert Barnett on side drum and Cheryl McDevitt on piccolo accompany the choir. Joseph Seefeldt joins on piano to perform Robert Schumann’s “Important Event” .
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    May 24, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Special Announcements

    • Memorial Day Holiday: The Church Office will be closed tomorrow, Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day .
    • Pentecost Geraniums: Thank you to everyone who donated geraniums to beautify our sanctuary today! Plants not taken home by donors following the service will be planted on the church grounds.
    • High School Tennis Banquet: The Salem High School Tennis Banquet will be held in Fellowship Hall and the Kitchen this Thursday, May 28, from 4:00–8:00 p.m.
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We continue to accept gifts for Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center) to support agricultural and nutritional initiatives in remote Nepalese villages. Please write “Nepal” on your check memo line.
    • Deacon Scholarship Funds: Limited scholarship funds are available for church students enrolled in a college or university. Applications are available in the office and must be submitted by Tuesday, June 30.

  • May 17, 2026: Seventh Sunday of Easter / Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans


    Post Title:     May 17, 2026: Seventh Sunday of Easter / Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans 

    Service Details

    • Theme: Seventh Sunday of Easter & Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans 
    • Sermon Title: “What about You?” 
    • Preacher: We welcome Ruling Elder Mike Shepherd to the pulpit today. He is our liaison from the Committee on Ministry of Eastminster Presbytery.
    • Special Guest Musicians:
      • Kim Meek (Bagpipes) 
      • Allison Miller (Celtic Harp) 
    • Traditional Procession: Featuring Michael Quinn as the Beadle carrying the Kirk’s Bible into the sanctuary .
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns:

    • Hymn 339: Be Thou My Vision (Slane) 
    • Hymn 171: The King of Love My Shepherd Is (St. Columba) 
    • Closing Hymn: O Sing a New Song (Set to Highland Cathedral, arr. Richard Dixon), featuring bagpipes, organ, drum, choir, and congregation .

    Bulletin Download

    May 17, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Special Announcements

    • Choir Recognition: Join us today during Coffee Hour in Fellowship Hall and immediately following worship to recognize and celebrate our choir members for their wonderful ministry of music.
    • Kirkin’ Clan Roll Call: Today we celebrate our shared heritage as Children of God, recognizing family clan lineages including Alcorn, Campbell, Gordon, Graham, MacDonald, MacLeod, McKenzie, Smith, Stewart, and more.
    • Geraniums for Pentecost: Today is the final day to order 4-inch potted geraniums ($6.00 each) in Fellowship Hall. You can also contact the office this week. Plants will decorate the sanctuary on Pentecost Sunday, May 24.
    • Pop Into Preschool: First Presbyterian Preschool will host an Open House this Tuesday, May 19, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. 
    • Preschool Graduation: Join us in Fellowship Hall on Friday, May 22, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. for the preschool program and graduation ceremony.
    • Memorial Gathering: A memorial gathering for Stephen Navoyosky will be held in the Sanctuary on Saturday, May 23, at 11:00 a.m. 
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We continue to receive gifts for Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center)to support food security and health initiatives in remote Nepalese villages. Please mark “Nepal” on your check memo line.

  • May 10, 2026: 6th Sunday of Easter / Mother’s Day

    Service Details

    • Theme: 6th Sunday of Easter
    • Sermon Title: “We are Left Alone” Pastor Annie Parker
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    May 10, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Announcements

    • Mother’s Day Treats: All ladies worshiping with us today are invited to take home a delicious scone from the Brimfield Bread Oven .
    • Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans: Join us next Sunday, May 17, for a celebration of heritage. If your family has Scottish lineage, please contact Phyllis at the office with your clan name to be recognized .
    • Geraniums: Orders are being taken today in Fellowship Hall for 4-inch pots ($6.00 each) for Pentecost Sunday .
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We are continuing to collect for Jeewan Raksha Kendra to support teen mothers and child nutrition in Far Western Nepal .
    • Preschool Open House: “Pop Into Preschool” on Tuesday, May 19, from 5:00–7:00 p.m..
    • Deacon Scholarships: Applications for students enrolled in college are due to the office by Tuesday, June 30 .

