Filtering by: Community
Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition
May
6
to May 29
Community

Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
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Portraits of Loved Ones Taken by Gun Violence

Exhibition Hours: May 6 - May 29
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 AM - 3 PM

Souls Shot Portrait Project links fine artists with families or friends of loved ones taken by gun violence. The artists meet with the victims' loved ones to learn about the lives they lived. Their goal is to present diverse works that in some way relay graphically, or through narrative, the essence of the person being portrayed.

We hope that this project will continue to bring some joy and peace to the families and friends of victims and, by bringing attention to the scourge of gun violence in this way, be a call to action to all who see them.

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PCGS Professional Members Concert
May
19
4:00 PM16:00
Music, Community

PCGS Professional Members Concert

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
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Come and enjoy among the best classical guitar performers in the local Philadelphia region.

This year Professional Members Concert features the PCGS Guitar Ensemble performace and concert opener.  This is the premier guitar large ensemble in Philadelphia under the direction of Leonard Ranallo who will also perform as soloist.

Perfomances will range from the more classical Bach Suites to more contemporary, original and jazz compositions for guitar, guitar-mandolin and guitar-hammered dulcimer duos!

The concert, organized by the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society, is open to the public and it is FREE (donations appreciated).

For more information or go to  www.phillyguitar.org.

The Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society (PCGS) 

Founded in 1967 as not-for-profit 501c3, the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society (PCGS) is a volunteers-led community dedicated to supporting and encouraging the promotion of classical guitar music and education in the greater Philadelphia region. PCGS presents monthly concerts from October to March and the Annual Classical Guitar Festival in April with renowned artists, national guitar competition, student recitals, masterclass, workshops etc. For more information about PCGS visit www.phillyguitar.org.

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Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition - Opening Reception
May
5
12:00 PM12:00
Community

Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition - Opening Reception

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Portraits of Loved Ones Taken by Gun Violence

Opening Reception: Sunday, May 5 @ 12 noon
A light brunch will be served by the Deacons.

Exhibition Hours: May 6 - May 29
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 AM - 3 PM

Souls Shot Portrait Project links fine artists with families or friends of loved ones taken by gun violence. The artists meet with the victims' loved ones to learn about the lives they lived. Their goal is to present diverse works that in some way relay graphically, or through narrative, the essence of the person being portrayed.

We hope that this project will continue to bring some joy and peace to the families and friends of victims and, by bringing attention to the scourge of gun violence in this way, be a call to action to all who see them.

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Guitar Concert with David Russell
Apr
13
7:30 PM19:30
Music, Community

Guitar Concert with David Russell

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for an extraordinary concert at First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia on Saturday April 13, at 7:30 pm. The concert, organized by the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society, is open to the public.

A 20% discount is being offered to the First Church community (use code FPCP2024 at checkout). Click HERE for tickets and more information or go to www.phillyguitar.org.

Classical guitarist David Russell is world renowned for his superb musicianship and inspired artistry, having earned the highest praise from audiences and critics alike. In recognition of his great talent and his international career, he was named a Fellow of The Royal Academy of Music in London in 1997.

After winning the 2005 GRAMMY award in the category of best instrumental soloist in classical music, David Russell went on winning many other awards and recognitions globally including Honorary Doctorate in Music by the University of Arizona in Tucson in 2014 and induction to the Hall of Fame of the Guitar Foundation of America in 2018.

The Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society (PCGS) 

Founded in 1967 as not-for-profit 501c3, the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society (PCGS) is a volunteers-led community dedicated to supporting and encouraging the promotion of classical guitar music and education in the greater Philadelphia region. PCGS presents monthly concerts from October to March and the Annual Classical Guitar Festival in April with renowned artists, national guitar competition, student recitals, masterclass, workshops etc. For more information about PCGS visit www.phillyguitar.org.

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Lenten/Easter Donation Drive 2024
Feb
18
to Apr 7
Community

Lenten/Easter Donation Drive 2024

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

During the season of Lent, the Missions Committee is sponsoring a drive to support Philly House, a shelter for men that provides temporary housing and comprehensive services to support transitions to long-term housing.

The donation drive will run from February 18 through April 7.

Items to donate are listed below. Donations can be dropped off in designated locations at the church. Items may also be purchased online from the Amazon Wishlist. (Amazon Wish List items will be shipped directly to Philly House.)

Items to Donate

  • New combs for men

  • New hair picks for men

  • New men's T-shirts (all sizes)

  • Men’s sneakers (all sizes)

  • Men’s adjustable canvas belts (all sizes)

  • Men’s boxer underwear and stretch boxer briefs (all sizes)

  • Down alternative pillows

  • Men’s loose fit shorts (all sizes)

  • Socks (all sizes)

  • Lightweight waterproof backpacks

Please contact the Missions Committee with any questions or concerns. Thank you!

