Parishes: A Trellis for Ministry

I am the vine; you are the branches.  John 15:5
 

Pastor Chris Florence led a joint adult Sunday School gathering on June 4, 2006 to launch our parish ministries. Listen and review the PowerPoint presentation to learn what parishes are, why we have them and what they are intended to accomplish in the life of First Presbyterian Church and our community.

As First Presbyterian has grown, it has become increasingly important that individual members know their church family loves and cares for them. To help us become more connected to each other and our community, our congregation has been organized into 19 parishes, which are in essence neighborhoods or districts in the Augusta area consisting of 25 – 30 families. Each parish has a leadership team committed to shepherding the members of the parish. The parish structure serves as a trellis to help the vine of the Body of Christ grow organically.

While all members of the parish leadership team regularly pray for the people of their parish, Parish Elders also provide spiritual oversight of parish members alongside the Parish Deacons who attend to the mercy needs within the parish. The Women’s Leader helps to coordinate parish fellowship events and provide meals or special help to members in times of need. Parish information and records are managed by the Parish Administrator. The Fold Undershepherds regularly stay in touch with families in their fold and keep the parish leaders informed of any needs that arise.     

It is our prayer that the parish structure enhances not only the nurturing of our members, but also the outreach ministries of our church. Under the guidance of the leadership team, every parish will endeavor to graciously reach out to those who live in their area who do not know Christ.

If you are interested in serving in parish leadership, please review the Ways to Serve in Your Parish and contact your parish elder or complete a Volunteer Form.