Bring Hope

One of the good things about being part of the First Covenant community is, well, being part of the community. When someone is sick, troubled, hospitalized, or not mobile, we want to be intentional about showing compassion in the way described by the Bible, “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ”
(Galatians 6:2).

That desire to bring real encouragement and support to people who are experiencing tough times is the reason for our Care Team Ministry. Care Team members are volunteers who work together and in our community of faith. People of all ages are part of the team and they come from all walks of life. Our Care Team meets together periodically to share experiences and receive training and tips to be good caregivers and to make each visit meaningful and effective. Members make visits based on their personal schedule and availability.

Care Team members have opportunities to call, visit, listen, and befriend. They often get the immediate reward of gratitude.

“Thank you so much.”

“You are so kind.”

“I needed your encouragement today.”

“Thanks for listening.”

Care Team members Andy and Krystal Lehner sometimes take along their two-year-old daughter, Sadie, when they are visiting an elderly person. The seniors enjoy seeing a child and Sadie loves visiting the “grandparents.”

Are you looking for a meaningful place to invest your time and make a difference? We are looking for more Care Team members for this rewarding ministry. Make friends and bless others. In September, you can join the Care Team in attending a half-day Stephen Ministry Workshop that will give you wonderful insight and skills.

If you are interested or would like more information contact Pastor Jennifer Schoenrock (or 612-927-3121).

 

Upcoming Events

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 9:30 AM 

Bandage rolling

Every third Tuesday of the month, you can help roll cotton bandages to be used in hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Come downstairs to Fellowship Hall. Everyone is welcome.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 6-8 PM 

Supper and Ash Wednesday service

You are invited to a simple soup supper in Fellowship Hall. If you can bring soup to share, please contact Pastor Kyliah Clarke Villa ( or 612-927-3124). At 7 p.m., join in a brief worship service as we observe the beginning of Lent together.

FEBRUARY 24-26

ROOTS Winter Retreat

Students grades 6-12, don’t miss out on an incredible weekend! The Winter Retreat, February 24-26, will be at Adventurous Christians Wilderness Camp on the Gunflint Trail. Cost is $95, and includes lodging, food, transportation, all programming, activities, and lots and lots of fun!  Partial scholarships are available as needed. Space is limited, so pick up a registration form from Todd Bratulich or Leya Copper

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 9-9:45 AM 

All-community prayer gathering

Come to receive prayer on Sunday morning during all-community prayer time. This open group meets to pray for others, the community, and First Covenant. All-community prayer is open to everyone. NOTE THE NEW LOCATION: the Lounge by the elevator on the second floor. Stop in any time during First Hour (9-9:45 a.m.) Sunday morning. On the second Sunday of the month, prayer gatherings will start at 8:30 a.m. and end in time for the 9 a.m. Hymn, Scripture & Prayer service also held in the Lounge.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM 

Breaking New Ground with Race Relations
(Class 3)

Nekima Levy-Pounds will lead this three-class series. The class will be held in the Lounge. A sandwich lunch will be provided ($5 per person requested). Please RSVP to Terri Stromberg ( or 612-927-3120).

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 6-9 PM 

The Deep End: Six vital explorations of faith.

This ongoing course is led by Pastor Dan Collison.This class will meet once per month on the fourth Tuesday—from 6-9 p.m., January 24 - June 26. Registration is required.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 6-7 PM

CONFIRMATION CLASS (Students)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 7-9 PM

ROOTS (Students)

Join us for ROOTS, a time of fun and exploration as we grow deeper in relationship with God and each other.

SUNDAY, MARCH 4, 9-9:45 AM 

All-community prayer gathering

Come to receive prayer on Sunday morning during all-community prayer time. This open group meets to pray for others, the community, and First Covenant. All-community prayer is open to everyone. NOTE THE NEW LOCATION: the Lounge by the elevator on the second floor. Stop in any time during First Hour (9-9:45 a.m.) Sunday morning. On the second Sunday of the month, prayer gatherings will start at 8:30 a.m. and end in time for the 9 a.m. Hymn, Scripture & Prayer service also held in the Lounge.

SUNDAY, MARCH 4, 5-7 PM 

Adjourned annual meeting

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Prior to the meeting, you are invited to a dinner served by our youth in Fellowship Hall at 5 p.m. The proceeds from the meal will be used to help student kids attend CHIC, a conference/gathering of young people from Covenant churches around the U.S. and Canada next summer.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 6-7 PM

CONFIRMATION CLASS (Students)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 7-9 PM

ROOTS (Students)

Join us for ROOTS, a time of fun and exploration as we grow deeper in relationship with God and each other.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 6:30-8:30 PM 

Wellness Night

You're invited to an all-community evening together with a focus on wellness. Details to come.

TUESDAY, MARCH 27, 6-9 PM 

The Deep End: Six vital explorations of faith.

This ongoing course is led by Pastor Dan Collison.This class will meet once per month on the fourth Tuesday—from 6-9 p.m., January 24 - June 26. Registration is required.

TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 6-9 PM 

The Deep End: Six vital explorations of faith.

This ongoing course is led by Pastor Dan Collison.This class will meet once per month on the fourth Tuesday—from 6-9 p.m., January 24 - June 26. Registration is required.

SATURDAY, MAY 19

Save the date! All-church retreat
"Room To Breathe"

On Saturday, May 19, the entire First Covenant community is invited to an all-church retreat alongside the beautiful St. Croix river, at the YMCA camp in Hudson Wisconsin. Last year, nearly 90 people enjoyed the day together. Mark your calendars now. Plan to attend, and start practicing for the second annual skit and talent show!

TUESDAY, MAY 22, 6-9 PM 

The Deep End: Six vital explorations of faith.

This ongoing course is led by Pastor Dan Collison.This class will meet once per month on the fourth Tuesday—from 6-9 p.m., January 24 - June 26. Registration is required.

TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 6-9 PM 

The Deep End: Six vital explorations of faith.

This ongoing course is led by Pastor Dan Collison.This class will meet once per month on the fourth Tuesday—from 6-9 p.m., January 24 - June 26. Registration is required.