Franklin First

 Sermon Series: Raising the Bar

Begins October 5 | Sundays 

at Franklin First UMC

What does it mean to live a life shaped by the teachings of Jesus—not just in word, but in action, attitude, and heart? This October, join us for a powerful four-week sermon series, Raising the Bar, where we’ll explore Jesus’ transformative “But I say to you…” teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. Each week, we’ll dive into a different aspect of discipleship that challenges us to go deeper, love harder, and live more faithfully.

📖 Matthew 5:21–26
Jesus calls us to reconciliation and peace, even when anger feels justified. This Communion Sunday, come experience a fresh start through worship, reflection, and the grace of the table.

📖 Matthew 5:27–30
In a world that often distorts intimacy and worth, Jesus invites us to honor God with our whole selves. This message speaks to the heart of purity, respect, and sacred relationships.

📖 Matthew 5:33–37
Integrity isn’t just about big decisions—it’s about everyday honesty. Discover how living truthfully can transform your relationships and your witness.

📖 Matthew 5:43–48
Jesus doesn’t just ask us to love our neighbors—He calls us to love our enemies. This final message will challenge and inspire you to embrace the kind of love that changes everything.

Get ready for some fall fun at Franklin First's Annual Fall Marketplace! 🎉 

Mark your calendars for

 Saturday, November 1st! 

Come hungry, for a yummy lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. we'll be serving up our legendary, made-from-scratch goodness:  Chicken & Noodles,  Bean Soup, and  Barbecue! 

You can grab these delicious dishes by the quart or pint to enjoy at home. 

And for all you noodle lovers, we'll even have bags of our homemade dry noodles ready for your kitchen creations! Keep an eye out for our pre-order link popping up in October – you won't want to miss out!

But wait, there's more! Our marketplace will be bustling with awesome vendors showcasing unique gifts and homemade decorations and crafts. 

It's the perfect spot to find a little something special for yourself or snag some early holiday gifts! 🎁

And if all that shopping makes you peckish, swing by We can't wait to see you there for a day of delicious food, fantastic finds, and friendly faces!

Franklin First United Methodist Church is thrilled to continue our tradition of spreading joy through our 

2025 Christmas Food & Toy Baskets ministry!

If you are a resident served by FACS (Franklin Area Community Services), we invite you to sign up to receive a festive basket packed with essential food items and toys to help make your Christmas bright.

Don't miss these dates to register for your basket!

📍 Location: Franklin First United Methodist Church, 

303 S. Main Street, Franklin, OH 45005

📅 Dates & Times:

• Monday, November 3 

 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Monday, November 10 

 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

To ensure we can help everyone who qualifies, please bring the following items to the sign-up:

1. PHOTO ID
2. PROOF OF RESIDENCY (e.g., utility bill, insurance card, county paperwork, or anything with your name and current address).
3. YOUR FOOD PANTRY CARD

• Note: All three items are required for sign-up.

Help us make this a season of hope, community, and generosity! Please share this information with any FACS-served residents who could use a little extra support this Christmas.

 On All Saints Sunday, we will honor and remember those who have joined the Church Triumphant since last year’s observance. 

As part of our worship service, we invite you to submit a photo of your loved one to be included in the remembrance. Please send your photo by October 28 to ensure it is part of this meaningful tribute. 

This Christmas, you have the power to bring joy and relief to a local family. Our annual Christmas Food Baskets ministry provides essential food and festive cheer to residents served by FACS (Franklin Area Community Services).

For many, the holidays are a time of increased stress. You can change that.

For just $25, you can provide a complete, festive food basket for a family in need.

Your donation ensures a struggling family receives all the fixings for a special holiday meal, allowing them to focus on celebration, not scarcity. Imagine the gratitude you'll bring to a parent who can finally put a bountiful meal on the table for their children.

Your generosity directly supports our neighbors and shares the true spirit of Christmas.

"Prepare Your Heart: A Journey to Bethlehem"

The season of Advent is one of anticipation and profound preparation. This year, Pastor Laura invites you to walk a sacred path with our Advent series, inspired by best-selling author Adam Hamilton’s compelling book, "Prepare the Way for the Lord."

Before the Baby of Bethlehem arrived, there was a voice crying out in the wilderness: John the Baptist. In this four-week series, we will explore the themes from John’s ministry—including repentance, grace, and light—that are vital to understanding the true meaning of Christ's arrival.

As John called an entire generation to prepare the way for the Lord, Pastor Laura will guide us in preparing our own hearts and lives to receive Jesus. Come and discover how getting truly "ready" for Christmas can deepen your faith and bring new light to the most wonderful time of the year.

Join Pastor Laura every Sunday in Advent at 10:45 am, in-person or live on Facebook.

A Weekly Faith Adventure! 

Kids in 6th grade and up are invited to be part of our Intermediate Sunday School Class, led by Kaylee Womack and Lee Saunders. This is a space where young hearts and minds can grow in faith, ask big questions, and build lasting friendships.

Meets every Sunday (except the first Sunday of each month). 

Fun, faith, and fellowship—every week!

Youth are dismissed after the Children’s Moment.

Whether your child is exploring their faith or deepening their understanding, this class offers a welcoming environment full of discovery, connection, and joy. Come join the journey!

Join the Scrapbooking Fun 

 with Women’s Circle!

Each March,  the Women’s Circle hosts a scrapbooking event like no other. With every snip and placement, participants turn cherished memories into masterpieces.

Don’t miss out on the next scrapbooking adventure! 

March 6-7, 2025

Enjoy sixteen hours of uninterrupted scrapbooking joy, complete with your own crafting table. 

Indulge in a Saturday brunch and a tasty dinner. 

Join us for a weekend where memories are treasured and new friendships are formed.