E-Newsletter: August 14, 2026
FIRST BELL
As a new school year begins, the church family will participate in First Bell: Prayer for Schools during the 10:45 AM worship service this Sunday, August 16. Pastor Eddie will lead in a prayer of consecration, safety, and success for the new school year, seeking God’s blessings over those who serve in and attend our schools.
All students of all ages, teachers, support staff, administrators, and school employees are encouraged to be a part of this special time of prayer. Together, the church family will dedicate the year ahead to the Lord, asking him for wisdom, protection, strength, and his presence in every classroom, office, and campus.
All that are participating in the First Bell Prayer are encouraged to wear their school colors/apparel this Sunday to show your school support and pride.
SUNDAY’S SERMON
The Be Like Andrew series continues this Sunday with a simple truth from one of Jesus’ greatest miracles: sometimes the people and possibilities others overlook are exactly what Jesus chooses to use.
In John 6, thousands of hungry people needed to be fed. While the disciples wrestled with the size of the problem, Andrew noticed someone who could easily have been missed—a young boy carrying five loaves and two fish. The boy did not appear to have much to offer, but Andrew brought him and what he had to Jesus. What seemed insignificant became more than enough in the hands of Jesus.
Join the Greenville First family this Sunday, August 16, in the 10:45 AM Worship Service as Pastor Jim continues the Be Like Andrew series with “Bring the Overlooked”. Andrew did the bringing. Jesus did the miraculous. The same Jesus still sees value, potential, and possibility where others may see very little.
BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY
September 13 | 10:45 AM
Fall marks the beginning of a new season, making it the perfect time to reconnect with God, with church, and with one another. Greenville First’s fourth annual Back to Church Sunday is a special opportunity to welcome first-time guests, reconnect with those who have been away, and celebrate what God is doing at our church.
The morning worship service begins at 10:45 AM, followed by Lunch on the Grounds featuring fried chicken, barbecue, coleslaw, mac and cheese, baked beans, and desserts. The church will provide the meal, allowing everyone to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of fellowship together.
As part of this year’s theme, A New Season, the congregation is encouraged to pray for family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers who need Jesus or a church home. A simple invitation can become the beginning of a life-changing journey.
Back to Church Sunday isn’t simply about filling seats. It’s about opening doors for people to encounter Jesus and become part of a church family.
JOINING THE TEAM
Greenville First is pleased to welcome Johnathan Barrett as the church’s new Choir Director!
Johnathan is from Goldsboro and is a recent graduate of the University of Mount Olive, where he earned a degree in Music Education. He brings with him extensive experience both singing in and directing choirs, along with a love for music and a desire to use his gifts in ministry.
Johnathan is excited to begin working with the Greenville First Choir and invites anyone who enjoys singing to become a part of the ministry. Choir rehearsals are held each Wednesday at 7:30 PM, and all who are interested in joining are encouraged to come.
Greenville First is excited to welcome Johnathan to the church family and looks forward to this new season of music and worship together!
COLLEGE AGE BIBLE STUDY
Life after high school brings new questions, new responsibilities, and new opportunities to grow in Christ. College Age Sunday Nights is a place to open God’s Word, build meaningful friendships, and discover what it means to follow Jesus through every season of life.
Meeting each Sunday at 7:30 PM in the Youth Lounge, this weekly gathering is designed for college-age young adults seeking biblical truth, authentic community, and spiritual growth. The study is led by Pastor Eddie and centers on the transforming power of God’s Word.
MEN’S MINISTRY JOURNEY
Every man longs for a life of purpose, adventure, and authentic faith. Beginning in August, the Men’s Ministry will launch Wild at Heart Journey, a study based on the bestselling book and companion workbook by John Eldredge. Led by Men’s Ministry Director Zach Loch, this six-session study is designed to help men discover God’s plan for biblical manhood and grow stronger in their walk with Jesus.
Throughout the journey, participants will explore what it means to bear God’s image as men, identify and find healing from the wounds that often shape their lives, and embrace the calling to live courageously for Christ. The study also highlights God’s design for men to engage in the spiritual battles of life, pursue the adventure of following him, and become part of a band of brothers who encourage, challenge, and strengthen one another in faith.
Books and workbooks are available in the Community Corner. Men of all ages are encouraged to be part of this opportunity to build lasting friendships, deepen their relationship with God, and discover the life he has called them to live. Join the adventure starting this August!
OCC SHOEBOXES
The Operation Christmas Child Shoebox effort is getting an early start this year! From now through October, the focus is collecting the gifts that will go into the shoeboxes. You can help by purchasing items from the Amazon Wishlist or by giving directly to the church for shoebox supplies (links provided below).
A church-wide packing party is scheduled in October to fill and prepare the shoeboxes for shipment. Thank you for helping Greenville First share hope and the love of Jesus with children around the world.
WAYS TO GIVE
The faithful and sacrificial giving of the family and friends of the church ensure the Gospel is preached and the Kingdom of God advances onward!
Sunday in-person giving can be done by placing checks/cash/tithing envelopes in the dropboxes located at each Sanctuary entrance. To give in person during the week, see Yvette Lewis in the church office or place your offering in the dropbox located by the office door.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Prayer changes things—and you don’t have to carry your burdens alone. The Greenville First prayer team would be honored to stand with you in prayer. Whether big or small, your request matters to God.
Submit your prayer request today, and let your church family join you in bringing it before the Lord.
Email: prayer@greenvillefirst.org
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
