LVfirst United Methodist Church Lawrenceville First is working to Connect the Church to the Community and the Community to the Church https://www.lvfirst.org Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000 Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Info-to-know: Campmeeting https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/11/info-to-know-campmeeting Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/11/info-to-know-campmeeting

Info-to-Know: Campmeeting

This years Campmeeting is coming up soon starting on June 21st and ending June 25th! To prepare for this week full of worship and camping, here is everything you need to know before you attend!

What is Campmeeting?

Campmeeting is a tradition that began in Lawrenceville, GA, in 1832, when the Methodist Campground was founded. Each year, Campmeeting is a celebration outdoors in the open-air arbor. The week’s activities include worship, singing, fellowship and camping. All who wish to share God’s love in Christian fellowship are welcome.

Time & Location

Our yearly Campmeeting is located at the Lawrenceville First Campground! The address is 700 Braselton Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30043. This years meeting will take place from Sunday, June 21st to Thursday, the 25th. Gates will open at 5:45pm, dinner and fellowship takes place at 6:00pm, and final worship will end the night at 7:00pm!

This Years Preachers

(from left to right)

For this years Campmeeting, our Preacher schedule is as follows:

The week will begin with Amy Valdez Barker from The Ministry Collaborative preaching during that Sunday morning.
That same Sunday evening Will Zant from Haygood Memorial United Methodist Church will be preaching.
Monday evening we will have Woo Kang from The Nett Church.
Tuesday evening we will have Jamey Pickett from the Gainesville First United Methodist Church.
Wednesday evening we will have Trenton Dockery from the Grayson United Methodist Church.
Finally Phil Schroeder from the Dunwoody United Methodist Church will close out this years Campmeeting by preaching during our Thursday evening worship.

Campmeeting Dinner Schedule

Part of the Campmeeting experience is sharing a meal at the Campground! We're changing some things up this year, so check out the food schedule below!

Sunday evening LV Men will be providing hot dogs and chips on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Monday evening we will be having an old-fashioned church potluck! We ask that everyone bring a side to share, so be sure to have that prepared ahead of time.
Tuesday evening we will be having another church potluck, we again ask that everyone bring a side to share, but watermelon will be provided for dessert by LV Men!
Wednesday evening will be the same thing, a church potluck with sides brought by attendees, but LV Men will again be providing the dessert via S'mores by the fire pit after worship.
Finally for Thursday evening we will be doing Chick-fil-a Box Dinner! In order to get your meal you must pre-order your dinner, so be sure to do so using the button below if you have not already.

Pre-Order Your Chick-fil-a Box Dinner

LV Kids Campmeeting

While the adults are busy with the scheduled Campmeeting services, we have plenty of different opportunities for childcare and Campmeeting fun for our LV Kids!

For our 6 week to 4 year old's, we have childcare available during Campmeeting service times from 6:45 - 8:30pm at our Nursery Cabin. We ask that all parents check their kids in at that same Nursery Cabin.
For our rising K through 4th graders, they will have their own separate activities during Campmeeting from 6:45 - 8:30pm starting on that Sunday the 21st and going until Wednesday the 24th. During this time, they'll meet each evening at the Children’s Pavilion to explore this year’s Campmeeting theme “Joy in the House of the Lord” through games, crafts, mission and special activities!
Finally for our Rising 5th to 6th graders, they are invited to experience a time of fun, fellowship and service during Campmeeting by serving as this years Senior Ambassadors. During that same Sunday through Wednesday time frame, each evening will begin with a group chat and instruction before they begin to help with the children's activities for the evening.

LV Kids Ambassadors Outing

Along with the normal Campmeeting activities, rising 3rd through 6th graders will also have the opportunity to attend an LV Kids Ambassadors Outing & Overnight! These kids will get to participate in a day of fun and adventure at Treetop Quest Gwinnett for group building on Monday the 22nd followed by fun at the Campground and an overnight stay!

Register your LV Kids for this outing now using the button below, and we encourage all kids to invite a friend to join the adventure!

Student Campmeeting

While we have our normal Campmeeting, we will also be hosting our LV Student Campmeeting from Tuesday, June 23rd to Friday, June 26th! All students who have recently completed 6th - 12th grades (as of May 2026) are welcome to join us for this week full of fun!
After each day out, Students will return for evening worship under the arbor and dinner. They will have special events each night after church-wide worship and will stay in the cabins at the campground for the duration of the Campmeeting.

Our Student Campmeeting schedule is:

Tuesday, 23rd: Tribe Competitions
Wednesday, 24th: Fins Up Water Park @ Lanier Islands
Thursday, 25th: Serve Day
Friday, 26th: Tubing in Helen

Registration is open until June 12th. The cost is $130, but scholarships are available! To Register, use the button below or contact Kim Jefferson
(770-963-0386 ext. 0155, kimj@lvfirst.org).

Rising 6th graders may also join us for daytime activities on Tuesday, please register for that through the LV Kids Ambassadors Outing form.

Order your Campmeeting T-Shirts!

Order your Campmeeting T-Shirts now! This year's shirts were designed by our LV Kids, which means that all proceeds from this year's shirt orders will go towards to reducing the cost of retreats and outing for our LV Kids Ministry!

Order today using the button below!

Order Your Shirt Here!

Additional Information

For more information, visit us at https://www.lvfirst.org/campmeeting!

If you have any questions, reach out to us at communications@lvfirst.org!

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/11/info-to-know-campmeeting#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (June 7, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/08/sunday-re-cap-june-7-2026 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/08/sunday-re-cap-june-7-2026

This Sunday, we talked about how God meets us in wilderness places where there are less distractions and we can truly encounter His presence.

This week, we're inviting you to challenge yourself to practice humility and slow down from our busy lives to encounter God in new and authentic ways.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Exodus 3:1-12

Slow down to encounter God. Like Moses, we often rush past burning bushes in our daily lives—moments where God is present and active, but we're too distracted or focused on our agenda to notice. Intentionally turning aside from our plans creates space for divine encounter.

