Church Family, 

This sunday marks my official one year of serving as your senior pastor.  Just for the record, it has been our honor and privilege to walk alongside of yall in pastoral ministry over these past 12 months.  God is certainly up to something and we want to join Him where He is leading.

Presidents will typically give updates each year during something called The State of The Union speech.  I am not a president and we don't live within a union, per se, at our church.  But I think the sentiment is nice and I want to speak to the occasion this Sunday.

Therefore, we are calling this Sunday our Summit Sunday. I will be preaching from Acts 2, bragging on yall and the amazing ministry you have put in over the past year, celebrating some "Musta Been God" moments over the last year, and encouraging us to the need of the hour - the call to dig into deeper community with one another.  

Our vision this year is not just about gathering for worship, but about growing together in genuine community. Real transformation happens when we move beyond rows on Sunday mornings and step into circles of fellowship, food, prayer, and Bible study. Whether it’s a Sunday School class, a neighborhood small group, a Bible study at church, or even a study you help start in your workplace, each opportunity is a way to connect, encourage, and deepen our walk with Christ alongside others.

We believe God is calling every member of our church to become Gospel Guides, people who not only journey up the spiritual mountain with Jesus but who lead others back up to enjoy the view and the perspective. On Vision Sunday, we will share how you can take part, discover your group, and help us live out Acts 2:42 together.

Let’s join hands, Link up our carabiners, and journey up the mountain together.

Cheers,

Everything Has a Purpose!

Last Sunday evening, Power House hosted our 5th Annual Family Jam—an 80s-themed night for students and their families, with about 120 people in attendance. We showed up in our best 80s gear and had a totally radical time! Families were grouped into teams and spent an hour and a half competing in fun, 80s-inspired games and activities.

On the surface, it may have looked like we just ate subs, pizza, and played games. But in reality, so much more was happening! Parents were able to connect with one another and catch a glimpse of the friendships and dynamics that make PH special. Younger siblings felt included and excited about one day joining PH, while older siblings had the chance to come back and support their families. Parents enjoyed a night off from cooking, a mental break from daily challenges, and even the chance to laugh, play, and be silly with their teens—a gift that everyday life often pushes aside.

That’s the heart of Power House: everything we do has a purpose. Meals create meaningful conversations. Games build teamwork and connection. Student-led activities foster leadership, responsibility, and confidence. And when it’s time for worship, Bible study, and life groups, these moments fuel a deeper focus on Christ.

Next week, we’ll launch our new Banner Battles season—10 weeks of team challenges, games, and discipleship. Yes, there will be food and fun, but like Family Jam, it’s always so much more!

Church Family, 

The Fall Festival is almost here, and we can’t wait to welcome families from our church and community for a night of fun, fellowship, and joy! This event is more than just games and candy (though there will be plenty of that)—it’s an opportunity to shine the light of Jesus in a warm and welcoming way.

One of the sweetest parts of the night is when kids walk away with big smiles and overflowing candy buckets. To make that happen, we need your help! We’re asking for donations of individually wrapped candy to bless the children who come. Every bag of candy is more than just a treat—it’s a simple way to share Christ’s love with our neighbors and let families know they are cared for and welcome here.

Drop-off is easy: bring your candy donations to the Kids Area or the front of the Sanctuary any time between now and the festival. 

Thank you, church family, for being the hands and feet of Jesus. Together, we’re creating a safe, joy-filled space where kids can laugh, families can connect, and everyone who walks through our doors can experience the love and hope of Christ.

Do you feel called to ministry?

Register now for our Called to Ministry conference on September 13th from 9am-1pm.  

You can register at our website https://firstwinterpark.com/ctm25/ or by clicking the button below.

 If you have any questions you can email dhankins@fbcwp.org. 

Meet Elizabeth Gibson

Elizabeth started attending First Winter Park early this year and has enjoyed serving on the Host team and singing in the Choir. Welcome Elizabeth.

Meet Jim and Loresa Powell

Jim is a Deacon and sings in the Choir and on Personnel committee. Loresa is a ladies small group leader.

Come Thou Fount

Revelation Song

Holy Spirit Rain Down

Weekly budget goal:  $21,296