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Co-Moderator of the Presbyterian Church USA to preach at First Church
Oct
8
9:00 AM09:00
Community

Co-Moderator of the Presbyterian Church USA to preach at First Church

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

As part of First Church’s celebration of 325 years as a congregation, the Reverend Ruth Santana-Grace, co-moderator of our General Assembly (the highest elected office in PC(USA)) will preach at First Church on October 8.  Ruth is a great friend to our congregation and we are excited that her moderator’s schedule permits her to help us celebrate our milestone anniversary. 

Ruth will preach at both the Celebration! service (9 AM) in Old Buttonwood Hall and the Traditional service (11 AM) in the sanctuary. Please plan to be in worship to show our appreciation and support.

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Gun Violence Discussion
Sep
24
12:30 PM12:30
Community

Gun Violence Discussion

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Gun Violence: How People of Faith Can Stop This Uniquely American Epidemic

On September 24 after 11 AM worship, the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force (GVPTF) is sponsoring a discussion on what we can do, as people of faith, to address gun violence in our city and our nation. Articles published in the June issue of Presbyterian Outlook will be distributed at the church doors after worship in the weeks leading up to the discussion. The discussion will take place at 12:30 PM in the MacColl Room. Lunch will be provided.

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Aug
26
11:00 AM11:00
Missions, Community

Habitat for Humanity - Page Street Home Dedications

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

On Saturday, August 26, Habitat for Humanity will be dedicating 6 homes at their Diamond Park community in North Philadelphia at the 1600 block of Page Street, and Members of First Church are invited to be part of the celebration, alongside families, Habitat staff, supporters, and community members.  FPC’s support has helped to make the dream of homeownership possible for these families.  The celebration will be from 11 AM - 2 PM; there will be music, water ice and good block party fun!  RSVP to Deidra Duncan by August 18.

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Lenten Donation Drive 2023
Mar
19
to Apr 30
Community

Lenten Donation Drive 2023

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

During the season of Lent, the Missions Committee sponsoring a drive to support St. Barnabas Community Resource center, which is managed through our mission partner Episcopal Community Services (ECS). This community resource center supports individuals and families living in West Philadelphia through an open pantry program and rapid re-housing program.

The donation drive will run from March 19 through April 30.

Items to donate are listed below. Donations can be dropped off in a designated location at the church. Items may also be purchased online from the registry list at Target or wishlist at Amazon. Target and Amazon Wish List items will be shipped to the church's address.

Please contact the Missions Committee with any questions or concerns. Thank you!

Items to Donate

Open Choice Pantry

  • Canned goods (vegetables, fruits, soups, stews, tuna, pork-n-beans)

  • Cereals (cream of wheat, oats, grits, dry cereal)

  • Macaroni and cheese

  • Spaghetti and spaghetti sauce

  • Crackers and bread

  • Peanut butter and jelly

  • Coffee items (coffee, tea, creamer, sugar)

  • Toilet paper

  • Paper towels

  • Cleaning supplies

  • Toiletries

Move-In basket for Rapid Rehousing Participants

  • New bath towels

  • New wash cloths

  • New kitchen sponge

  • New kitchen towel and mitt set

  • New sheet sets (Queen size and Twin size)

  • Dish detergent

  • Pack of plastic utensils

  • New shower curtain rings

  • New clear/cream shower liners

  • New cups, plates, or bowls (set of 4)

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Toilet paper

  • Paper towels

  • Grocery Store gift card $25

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Advent Donation Drive
Dec
4
to Jan 8
Community

Advent Donation Drive

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

During the Advent season, the Missions Committee has organized a clothing drive to support some of our mission partners, including Maternity Care Coalition, Philly House, Gemma Services, University City Hospitality Coalition, and Episcopal Community Services (ECS) Mission Meals and Market. It will run through January 8; donation bins are in the sanctuary and Old Buttonwood Hall. You may also send your donations to the church. We are asking the congregation to bring in brand new socks, tee-shirts, underwear of all sizes, including infants, children, women, and men. Please visit the Target Registry or Amazon Wishlist for a suggested list of donations.

Other volunteer opportunities for this season:

  • Accommodations for patients: Hosts for Hospitals is looking for people to accommodate patients and their families who are staying in the Philadelphia area. They are seeking those who have space in their homes or second properties so patients and their families can stay in the area while they are being treated. Please, visit the Hosts for Hospitals website if you are interested in hosting.

  • Volunteer opportunities for Zia: This non-profit organization, which serves low-income families in the city, has its food pantry at FPCP.

  • Volunteers are needed to drop-off meals. For more information, visit the website ziafood.org to sign up directly.