Practice humility by removing your "sandals." What barriers are keeping you from fully experiencing God's presence? Whether it's pride, busyness, or the pursuit of your own kingdom-building, identifying and setting aside these obstacles helps us stand humbly before God.

Every place is potential holy ground. God's presence makes a place holy, not the location itself. This means our workplaces, homes, highways, and even difficult circumstances can become sacred spaces when we recognize God is there with us.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Campmeeting (June 21-25, 2026)
Save the Date! Campmeeting is coming up soon from June 21-25th. Head over to www.lvfirst.org/campmeeting for more information about Campmeeting including our meal schedule for the week, guest speakers, and nightly music.
Join us and let our tradition become your tradition.

LV Kids Ambassador Outing & Overnight (June 22-23, 2026)
In addition to activities each evening during Campmeeting, our LV Kids Ambassadors (Rising 3rd-6th graders) have the opportunity to spend a day at the campground, including an outing to Treetop Quest Gwinnett, and spend a night at the campground. Sign up using the link below!

LV Students Campmeeting (June 23-26, 2026)
Make sure you get your students signed up for Student Campmeeting this year! During campmeeting, our LV Students have the opportunity to spend the week at the campground playing games, going on fun outings, and serving in the community.

Registrations are open until June 7th. Don't wait — get signed up today!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Help Us Feed Lawrenceville

Volunteer with the Summer Lunch Program

This summer, the Summer Lunch Program will be delivering a week's worth of food to children in 11 different neighborhoods across the city of Lawrenceville! We need YOU to help us feed these children, whether by donating food items & juice boxes, volunteering to help pack food bags after worship, or deliver food on Sunday evenings.

This ministry helps keep children fed over the summer that often rely on free & reduced breakfast and lunch during the school year. Register to volunteer today and help us feed Lawrenceville!

Volunteer Registration & Information

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/08/sunday-re-cap-june-7-2026#comments 0 Newsletter Updates https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/04/newsletter-updates Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/04/newsletter-updates

Subscribe to our new mailing lists!

Starting this August, all of the information you need to know about the church and our community will be found in new specified mailing lists that we've created. With these targeted sources of information, you'll have more of a choice than ever over what communications you receive from LVfirst!

Before you subscribe, here is everything you need to know about our new lists!

Church Updates & Newsletter

Subscribing to this mailing list will give you access to our regular Thursday Newsletter as well as any and all information related to the church. This includes letters from Pastor Adam, general Church updates, and any necessary emergency communications. The Thursday Newsletter will still be sent out every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 12:00pm, but all other communication will be on a need to know basis.

If you are already receiving our Thursday Newsletter, you are automatically subscribed to this list and do not need to resubscribe to continue receiving that information. However, you will have to subscribe to our other lists to continue receiving information regarding sympathy notices, our prayer list, and LV Kids and Students related news, all of which are further explained below.

Weekly Prayer List

Subscribing to this mailing list gives you separate access to our Weekly Prayer List that is normally only attached to our Thursday Newsletter. This email will be sent out every Wednesday at 9:00am. The prayer list includes members with general concerns, grieving community members, those going through cancer, and more.

If interested in submitting a prayer request, complete a Prayer Request Card and drop it in the offering box, or email Pastor Deanne at deannel@LVfirst.org.

Sympathy Notices

Subscribing to this mailing list will give you access to all sympathy notices whenever a community member has passed. These emails will also include information on the time and date of funeral services if that information is available at the time.

LV Kids

Subscribing to this mailing list will give you access to information regarding your LV Kid's specific grade. This mailing list includes list options for all of our LV Kids from Kindergarten to 5th grade for the 2025-2026 school year.

LV Students

Just like our LV Kids mailing list, subscribing to this mailing list will give you access to all information related to your LV Student's specific grade. There are list options for all of our 2025-2026 6th-12th graders as well as our LV Student Counselors.

Additional Information

To subscribe or for more information, visit us at https://www.lvfirst.org/newsletter!

If you have specific questions, reach out to us at communications@lvfirst.org.

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/04/newsletter-updates#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (June 1, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/01/sunday-re-cap-june-1-2026 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/01/sunday-re-cap-june-1-2026

This Sunday, we explored the fall of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3 and God's profound question, "Where are you?"

We learned that God is constantly moving toward us in a desire for restored relationship. God's kindness leads us to repentance, and when we name the things that shame us, shame loses its power. Through Jesus, we are invited to come out of hiding and to experience the fullness of God's Spirit.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Genesis 3:1-24

God is constantly moving toward you. Even when we mess up, God comes looking for us, inviting us back into relationship. His kindness leads us to repentance, not our shame.

Shame thrives in secrecy, silence, and isolation. When we hide our weaknesses, addictions, doubts, or wounds behind fig leaves of blame, busyness, or bravado, we remain hidden—and hidden people can never be fully known. Naming our shame begins to break its power over us.

If we own our piece of the past, we can make peace with the past. Sin has consequences, but Jesus has already dealt with our sin through grace. We're invited to step out of hiding and experience the refreshing presence of God's Spirit in our daily lives.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Find More Events at LVfirst

Help Us Feed Lawrenceville

Volunteer with the Summer Lunch Program

Volunteer Registration & Information

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/01/sunday-re-cap-june-1-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (May 25, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/25/sunday-re-cap-may-25-2026 Mon, 25 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/25/sunday-re-cap-may-25-2026

This Sunday, we celebrated Pentecost Sunday by digging into Acts 2 and asking what it really means to be a Spirit-filled church. We looked at how the Spirit came like a rushing wind and tongues of fire, but we focused even more on what the Spirit did: He enabled the disciples to speak real, native languages so that everyone there heard the good news in their own tongue. We learned why it matters that these first preachers were Galileans—the “southerners” of their day—and how God used people others underestimated to communicate His love across cultural and language barriers.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Acts 2:1-13, 37-47

The Holy Spirit unites without erasing differences. The miracle of the Pentecost story wasn't that everyone understood one language, but that each person heard the Gospel in their own native tongue. God values our distinct cultures, backgrounds, and experiences while binding us together in love.

