Return to flip book view

.t { transform-origin: bottom left; z-index: 2; position: absolute; white-space: pre; overflow: visible; line-height: 1.5; } .text-container { white-space: pre; } @supports (-webkit-touch-callout: none) { .text-container { white-space: normal; } } #t1_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1325px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t2_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1307px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t3_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1290px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t4_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1272px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t5_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1254px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t6_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1219px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t7_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1201px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t8_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1184px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t9_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1148px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #ta_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1131px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tb_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1113px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tc_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1095px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #td_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1078px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #te_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1042px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tf_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1025px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tg_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1007px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #th_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:990px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #ti_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:972px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tj_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:937px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tk_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:919px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tl_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:901px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tm_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:866px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tn_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:848px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #to_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:831px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tp_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:795px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tq_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:778px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tr_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:760px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #ts_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:725px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tt_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:707px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tu_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:689px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tv_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:654px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tw_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:637px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tx_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:619px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #ty_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:584px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tz_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:566px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t10_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:548px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t11_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:531px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t12_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:495px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t13_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:407px;letter-spacing:-0.18px;word-spacing:0.12px;} #t14_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:347px;bottom:1441px;letter-spacing:0.24px;} #t15_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:300px;bottom:1417px;letter-spacing:0.03px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t16_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:300px;bottom:1387px;letter-spacing:0.08px;} #t17_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:522px;bottom:1388px;letter-spacing:-0.03px;word-spacing:0.09px;} #t18_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:34px;bottom:1344px;letter-spacing:0.08px;word-spacing:0.08px;} #t19_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:390px;bottom:318px;letter-spacing:0.15px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t1a_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:55px;bottom:268px;letter-spacing:-0.17px;word-spacing:0.1px;} #t1b_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:80px;bottom:250px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t1c_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:155px;bottom:250px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t1d_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:80px;bottom:233px;letter-spacing:-0.13px;} #t1e_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:143px;bottom:233px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t1f_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:80px;bottom:215px;letter-spacing:-0.21px;} #t1g_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:171px;bottom:215px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1h_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:80px;bottom:197px;letter-spacing:-0.21px;} #t1i_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:171px;bottom:197px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t1j_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:80px;bottom:180px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t1k_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:167px;bottom:180px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t1l_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:528px;bottom:268px;letter-spacing:-0.14px;word-spacing:0.07px;} #t1m_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:553px;bottom:250px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t1n_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:627px;bottom:250px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t1o_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:553px;bottom:233px;letter-spacing:0.26px;} #t1p_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:644px;bottom:233px;letter-spacing:0.23px;} #t1q_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:553px;bottom:216px;letter-spacing:0.25px;} #t1r_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:650px;bottom:216px;letter-spacing:0.2px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1s_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:553px;bottom:200px;letter-spacing:0.25px;} #t1t_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:650px;bottom:200px;letter-spacing:0.22px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1u_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:553px;bottom:183px;letter-spacing:0.25px;} #t1v_1_bv-6184d4eb-{left:650px;bottom:183px;letter-spacing:0.2px;word-spacing:0.05px;} .s0_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7i_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s1_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7j_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s2_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:28px;font-family:Lora-Italic_7k_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s3_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:22px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7j_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s4_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:17px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7i_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s5_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:14px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7i_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s6_1_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:14px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7j_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} @font-face { font-family: Lora-Bold_7i_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Bold_7i_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } @font-face { font-family: Lora-Italic_7k_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Italic_7k_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } @font-face { font-family: Lora-Regular_7j_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Regular_7j_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } Every Christian Is a Deacon – This Fall’s sermon series When we hear the word deacon, we may first think of an ordained office, a board, or a group entrusted with specific responsibilities. That is right and important. The church needs faithful deacons who are called, trained, ordained, and installed for an ordered ministry of compassion and care. Yet the heart of deacon ministry belongs to the whole church. In a real and vital sense, every Christian is called to be a deacon—a servant whose life makes the mercy of Jesus Christ visible. This does not mean every member holds the same office or performs the same tasks. It means every member shares the mind of Christ. Ordered ministry is healthiest when it forms the whole body, making compassion a congregational culture rather than a specialized program. The office of Deacon does not relieve the rest of us of this calling. Deacons help lead us into it. They remind the congregation that mercy cannot remain a good intention. It must become personal, dependable, and concrete. Someone must notice the person who has grown quiet, remember the member who has been absent, visit the one who is sick, welcome the stranger, share a burden, bring a meal, offer a ride, listen patiently, and follow up. These acts may seem ordinary, but in the hands of Christ they become quiet signs of his kingdom. This fall, our seven-week sermon series, The Heart of a Deacon, will invite our whole congregation to grow in these habits, attitudes, and actions. We begin with “The Heart God Desires,” from Micah 6:8, because the heart must come before the hands. God calls us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with him. “The Marks of a Faithful Deacon,” from 1 Timothy 3, will remind us that character comes before calling. Integrity, sincerity, self-control, compassion, and sound judgment are not qualities reserved for church officers. They are marks of a life being formed by Christ. In “The Father’s Heart for Mercy,” Isaiah 58 will confront the distance we sometimes place between worship and mercy. God does not separate our prayers from our treatment of the hungry, afflicted, and burdened. Mercy is not an interruption of worship; it is one of the ways worship becomes visible. “Meeting Christ Through Serving Others,” from Matthew 25, will help us see that Jesus identifies himself with the hungry, the stranger, the sick, the imprisoned, and the overlooked. People are never merely needs to manage. They are neighbors to love and sacred opportunities to meet Christ. “Never Grow Weary,” from Galatians 6, will speak to the fatigue that often accompanies doing good. Results may come slowly. Gratitude may be scarce. Needs may return. Yet our labor in the Lord is never wasted, because our hope rests in God’s faithfulness rather than our visible success. “Love Without Hypocrisy,” from Romans 12, will call us toward sincere affection, generous hospitality, patient endurance, and the hard work of overcoming evil with good. Finally, “Faith Made Visible,” from James 2 and 1 Peter 4, will remind us that every disciple has received grace and gifts to share for the good of others. My hope is that we will not merely listen to these sermons as descriptions of what ordained deacons should do. I hope we will absorb them as a picture of ordinary Christian discipleship. A deacon heart notices. It draws near. It protects dignity. It gives cheerfully, serves wisely, keeps confidence, bears burdens, and refuses to let people be forgotten. We do not serve in order to earn Christ’s mercy. We serve because Christ has first been merciful to us. He came not to be served but to serve, so we must serve. He gave himself for us; we must give ourselves away to others. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, and now fills his church with the same Spirit. As we receive his grace together, may Covenant-First Presbyterian Church become more fully a household of mercy—where every member knows, “I am seen. I am not alone. Christ’s church is near.” Sincerely, Rev. Dr. Dan Turis The Covenant Courier Covenant-First Presbyterian Church August 2026 Vol. 31, Issue 7 From our pastor – Rev. Dr. Dan Turis Happenings at CFPC Weekly Activities Sundays – 9:15 AM Adult Bible Study Sundays – 10:30 AM Worship Wednesdays – 12 Noon – Brown Bag Bible Study Wednesdays – 7:30 PM – Evening Bible Study Saturdays – 7:30 AM Men’s Bible Study Upcoming Events August 22 – 9:30 AM – New Members Class September 6 – 11:45 AM – Courtyard Cafe September 13 – 11:45 AM – Ministry Fair September 13 – 5 PM – Church Picnic September 19 – 9:30 AM – 3CDC Work Day

.t { transform-origin: bottom left; z-index: 2; position: absolute; white-space: pre; overflow: visible; line-height: 1.5; } .text-container { white-space: pre; } @supports (-webkit-touch-callout: none) { .text-container { white-space: normal; } } #t1_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1409px;letter-spacing:0.13px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t2_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1393px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t3_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1375px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t4_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1357px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t5_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1340px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t6_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1322px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t7_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1304px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t8_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1287px;letter-spacing:-0.16px;word-spacing:0.09px;} #t9_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1269px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #ta_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1251px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tb_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1234px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tc_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1216px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #td_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1181px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #te_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1163px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #tf_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1145px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #tg_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1128px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #th_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1110px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ti_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1092px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tj_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1075px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tk_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1057px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tl_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1040px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tm_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1022px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tn_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:1004px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #to_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:969px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #tp_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:951px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tq_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:934px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #tr_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:916px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #ts_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:898px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #tt_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:863px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #tu_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:845px