Upcoming Events at FPC

January 2026

ORDINATION AND INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

Sunday, January 11, 11:00 am, Sanctuary. At this special service, the congregation and incoming officers answer questions before God and one another, affirming God’s calling of each elder and deacon being installed into his/her term. Those beginning their first term will be ordained and installed.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
Sunday, January 18, 11:00 am, Sanctuary. There will be a congregational meeting before the Traditional Service to conduct the business of the Corporation and approving the Senior Pastors’ terms of call.

OFFICE CLOSED FOR MLK DAY

Monday, January 19. The office will close at noon on Friday, January 16, 2026, and will be closed on Monday for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

SPRING WEDNESDAY NIGHT ALIVE
Wednesday, January 21, 5:30 pm. Fellowship Hall. Wednesday Night Alive programming will resume. Dr. Will Current will present, "Understanding AI and its Implications for the Church." Cost: $8/person. Menu: Baked potato, taco soup, and dessert.

FAITH FORMATION: FPC MEMBERSHIP 101, STRUCTURE AND GOVERNMENT

Sunday, January 25, 10:00 am, Library. This is a brand new class being offered that explains the structure and governance of our congregation. Come learn how FPC conducts its business, understand the roles of the session, diaconate, committees, stewardship, and more.

BOY SCOUTS SUNDAY
Sunday, January 25, 11:00 am, Sanctuary. We will recognize those involved in the scouting programs at FPC Gastonia! They will be honored during the Traditional worship service.

WNA—HOW TAX LAW UPDATES AFFECT CHARITABLE DONATIONS
Wednesday, January 28, 5:30 pm, Fellowship Hall. When laws change, wise planning brings peace of mind. Come learn how recent tax updates may affect charitable giving and how informed choices can support faithful stewardship in everyday life. Rachel Commerford, CPA will be the speaker. Cost: $8/person. Menu: BBQ, baked beans, slaw, chips, and dessert.

February 2026

VALENTINE'S DAY BANQUET: NOT SO NEWLYWED GAME

Sunday, February 1, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, Fellowship Hall. Cost: $10/person. We invite you to join us for our “Not So Newlywed Game.” Childcare for younger children will be provided; a K-4 program with dinner (free) will be at the PAD. RSVP on Realm, connection card, or contact the Church Office by January 28.

FAITH AND FICTION

Sunday, February 1, 4:00 pm, off-site. The book being discussed is Unwritten by Charles Martin.

WNA—GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT-OUR STORY, OUR CALLING

Wednesday, February 4, 5:30 pm, Fellowship Hall. From historic missions to present-day partnerships, this session offers insight into how Presbyterians have engaged the wider world through faith. Come learn how our shared story continues to shape who we are and how we live out our calling today. Rev. Dr. James Taneti will be the speaker. Cost: $8/person. Menu: Baked chicken, loaded mashed potatoes, green beans, and dessert.

COMBINED WORSHIP: YOUTH SUNDAY

Sunday, February 8, 11:00 AM, Sanctuary. During a combined worship service led by FPC Youth, a special offering will be taken to support the Daily Change Offering.

WNA—THE CONSTITUTION: IMPROBABLE, IMPERFECT, AND STILL STANDING

Wednesday, February 11, 5:30 pm, Fellowship Hall. Forget the dry civics lessons. This session explores the surprising, occasionally embarrassing, and often funny story behind the writing of the Constitution, and why understanding its very human origins helps us better appreciate its lasting impact today. Judge Craig Whitley will be the speaker. Cost: $8/person. Menu: Breakfast casserole, biscuits and gravy, grits, fruit cups, and dessert.

ASH WEDNESDAY

Wednesday, February 18, Fellowship Hall. We will observe Ash Wednesday and the start of the Lenten season with a drive-thru Imposition of Ashes from noon to 1:00 pm in the Chapel Portico. We will have a simple meal at 5:15 pm in the Fellowship Hall, followed by a service at 6:00 pm in the Chapel. Menu: Beef vegetable soup, chicken noodle soup, cheese toast, and dessert.

LENTEN LUNCHES

Various churches in the community will host a Lenten lunch several Wednesdays throughout Lent. Meals will be available for $8 per person. An offering will be taken during lunch. If you require transportation, please gather under the Church Portico at 11:30 am. FPC will host the first Lenten Lunch on Wednesday, February 25, in the Fellowship Hall at noon.

ROADRUNNER’S TRIP TO EARL SCRUGGS CENTER
Thursday, February 26, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. Cost: $12/person, $8/seniors. Celebrate the life and legacy of legendary banjo player Earl Scruggs while exploring the rich cultural traditions of the Carolina Piedmont through interactive exhibits, music, and storytelling. Connie Gesser at 704-473-6430.

March 2026

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN'S BAKE SALE
Saturday, March 7, 9:00 to 11:00 am, Fellowship Hall. Presbyterian Women will host their Annual Food Festival and Bake Sale. Proceeds will support various missions of Presbyterian Women throughout the year. Donated food items will be accepted on Friday, March 6, 4:00-6:00 pm.

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN'S SUNDAY SERVICE
Sunday, March 8. We will collect an offering during the worship service. This mission is supported by Presbyterian Women and aids the Church World Service by providing blankets, hygiene kits, and other supplies to those recovering from both natural and man-made disasters.

RISE AGAINST HUNGER
Sunday, March 22, 11:00 am, Fellowship Hall. As part of our commitment to a meaningful mission, First Presbyterian Church, Gastonia, is participating in Rise Against Hunger.

PALM SUNDAY AND EASTER EGG HUNT
Sunday, March 29, Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday with Thrive and Traditional services at 9:00 am in the Fellowship Hall and 11:00 am in the Sanctuary. Following the services, there will be a church-wide Easter Egg Hunt for children, and we encourage you to bring your own baskets.