Love is the Spirit's signature work. Just as the Holy Spirit serves as the uniting love within the Trinity, binding Father, Son, and Spirit together, that same love pours out to unite believers across every barrier that would otherwise divide us.

Embracing diversity will cost us something. Living out Pentecost means we may need to surrender our preferences, whether in worship styles, songs, or traditions, so that others who are different from us can experience God's love. This sacrificial love mirrors Christ's own costly love for us.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Vacation Bible eXperience (Starting June 1, 2026)
Join us on an epic journey to discover God's kingdom!

This year's VBX, Kingdom Quest, will take kids on an unforgettable journey to discover what it means to follow Jesus and find life in God's kingdom and that following Jesus brings light, purpose and unshakable hope!

Participant and Volunteer registrations are available now. Go ahead and get signed up for VBX!

Campmeeting (June 21-25, 2026)
Save the Date! Campmeeting is coming up soon from June 21-25th. Keep an eye out over the coming weeks for more information!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Help Us Feed Lawrenceville

Volunteer with the Summer Lunch Program

Volunteer Registration & Information

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/25/sunday-re-cap-may-25-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (May 18, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/18/sunday-re-cap-may-18-2026 Mon, 18 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/18/sunday-re-cap-may-18-2026

This Sunday, we explored how we can often get trapped in our nostalgia and "declinism" — the belief that everything was better "back in the day." The Ascension story challenges that and reveals Jesus' radical vision: to launch the Kingdom of God for all people, everywhere. The Ascension isn't about waiting for Jesus' return, it's about bring heaven to Earth by the Holy Spirit working through us.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Acts 1:1-11

You are the plan: Jesus trusted you and me with the mission of restoration. We're not waiting for God to fix everything—we're empowered by the Holy Spirit to be agents of change in our families, neighborhoods, and city.

Meaning comes from moving outward: True purpose is found when we become "a means to an end that doesn't end with us." The Spirit's power isn't for our comfort but for impact beyond ourselves.

Defy the gravitational pull: Instead of retreating to what's safe, familiar, and "ours," we're called to move beyond our comfort zones to reach "them"—even the people we might not naturally connect with—because God's kingdom includes everyone.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Campmeeting (June 21-25, 2026)
Save the Date! Campmeeting is coming up soon from June 21-25th. Keep an eye out over the coming weeks for more information!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Help Us Feed Lawrenceville

Volunteer with the Summer Lunch Program

Volunteer Registration & Information

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/18/sunday-re-cap-may-18-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (May 11, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/11/sunday-re-cap-may-11-2026 Mon, 11 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/11/sunday-re-cap-may-11-2026

This Sunday, we read the Gospel story of the wedding at Cana. In this story, we found a profound truth — that often we only turn to Jesus when something in our lives gives out. In this story, Mary the Mother of Jesus shows us that we can bring our problems to Jesus before they give out, because He can give us more than enough. Our job is simple obedience - to bring our troubles to Jesus and to do what He says.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 2:1-12

Bring your emptiness to Jesus. Many of us don't seek Jesus until something comes up short—our patience, health, finances, or hope. But Mary's example shows us we can bring even the "small" problems to Jesus. Nothing is too insignificant for His attention.

Do whatever He tells you. The servants' simple obedience—filling jars with water—seemed ordinary, but it became the pathway for a miracle. God's job is outcomes; our job is obedience. The miraculous is often found in doing what Jesus tells us to do, even when it doesn't make immediate sense.

God's best is always better than our best. Jesus didn't provide just enough wine; He provided 120-180 gallons of the finest quality. God's grace is excessive, abundant, and overflowing. When we feel we're coming up short, God has more than enough to fill us to the brim.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Campmeeting (June 21-25, 2026)
Save the Date! Campmeeting is coming up soon from June 21-25th. Keep an eye out over the coming weeks for more information!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/11/sunday-re-cap-may-11-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (May 4, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/04/sunday-re-cap-may-4-2026 Mon, 04 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/04/sunday-re-cap-may-4-2026

This Sunday, we took a look at Joshua 1 where God commands us to be strong and courageous when facing life transitions. We found that true strength and courage don't come from having everything figured out, but from knowing that God goes with us.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Joshua 1:1-9

God's presence transforms our transitions: We're never fully prepared for what's next, but we don't need to have everything figured out because God goes with us. The growing happens in the going.

Resilience comes from staying grounded in God's Word: The Hebrew words "shazak v'ematz" (be strong and courageous) speak to both external strength and inner resolve—what we call resilience. This resilience is built by getting into God's Word and letting it get into us, keeping our eyes fixed on God's goodness.

Remember God's faithfulness: God's faithfulness in the wilderness prepares us for faithfulness in the promised land. When we remember how God has been faithful in the past, we find the courage to trust Him in the present and future.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

LAP Golf Tournament (May 5, 2026)
Join us for our annual LAP Golf Tournament, tomorrow, at The Providence Club in Monroe. All proceeds will go towards funding our annual Lawrenceville Assistance Project - a church-wide weekend of service at LVfirst.

Griefshare (Starting May 20, 2026)
Grief is "hard" but anytime we can travel the journey called grief with someone who has also experienced grief we are able share another's burden...

Grief Share will begin a new session on Thursday, May 20. They meet from 6:30-8:30pm in the Connections Room.

Please register on Grief Share's webpage. www.griefshare.org
Any questions, feel free to email Pastor Deanne deannel@LVfirst.org

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/05/04/sunday-re-cap-may-4-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (April 27, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/27/sunday-re-cap-april-27-2026 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/27/sunday-re-cap-april-27-2026

This Sunday, we took a look at the story of the Walk to Emmaus where Jesus appeared to two disciples on Easter Sunday. We examined the things that occupy our minds and conversations and often keep us acknowledging Jesus' presence. The reality is that when we focus on our disappointments and problems, we blind ourselves to the hope and presence of Jesus walking with us.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Luke 24:13-28

Our words create worlds. What we talk about most reveals what's taking up space in our hearts and minds, and it shapes how we see everything around us. If we start our days scrolling through bad news and problems, that perspective will dominate our entire day.