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;} #tv_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:810px;letter-spacing:-0.16px;} #tw_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:775px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #tx_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:506px;bottom:757px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ty_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:550px;letter-spacing:0.17px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #tz_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:534px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t10_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:516px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t11_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:498px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t12_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:481px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t13_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:463px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t14_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:445px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t15_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:428px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t16_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:410px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t17_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:375px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t18_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:357px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t19_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:322px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1a_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:304px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1b_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:287px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.06px;} #t1c_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:269px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1d_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:251px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t1e_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:234px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.06px;} #t1f_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:216px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t1g_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:181px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t1h_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:163px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1i_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:145px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1j_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:23px;bottom:110px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1k_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1409px;letter-spacing:0.16px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1l_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1393px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t1m_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1375px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1n_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1357px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t1o_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1340px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t1p_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1322px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1q_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1304px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1r_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1287px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;} #t1s_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1251px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t1t_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1234px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t1u_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1216px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t1v_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1198px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t1w_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1181px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t1x_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1163px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t1y_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1145px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t1z_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1110px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t20_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1092px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t21_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1075px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t22_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1057px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t23_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1040px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t24_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:1022px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t25_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:987px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t26_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:969px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t27_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:951px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t28_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:934px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t29_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:916px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t2a_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:898px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t2b_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:863px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2c_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:845px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2d_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:828px;letter-spacing:-0.05px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t2e_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:810px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2f_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:792px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2g_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:775px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t2h_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:757px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2i_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:722px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t2j_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:704px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2k_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:687px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2l_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:669px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t2m_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:29px;bottom:634px;letter-spacing:-0.18px;word-spacing:0.12px;} #t2n_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:649px;bottom:319px;letter-spacing:0.13px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2o_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:296px;letter-spacing:-0.14px;} #t2p_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:278px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2q_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:261px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2r_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:243px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t2s_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:225px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t2t_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:208px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2u_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:190px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t2v_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:172px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t2w_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:155px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2x_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:137px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2y_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:119px;letter-spacing:-0.12px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t2z_