June 17, 2026

Dear FPCA family,

Last Sunday during the 10 o’ clock hour the Session hosted a Townhall meeting to help share information about what has led to the on-going research and discernment we are in about the building and property resources this church has to use for the ministries and mission to which God calls us. This was neither the first nor the last gathering on this topic, of course, and there was a lot of information to share to try to help everyone know what brought us here and what will be happening next. In order to make sure everyone has the exact same information, the content presented at our gathering was shared in three video presentations with time for sharing at tables between each. These videos are now available to watch anytime on our website at https://fpcallentown.org/building-discernment. Session members were at most tables to take notes, and beyond that Session members and the pastors are open to hearing your feedback any time.  Another easy way to share your thoughts is through an email to session@fpcallentown.org. This address is monitored by one elder who collects and disseminates information to the rest of the Session. The next step that was announced in these videos is the decision to form the new Steering Committee that will lead us from the excellent work of the Building Strategy Task Force to the listening and planning necessary to develop and execute a plan that will use our valuable resources in a way that supports a thriving congregation. The Session invites the whole congregation to prayerfully consider if you or someone you nominate might be a good fit for this Steering Committee. Please submit suggestions by talking to an elder or pastor or by using the email address above.

We had at least 150 people participate in the Townhall in person on Sunday, and I know there are plenty more who will watch the videos and be in touch with church leaders to continue to engage in this conversation.  From my perspective involvement in this process is one example of the work of discipleship that we encourage in this congregation. Membership is not passive, but is a call to be a part of doing the work Christ calls us to, praying about the future, and talking and asking hard questions about how we will faithfully follow the Spirit who guides us in the world. In worship this Sunday we will hear some of Jesus’ more difficult words about what that discipleship can mean and look like. It is not always easy to do the next right thing, but that doesn’t change the reality that we are called to take risks for the sake of Christ’s mission on earth. I look forward to wrestling with these words with you.

Peace,

We Give Because Christ First Gave to Us

We give to support the ministries of First Presbyterian Church Allentown because we cannot imagine our lives without the life changing experiences that happen here.