Perspective is everything. Our problems are real, but often the real problem is one of perspective. When we step back and see our circumstances through the story of God's faithfulness throughout history rather than trying to find God through our difficulties, everything changes.

We can always have hope, not just "had hoped." Because Jesus lives and walks with us, we don't have to live in past-tense disappointment. We can be people who talk about resurrection, hope, and what Jesus will do next, which changes not only our reality but also impacts everyone we encounter.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

LAP Golf Tournament (May 5, 2026)
Join us for our annual LAP Golf Tournament at The Providence Club in Monroe. All proceeds will go towards funding our annual Lawrenceville Assistance Project - a church-wide weekend of service at LVfirst.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/27/sunday-re-cap-april-27-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (April 20, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/20/sunday-re-cap-april-20-2026 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:04:07 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/20/sunday-re-cap-april-20-2026

This Sunday, we discussed the common uncertainty we feel after we celebrate Easter. We looked at Jesus' encounter with Peter in John 21 and how we are called beyond comfortable patterns into active mission. When we are uncertain about our next steps spiritually, the answer is always the same: go out to love and serve others.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 21:15-19

When we're unsure what to do next, we often default to what's familiar rather than what we're called to do. Jesus invites us to "cast our nets on the other side of the boat"—to try something different that serves others.

Loving Jesus is demonstrated through loving and serving the people He loves. Our faith is revealed not in what we say and hear, but in how we serve out there in the world.

God often heals us by sending us to help someone else. If you're feeling stuck spiritually, the answer may be to engage in mission whether through VBX, Summer Lunch Program, or Lawrenceville Assistance Project.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Propel (April 24, 2026)
Ladies! Go ahead and mark your calendars for April 24th for our next Propel Gathering.
Join us from 6-8PM in the Family Center to connect with other women in our church and in our community. Dinner will be served, and we'll have time for worship, table talk, and an impact speaker.

Propel is completely free to attend, but we do ask that you please RSVP in advance.

Let us know you're coming!

Lawrenceville Assistance Project (April 25, 2026)
The Lawrenceville Assistance Project is an opportunity to come together as a church and spend a day in service to our community. LAP is just one of the many ways Lawrenceville First is putting Lawrenceville first!

Volunteer registration for LAP is open now! You can sign up and select your preferred service project by clicking the button below.

Get Signed Up Today!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/20/sunday-re-cap-april-20-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (April 13, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/13/sunday-re-cap-april-13-2026 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/13/sunday-re-cap-april-13-2026

This Sunday, we dove into the story of "Doubting Thomas" and how we can often find ourselves in a similar mindset. We talked about how we live in a world that demands proof before trust and how that mindset can follow us into our faith. When we dig into Thomas's story, we find that faith requires a shift from seeking proof to actively trusting God with what we know and don't know.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 20:24-29

Your questions and doubts are not a slap in the face to God. Jesus meets us where we are, just as He met Thomas with grace and invitation rather than condemnation.

Faith requires a shift from seeking immediate proof to doing the work of relationship with Jesus. It's about active transformation, deep trust, and allowing God to impact our reality and the lives around us.

We are called to be living proof of the resurrection. When we surrender to Jesus and trust Him with what we know and what we don't know, others will see Christ alive in us through our grace, mercy, and love.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Taste of Wesley (April 17, 2026)
You’re invited to join GGC Wesley for our annual Taste of Wesley on Friday, April 17th starting at 6:30PM and hosted by Lawrenceville First UMC. Taste of Wesley is an opportunity to learn more about GGC Wesley, one of nineteen UM Commission Wesley Foundations in Georgia.

If you believe in young adult ministry, we invite you to join us for Taste of Wesley and learn more about the work we are doing on-campus at Georgia Gwinnett College and how you can get involved!

Let us know you're coming!

Let Us Know You're Coming!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/13/sunday-re-cap-april-13-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (April 6, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/06/sunday-re-cap-april-6-2026 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/06/sunday-re-cap-april-6-2026

This Sunday, we took a look at John's Gospel account of the resurrection and reflected on Jesus' question to Mary, "Who are you looking for?"

We were challenged to turn away from the empty places in our lives and to recognize that what we've been searching for is actually a who. A living savior who brings resurrection - right here and right now.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 20:1-18

Stop looking in empty tombs. We waste so much energy returning to the same places that we know won't satisfy us—dead-end relationships, unfulfilling pursuits, or past disappointments. Jesus invites us to turn away from what's empty and encounter what's alive.

Faith is about encountering a "who," not figuring out a "what." Christianity isn't primarily a list of rules or actions; it's a living relationship with Jesus. When we shift from asking "what should I do?" to "who am I following?", everything changes.

Resurrection is happening all around us. The power that raised Jesus from the dead is still at work today—in our lives, our relationships, our community. God is bringing new life to dead places, and we get to participate in that resurrection work.

This Week at LVfirst

Check out some things coming up at LVfirst!

Speech & Language Screenings (April 10, 2026)
Grace Arbor is partnering with the UGA Speech and Hearing Clinic to provide free speech screenings to our community on Friday, April 10th from 11:30am to 1:00PM.

