8/11/24 Bulletin & Order of Service

Welcome to St Pete First United Methodist Church, the Heart of the City! All are welcome. All belong. Whether a first-time guest or a lifelong member, you are a part of our family. God has called you to worship here, and for that we are glad.

Click here to view a welcome message from our pastors.

Rev. Bob Martin, Senior Pastor

Rev. Margaret Rountree, Associate Pastor

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A NOTE FROM PASTOR MARGE    

For seven weeks this summer, we have studied some amazing heroes in the Bible, both men and women. We have looked at Elijah, Noah, Deborah, Esther, Daniel, Joshua, and the final hero we will look at is the man who wrote half of the New Testament, the apostle Paul. We first meet Paul as Saul of Tarsus and Saul looked more like a religious terrorist than a devout follower of Jesus Christ. For over three decades, Saul tried to systematically wipe out all of Christianity. But then Saul met Jesus Christ for the very first time on the road to Damascus and he was never the same again. After Paul’s conversion, the same zeal and single-minded dedication Paul had against Christianity transformed into a hyperactive quest to spread the Gospel worldwide. Paul embarked on five missionary journeys, he spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he wrote half of the New Testament.

In A.D. 62, thirty years after the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, Paul writes a letter to the church in Philippi while he is in prison in Rome. Paul writes this letter for two reasons. One, he wants to encourage the Philippians in their faith and two, Paul is concerned about the Philippians’ continued progress in their faith. The Philippians are a people who are stuck on their list of accomplishments and achievements. They are stuck on their religious resumes. They were theologically confused because they were adding legalism on top of the Gospel. In other words, they believed that their own good works PLUS the finished work of Christ on the cross earned them salvation. So, the apostle Paul, who knows a thing or two about legalism (remember he was a Pharisee himself), wants to remind the Philippians of something about their resumes in regards to being a Christian.

Paul explains that our activity, our religious resumes, do not earn us a right standing with God but rather a right standing with God is given to us as a gift through faith in Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, the apostle Paul had to learn this the hard way because he had the perfect resume. Paul had political power (He was a part of the Sanhedrin), he had social power (He was a Roman citizen), he had religious power (he was a Pharisee), he had financial power (he was wealthy), he had educational power (he got a degree from Tarsus), and he had family power (he was of the tribe of Benjamin). Yet, Paul was willing to lay it all down to follow Jesus.

Paul teaches us that the call to follow Christ is the call to come and die; to not only surrender your sin but to surrender your resume as well. It is the call to take up your cross and follow Him because you think He is worth it, not because He is going to make your life better, but because He is better than life.

The good news for us is this: if God can take a Jesus hater, Christian killer, self-righteous Pharisee and transform him into one of the greatest disciples this world has

ever seen, then surely you are not too far gone from the outstretched arms of Christ. The call to follow Jesus is the call to come and die to yourself and to surrender to the cross of Christ so that you could be able to say, "I am crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).

— Pastor Marge    

All Holy, Loving, and Compassionate God,

We lift up to you all administrators, principals, professors, teachers, school secretaries, support staff, maintenance staff and all other people who work in our schools and universities before you today. Grant them an abundance of Your wisdom. Prepare their hearts to welcome and love our loved ones, and may we make sure to show them love and respect in return. Give them grace as they help students who aren’t thriving, the courage to say what needs to be said, tools and knowledge on how and when to speak love, and strength when they feel weak. When they feel unseen, remind them that no moment goes unnoticed. They are shaping the future in incredibly important ways every day. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the gift of learning they share with our children. Bless them, Lord, and may they see even just a glimpse of how their faithfulness will forever impact generations to come.

We also pray for the parents, guardians, and caregivers of students today. They are faced with so many challenges and obstacles and they have to make decisions that require your wisdom, understanding, and insight. When they feel overwhelmed, grant them your peace that surpasses all of their understanding. May they never feel alone or abandoned. May your Holy Spirit strengthen then from within, so that they will be a source of strength, confidence, encouragement, and hope for their children.

We pray for our students as the new school year begins, who will be educated online, at home, or in person in our schools. As they pursue their education, enlighten their minds. May they grow in grace and wisdom. In areas where this a lack, provide them knowledge, understanding, counsel, and fortitude. Keep them safe from all illnesses and protect them from all harm. Give them the courage and strength to tackle any challenge thrown at them this school year. May they know that their identity and worth is in You, not in their grades or extracurricular activities or even their successes/achievements.

