connect @ FirstChurch
find your sanctuary 
Welcome to FirstChurch. In the 168 years since our members began worshipping in the heart of Downtown Dallas, the neighborhood, the city and the world evolved around us. But our calling to be loyal disciples of Jesus Christ remained steadfast. It’s what continues to compel us to grow ever-deeper connections with God and our neighbors. FirstChurch is so much more than the four walls that stand at the corner of Ross and Harwood and the Gothic belltower that rings out over the Arts District: FirstChurch is the collected stories of our faith family. From the eight Bishops this congregation has sent forward to serve the denomination to the delegates that sat in the pews of our sanctuary at the General Conference of 1968 and voted to form The United Methodist Church, we all have a story to tell. The 44 babies born into this congregation in 2013 are a living testament to the vitality of this church and the continuing of its mission for countless generations to come. The next chapter of FirstChurch’s story begins with you.
life at FirstChurch
FirstChurch is a relevant, traditional and inclusive congregation with opportunities for growth, study, fellowship and mission. Through our doors you will find many ways to make this faith family your home. Worship With Us. FirstChurch has a
tradition of dynamic worship services that are both traditional and relevant. Services are held on Sundays at 8:45 and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. Even if you can’t make it through our doors on Sunday morning we have brought this experience to the community through our Broadcast Ministry. Live broadcasts of our worship service are available Sundays at 11 a.m. at firstchurchdallas.org. WFAA-TV, (Channel 8) re-broadcasts our worship services at 5:30 a.m. each Sunday. Care With Us. We minister to our members
through all ages and stages of life. From a call and note at birth to the support of our staff and members at death, we want to make
What do United Methodists belive? We make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace
and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and one another. We respect persons of all religious faiths. This mission is our gracefilled response to the
sure that all of our family is cared for each step of the way. Our faith family is excited to celebrate in your joys and provide a prayer for your concerns. On Saturday mornings you might find congregants making prayer shawls to deliver to those recovering from surgery or who have suffered a loss. During the week you will find our note writers and prayer room volunteers praying, making telephone calls and writing notes to those who are ill or have experienced joys or sorrows. Connect With Us. There are many ways
to connect with our faith family, and we hope you will use this guide as a FirstStep to engaging in ministry here. Don’t hesitate to contact staff members listed here or on our website, firstchurchdallas.org. We look forward to becoming part of your story.
Reign of God in the world announced by Christ. God’s grace is active everywhere, at all times, carrying out this purpose as revealed in the Bible.
Find out more from Jennifer Tolin, Director of Connectional Ministries. 214-220-2727, ext. 221 jtolin@fumcdallas.org
good works
Together, we’re answering God’s call to empower our neighbors and alleviate hunger. As members of the FirstChurch family, our commitment to serve is a critical part of the faith journey we travel. Where is God at work in my life? How well am I responding to God’s work in me? The themes of these questions are elemental to how we choose to live our lives as engaged Christians. The FirstChurch Mission and Outreach Committee works to help members systematically answer God’s call to serve. Many members and visitors choose to serve through Crossroads Community Services, the flagship urban ministry of FirstChurch which distributes millions of pounds of nutritious foods to our neighbors in need each year. Others devote their resources to the Rise Fund, which supports agencies’ efforts to combat hunger and empower the city’s most
To learn how FirstChurch serves Dallas and the world, contact Rev. Linda Roby, Associate Minister of Local and Global Missions. 214-220-2727, ext. 214 lroby@fumcdallas.org
vulnerable populations through a competitive grant application process. Our vibrant missions and ministries serve not only our members, but embrace the needs of our community as well. Look closely as you exit through many of FirstChurch’s doors, and you’ll see a poignant reminder of our call to serve our neighbors: “Through these doors the church goes to engage the world.” Join us in this story as we grow together, care for each other and push outside of our walls to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Rev. Jay Cole, Executive Director of Crossroads Community Services, can show you how to serve Dallas families in need. 214-560-2511 jcole@fumcdallas.org ccsdallas.org
Everyone finds their point of connection in different ways. For some, a Sunday morning class or a small group is their first entry point into the life of FirstChurch but for many, missions is where the connection to the church begins. We invite all visitors, members and friends to join us as we serve our local and global community.