Everyone is welcome and screenings are free! If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Hale (lisah@lvfirst.org)

Let Us Know You're Coming!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/04/06/sunday-re-cap-april-6-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (March 30, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/30/sunday-re-cap-march-30-2026 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:43:09 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/30/sunday-re-cap-march-30-2026

This Sunday, we explored Jesus' demonstration of servant leadership during the Last Supper as he washed his disciples' feet. At the very peak of His influence, Jesus chose to serve rather than be served. It is this same selflessness that Jesus calls us to — to use our influence and privilege to serve others rather than expecting to be served.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship | Palm FUNday

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 13:1-15

Jesus loved his disciples fully, not conditionally. Despite knowing Judas would betray him, Peter would deny him, Thomas would doubt him, and all would desert him, Jesus loved them completely. His love for us isn't based on what we deserve—which is great news for all of us.

True influence is demonstrated through service, not status. Jesus laid aside his rabbinical robes, symbols of his authority, and wrapped a towel around his waist. The cure to selfishness is selfless service. If we want to follow Jesus and aren't serving others, we're not truly following in his way.

We serve because we have been served. As Henri Nouwen said, "Only when we have the courage to be served can we have the courage to serve." Jesus does for us so that we'll know what to do for others.

Holy Week at LVfirst

Join us for our Holy Week services!

Maundy Thursday Worship (April 2, 2026)
This year's Maundy Thursday service will be at 7:00PM in the Sanctuary on April 2, 2026.

We want to invite you to join us as we journey through the passion story together with moving music and a time of communion as we prepare our hearts for the sorrow of Good Friday and the Joy to come on Resurrection Sunday.

Good Friday Worship (April 3, 2026)
Join us in worship with our friends at Rock Springs United Methodist Church on Good Friday this year at 7:00PM

Location: 1100 Rock Springs Rd, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Time: 7:00PM

Easter Sunday Worship (April 5, 2026)

Sunrise Service - 7:00am
Join us at our historic campground (700 Braselton Highway) for a special time of worship as the sun rises on Easter Sunday!

Communion Service (no choir) - 8:30am
Our communion service is a great option for those who are looking to experience the Sacrament of Holy Communion. This service is a subtle service without our choir. We'll sing a few hymns, hear the Good News, and participate in communion.

Modern Service - 9:30am
At our Modern Service, you can expect amazing music from our Modern Worship Team and en encouraging Easter message!

Traditional Service - 11:00am
Our Traditional Service features our LVfirst Chancel Choir and is a more traditional style of worship service with creeds, hymns, and a message.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/30/sunday-re-cap-march-30-2026#comments 0 Holy Week at LVFirst https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/26/holy-week-at-lvfirst Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/26/holy-week-at-lvfirst

Holy Week at LVFirst!

Easter is almost here, and we're inviting you to celebrate Holy Week with us! We have a number of activities and special services coming up over the next week to celebrate and prepare our hearts for Easter Sunday.

Here’s what you can look forward to starting this weekend:

Easter Festival - March 28, 2026

Go ahead and mark your calendars for this year's Easter Festival! Coming up on March 28th, we'll gather at the Lawrenceville Elementary School Playground for an afternoon of free food, games, inflatables, Easter egg hunts, and more!

Check out our Easter Festival Blog to learn more!

Palm Sunday (FUNday) - March 29, 2026

Sunday, March 29th is Palm Sunday or, as we like to call it, Palm FUNday!

At 9:30am we’ll have a special service led by our LV Kids. They’re hard at work preparing, so plan to come out and support them and then join us at 11:00am in the Sanctuary for Traditional Worship.

Easter Lilies

If you would like to place an order in memory or in honor of a loved one, please complete an order form and attach a check, made payable to FUMCLV, with Easter Flowers in the memo line. You may put your order in the offering plate or place it in the Music Minister mailbox.

If you need assistance, please call Bill Steele at ext. 115.

PLEASE NOTE: Plant quantities are limited

The deadline for orders is Sunday, March 29.

Coat Drive

We are partnering with Lawrenceville First Baptist Church to collect MEN'S COATS for their clothing ministry.

You can bring donations to LVfirst this Sunday or to our Tuesday Drive-Thru collection Center over the coming weeks.

Maundy Thursday - April 2, 2026

This year's Maundy Thursday service will be at 7:00PM in the Sanctuary on April 2, 2026.

We want to invite you to join us as we journey through the passion story together with moving music and a time of communion as we prepare our hearts for the sorrow of Good Friday and the Joy to come on Resurrection Sunday.

Good Friday - April 3, 2026

Join us in worship with our friends at Rock Springs United Methodist Church on Good Friday this year at 7:00PM

Location: 1100 Rock Springs Rd, Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Time: 7:00PM

Easter Sunday - April 5, 2026

We have a full suite of services planned for this Easter Sunday:

Sunrise Service - 7:00am
Join us at our historic campground (700 Braselton Highway) for a special time of worship as the sun rises on Easter Sunday!

Communion Service (no choir) - 8:30am
Our communion service is a great option for those who are looking to experience the Sacrament of Holy Communion. This service is a subtle service without our choir. We'll sing a few hymns, hear the Good News, and participate in communion.

Modern Service - 9:30am
At our Modern Service, you can expect amazing music from our Modern Worship Team and en encouraging Easter message!

Traditional Service - 11:00am
Our Traditional Service features our LVfirst Chancel Choir and is a more traditional style of worship service with creeds, hymns, and a message.

Visit our Easter Page

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/26/holy-week-at-lvfirst#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (March 23, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/23/sunday-re-cap-march-23-2026 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:43:56 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/23/sunday-re-cap-march-23-2026

This Sunday, we dug into Jesus' challenging question, "Do you also wish to go away?"

Pastor Adam noted that following Jesus requires commitment beyond seeking convenience and comfort. We have to clarify our faith and acknowledge that Jesus alone has the words of eternal life.

Our faith is a choice we have to make repeatedly. It is not something that is forced upon us. True discipleship calls for us to stay committed to walking in the footsteps of Christ, even in seasons of difficulty.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 6:66-69

Following Jesus requires commitment, not just convenience. We often prefer a gospel that serves us rather than one that transforms us. Jesus invites us into a relationship that eventually requires something of us - forgiveness, loving difficult neighbors, praying for enemies, and choosing His way over our own comfort.