Finally, we pray for our two partner schools, Melrose Elementary School and Fairmount Park Elementary School. We pray for their new principals, Dr. Carmen Harris and Andrew Akapnitis. Grant them wisdom, discernment, courage, and endurance for the days and months ahead of them as they lead these schools during this school year. We pray for all administrators, school staff, teachers, parents, and loved ones at both of these elementary schools. Above all else, we pray for the students who will be learning and growing in the classrooms. May they know and understand that they are incredibly loved and that you have big plans and purposes for each one of them.

We ask all these things through Christ, our Teacher. Amen.

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

Traditional Worship—8 & 11 AM

August 11, 2024

*Please stand as you are able. Congregational responses are in bold.

(Click here to check-in)

PRELUDE

"I Will Arise And Go To Jesus" arr. R.P. Block

"Holy, Holy, Holy" arr. Todd Marchand

Steve Butler, Trombone

Rick Nay, Organ

*CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: Hungering and thirsting, we come to the Lord.

People: Feed us with Your love and healing power, O Lord.

Leader: Praise be to You, O Lord, for Your compassion for us.

People: Praise be to You, O Lord, for Your steadfast love.

*HYMN OF PRAISE

"Amazing Grace" vs. 1, 2, 6 Hymn # 378

*PASSING THE PEACE OF CHRIST

*CONGREGATIONAL SONG

“Blest Be the Tie That Binds” Hymn # 557

Blest be the tie that binds

our hearts in Christian love;

the fellowship of kindred minds

is like to that above.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Leader: Christ the Lord invites all to His table who love Him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another.

People: Have mercy on us, O God of love and grace. Wash away the thoughts that bind us to sin and erase those actions that lead us away from You. Teach us Your wisdom and put a new spirit of truth, love, and righteousness within us. Fill us with the joy You offer through the grace of Jesus Christ. Grant us clean hearts and willing minds, that we may walk in Your ways and rejoice in Your truth. Strengthen us with loving plans and righteous deeds, that we may offer Your justice and mercy to a world in need. Amen.

WORDS OF ASSURANCE

It is Jesus Christ who is the Bread of Life. Come to Him and feed on His love for you. Find healing in His presence. Know that this is given freely for you, out of His great love. Amen.

(11:00) ANTHEM

"In This Very Room" by Ron and Carol Harris

Chancel Choir

WORSHIP WITH OUR TITHES AND OFFERINGS  (Click here to GIVE)

"Beach Spring" arr. Tom Marchand

Steve Butler, Trombone

Kelly Bonyata, Flute

Rick Nay, Organ

*DOXOLOGY Hymn # 95

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

*HYMN OF PREPARATION

"He Touched Me” Hymn # 367

SERMON

“Paul”     Rev. Margaret Rountree

Text: Philippians 3:1-11 ESV

SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

*HYMN OF DEDICATION

"Where He Leads Me” vs. 1 Hymn # 338

*BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE  

"Sketch No. 2" by Robert Schumann

Rick Nay, Organ

The flowers are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Gordon G. Warner, Jr.'s birthday, son of Pat Warner, from all of the family.

Thank you for joining us today!

Reminder: If you are not feeling well or if you are traveling, please take advantage of our livestream worship.

Contemporary Worship - 9:30 AM

August 11, 2024

(Click here to check-in)

Praise & Worship Praise Team

“Battle Belongs” 

“Goodness of God”  

Passing the Peace of Christ

Worship with Our Tithes and Offerings

(Click here to GIVE)

Sermon

“Paul”     Rev. Margaret Rountree

Text: Philippians 3:1-11 ESV

Sacrament of Holy Communion

Worship Song

“Doxology”

Benediction

The flowers are given to the glory of God in loving memory of Gordon G. Warner, Jr.'s birthday, son of Pat Warner, from all of the family.

Thank you for joining us today!

Reminder: If you are not feeling well or if you are traveling, please take advantage of our livestream worship.

Volunteer Help Needed

A little time out of your week can make such a difference! Join us as we strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we serve and Love. St. Pete. We need volunteers for our First Impressions team - these team members volunteer during one or more Sunday services per month and act as ambassadors of our church to help folks feel welcome and safe in our building.  Training is provided so volunteers can assist the church during emergencies or other situations that might occur on Sunday mornings. Contact Kendra Aumack for more information or Click here to go to our Serve form, then select the ministries you are interested in.