  • To provide in-kind donations, please visit their Amazon wish list.

Please contact missions@fpcphila.org with any questions or concerns. Thank you!

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Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition
Apr
3
to Apr 27
Community

Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Portraits of Victims of Gun Violence

Exhibition Hours: April 4 - April 27
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except April 15) from 11 AM - 3 PM

The Souls Shot Portrait Project randomly pairs fine artists with families and friends of victims of gun violence. The artists meet with the family or friend to learn about the life of the loved one and then create portraits using diverse approaches. The artworks emphasize the individuality and uniqueness of the victims portrayed.

The exhibition is a truly moving tribute. Please join us for this powerful experience.

We hope that this project will continue to bring some joy and peace to the families and friends of victims and, by bringing attention to the scourge of gun violence in this way, be a call to action to all who see them.

www.soulsshotportraitproject.org

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Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition
Apr
2
12:00 PM12:00
Community

Souls Shot Portrait Project Exhibition

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Portraits of Victims of Gun Violence

Opening Reception: Saturday, April 2, 4 - 6 PM
with guests Senator Art Haywood and the artists and families of victims.

Exhibition Hours: April 4 - April 28
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except April 15) from 11 AM - 3 PM

The Souls Shot Portrait Project randomly pairs fine artists with families and friends of victims of gun violence. The artists meet with the family or friend to learn about the life of the loved one and then create portraits using diverse approaches. The artworks emphasize the individuality and uniqueness of the victims portrayed.

The exhibition is a truly moving tribute. Please join us for this powerful experience.

We hope that this project will continue to bring some joy and peace to the families and friends of victims and, by bringing attention to the scourge of gun violence in this way, be a call to action to all who see them.

www.soulsshotportraitproject.org

Volunteers are needed to host during exhibition hours. Please click to sign up.

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Mar
6
to Apr 10
Community

Lenten Donation Drive

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

During the season of Lent, the Missions Committee sponsoring a drive to support three mission partners: Maternity Care Coalition, Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission, and Urban Tree Connection.

The donation drive will run from March 6 through April 10. The items are much-needed supplies for these organization to help them support surrounding communities. Donations can be dropped off in a designated location at the church or can be donated online through SignUpGenius.

How to Participate: You may purchase item from the list (see below) and bring them to church, or purchase items online to have them delivered to the church:

  1. Sign Up.  View the list of items on SignUpGenius; sign up for the items you will donate so we know about how many items to expect. Items listed are on a registry list at Target or wishlist at Amazon that can be purchased. (Links are provided on the SignUpGenius list, or click on the links below to purchase from Target or Amazon.)

  2. Purchase Item(s). Purchase items from the registry list at Target or wishlist at Amazon. The Target and Amazon Wish List items will be shipped to the church's address. If you purchase an item that is not on the Target or Amazon wish list, you may have the item shipped to First Presbyterian Church, or bring it to church with you on a Sunday.

  3. Meet the Deadline: Sign up by Sunday April 10; you only need to provide your name and email to sign up!

Please contact missions@fpcphila.org with any questions or concerns. Thank you!

Item to Donate

Maternity Care Coalition
Diapers
Wipes
Onesies (size 0 months to 3 years)
Sleepers (size 0 months to 3 years)
Socks (size 0 months to 3 years)

Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission
Travel Size Deodorant
Men's Boxers
Casual Belts
Plain colored t-shirts/undershirts

Urban Tree Connection
Sun screen
Bug spray
Cellophane bags for produce
Masks (N95)
Perennial flower starter seeds: Organic/ non-GMO
Perennial flower starter seeds: Organic/ non-GMOx
Metal trellising poles
Staples
Power drill
Staple gun
Printer ink: HP Photosmart 6520, HP Office Jet Pro 8710

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Nov
12
7:30 PM19:30
Community

Fauré Requiem

  • Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Chancel Choir of First Presbyterian Church is collaborating with The Cathedral Basilica and Archdiocesan Adult Choirs to perform the Fauré Requiem, as well as works by Bainton, Tavener, Walker and Elgar. Please join us for this opportunity of communal remembrance as we commemorate the faithful departed. All are welcome.

To purchase tickets or to add names of deceased loved ones to the concert program for a donation amount of your choice, please click here. All names must be received by November 2 in order to be included in the printed materials. Information is also available at this link: cathedralphila.org/music/faure-requiem/.


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Apr
18
12:45 PM12:45
Christian Education, Community

White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Conversation! 

First Church’s Anti-bias Conversation group invites all members to join an online conversation (via Zoom) on Sunday, April 18 at 12:45 pm.  We’ll discuss the book White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by educator Robin DiAngelo. This New York Times bestseller explores the counterproductive reactions white people have when their assumptions about race are challenged, and how these reactions maintain racial inequality.  

