ADULTS

Classes... Small Groups... Ministry... Seminars

Adult equipping opportunities come in various forms (classes, small groups, and seminars) to help us grow as we are transformed into the image of Christ. Scroll down to explore the possibilities below. Accountability happens in the midst of relationships as we connect with one another in small group settings or while in the midst of serving.  


We live out our faith in practical ways as we engage in service in our church, community, and the world, bringing honor and glory to God. Visit our "get involved" page to learn about the opportunities to use your gifts and talents for God's Kingdom. If you don't know your gifts or want to confirm them, check out this gift discovery tool.


It is our personal contact with others wherever we are that provides a witness of our faith that draws others to Christ.


Care for our church family happens through hospital visitation, shut-in visitation, prayer ministries (see prayer page) as well as in the context of our home and ministry groups as individuals care for one another.

Adult Equipping Classes

(Sunday School)

Our church’s vision of “raising disciples of Jesus Christ” happens in part during our Equipping Hour. Each Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. adults gather together in various groups to study God’s word from Scripture or to study topics related to Scripture, pursuing their desire to grow spiritually. Come join one of these groups on Sunday morning.

  • connect

    Their goal is to grow as sons and daughters of Father God, brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ and in teachable revelation through the Holy Spirit. This class desires to apply what they read, hear, and discuss to their own lives.  Feel free to join them at any time.

  • Faith & Friendship

    This class enjoys topics such as Biblical studies as well as contemporary and life situations. They believe that with heaven-to-earth teaching, God will bless you to move into a deeper relationship with Him. They want you to be reminded of God’s amazing grace and provision.   All are welcome to join them.

  • Women on the Journey

    This class of women of all ages is currently meeting together to continue their growth and discipleship in the Lord.  They desire to encourage and spur one another on in their spiritual journey, walking in Jesus' steps.  They welcome all women to join them.

  • a quiet hour

    This is individual time with God available in our prayer room, room 207. Meet with God and enjoy His presence. There is also opportunity to receive prayer or prophetic ministry from our trained prayer team during this time.  Please contact the church office in advance to request this ministry during this hour or at another time.  

  • specials & Short Term classes

    Special events and short-term classes happen from time to time. These may include visits from our missionary families, special video presentations, children's programs, and such. 


Weekday Bible Studies

Wednesday Men's 6:00 a.m. Bible Study

6:00-7:00 a.m. in Room 111

Weekly, September through mid-June. Welcoming all men with your morning coffee. Bring your Bible for a time of study and sharing with other men.


Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Bible Study with Pastor DJ

10:00-11:00 a.m. in Room 301

Weekly, September through May. All are welcome. Check with the church on start up date in the fall.


See Home Groups & Equipping Classes for other Bible study opportunities.

Other Small Groups

HOME GROUPS

There are other home groups that meet. They are formed from time to time as individuals or couples initiate a home group within their circle of friends and acquaintances. These groups may be kept small or may be opened to all. It is the group's choice.  


SENIOR MOMENTS

Gatherings for our senior citizens. Meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month in the church Fellowship Hall for lunch and a special program. In addition they enjoy special outside activities and outings from time to time. Gathering begins at 11:30 a.m. Lunch at 12:00 noon followed by the program. A small charge/love gift covers the cost of the meal and program. Contact: Mindy/Bob Sheaffer


RUN FOR GOD CLUB

This club is open to all ages and levels of runners AND walkers. It is a community of like-minded runners and walkers who use the sport to share the love of Christ. Our purpose is to grow together in faith, friendships, and share the love of Christ along the way. Join us as we become better witnesses for Christ; physically, mentally, and spiritually. Currently meeting Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. See more about Run For God here. Contact: Travis Hess 717.892.8240; thessruns@gmail.com


FRIENDS OF THE FARM BYOL (BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH) AFTER SECOND SERVICE:

BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) and join in with others after church at the church farm property (or in Fellowship Hall during inclement weather). Eat lunch and fellowship together. Time is flexible. Come and go as your schedule permits. Tables are spaced for social distancing. Approximate time: 12:15 – 2:15 p.m. or as your schedule permits. All are welcome.

Ministry Groups

EXTENSION MINISTRY

We invite you to join us for any of a variety of activities and mission outreaches, as we take the message of Christ's love outside the walls of First Church. We reach out locally, regionally, nationally and throughout the world. Please consider joining us as we find opportunities to "Pray, Give and Go!"   


MINISTRY TEAMS

Some of our serving teams such as our praise team serve together and provide a group experience with support, encouragement, and accountability for one another.

Seminars & Special Experiences

These seminars can be offered at various times and in flexible formats. They may happen in a weekend, a one-time class, spread over several weeks, or in whatever creative format fits the schedules of those who wish to experience them. Please contact the church office if you are interested in any of these seminars.

  • New Member class

    Interested in learning more about First Church and what we believe? Want to become part of this family of believers? Come join our New Member Class. It may be offered at any time of the year when there is interest. Contact the church office with interest or to learn more about membership at First Church click here.

  • Encounter experience

    Experience the Holy Spirit! The Encounter Experience is time set aside to allow the Holy Spirit access to your heart, mind, and life. It is a time for unforgiveness, lies, rejection, and other obstacles to go, and a time to welcome a new filling of the Holy Spirit and a new freedom, becoming all you can be in Christ. You can expect a mighty transformation as you give the Holy Spirit time to work in you. 

  • Prayer skills training

    Increase your prayer life! Be equipped with tools to use in your own prayer life as well as acquiring essential training to help fulfill any desire or call to future prayer ministry. These are indispensable skills for all disciples.   Contact the church office or email Barb with interest or questions. Or click here for more details.


About Adult Faith Formation

Walking with you as you grow from glory to glory into the image of Christ, our goal is to offer a variety of opportunities to encourage and strengthen you in your pursuit of the fullness of Christ. We desire all to grow in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man!


Classes offered here at First Church reflect the church’s vision of “Raising disciples of Jesus Christ." These classes are designed to "equip and nurture individuals who love and serve God with all their being and one another as Jesus loved, and who carry life to everyone they meet."


We offer classes for: 

      Enrichment ... Empowerment ... Transformation ... Fellowship

Our intent is to offer discipleship classes, seminars, and encounter experiences that will equip First Church disciples in the full range of core discipleship competencies. We believe that these core competencies are essential skills and knowledge that every disciple needs.