Greetings Topeka First UMC,

I hope that you have had a great week!

As we live into this new year, we are living into our new system of governance. The Leadership Council is preparing to meet coming up on Tuesday January 27 at 6 pm. All meetings are open to the congregation except the executive session at the end. If you plan to come, we would ask that you let us know ahead of time so we know how many people to prepare for. There will also be a lot more about all of our new systems, including Ministry Teams and Work Groups at the State of the Church meeting on February 1.

Next Wednesday night, January 21, is the beginning of our Wednesday night gatherings for all ages. There will be programming for children, youth and adults. As always, dinner begins at 6 pm followed by the 6:30 pm activities. Hope you will join us!

On January 21 we are excited to begin a new adult series, "Community Engagement Discussions." We have lined up several community leaders to come speak to us about the work they are doing in our community. After the presentation, there will be a brief biblical reflection connecting their work to our Wesleyan call to holiness of heart and life, lived out through love of neighbor.  The Jan. 21 guest speaker will be Patrick Mitchell, the Director of Marketing at Midland Care. He will be sharing about Midland Care's mission, the services they provide, and the ways their work suports individuals and families in our community. All adults are encouraged to attnd, listen, learn, and engage. Join us as we grow together in faith and discover how God is at work through our community partners. As stated above, dinner is served at 6 pm followed by activities at 6:30 pm.

On Sunday, we will conclude our sermon series, "New Year, New Goals" by looking at courageous leadership and how Jesus led courageously throughout his ministry. 

I encourage each family to pick a Sunday Morning Volunteer spot. Please use this link to pick your spot! See Shawna if it's easier!

See you Sunday,
Pastor Brad

As we begin 2026, take time to Find Your Spot at Church! There are many opportunities to serve your church. Use this one link to sign up to greet or serve communion, or be the liturgist (January 18 - March 29 dates are open). For all other spots, simply reply to this email or sign up at church.