First Presbyterian Church - Our Ministries

Annual Report 2002

2002 brought us a year of "hellos" and "goodbyes." In July, we sadly said goodbye to Ben Frank who served for 3 years as Director of Christian Education and Campus Ministry. Our congregation benefited greatly from his hard work and devotion to the building of God's Kingdom. In September, we welcomed Jeanne Crowe as our new Director of Christian Education! She's a graduate from Asbury College with a degree in Christian Ministries, and brings with her a lot of enthusiasm and new ideas. We welcome her, and look forward to serving with her.

The committee's goal is to provide quality educational programming that is Christ-centered and biblically-based to each person that challenges us to move farther along in our faith journey, those who are growing in their faith, and for those who are more mature to equip them to further fulfill the Great Commandment. We wish to whole-heartedly thank the many teachers and volunteers (a team of over 75 people) who make our education program successful. Each Sunday this year, an average of 23 adults and 20 children attended Sunday School classes.

There are six hardworking members of the CG&D Committee beside Jeanne, as well as a volunteer nursery coordinator.

Highlights of 2002!

The Winter R&R all-church retreat was held January 25 - 27 at Camp Carl in Ravenna. Nearly 70 people attended as we were led in a discovery of the "Sabbath" rest God intends for our lives.

To continue with our Commitment to Growth campaign, a Christian Growth Tool Box was developed to encourage and assist with personal daily Bible reading, prayer and devotions.

Renew. This year, the Church of the Holy Spirit joined with us in our Wednesday evening celebration during Lent. This program provides an opportunity for mid-week fellowship including a relaxing dinner, small group study-discussion, and an informal worship service. Attendance was 100 people/week.

We assisted in the planning and running of Summer's Best Two WEeks, a two-week day camp for 1st through 7th graders. About 60 kids from both the neighborhood and the church attended this fun event.

All new 3rd graders received a new Bible.

The women's Wednesday Night Group graciously volunteered to take over the responsibility of maintaining and improving our church library. We appreciate the fabulous job they do, and the time spent doing it!

It is this committee's prayer that as we carry out the mission statement of the church to "proclaim, witness and teach the good news of Jesus Christ" that God is glorified as we seek to draw closer to Him. As always, we welcome suggestions on how we can better meet the spiritual growth needs of the congregation.

Respectfully submitted,
Christian Growth & Development Committee

Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Our Ministries: Elders: Christian Growth and Development

Annual Report 2002