​July Sabbath

As we have for the past several years, FPCRO will observe a sabbath month during July 2025.
What is a sabbath? The practice of sabbath originates in the fourth commandment where God urges
the people to remember the Sabbath day and to keep it holy. At creation, God rested on the seventh day
after all the work was done. For Christians today, sabbath is a spiritual practice of stopping and resting. We cease to do our work for a little while, remembering that the world does not spin because of our hard work; rather, God is in charge of it all. The period of rest provides sustenance for our spirits and turns our hearts toward God.
What is a sabbath month for the church? During July, as a congregation, we focus only on weekly worship on Sundays at 10:30am. We refrain from adding other programs and activities to the calendar. Our committees and boards do not meet. We take a breath and rest. This period provides refreshment for leaders and staff, as we also begin to look toward the fall.
Are the staff still working during July? Yes, the staff are 100% still working their regular schedules throughout the month. Unless individual staff members are taking vacation, everyone is working as normal and the church office remains open during our usual hours. The month is not “a break”—it is an intentional time for our whole congregation to renew our spirits after a busy year just past and an exciting program year to come.
If you are interested in books or resources to learn more about sabbath, email Pastor Emma. In July 2023, we enjoyed a worship series about sabbath. There are lots of great books and resources that can help you shape this practice for your own life.

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School Supply Drive

Between July 20-August 18, we’ll collect school supplies for neighbors at Oakland Elementary School in Royal Oak. Oakland Elementary serves grades K-5 and has a population of 208 students, 42% of whom are economically disadvantaged. The school and students are very appreciative of our donations! Watch the worship bulletin for updates and a list of needed supplies.

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Save the Date: CROP Hunger Walk!

This year, the CROP Hunger Walk is Sunday, September 21, starting at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Ferndale, located at 540 W. Lewiston Ave. Last year, of the five churches who participated, $11,007 in donations was raised. FPCRO raised $2,000 with donations equal between online and in-person donations. This year, your donations are even more urgent with USAID in disarray. CROP Walk is another way in which to demonstrate FPCRO’s commitment to being a Mathew 25 church. Thank you for your continued support of this very important mission.

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Naomi-Ruth Circle Meets Wednesdays at 10:30am

Women of FPCRO, mark your calendars and attend Naomi-Ruth Circle! Circle meets at 10:30am in the Fireside Room the second Wednesday of the month September to June. We begin with fellowship and snacks, share joys and concerns, and learn of various missions, and conclude with Bible Study. This year’s study is “Sacred Encounters: The Power and Presence of Jesus Christ in Luke through Acts,” produced by Presbyterian Women/Horizons Bible Study.

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Opportunity to Usher on Sunday Mornings

The Worship and Nurture Committee is looking for ushers. Simply arrive 20-25 minutes ahead of
the 10:30am service to greet folks and hand out bulletins. After worship, retrieve the completed
pew rack Friendship pad forms. A sign-up sheet is on the table in the Narthex. Questions? Contact Gail Meengs.

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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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​Sunburst Singers Music Program for Children

Join our music program for kids (preschool through early middle school), following worship on the first and third Sundays of each month from September through June.​