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:102px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t30_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:563px;bottom:84px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t31_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:760px;bottom:296px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;} #t32_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:760px;bottom:272px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t33_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:760px;bottom:254px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;word-spacing:-0.01px;} #t34_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:760px;bottom:236px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t35_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:760px;bottom:217px;letter-spacing:-0.22px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t36_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:602px;letter-spacing:0.15px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t37_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:581px;letter-spacing:0.09px;word-spacing:0.08px;} #t38_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:565px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t39_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:547px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t3a_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:530px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #t3b_2_bv-6184d4eb-{left:580px;bottom:494px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} .s0_2_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:17px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7l_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s1_2_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7m_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s2_2_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7l_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s3_2_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:16px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7m_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} @font-face { font-family: Lora-Bold_7l_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Bold_7l_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } @font-face { font-family: Lora-Regular_7m_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Regular_7m_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } Session Notes A big thank you to the members who have responded to the Session’s letter about our congregation’s financial challenges. As of the July meeting, several members had made significant, one- time special gifts, which together have covered the year-to-date shortfall in giving. A couple more special gifts have now also been received or promised for later this year. Every gift, big/medium/smaller/one-time/occasional, is helpful. With these recent special gifts, one of the two non-working sanctuary air conditioners has replaced, some critical masonry repair work on the exterior of the building has been completed, and the near-term budget pressures are reduced. The Session did agree at the July meeting to continue to closely monitor the financial trends, as without an increase in ongoing giving, the congregation is likely to face another deficit later in the year; unexpected expenses are also always a potential—such as the sanctuary sound system which will require a several thousand dollar repair after it failed last week. The Session also voted to only fund seven full-year choral scholar positions, with the eighth committed only through year-end, pending a review of giving trends. We know that God has provided for this congregation for nearly 236 years, and trust that he will continue to do so, through his people. The elders received updates on the children’s summer program, updates on the planned campus ministry (see the good news update elsewhere in this Courier), and used Rev. Dr. Turis’ draft Deacon devotional as the basis for the devotional time. As always, the meeting included a time of prayer. Please see me, Rev. Dr. Turis, or any elder with your questions for concerns. Onward! Rob Heidenreich Clerk of Session More Thoughts on Isaiah 55 The Great Invitation The chapter opens with one of the most comforting verses in scripture: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat!” (Isaiah 55:1). In a world that often demands we earn our keep or prove our worth, God offers his grace free of charge. He asks an honest question of our daily pursuits: “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” (v. 2). God is inviting us to stop striving for temporary fulfillment and instead feast on what truly nourishes the soul. Seek and Return Isaiah 55:6 gives us a clear directive: “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.” This requires an active desire to connect with God, turning away from our own destructive habits and unrighteous thoughts. The promise for this repentance is beautiful: “...for he will abundantly pardon” (v. 7). No matter where you have wandered, God’s compassion is waiting for your return. We’ll cover the other two main points in September! As always, if you have questions or need some direction for a Bible reading program, please let me know! Elder Randy Page A Devotional for the Whole Church What does it mean to make the mercy of Jesus Christ visible in the ordinary life of the church? That question lies at the heart of the new Deacon Devotional: Thirty Days of Formation in Mercy, Wisdom, and Christlike Service. Although written with deacon training in mind, this devotional is not only for ordained deacons. It is for every Christian who desires to follow the servant way of Jesus. Each of the thirty readings begins with Scripture and offers a brief reflection on some aspect of Christian service. The devotional then provides three questions for personal reflection and space for notes. The readings are arranged around four important themes: Our identity in Christ, mercy in practice, faithful stewardship and wisdom, and the spiritual strength needed for sustained service. These daily reflections explore the habits and attitudes that make Christian mercy faithful and visible. They encourage us to notice quiet suffering, protect the dignity of those receiving help, welcome strangers, visit the sick, bear one another’s burdens, handle resources honestly, pray for wisdom, and continue doing good when we become weary. The devotional also reminds us that mercy is not a specialized program entrusted to a few unusually compassionate people. Deacons help organize and lead the church’s ministry of care, but every follower of Christ is called to a life of humble service. Every member can listen, notice, encourage, welcome, give, pray, and draw near to someone who might otherwise be forgotten. I hope everyone at Covenant-First Presbyterian Church will read this devotional, which will be available in early September. Consider using it for thirty consecutive days, discussing it with your family, or working through it alongside another church member. Read it slowly, answer the questions honestly, and ask the Holy Spirit to show you where mercy can take concrete form in your life. Jesus came not to be served but to serve. As we spend these thirty days learning from his example, may he shape Covenant-First into a household of mercy where people are seen, burdens are shared, and no one walks alone. Rev. Dr. Dan Turis Upcoming Birthdays August 1 Pat Durst 2 Leslie Turis 2 Pat Beckman 3 Linda Meier 5 Tracy Kramer 8 Becky Ewing 15 Dan Turis 20 Sonja Vernon 23 Devon Bloom 24 Nancy Hobstetter 24 Nina Jackson 31 Margaret Heidenreich September 6 Dustin Ellington 16 Roxie Higgins 21 Phil Cameron 27 Claire Crousey Senior Singles Outing Thursday, August 20 at 6 PM The August Senior Singles dinner is Thursday, August 20 at 6 PM at Ferrari’s Little Italy, 7677 Golf Terrace, Madeira. RSVP by noon on August 19 to Pat Beckman.