If you’d like to learn more and about this important topic, please read the book—borrow it from your library or purchase it from Amazon or one of these Black-owned local bookstores: Harriett’s Bookshop in Fishtown or Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books in Germantown—and plan to join the conversation. Registration is required; register below:

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Mar
10
7:00 PM19:00
Community

Information Session on COVID-19: View from an Expert

  • First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Dr. Dan Seekins, an infectious diseases specialist who is on the Building Re-opening Task Force, has volunteered to hold a COVID-19 information session for the congregation on March 10 @ 7 PM. Dan will review recent COVID-19 statistics and current scientific understanding, with ample time for Q&A. Registration is required for this Zoom webinar!

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Mar
4
to Mar 11
Community, Christian Education, ConversationsWorthHaving

CANCELLED: Wednesday Lenten Series: Unpacking Everyday Bias

Unpacking Everyday Bias

Wednesdays March 4 - April 1
Brown Bag Lunch & Conversation @ 12 noon OR Soup & Conversation @ 6:30 pm

Our Conversations Worth Having event in January left many of us wanting more; as we read through the survey feedback, it was clear that the majority of participants wanted to continue the conversation by sharing a meal and talking through what we learned.  In order to facilitate this, Baron Mullis, Barbara Chaapel, Ken Ross and Delores Brisbon have received training from our January presenter, Dr. Eve Higginbotham.

These Wednesday conversations are the first installment in Keeping our Conversation Going.  Bring a brown bag lunch on Wednesdays at noon, or come Wednesday evenings at 6:30 for a soup supper and a chance to continue to engage more deeply with one another.  We’ll unpack Chapter 7 from Everyday Bias (Howard J. Ross) that we read for the January workshop.  Copies of Chapter 7 are available; please email the church office  to request a copy.

Everyone is welcome!  Our hope is that folks can commit to attending the majority of the 5 weekly sessions, but you are certainly welcome to attend as many sessions as you are able.  We are requesting RSVPs for the evening sessions so that we prepare the right quantity of soup—please register below or by calling the church office (215-567-0532).  There is no need to register for the Brown-Bag Lunch session at noon.  On-street parking is available with placard for the evening sessions. We hope to see you there!

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Oct
27
7:00 PM19:00
Community, Music

Halloween Silent Film

Back by Popular Demand!

After a hiatus of several years, the Twenties & Thirties group is sponsoring a silent film for Halloween!

On Sunday, October 27 at 7pm, Andrew Senn will cast his spell over the organ and improvise a complete musical score for the classic film, The Golem (1915).

In this version of the golem legend, the golem, a clay statue brought to life by Rabbi Loew in 16th century Prague to save the Jews from the ongoing brutal persecution by the city's rulers, is found in the rubble of an old synagogue in the 20th century. Brought to life by an antique dealer, the golem is used as a menial servant. Eventually falling in love with the dealer's wife, it goes on a murderous rampage when its love for her goes unanswered.

On-street parking is available with placard.

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Aug
13
11:45 AM11:45
Community

Gun Violence Prevention Webinar

We will gather in the MacColl Room on Tuesday, August 13 to listen to the first webinar presented by the Rev. Deanna Hollas, recently named the first Minister of Gun Violence Prevention by the Presbyterian Church USA (read the New York Times article). She will be working with communities of faith on how they can take action to prevent gun violence. The webinar starts at noon. Please join us so that we may talk together after the broadcast, sharing our impressions and what we may feel called to do. If you wish to participate but cannot attend, you may join the webinar remotely; please register for the webinar.

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Jun
3
3:00 PM15:00
Missions, Volunteering, Community

Blood Drive

The Missions Committee is sponsoring a Red Cross blood drive that will be held at the church in Old Buttonwood Hall on Monday, June 3, from 3-8 p.m.  The need is great!  To schedule an appointment, call 800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code “First Presbyterian Church.” Walk-ins are also welcome.  Homemade snacks will be provided.  Contact Susan Davis for more information.


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Apr
14
10:15 AM10:15
Community

Procession of Palms

First Church will join with other Rittenhouse Square neighborhood congregations for the procession of palms to mark Palm Sunday.  Participants can join the procession and walk as long as they wish, with various congregations dropping off along the way.  The procession begins at 10:15 sharp at the goat statue in Rittenhouse Square (near the park entrance at 19th & Locust), and stops first at Church of the Holy Trinity (19th & Walnut) before making its way to First Church at 10:30.  Those who wish to remain at First Church may do so; those who wish to continue will visit Trinity Memorial Church (22nd & Spruce), St. Patrick’s Church (20th & Locust), and conclude at 11 am at Church of the Holy Trinity.

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