Blood Pressure & Health Information Clinic (2nd Sundays): Our Faith Community Nursing ministry hosts a blood pressure & health information clinic every 2nd Sunday from 9 am until 11:30 am. Find them in the 1st floor Nurse’s Area right past the Fellowship Hall.

Wednesday Night Live Dinner & Activities will return on September 4th. Mark your calendars!

Last Week's Attendance Numbers

Thank you for joining us for worship! On August 4th we had online worship only due to Hurricane Debby. We hope to see you again next week!

August 4 In Person 0 Online 235

Church Finances

June 2024 Year to Date

Income $162,916 $1,465,350

Expense $232,392 $1,591,472

St Pete First Day at the Rays (Saturday, August 17 @ 4:10 pm) Ticket deadline has been extended to Aug. 12th @noon!

St Pete First is getting a group together to attend the special FAITH DAY RAYS GAME which includes a post-game event with players and team chaplain giving their personal testimonies. Buy your Tampa Bay Rays tickets on Sunday August 11 in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30 am—12:30 pm. Tickets: $40.00 each (includes a free baseball cap). Choose a free Rays gift with each order. Click here for more information or to buy tickets online or contact Shirley Bassett at (727) 310-7044 // sbassettUNI@gmail.com. GO RAYS!

Children/Youth Open House (8/18):

Let’s kick off the school year with an Open House for Children and Youth Ministries on Sunday, August 18th! This will be an event not only for our Sunday School children and families but for our community. Join us for refreshments as you meet the teachers and check out where our children learn, grow, and connect with Jesus, our church, & our community!

Preschool Families — 1st floor Preschool Hall — 9 am-12:30 pm

Elementary Families – 4th floor — 9 am-12:30 pm

Youth Families – The WhereHouse (across the alley) — 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Confirmation Meeting (8/18):

Confirmation is beginning September 8 for 7th grade youth. There will be an informational meeting for youth and parents on August 18th at 12 noon in the WhereHouse. Contact KayLee Bennett for more info.

First Grade Bible Presentations (8/25):

First Grade Bible Presentations will be on Sunday, August 25. Do you have a new first grade student? Contact Lora Ulrich.

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner (8/28):

Our wonderful volunteers at St Pete First are invited to a special dinner on August 28th at 6 pm! Bring the family! Or invite a friend! Click here to RSVP or call the church office (727-894-4661) no later than Monday, August 26th.

Navigating the Senior Years: Caring for the Elderly (9/7):

This educational event for senior adults and their families will feature 2 Q&A Panels and vendor tables discussing elder law, rehab, assisted living facilities & memory care, veterans services/benefits, in-home fitness, counseling, funeral care, insurance, & more. Click here for more information & to RSVP.

2024 Women's Retreat (10/11-13): < Sign Up NOW!

Join us for St. Pete First's bedazzling 2024 Women’s Retreat the weekend of October 11th-13th at Warren Willis United Methodist Camp & Conference Center in Fruitland Park, Florida. Click here for more information & to register online.

Get your St. Pete First Travel Mug!

Click here to order a travel mug ($20) and show your support of St. Pete First and our mission to Love St. Pete.

Upcoming Events:

• 8/17—St. Pete First Faith Day at the Rays @ 4:10 pm. More here.

• 8/18— Kids/Youth Open House: 9:30-12:30 pm.

• 8/18— Confirmation Meeting (youth & parents): 12 pm.

• 8/25—First Grade Bible Presentations. Parents: contact Lora Ulrich.

• 9/7—Navigating the Senior Years: Caring for the Elderly: 9 am-1pm. More here.

• 8/28—St. Pete First Volunteer Appreciation Dinner @6 pm. RSVP Here.

• 10/11-13—2024 Women's Retreat. More information/register online.

Parents' Morning Out Staff Position Opening

Our Parent's Morning Out Program has an open part-time staff position for three days per week: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8:45 am - 12:15 pm. The person in this position works on a team of three, providing general childcare for infants through 2 years. Contact Lora Ulrich at lulrich@stpetefirst.org for more details

To see our full list of job openings, visit our Job Center: https://www.stpetefirst.org/job-center.