Faith is chosen, never forced. Jesus doesn't chase after those who leave or water down His message to keep the crowds. He honors our freedom to choose, asking us again and again: "Do you want to follow?" This clarifying question helps us identify what, and who, is most important in our lives.

We don't need to understand everything to follow Jesus. Peter didn't claim to comprehend all of Jesus' teaching. Instead, he anchored himself in relationship: "We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God." When life gets difficult and Jesus' teachings feel too hard, we can return to this truth - He has the words of life, and there's nowhere else to go.

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

Parent Connect Event (March 25, 2026)
"Neurodivergent" has been a popular term in the past few years but what does it mean? And how do we love our kids well when we struggle to understand them? You are invited to come explore all of this and other ways to regulate the big feelings in panel discussion with experts in our community.

DID YOU KNOW?
It takes over 100 volunteers to put together a successful Easter Festival each year! If you love Easter Festival, please consider volunteering for a 2-hour shift. There are also low-impact opportunities to serve leading up to Easter Festival.

Click the button below to learn more!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/23/sunday-re-cap-march-23-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (March 16, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/16/sunday-re-cap-march-16-2026 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/16/sunday-re-cap-march-16-2026

This Sunday, we walked through John 8:2–11, the story of the woman caught in adultery.

We dug into Jesus’ response:
- He bends down to write in the dirt instead of playing their yes-or-no game.
- He says, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her,” exposing their guilt in the matter.
- One by one, the accusers drop their stones and leave until only Jesus and the woman remain.

We focused on Jesus’ final words:
- “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you? … Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.”
- Forgiveness is not tolerance—sin matters, but God chooses to set it aside at His own cost.

We ended by looking at our own “stones”—the grudges, hurts, and desires for payback we hold—and we were invited to lay them down, trusting Jesus with both our sin and the sins committed against us, and to walk away lighter in His grace.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 8:2-11

Jesus addresses both our guilt and our condemnation. The woman was guilty of adultery, yet Jesus didn't condemn her. Similarly, while our sin is real and matters, Jesus stands between us and the stones of judgment, offering us forgiveness and a new way forward.

We are all invited to drop our stones. Just as the accusers were given the opportunity to examine their own hearts and drop their stones, we too are invited to release the weight of anger, shame, and judgment we carry toward those who have hurt us. Our pain is real and heavy, but God's grace is light and easy.

Forgiveness doesn't erase the hurt, but it releases us from carrying it. When Jesus asked, "Where are they? Has no one condemned you?" He was asking the same of us. We can choose to walk away from the weight of condemnation and embrace the lightness of God's grace.

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/16/sunday-re-cap-march-16-2026#comments 0 INFO TO KNOW: Easter Festival https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/12/info-to-know-easter-festival Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:33:38 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/12/info-to-know-easter-festival

The Countdown to Easter Festival is on!

We can't wait to welcome our community back out to the Lawrenceville Elementary Playground as we celebrate the joy of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ together! Over the past few years, Easter Festival has been a gift from our church to those in Lawrenceville and beyond. Free activities, free food, free games, giveaways, and more are just a small part of what makes the Easter Festival so great. The main thing that makes Easter Festival so special is that it is a celebration of the Good News of Jesus' resurrection to defeat death. That is something worth celebrating!!!

As we prepare to welcome you back to Easter Festival this year, we wanted to make sure you have all of the Info-to-Know before you join us! Read below for some frequently asked questions and tips on how to best enjoy Easter Festival.

Parking

Above is a map that outlines the available parking for Easter Festival. We want to say a big thank you to the Lawrenceville Co-Op and Central Baptist Church for allowing us to use their parking lots for this event. Parking at Lawrenceville Elementary School is very limited and we are asking everyone to please reserve the upper parking lot for those who are mobility impaired and parents with strollers.

General parking is available just down the road at the Lawrenceville Co-Op and Central Baptist Church. Our amazing parking team will be out along the road to help guide you to the next available parking spot. Please be patient with our team and other Easter Festival guests when looking for parking. There is limited parking space - especially in the middle of the day.

Activities

All activities should open around 1:00PM at the start of the Easter Festival and will be closing down at 4:00PM. As mentioned before, ALL activities (petting zoo, games, inflatables, temporary tattoos, etc.) are completely free of charge. Please be respectful of our volunteers as they do their best to provide a safe environment for your child(ren) to explore the festival.

Food

There will be a number of food & snack options available for FREE at Easter Festival, including shaved ice from Pelican's SnoBalls, Popcorn, and hot dogs from our LVfirst Men's Ministry. These are often some of our longest lines, so don't be afraid to head straight for some of our fun activities first!

Egg Hunt

There are no set times for our Easter Egg Hunt - you are welcome to visit our Egg Hunt at any time during the Easter Festival. Instead of hunting eggs filled with candy, kids will be searching for specific lettered eggs. Once they find the eggs they're looking for, they will bring them to one of our Egg Hunt volunteers to receive a special Easter goodie bag with candy and other Easter goodies! We will have an adapted format for our younger friends to enjoy. Volunteers will be positioned around to answer any questions you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Volunteer?

It takes over 100 volunteers to make this happen each year. If you'd like to be a part of our awesome volunteer team, click here to register.

Where do I Enter?

All festivities will be taking place on the LES playground at 122 Gwinnett Dr. You may enter the festival through either the front or back playground gate. Look for our Welcome Tent by the gate for guidance and a free gift!

Is it really free?

Yes! There is no catch here...we want to celebrate Jesus's resurrection with a thousand of our favorite people. Entry, food, and activities are all FREE.

Want more information? Head to www.lvfirst.org/easterfestival

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/12/info-to-know-easter-festival#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (March 9, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/09/sunday-re-cap-march-9-2026 Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/09/sunday-re-cap-march-9-2026

This Sunday, We continued our “Jesus Asks” series by looking at one of Jesus’ most powerful questions from John 11: “Do you believe this?”