  • April 26, 2026: 4th Sunday of Easter

    Service Details

    • Theme: 4th Sunday of Easter
    • Sermon Title: “Finding Where You Belong” Pastor Annie Parker
    • Special Music: Featuring the Western Reserve Brass, accompanied by Organ and Timpani. 
      • Terry Gale and John Veneskey (Trumpets) 
      • Rob Cole (Horn), Jonathan Willis (Trombone) 
      • Benjamin Ammon (Tuba), Robert Barnett (Percussion) 
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    April 26, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events

    • Soup to Go Today: Quart containers of Vegetable Beef Soup are available in the kitchen for $8.00 each or $15.00 for two. 
    • Daytimers: Join us Wednesday, May 6, at Noon for a covered dish luncheon featuring guest speaker James Stitt from the Family Recovery Center. 
    • Deacon Scholarship Funds: Limited funds are available for church members enrolled in college. Submit your request to the office by June 30. 

  • April 19, 2026: Earth Sunday — “Leave Them a Flower”

    Service Details

    • Theme: Earth Sunday
    • Sermon Title: “Creation Tells of the Glory of God”
    • Preacher: Rev. Annie Parker
    • Special Highlights:
      • Preschool Participation: The First Presbyterian Preschool children shared special music today, including “Let’s Take Care of the Earth,” “Jesus Loves Me,” and “If I Were the Wind” .
      • Musical Contributions: Features from the Carillon Ringers and The Haviland Choir.
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    April 19, 2026 BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Mission Focus

    • Free Flower Seeds: As you leave worship today, please take a few packets of flower seeds to plant and attract pollinators to your garden .
    • Environmental Book Study: Meeting today at 11:30 a.m. in the Gazebo (weather permitting) to begin our study of “The Serviceberry” by Robin Wall Kimmerer .
    • Vegetable Beef Soup to Go: We are making soup this Saturday at 9:30 a.m. . Quart containers will be available next Sunday, April 26, for $8.00 each or $15.00 for two .
    • Nepal Mission Offering: We are continuing to collect for Jeewan Raksha Kendra to support teen mothers and child nutrition in Far Western Nepal .
    • Daytimers: Join us Wednesday, May 6, at Noon for a covered dish luncheon featuring James Stitt from the Family Recovery Center .
    • Summer Mission Program: Youth and adults are invited to the Mahoning Valley Summer Mission Program this June–August in Canfield .
    • New Wilmington Mission Conference: Considering joining a group from our church attending this conference at Westminster College from July 17–22 .

  • April 12, 2026: Second Sunday of Easter

    Service Details

    • Theme: Second Sunday of Easter
    • Sermon Title: “Do Not Doubt, But Believe” Pastor Annie Parker
    • YouTube Channel: FPCSALEM

    Scripture and Hymns

    Bible Readings (NRSVue):

    Hymns (from The Presbyterian Hymnal, 1990):

    Bulletin Download

    April 12, 2026 – BulletinDownload

    Upcoming Events & Special Offerings

    • Special Offering for Nepal: Session has approved a special offering for Jeewan Raksha Kendra (Life Saving Center) to support nutrition and health in Far Western Nepal. Please write “Nepal” on the memo line of your check.
    • 90th Birthday Celebration: Join us today during Coffee Hour in Fellowship Hall to celebrate Fred Denton’s 90th birthday.
    • Earth Sunday (April 19): Next week is Earth Sunday! Please wear green or colorful clothing. You are also invited to bring photos of your children or grandchildren to display in the Sanctuary.
    • Environmental Book Study: Grace Smith will lead a study of “The Serviceberry” by Robin Wall Kimmerer immediately following worship next Sunday .
    • Paper Shredding: The Salem Public Library is hosting a community shredding event on Saturday, April 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..