With the angel choruses still echoing in the wake of Christmas, the Adult Sunday School Class invites participants to a multi-week study of angelology (yes, there is a theological discipline by that name)led by Rev. Marilyn Borst, Resident Missiologist.Angels are mentioned more than 300 times throughout Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation. Some are named—Gabriel, Michael, and Lucifer—and others are described by their roles or rank, including archangels, seraphim, and cherubim. They appear frequently in the Gospels and are referenced extensively in Revelation. What do angels do, and how does God use them? This study will explore what Scripture reveals, compared with some commonly held beliefs (such as the idea that everyone has a personal “guardian” angel). Because angels figure so prominently in the Christmas story, many people have angel images displayed on mantles, Christmas trees, and holiday cards. Those who have a favorite angel decoration are encouraged to bring it to share with the class on January 4th.The class meets in Lewis Hall each Sunday at 9:15 am.

During the morning worship service on Sunday, January 18th, Jamie Norris, Lynn Withers, Tami Litton, Dianne Gardner, and Ernie Lee will be installed as deacons of First Baptist Church. These individuals, along with Lem Brawner, Phil Campbell, Doug Craig (Secretary), Janis Lewis, Carol Melton, Mo Field (Vice Chair), Fran Arnsdorff (Chair), Nancy Sheets, Rob Harrelson, Mark Borst, Lynne Davis (Life Deacon), and Curtis Lewis III (Life Deacon), will comprise the 2026 Diaconate.

The annual business conference will be held on Sunday, January 18th in Lewis Hall, immediately following the worship service. Reports will be presented from several committee chairs and reflecting on work completed in 2025. This gathering is an important meeting as the church looks ahead and officially kicks off 2026, and all members are encouraged to attend. Committee chairs who plan to offer a spoken report are asked to submit a written copy of their report to the church office no later than Monday, January 12th. Lunch will be served, and a $15 donation is greatly appreciated.

All are invited to gather for a shared meal followed by a contemplative Vespers service on January 21st at 5:00 pm in Lewis Hall. In keeping with the season of Epiphany, the theme for the evening will be “Awe & Wonder.” Through art, song, a brief reflection, and prayer, participants will reflect together on the glory of God in their lives and seek fresh eyes to recognize wonder everywhere in 2026. A donation of $15 for dinner is appreciated.

Following morning worship on Sunday, January 25th, the church family will gather to celebrate James Richardson and to give thanks for his 80 years of life. A reception with food, drinks, and cake will be held in Lewis Hall, offering a time for fellowship, storytelling, and shared gratitude. All are welcome to join.

The women of First Presbyterian and First Baptist will gather once again for a time of fellowship and friendship on Thursday, January 29th, at 11:30 am at Cohen’s Retreat. All ladies are invited to join in this Dutch- treat lunch. If you plan to attend, please contact Gina Shields in the church office by January 26th so that reservations can be made.

Our January Mission Partner is Union Mission, an organization dedicated to transforming lives by offering hope, help, and healing to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Through compassionate care and strategic, long-term support, Union Mission works to restore dignity and provide pathways toward stability and independence. Throughout January, we invite you to support Union Mission by donating much-needed items for their daily operations. Current needs include new white twin sheet sets and pillows, new white bath towels, personal hygiene products, laundry pods, dryer sheets, toilet paper, paper towels, disinfecting wipes, and multi-purpose cleaner. Donations may be dropped off under the stairs of the Education Building by January 31st. Thank you for helping us care for our neighbors through this important ministry.

In honor of Black History Month 2026, First Baptist Church will host Lifting Black Voices, a curated art installation celebrating the creativity, stories, and lived experiences of Black artists and artisans. This installation will be on display February 1–28, 2026 in the gallery area of First Baptist Church. Featuring works in a variety of mediums, the installation is designed to uplift and honor Black voices through visual expression. Select works may be available for purchase; all sales will be arranged directly between the artist and the purchaser. Contact the church office for more information.

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