We learned that when Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life,” He isn’t just talking about a distant, someday hope, but a present reality we can live in right now. We explored the difference between understanding and believing—how Jesus doesn’t ask, “Do you understand this?” but “Do you believe this?” and how real belief shapes the way we live, choose, grieve, and hope.

We connected all of this to confirmation and baptism, recognizing that following Jesus is often like getting in the car without knowing every detail of the journey. Together, we heard Jesus’ question as a personal invitation in every season of life: “I am the resurrection and the life. Do you believe this?”

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 11:17-27

Belief goes deeper than understanding. Jesus didn't ask Martha if she understood resurrection—He asked if she believed it. We may never fully comprehend all the mysteries of faith, but we can choose to believe and allow that belief to transform our lives.

Resurrection is a present reality, not just a future hope. Jesus offers us new life, healing, and restoration in the midst of our current struggles, not just in eternity. The dead places in our lives can experience resurrection through Christ's presence with us today.

What we believe about God shapes how we live. Our beliefs act like those curling team members sweeping the path—they shape the direction and trajectory of our lives. When we truly believe Jesus is the resurrection and the life, it changes how we face both joyous celebrations and difficult valleys.

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/09/sunday-re-cap-march-9-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (March 2, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/02/sunday-re-cap-march-2-2026 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/02/sunday-re-cap-march-2-2026

This Sunday, we explored Jesus' profound question to the invalid at the Pool of Bethesda: "Do you want to be made well?"

We were challenged to examine the areas of brokenness in our lives that we've normalized instead of addressing directly. We learned that Jesus meets us in our brokenness and invites us into a process of healing that requires taking ownership and walking forward in faith.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 5:1-18

The want-to must come before the how-to. Jesus asks if we want to be made well because our willingness to change is essential. Without genuine desire for transformation, no method or system will work. We must move beyond excuses and blame to embrace the possibility of real change.

Wellness requires willingness to change. The man had been lying by the pool for 38 years, but healing required his participation. Jesus didn't carry him to the pool or affirm his excuses—He gave him a process. Change happens through our active engagement with God's invitation.

We can own our circumstances, or let our circumstances own us. Jesus told the man to carry his mat—the very thing that had defined his brokenness for nearly four decades. We're invited to acknowledge our past struggles without letting them continue to define our identity or limit our future.

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

Confirmation Sunday (March 8, 2026)
This upcoming Sunday is a special day in the life of our church as we confirm this year’s Confirmation Class. Join us for an incredible morning of worship as we confirm and welcome these youth into the life of our church.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/03/02/sunday-re-cap-march-2-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (February 23, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/23/sunday-re-cap-february-23-2026 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/23/sunday-re-cap-february-23-2026

This Sunday, we started our journey through the Gospel of John in our Lenten series, Jesus Asks. We looked at Jesus' — "What are you looking for?"

Rather than following Jesus from a distance, we are invited to "come and see" — to abide with Him and experience the abundant life He offers to us.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was John 1:35-42

Questions are relational superpowers - Jesus asked over 300 questions in the Gospels because questions invite us into relationship. This Lenten season is an opportunity to stretch ourselves spiritually by honestly wrestling with the questions Jesus asks us.

"What do you want?" requires honest self-reflection - Many of us haven't taken time to truly consider what we want from life, from our relationships, or from Jesus. Moving beyond "whatever" to genuine clarity about our desires helps us recognize that we're all seeking something more than just getting through each day.

Jesus invites us to "come and see" - The answer to our deepest longings is found in abiding with Jesus—staying close to Him, learning from Him, and living in relationship with Him. He offers abundant, overflowing life, and the path to experiencing it is drawing near rather than following from a distance.

The Stars & Sparkles Dance

This special night is open to girls ages 2–18 and the men who lovingly support them—fathers, grandfathers, uncles, or other God-placed role models. Come share a beautiful evening of dancing and memories.

There will be light desserts and drinks at the dance. The men attending the dance are encouraged to take this opportunity to spend some intentional time with the girl(s) they are bringing, and take them out to dinner prior to attending the dance.

We love moms and grandmothers but please remember that this is a special night for girls and the men in their lives. Take lots of pictures before your Young Lady leaves, then know that we will do our best to document the night well so that you will have a snapshot of the evening. So that the girls may fully engage and focus on the reason for the evening, we are asking that moms and grandmothers refrain from coming.

Please RSVP Here

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

Easter Festival (March 28, 2026)
Go ahead and mark your calendars for this year's Easter Festival! Coming up on March 28th, we'll gather at the Lawrenceville Elementary School Playground for an afternoon of free food, games, inflatables, Easter egg hunts, and more!

You won't want to miss it! If you're interested in volunteering this year, head over to www.lvfirst.org/serveyourcommunity to sign up to be notified when registrations go live!

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/23/sunday-re-cap-february-23-2026#comments 0 What is Ash Wednesday? https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/what-is-ash-wednesday Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:59:06 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/what-is-ash-wednesday

This Wednesday, February 18th, is Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the start of the Lenten season which extends 40 days (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026). This period of fasting and reflection is reminiscent of Matthew 4:1-11 where Jesus spends forty days and forty nights in the wilderness after His baptism in the Jordan River.

Whether you've attended an Ash Wednesday service before or not, you may have some questions like: why is it called Ash Wednesday? Why do we mark our foreheads with ashes? Why is this day important?

Why is it called Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday gets its name from the fact that, on this day, Christians mark their heads with ashes in the sign of the cross.

In Genesis 2:7, God creates man out of the dust of the Earth. Later on, in Genesis 3:19, God tells the first humans "you are dust, and to dust you shall return." Occasionally, the Hebrew word for "dust" is translated as "ashes."

"On Ash Wednesday, we confront our sin. We recognize our inability to live up to all God has created us to be, and our need to be forgiven. No matter how far we have come in our spiritual journeys, each of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)." - Joe Iovino

Why do we mark our foreheads with ashes?