education and group fellowship
Since the Methodist Church’s inception, it has emphasized Christian living—putting faith and love into action. This continues to be a hallmark of United Methodism today. At FirstChurch, we believe Christian education and spiritual formation is a lifelong process. Our smallest members experience the stories and love of Jesus Christ through the dedicated nursery staff. As children they continue their journey during their time in FirstKids as they engage in programming that is centered around age-appropriate faith goals. Confirmation introduces 6th graders to the building blocks of faith and lays a spiritual foundation that
our youth ministry builds on throughout junior and senior high. Adults engage in dynamic Sunday morning classes and Wednesday night FirstChurch University study groups. No matter your age, there is always opportunity for spiritual growth at FirstChurch. Contact Rev. Becky Walker, Associate Minister for Discipleship, for information on smallgroup fellowship and Christian education. 214-220-2727, ext. 207 bwalker@fumcdallas.org
Sunday morning programs aren’t the only opportunity to connect with small fellowship groups. Our UrbanLife ministry presents opportunities to young adults and young professionals for service and fellowship throughout the week, and Higher Ground provides youth with direction as they prepare for adulthood. FirstChurch’s strong mission and outreach focus provides numerous opportunities to serve the community and fellowship with neighbors.
Adult Education UrbanLife Seekers 9:45 a.m. UL Center
UrbanLife Journey 9:45 a.m. UL Center
Foundations 9:45 a.m. UL Center B
Rise, Shine! 9:30 a.m. Room G07
Agape 9:45 a.m. Room G04
Early Class 9:30 a.m. Room G09
Becomers 9:45 a.m. Room G05
Disciples 9:45 a.m. Room G14
Interpretations 9:45 a.m. Room G10
Young adults who are new to FirstChurch or have recently returned after college. They engage in a supportive community that is active on both Sunday mornings and throughout the week. Young professionals interested in discovering what lies ahead in their faith journeys. In-depth and self-led studies are emphasized, and numerous social and service opportunities are offered. Young parents in their mid 20s and 30s. Offers speakers on marriage and family and engages in Bible and book studies, along with service and fellowship opportunities. A choir-friendly class of young couples and families. Meets early to enable those who sing in the Chancel Choir to participate in the lesson and choir each Sunday. Geared toward couples in their 20s – 40s. “Agape,” which is Greek for love, focuses on developing relationships with spouses, families and neighbors. Concludes before Choir call, about 10:20. Embraces participants of diverse backgrounds. The class is led each week by Dr. Bill Bryan. Couples and singles, ranging in age from mid 30s - 50s gather for coffee and fellowship. Emphasizes knowledge of the Bible, spiritual growth, service, discipleship and fellowship. An intergenerational discussion group interested in contemporary political, social and economic issues from a Christian perspective. All who like this format are welcome regardless of age or marital status. Singles and couples in their 30s and 40s. A variety of Sunday morning programming (Bible study, Christian analysis of current events, and guest teachers) keeps things interesting and fun.