.t { transform-origin: bottom left; z-index: 2; position: absolute; white-space: pre; overflow: visible; line-height: 1.5; } .text-container { white-space: pre; } @supports (-webkit-touch-callout: none) { .text-container { white-space: normal; } } #t1_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1457px;letter-spacing:0.17px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t2_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1420px;letter-spacing:-0.15px;word-spacing:0.07px;} #t3_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1403px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t4_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1385px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t5_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1367px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t6_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1350px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t7_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1332px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #t8_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1314px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t9_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1297px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ta_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1279px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tb_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1261px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tc_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1226px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #td_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1208px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #te_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1189px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tf_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1170px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #tg_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1152px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #th_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1133px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ti_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1115px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tj_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:20px;bottom:1078px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #tk_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:404px;bottom:630px;letter-spacing:0.13px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #tl_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:453px;bottom:606px;letter-spacing:0.11px;word-spacing:0.05px;} #tm_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:1002px;letter-spacing:0.16px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #tn_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:981px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #to_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:961px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tp_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:941px;letter-spacing:-0.14px;word-spacing:0.07px;} #tq_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:920px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tr_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:900px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ts_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:879px;letter-spacing:-0.07px;} #tt_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:859px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tu_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:838px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tv_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:818px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #tw_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:798px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #tx_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:68px;bottom:777px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #ty_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:1005px;letter-spacing:-0.13px;word-spacing:0.06px;} #tz_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:985px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t10_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:964px;letter-spacing:-0.11px;word-spacing:0.04px;} #t11_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:944px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t12_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:924px;letter-spacing:-0.09px;word-spacing:0.03px;} #t13_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:903px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.02px;} #t14_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:883px;letter-spacing:-0.08px;word-spacing:0.01px;} #t15_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:862px;letter-spacing:-0.06px;} #t16_3_bv-6184d4eb-{left:544px;bottom:842px;letter-spacing:-0.1px;} .s0_3_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:17px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7n_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s1_3_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7n_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s2_3_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Regular_7o_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} .s3_3_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:15px;font-family:Lora-Italic_7p_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} @font-face { font-family: Lora-Bold_7n_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Bold_7n_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } @font-face { font-family: Lora-Italic_7p_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Italic_7p_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } @font-face { font-family: Lora-Regular_7o_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Regular_7o_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } Campus Ministry Partnership Launches! Welcome, Brandon Fine! Here’s some really good news—our planned campus ministry partnership has begun. As you know from prior communications, the Session and Rev. Dr. Turis began working with the Coalition of Christian Outreach (CCO) late last year, exploring the possibility of a shared ministry at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. In early July, Tyler Charles/CCO Regional Director, Rev. Dr. Turis, Yolanda Parker, and Rob Heidenreich held final interviews, and we’re excited to announce Brandon Fine has now started, effective August 1. This ministry is a partnership between CCO and CFPC, with the cost shared between CCO, CFPC, and ministry fundraising by Brandon. CFPC’s portion for the first full academic year is covered through member’s contributions to our Mission budget, an initial gift from the Presbytery of Cincinnati, and a generous special gift from a CFPC member. Be sure to introduce yourself to Brandon on Sundays and watch for upcoming gatherings to meet with Brandon to hear more about campus ministry plans and how you could participate. A note from Brandon: I am excited to step into your new ministry role as campus minister serving UC’s College-Conservatory of Music I have been praying for God to send me to a place where I can utilize all the gifts he has given me and lead others into a deep relationship with Christ, and he led me right to you. Most recently, I have served as a chaplain at UC Hospital; in the past, I’ve served as a Director of Outreach and Missions with another church for several years. I am currently studying at United Theological Seminary in Dayton pursuing my Master of Divinity degree. I have always had a passion for worship, music, and the arts. To be able to minister to music students, while walking in my calling as pastor is a privilege, a blessing I can’t begin to describe. I look forward to meeting all of you, as I begin to call Covenant-First my church home. If you have any questions about this new ministry, see Brandon, Rev. Dr. Turis, or Rob Heidenreich. Edith Humphrey Seminar July 24 and 25 Church Picnic – September 13 – 5 PM Mark your calendars and plan to attend our annual church picnic. We will again be having the picnic in Washington Park this year. We have rented the porch for the evening and we can enjoy the cooling fans and pleasant atmosphere of this space for our picnic. The format will be much the same as in previous years, the church will provide the entrée, drinks are provided as part of the porch rental, and we will each bring a side. Watch for a sign-up board in Metzger Hall when we get closer to the date. Questions? See Genita Heidenreich. 3CDC Workday – September 19 – 9:30 to Noon We will be partnering with 3CDC for another downtown workday. We will collaborate with 3CDC and make a difference in our neighborhood. We’ll be working near the church, and no special work skills are needed. For anyone interested, we’ll also share lunch together afterwards. These are always well organized and a fun opportunity to serve our neighborhood. Questions or to sign-up, see Rob Heidenreich.

.t { transform-origin: bottom left; z-index: 2; position: absolute; white-space: pre; overflow: visible; line-height: 1.5; } .text-container { white-space: pre; } @supports (-webkit-touch-callout: none) { .text-container { white-space: normal; } } #t1_4_bv-6184d4eb-{left:351px;bottom:1464px;letter-spacing:0.15px;word-spacing:0.03px;} .s0_4_bv-6184d4eb-{font-size:17px;font-family:Lora-Bold_7q_bv-6184d4eb-;color:#000;} @font-face { font-family: Lora-Bold_7q_bv-6184d4eb-; src: url("userFiles/a/1/4/3/0/1/4/4/pmH1EcXRaw4U4XAivoPv8L/fonts/Lora-Bold_7q_bv-6184d4eb-.woff?_cbt=1786046238") format("woff"); } Summer Program 2026 Recap