By Rev. Duane Carlisle (he/him), Senior Pastor, and Rev. Kory Pritchett (he/him), Associate Pastor
Hello First Church Family,
What an extraordinary season this has been! Over the past several weeks, our return to the renovated sanctuary has filled us with gratitude and awe. Each Sunday has revealed something new about the promise and possibility this sacred space holds. The fresh colors and textures, the warmth of the lighting, and the clarity of sound and sight have all reminded us that beauty and purpose go hand in hand. Together, these enhancements have created a space that draws us closer to God and to one another.
Our Celebration Sundays have truly been a time of joy. We’ve welcomed the incredible Heart and Soul Choir from Purdue, whose energy and faith inspired us to lift our voices higher. We’ve been blessed by the preaching of Rev. David Meredith and Rev. Kristina Sinks, who helped us reflect on how the Spirit continues to shape our shared life of faith. Through it all, we have seen how this renewed space mirrors the renewal happening within our congregation—a reminder that our physical transformation points toward spiritual growth and a deeper commitment to ministry in the world.
Now, as we approach Consecration Sunday, we come to a moment of both reflection and anticipation. This weekend, we will celebrate all that God has already done among us—and all that God will continue to do through us. Pastor Duane and Pastor Kory will lead us in worship as we dedicate ourselves once again to the ministry and mission of this congregation. We’ll celebrate the generosity that made our renovation possible, the abundance that continues to flow through our community, and the faith that binds us together as changemakers in Christ’s name.
We are especially joyful that this Sunday will also include a baptism, a sign of new life and God’s enduring promise among us. What better way to mark this milestone than by welcoming new life into the body of Christ—right here in a space made new for generations yet to come.
As we give thanks for this remarkable season, may we continue to grow as the Body of Christ, rooted in love and flourishing in generosity. May this new chapter deepen our resolve to follow Jesus faithfully, to welcome all, and to nurture a community of belonging. For as our welcome statement reminds us: “It is by joining hands that we support one another on our faith journey. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here.”
With gratitude and joy,
Rev. Duane Carlisle (he/him), Senior Pastor
Rev. Kory Pritchett (he/him), Associate Pastor
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