Genesis 9:45 a.m. Crossroads Center East
Logos 9:45 a.m. Room G13
Voyages 9:45 a.m. Room G11
The G06 Class 9:45 a.m. Room 213
Covenant 9:45 a.m. Room 201
Class, Etc. 9:30 a.m. Room G06
New Koinonia 9:45 a.m. Room G08
DoublAires 9:45 a.m. Crossroads Center West
Aldersgate 9:45 a.m. Room 212
Singles and couples with school-aged to young-adult children. Emphasizes active support of such ministries as Crossroads Community Services and other projects. Bring your Bible and your questions, and enjoy stimulating discussion of the Scriptures in terms of both their historical contexts and the ways in which they relate to our lives today. Married couples, most of whom have young children, who enjoy combining fellowship, service activities and spiritual study. Class includes topics of current interest or Bible-based discussions. A non-traditional, discussion-based Sunday morning class comprised of couples and singles in their 40s and over. The primary focus is applying Christian faith to everyday life. Couples and singles of all ages who enjoy lively discussion and thought-provoking study. Covenant welcomes people of all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, disabilities and sexual orientations. A dynamic Sunday morning experience for adults age 45 and above, featuring lively discussion of social and spiritual issues and small-group fellowship opportunities. A community of couples and singles in their 50s & 60s with and without children, with a varied program of Bible study, personal growth and social issues that seeks to bring Christian perspective into daily living. A very active and involved membership of couples and singles 55+ which participates in all aspects of the Church’s ministry. Subjects range from theology to current events as they relate to the Church’s mission. Mature adults who base their faith on Scripture, tradition, experience, and reason, and who want to live their faith. Socials are frequent & fun.
Looking for directions? Visit a volunteer stationed at a Connection Point near FirstChurch’s main entrances for assistance finding a Sunday morning class.
Children and Youth Nursery 8:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. First Floor Nursery
FirstKids Grades 1–5
Childcare is available for Infants through Kindergarten age children on Sunday morning for both the 8:45 and 11 a.m. service. During the Sunday school hour, toddlers through Kindergarten learn about the Bible through age-appropriate curriculum. Elementary-age children learn the stories of the Bible through age-appropriate crafts, music, videos and storytelling.
9:45 a.m. Second Floor Children’s Wing
FirstKids are our focus—and our future.
Camp Big Church
A nine-week study for Kindergartners helps them learn how to worship with their parents and the FirstChurch family and introduces them to the concepts of offerings, baptisms and communion.
Confirmation
Our 6th grade Sunday morning class, confirmation is a special time to begin a journey of faith that nurtures and challenges kids to discover what it means to be a young Methodist.
9:45 a.m. Room 301
Youth 9:30 a.m. Third Floor Youth Room
Higher Ground
7th–12th graders join together for a discipleship and discovery on Sunday mornings.
A youth-led devotion and program highlighting real-life applications of faith and fellowship.
2:!5 p.m. Third Floor Youth Room
Bible Study Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. UrbanLife Center
Youth Experiences
Youth in the 7th–12th grades join together in a Wednesday night study to read, discuss and understand the scripture for the upcoming Sunday’s sermon.
A full range of spiritual retreats includes fall and spring retreats and mission trips for junior and senior high students.
FirstKids Sunday morning programs are based on curriculum from Seasons of the Spirit, a lectionarybased program, that integrates worship, learning and service to build a dynamic community of faith for all ages. Each group of children works toward age-appropriate faith goals consisting of Bible knowledge, Christian spirituality, Methodist beliefs and history, and developing an understanding of our own FirstChurch history and traditions. World transformation will begin with our children and the FirstChurch family works tirelessly to equip our FirstKids to know the divine love of God and empower them to be instruments in sharing that love with others. As we engage with each other and the world, FirstChurch recognizes the importance of our smallest family members and their journeys.
Contact Gretchen Combs, Director of Children’s Ministries, to learn how FirstKids can serve your family. 214-220-2727, ext. 229 gcombs@fumcdallas.org
raise your voices
Long before the Dallas Arts District emerged, FirstChurch offered rich programming in music, drama, dance and the visual arts. The tradition continues to grow in new and exciting ways as the neighborhood around us grows. Approximately twenty-five percent of our members are actively involved in our music and arts program. There are choirs for all ages, handbell ensembles, opportunities to be on stage and to work behind the scenes, monthly art exhibits in the Goodrich Gallery, opportunities to serve the church with the Altar Guild, and First Fine Arts will host a variety of guest artists to share their gifts within our walls beginning fall of 2014. There is something for everyone who loves and appreciates music and the arts, and we warmly welcome all who want to participate!