KIDS

SUNDAYS

8:00 am

Infant Lounge/Cry Room Room 204 (Livestreaming available during all services)

9:30 am

Infant Lounge/Cry Room Room 204 (Livestreaming available during all services)

Nursery (Birth - 2 years) Room 105

2’s TODDLER Room 104

PRESCHOOL (Age 3 - K) Sunday School Preschool Hall

ELEMENTARY (1st - 5th Gr) Kids Church 4th Floor

11:00 am

Infant Lounge/Cry Room Room 204 (Livestreaming available during all services)

Nursery (Birth - 2 years) Room 105

2’s TODDLER Room 104

PRESCHOOL (Age 3 - K) Kids Church Preschool Hall

ELEMENTARY (1st - 5th Gr) Sunday School 4th Floor

CLUB 56 (5th & 6th Grades) Room 404

WEDNESDAYS -RETURNING on Sept 4th

5:00 pm KIDS PRAISE TEAM (Age 4-6th Grade) Chapel

5:30 pm DINNER Fellowship Hall

6-7 pm WEDNESDAY NIGHT LIVE (Preschool & Elementary) Preschool/4th Floor

6:30-7:30 pm NURSERY (Birth - 3 years) Room 105

YOUTH

SUNDAYS

9:30 am WORSHIP (Look for the youth up front) Sanctuary

11:00 am CLUB 56 (5th & 6th Grades) 4th Floor, Room 404

10:45 am YOUTH (7th – 12th GRADES) WhereHouse

6:00 pm YOUTH (7th – 12th GRADES) WhereHouse

WEDNESDAYS -RETURNING on Sept 4th

5:30 pm DINNER Fellowship Hall

6-7:30 pm Youth Group WhereHouse

 SUNDAY WORSHIP 

8:00 am Traditional Service -Sanctuary

9:30 am Contemporary Service -Sanctuary

11:00 am Traditional Service -Sanctuary

FELLOWSHIP TIME (BETWEEN SERVICES) 

9-11:30 am Common Grounds (Coffee, Food & Fellowship) -Fellowship Hall

9-11:30 am (2nd Sundays) Blood Pressure Clinic -1st Floor Nurse's Area

 ADULTS 

SUNDAYS 

9:30 am QUEST -Zoom & Room 208

     10:45 am PROMISED LAND -Zoom & Room 301

10:45 am YOUNGISH ADULTS -Room 101 (Join us at Common Grounds this summer at 10:45! Sunday School returns on August 11.)

11:00 am BECOMERS -Zoom & Room 103

11:00 am DISCIPLE MAKERS -Library-Room 212

11:00 am SOJOURNERS -Room 208 (On Summer Break June 2-Sept 1)

MONDAYS 

11:30 am United Women in Faith FAST Crowd (3rd Mondays) -Location varies               (On Summer Break June-August)                         

WEDNESDAYS    -RETURNING on Sept 4th

5:30 pm DINNER Fellowship Hall

6:30 pm BAND OF BROTHERS -Parlor-Rm 214 

6:30 pm Adult BIBLE STUDIES - TBA 

THURSDAYS 

7:30 am THURSDAY MEN’S STUDY -Zoom

1:00 pm United Women in Faith Deborah Circle (4th Thursdays) -Room 101              (On Summer Break June-August)               

 MUSIC

SUNDAYS 

8:30 am IGNITE WORSHIP TEAM -Room 214-Parlor & Sanctuary

10:15 am CHANCEL CHOIR -Room 312 (Does not sing June 16-July 14)

12:10 pm HANDBELLS -Room 310

TUESDAYS 

6:00 pm IGNITE WORSHIP TEAM -Sanctuary

WEDNESDAYS

5:00 pm KIDS PRAISE TEAM (Age 4-6th Grade) Chapel -RETURNING on Sept 4th

7:30 pm CHANCEL CHOIR -Room 312   No Wednesday rehearsal June-August

 CARE & SUPPORT

WEDNESDAYS 

12:00 Noon CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP -Zoom

THURSDAYS 

6:30 pm WOMEN'S JOURNEY -Chapel

7:30 pm AL-ANON Parlor -Room 214

 LEADERSHIP TEAM MEETINGS

FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

5:30 pm BOARD OF TRUSTEES -Admin Conference Room

SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

6:00 pm STAFF PARISH -Closed Meeting

THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

6:00 pm FINANCE TEAM -Admin Conference Room

FOURTH TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

6:00 pm CHURCH COUNCIL -Fellowship Hall & Zoom

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH

12:00 pm LEARN PILLAR

SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

6:00 pm SERVE PILLAR  

THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

12:00 pm INVITE PILLAR  

THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

2:00 pm NURTURE PILLAR