STAFF NEWS

In recent months, Eric Swofford has faithfully served as Interim Director of Missions, participating in mission trips to Egypt and the Dominican Republic while partnering with multiple agencies to strengthen our missions efforts. We are pleased to share that, following his outstanding leadership, Eric has been called to serve as First Presbyterian Church’s Director of Global and Local Engagement in a permanent role. Please join us in congratulating Eric. We are deeply grateful for his dedication and commitment to advancing the work of missions.

ENVELOPE FUNDRAISER DEADLINE IS MAY 10

Don’t forget to return your envelopes to the church with your donations to the Senior High Dominican Republic mission trip by Sunday, May 10. Don’t have an envelope? Click here to donate. Please contact Courtney Rockness at crockness@firstpresgreenville.org if you have questions.

2026 GRADUATES TO BE ANNOUNCED IN JUNE

FPC members and family members who are 2026 (or August/December 2025) graduates of High School, College, Graduate School, and Seminary will be announced in early June. To be included, complete the form online at FirstPresGreenville.org/Events or contact Austin Clay (aclay@firstpresgreenville.org) by Sunday, May 31.

WORTHY MENTOR PROGRAM

The Worthy Mentor Program is a ministry that offers spiritual support to women who have experienced an unexpected pregnancy. Some of these women may be walking through pregnancy and considering their options, while others may be healing from abortion. If you are interested in being paired with a Worthy mentor, or feel called to serve as a Worthy mentor, please contact Amy Murray at hello2amymurray@gmail.com.

LOOKING AHEAD

MAY
7–9: Mary Poppins Jr. Musical
10: Mother’s Day
15: Eighteen Mile Bluegrass
21: FPA Graduation Ceremony
24: Memorial Day: Church Campus Closed

JUNE
7: Communion Sunday
8–11: VBS and Day Missions
12: In the Land of Wooden Shoes Exhibit Opening/Reception
16–17: Now and Not Yet Women’s Bible Study Begins

JULY
1: Proclaim Liberty Concert
3: Church Campus Closed for July 4 Holiday

For more events and details click here.

Discipleship Ministry, Claire Ripley
PASTORS’ BIBLE STUDY

The Pastors’ Luncheon Bible Study will continue at 12:30pm in Fellowship Hall through June. Lunch is available at 11:45am for $10. Click here for the menu.

Women’s Ministry, Tiffany Boggs
SAVE THE DATES: WOMEN’S SUMMER BIBLE STUDY

Registration is open for the First Pres Women’s Summer Bible Study: Now and Not Yet by bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons. Too often, we feel disappointed with our “right now”—our life circumstances, our relationships, our lack of progress towards our dreams and goals, our daily grind. Simons reminds us of God’s powerful provision and faithful promises for those “who have ears to hear.” The study will be offered on Tuesdays, June 16–July 28, 9:30-11:00am and 6:00-7:30pm, and Wednesdays, June 17–July 29, 9:30-11:00am (with childcare). We hope you will join us this summer! Click here to register.

Women’s Ministry, Tiffany Boggs
RADIANCE SMALL GROUP REGISTRATION

Are you a woman in your 20s to early 40s looking for a small group? Join Radiance! Groups meet in mentor leaders’ homes for dinner and Bible study on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings from 6:30–8:00pm. Together, we “do life” as we grow in faith, enjoy retreats and fun activities, and serve our Greenville community. Registration is open now through August 8 for the Fall and Spring 2027 semesters. Participants are placed in groups with others in a similar life stage. Click here to sign up. Questions? Contact Diana Orders at dianaschmittorders@gmail.com.

Fine Arts Ministry, Chelsea Fraser
EIGHTEEN MILE BLUEGRASS BAND

Join us on Friday, May 15, at 6:30pm for an unforgettable evening of bluegrass music with Eighteen Mile. This dynamic group of five young musicians blends deep roots in traditional bluegrass and gospel with fresh, original songwriting. Their passion for crafting a classic sound—while telling their own stories—creates a performance that resonates with every audience. Named after Eighteenmile Creek in the Upstate of South Carolina, the band brings a genuine small-town charm and authenticity that is both engaging and inspiring. Don’t miss this special night of music that’s sure to capture hearts.

Fine Arts Ministry, Chelsea Fraser
JUST ANNOUNCED! IN THE LAND OF WOODEN SHOES, A HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE

Join us for an Opening Night Reception on Friday, June 12, at 6:00pm in the Sturgis Gathering Area and Lenz Gallery. This powerful exhibition, a collaboration between the Anne Frank Center and South Carolina artist Mary Burkett, tells the stories of children affected by the Holocaust through moving visual portraits and storytelling. More than an art exhibit, it is an immersive experience of remembrance—honoring young lives, fostering empathy, and inviting reflection. The exhibition runs through November and is open to individuals, families, schools, and community groups, with guided tours and special programming available. For more information or group bookings, contact Chelsea Fraser at cfraser@firstpresgreenville.org.

Worship & Music, Susan Messer
THE COOLEST WEEK OF THE SUMMER!

Looking for something fun, creative, and meaningful for your kids this summer? Music Camp, June 8–11, is the perfect place to explore music, imagination, and play! Kids can enjoy VBS (9:00am–12:00noon) in the morning and stay for Music Camp in the afternoon (12:00–4:00pm). From ukulele and world percussion to piano, organ, and drama, campers will experience a wide range of hands-on musical activities with a highly qualified staff of teachers. This year, we’re bringing the North Pole to the South with a festive “Christmas in the Summer” theme, complete with carols, holiday-themed music games, and plenty of cool surprises along the way. The week concludes with a special double feature: a live finale concert for family and friends, followed by a celebratory trip to Discovery Island Waterpark—a perfect way to end an unforgettable week with a splash! Cost: $100 per child. Click here to register.

Worship & Music, Susan Messer
PROCLAIM LIBERTY CONCERT TICKETS

This July 1, experience an inspiring evening of worship and patriotic celebration at Proclaim Liberty—a concert honoring our nation’s 250th birthday. Featuring a full choir and orchestra, this special event is designed for the whole family. Tickets are on sale now—Adults: $15, Children: $10. Click here to purchase. Join us as we celebrate 250 years of freedom, lift our voices in worship, and proclaim liberty together on Wednesday, July 1, from 6:00–7:30pm in the Sanctuary.

Children’s Ministry, Tina Jones
JOIN THE VBS TEAM: JUNE 8-11

There’s a spot for everyone: lead a tribe, participate in a drama, assist with crafts, or guide preschoolers to stations. Contact Tina Jones at tjones@firstpresgreenville.org to volunteer Monday–Thursday, or even just a day or two.

Day Missions, Karen King
DAY MISSIONS NEEDS DRIVERS

We currently have a waiting list of students eager to participate in Day Missions—but we need additional chaperones and drivers to make it possible. If you’re available, even for just a couple of days, your help would make a meaningful difference. Invite a friend and serve together—it’s a great way to get involved and support our students as they serve the Greenville community. Click here to register. Questions? Contact Karen King at kking@firstpresgreenville.org.