Opportunities abound to share your artistic gifts. Dana Effler, Director of Music & Arts, can show you how. 214-220-2727, ext. 219 deffler@fumcdallas.org
Good arts make good neighbors. Often called “The Heart of the Arts District”, FirstChurch embraces its dual role as a spiritual and performing arts destination in Downtown Dallas. A 100-voice Chancel Choir graces the sanctuary with
its presence each Sunday morning and is accompanied by a stunning Casavant pipe organ—a combination that perfectly complements FirstChurch’s classically inspired worship services.
Music and Arts opportunities at FirstChurch Children 3 years – 6th grade
Youth 7th – 12th grade
FirstChurch shares the joy of God’s gift of music with our children in a variety of musical offerings. Whether singing or playing an instrument, FirstChurch children are instructed by professionals who provide a musical education coupled with Christian teachings. Variations is our youth choir for 7th – 12th grade singers and Carillon Ringers is the youth bells choir. They tour and perform a fully staged musical variety show annually in addition to singing regularly in worship at FirstChurch.
Adults
The Chancel Choir is the cornerstone for our 11 a.m. worship service. In addition, we have three other adult ensembles: The FirstMen’s Chorus, FirstWomen’s Chorus and Vox Nova. Our two adult handbell choirs provide music for worship services.
Theatre
FirstChurch has a rich history of producing quality plays, musicals and radio and television broadcasts. The Rotunda Theatre offers opportunities both on stage and backstage for members and non-members who share a love of theatre.
Goodrich Gallery
The Goodrich Gallery enriches our church with a new art exhibit each month featuring the work of gifted local and national artists.
tomorrow starts today
Friend of FirstChurch,
Membership Means...
The church is a place to find our Center for ourselves and our family. Megan and I met in a United Methodist Church, where we began our relationship with people surrounding and encouraging us to learn, serve and give. As Megan and I have celebrated milestones and grieved losses, we have been centered by the faithful called the church. Our sons, Alex and Wesley, were baptized, and we imagine their beginnings in church will serve to center their lives and their families. The church could be their home.
Prayers: Be in prayer with and for your church family. Pray for the ministries of this church, for those that we hope to reach and for your friends and family.
In our culture, there are few places where acceptance, forgiveness, accountability and love abide. It is the church where people come to connect to something more than themselves. Having a “church home” means having a place to build on relationships with God and neighbor. A church home is a place where you can celebrate your milestones and grieve your losses. Surrounding you is grace and mercy, hope and wholeness. When Megan and I came to FirstChurch, we were accepted as we were. Our connection with children, youth and adults at FirstChurch has shaped our faith in God and our faith in humanity. Our sons have found a place where they can share their voices, ask questions and learn about faith. FirstChurch challenges us to be better followers of Jesus, better partners, better parents, better friends and better citizens. Throughout our experience, FirstChurch has shown us a love that points to the greater Love of God. We cannot imagine being people who are without a place to find their Center. Our fervent prayer is that, by our example, our children will learn that there is a place for them in the church. Our greatest hope is that, by the church’s example, we may find our Center again Sunday after Sunday—so that as we live and work in the world, strangers and the estranged will find us to be generous friends. Our covenant is to continue to support the church by our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service and our witness. You are invited to find your Center at FirstChurch. Together, we are held . . . In God’s Love,
Dr. Andy Stoker, Senior Minister
Presence: Worship with us and covenant to be present in the life of this church. Gifts: God entrusts all of us with unique gifts, both spiritual and financial. Because everything that we have, and everything that we are is a gift from God, we covenant together our spiritual and financial gifts to support the mission and ministries of God’s church. Service: We respond to God’s call to transform the world and actively participate in the many opportunities for service both inside and outside of the walls of our church. Witness: Our words and actions should reflect our faith, and we covenant to work with God to make this a reality in our lives. We covenant to share our story.
1928 ROSS AVE | DALLAS, TX 75201 | 214.220.2727 Dr. Andrew C. Stoker, Senior Minister firstchurchcdallas.org