June is Full of Important Sunday Activities!

Our new summer worship schedule of a single service at 10 am each Sunday begins on June 18 and runs through Labor Day weekend. On the third Sunday of June, July, and August, we will worship outside on the Hendrie Lawn, weather permitting.

• Sunday, June 4 at 10:30 am — We celebrate our confirmation students in worship as they affirm their faith in Christ.

• Sunday, June 11 at 10:30 am — The Chancel Choir leads us in worship for a Global Hymn Festival of anthems and songs that help us understand the fullness of God through other languages and cultures.

• Sunday, June 18 at 10:00 am, worship outside on the Hendrie Lawn – New members will join the church and we will celebrate with them on this day.

• Sunday, June 25 at 10:00 am — Elders and deacons who are entering a new term of service will be ordained and installed during worship.

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New Member Class

For those ready to join the church, or for those interested in exploring what that means, join us on Sundays, June 4, 11, and 18 from 9-10 am. Sunday, June 4 and Sunday, June 11 from 9 am-10 am — Join our facilitator, Suzanne Lewand, to learn more about the history of Presbyterians, our general beliefs, and what it means to be part of this church community. Sunday, June 18 at 9 am — Enjoy a delicious brunch with our Session members. They will welcome you and officially vote to receive as members anyone who would like to join. We will welcome you in the worship service that morning, which will be at 10 am. Questions and to RSVP, contact Pastor Emma or phone at the church.

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Summer Sabbath Series: Finding Rest in God

Summer can get busy as we try to pack in all our favorite activities. But God also urges us to rest and renew. Our church is taking a July Sabbath this year. We hope you’ll join the church leaders and staff in this experiment.

• What does it mean to have a July Sabbath? During July, we will focus on having meaningful worship each Sunday at 10 am. 

• Why are we taking a sabbath month? This has been our busiest year yet since the pandemic closure of 2020. We embraced the ability to be together, to sing, to do mission projects and come to events at the church. An intentional time of rest in our congregation can help us renew our energy and have space to reflect on where we’ve been, as well as where we’re headed.

• What is the spiritual meaning of a sabbath? The fourth commandment is “Remember the Sabbath.” Today, most Christians follow this commandment by taking time to rest and enjoying the life God has given us. Doing this reminds us that everything does not rely on us. God is always in control, regardless of what we do or don’t do. This letting go, caring for our spirits, and focusing on God is a way to nourish our discipleship and strengthen our faith.

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Cereal for Summer

During the month of June, bring a box or two of cereal to be donated through our regional Presbytery to help kids and families in need. No child should go hungry. However, many kids who rely on receiving a subsidized breakfast or lunch during the school year often face long summer days without enough to eat. FPCRO will support the Cereal for Summer campaign at the Presbytery of Detroit again this year.

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VBS 2023—Mark Your Calendars for a STELLAR VBS

Our 2023 STELLAR VBS is June 26-30 from 9 am-12 noon. Registration begins March 1! Be sure to mark your calendars for a week of finding Jesus’ light! Click here to register!

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Volunteer for STELLAR VBS!

Our 2023 VBS is June 26-30! This is a wonderful week of sharing God’s word with our church children and the children of our community. We are looking for volunteers for a variety of areas. Not only do we need helpers during the event, but also helpers for planning and designing sets and props. Please visit our sign-up genius to join in on the fun!

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SnackPax

After worship on July 23, join us to pack 400 more snack bags for children in the area who might not be getting enough to eat at home. This is a great intergenerational event for all abilities. Look for bags to decorate in the coming weeks ahead of the event. We’re grateful to partner with Song and Spirit Center in Royal Oak for this mission project.

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School Supplies

In August, we’ll collect school supplies for neighbors at Oakland Elementary school. Look for sales and pick up a few items when you see them. Boxes will be out in the church to receive donations during August. Check the worship bulletin for exact dates. Teacher requested items: Crayons, Colored pencils, Markers, Glue sticks, Composition notebooks, Primary journals (composition notebook, but with a spot to draw a picture for K-2 classes), Plastic folders with prongs, Colored dry erase markers, Pencils (pre-sharpened), Play-Doh, Bingo daubers, Socks (for feet and white board erasers)

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Summer Movie Night: “Finding Nemo”

Friday, August 11 at 8 pm on the Hendrie Lawn. Bring a lawn chair and a friend. We’ll bring the popcorn!

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Need a Ride to Church?

The Deacons want to ensure that everyone who wants to come to church can get here! Roger Watson is the transportation advocate on the Board of Deacons. If you need a ride to church, or would like to have a ride occasionally, please get in touch with Roger. Or call the church office to get his contact information. Roger can work with you to see how we can arrange a ride for you to join us for worship.

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Forging Faith Podcast

What happens when spirituality collides with life? In FPCRO's new podcast, Pastor Emma talks with folks who have experienced a variety of challenges—from cancer to divorce to adoption—and hears how their faith has been stretched and shaped by these experiences. Check it out here. “Forging Faith” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast platforms. We’re grateful to the Evangelism and Communication committee and the Earla B. Smith Foundation for making the podcast possible!

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Liturgists in Worship

Are you comfortable with public speaking? Do you love God and love to serve the church? Do you want to try something new? Pastor Emma and the Worship and Music Committee invite church members and friends to serve as liturgists in the new year. If you are able and willing to serve, please contact Pastor Emma to be added to the weekly schedule.