A Promise Partner Church
Where new pastor Rick Stein is working hard to connect with the surrounding community and bring new members into the church. This church has a rich tradition of feeding the poor and proclaiming Christ. BPC volunteers have provided music for many FUPC functions over the years and are seeking to get more involved in this church as God sets the course for its future.
 A few words from Genesis Team Member, Todd MacMillan:
"For the past 5 years, the Promise Orchestra has been ministering to First United Presbyterian Church in Elyria, OH.
First, God is at work within First United. This small church has increased their membership, which is unusual. Next, this church has a new minister, and he is well liked. During the past decade, the church has been through several ministry changes, and the congregation has stayed together. In spite of their small size, FUPC has been serving the Homeless with their "Hot Meals" program, weekly on Thursday nights for twenty-four years! This program reaches more than 100 homeless men and women on a weekly basis.
Additionally, the congregation at First United loves our music. I can say that because of the positive feedback we have received. Whenever the Promise Orchestra is at FUPC, we have been complemented about our music. "Thanks to the Bay Orchestra for the special music. We love it!" Considering that there is no choir at the service we participate in, and only a small choir at the services that we don't attend, our music is especially appreciated. First United has a talented organist/pianist, Guy Denillo, but he's only one man. We provide much needed assistance to their worship service. Furthermore, we've become part of the fabric of their congregation, which suggests that this is a successful Genesis team. Finally, another indicator that we are welcome is that the Orchestra has been invited to numerous events at their church. We are invited to each and every festival and celebration that FUPC hosts. Our ministry in Elyria is not limited to a Genesis tea: Promise has performed at FUPC. However, to show their affinity to the orchestra, we were introduced as the Promise Orchestra and Choir, instead of our usual introduction.
Throughout the course of choral events, I've visited four Genesis churches. Worshiping at First United Presbyterian is a positive and comfortable experience. When visiting, we are made to feel welcome no matter what door we enter. Last Sunday, I experienced an engaging children's message. It began with a prayer. In order to teach about the prayer of the Pharisees (Luke 18), the pastor led us in a self-centered prayer: "Lord, thank you for making me better than everyone else!" He then asked the kids what was wrong with his prayer. After the children identified several errors, he led us in a more humble, inclusive prayer: "Lord thank you for everyone here today..." I enjoyed the new pastor's message. His sense of humor and thought provoking message caught my attention. Pastor Rick is at home in Elyria.
For a new experience, drive west to First United Presbyterian Church. The orchestra has built a special relationship with Elyria's "Church on the Corner" of East and Broad Streets. Praise God!"
Thanks,
Todd
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