In the ancient world, people marked themselves with ashes as a way of expressing repentance and mourning their sin (ex: Hebrews 9:13, Jonah 3:6, Matthew 11:21, Joel 2:12-13). In a similar way, we mark our foreheads with ashes as a recognition of our humanity, our mortality, and our need for repentance and God's grace, mercy and forgiveness.

One could say that receiving the imposition of ashes is an outward expression of an inward faith. We openly acknowledge that we all fall short of what God created us to be, but we also acknowledge that new life is coming on Easter when Jesus Christ defeats death by His resurrection.

"The palms waved the previous Palm Sunday to welcome Jesus as our King, are burned to form the ashes. In a sense, they serve as a reminder of how far we fall short of living up to the glory of Christ."
- Joe Iovino

Why is Ash Wednesday Important?

The season of Lent is an important time of reflection and repentance in the Church. Ash Wednesday is an integral part of preparing us for Lent by reminding us of our humanity, and therefore, our mortality. We are reminded that only through Jesus Christ have we been redeemed, and apart from Christ we have nothing.

When we receive ashes, we are told "You are dust, and to dust you shall return," but then we also hear, "Repent, and believe the Gospel." Ash Wednesday invites us into a season of true reflection — to analyze where we have fallen short of God's glory and Jesus' call for our lives. Have we lived up to our calling? From this somber place of reflection, from these ashes, comes the resurrected Jesus who paves the way to eternal life.

Join us for our Ash Wednesday Service

This Ash Wednesday, we want to invite you to join us for a light meal of soup & sandwiches from 5:00-6:15pm in the Family Center, and then join us at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary for our Ash Wednesday service.

Articles Referenced:
Why ashes? Connecting to who we are and who we can be
When did Ash Wednesday begin and why do we celebrate it?

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/what-is-ash-wednesday#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (February 16, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/sunday-re-cap-february-16-2026 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/sunday-re-cap-february-16-2026

This Sunday, we talked about the control "busy" has over our lives and how it affects our relationship with God and with others. As we dug into the scripture, we reflected on how Jesus calls us to lay our burdens at His feet and find true rest in a life lived from rest instead of a life lived for rest.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Matthew 11:28-30

Busyness has become a badge of honor that actually separates us from God. Research shows that Christians are conforming to a culture of busyness that marginalizes God in their lives, creating a vicious cycle where deteriorating spiritual relationships lead to even more secular busyness.

Rest is found in relationship with Jesus, not in escape or optimization. Jesus invites all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens to come to Him for rest —not through better apps or routines, but through His presence and learning His way of life.

Jesus's yoke is about shared weight, not added burden. When Jesus asks us to take His yoke, He's inviting us to let Him help carry what we're struggling with alone. The burden becomes light not because life gets easier, but because we're no longer carrying it by ourselves.

The Stars & Sparkles Dance

Please RSVP Here

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

LV Students Pancake Dinner (February 17, 2026)
Join us this Tuesday for our annual LV Students Pancake Dinner. All proceeds will go towards our students' upcoming Spring Break Mission Trip. Come out and join us in the Family Center from 6-8PM and support our students!

Ash Wednesday (February 18, 2026)
Join us this Wednesday, February 18th for Ash Wednesday — where we will officially start the season of Lent together as a church family. Join us at 5:00PM in the Family Center for Soup and Sandwiches as we come together to share a meal and then head to the sanctuary for service at 6:30PM.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/16/sunday-re-cap-february-16-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (February 9, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/09/sunday-re-cap-february-9-2026 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/09/sunday-re-cap-february-9-2026

This Sunday, we talked about the loneliness epidemic in modern culture. Using the story of the paralyzed man whose friends carried him to Jesus, we looked at how community is necessary for us to move beyond cultural divisions and form authentic relationships.

Watch Sunday's Services

Want to watch the full service? Click below!

Modern Worship

Traditional Worship

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Luke 5:17-26

Relationships that heal require trust and vulnerability. Just as those four friends had to work together without pulling in different directions, we must trust each other enough to move forward in unity, setting aside the divisive questions that keep us spinning in circles.

We are called to see needs and meet needs without hesitation. Before asking about differences in opinion, politics, or preferences, we should simply ask: "How can I help?" People come before policies, and belonging comes before belief.

Your story can become a mat for someone else. The paralyzed man came in lying on a mat and left carrying that same mat—a picture of how our healing equips us to help carry others. Who are you carrying? Who would carry you?

The Stars & Sparkles Dance

Please RSVP Here

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

LV Students Pancake Dinner (February 17, 2026)
Join us for our annual LV Students Pancake Dinner. All proceeds will go towards our students' upcoming Spring Break Mission Trip. Come out and join us in the Family Center from 6-8PM and support our students!

Ash Wednesday (February 18, 2026)
Join us on Wednesday, February 18th for Ash Wednesday — where we will officially start the season of Lent together as a church family. Join us at 5:00PM in the Family Center for Soup and Sandwiches as we come together to share a meal and then head to the sanctuary for service at 6:30PM.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/09/sunday-re-cap-february-9-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (February 2, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/02/sunday-re-cap-february-2-2026 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/02/sunday-re-cap-february-2-2026

This Sunday, we talked about the pervasive anxiety and need for control that characterizes modern life, using the story of Mary and Martha to illustrate the difference between trying to be "over it" ourselves versus allowing Jesus to be "over it."

True peace comes not from managing our anxiety through control, but from surrendering to Jesus as Lord and sitting at His feet like Mary rather than frantically working like Martha.

Watch Sunday's Services

Sermon Notes

Check out some of the key takeaways from this past Sunday's sermon.

This week's scripture was Luke 10:38-42

Our anxiety leads to reactivity and control: When we're overwhelmed, we often try to control what we can, but this creates a vicious cycle where the things we try to control end up controlling us.

Control is really displaced anxiety: Our attempts to control situations, people, or outcomes are actually ways of placing our anxiety on someone or something else, hoping they'll do what we want so we can feel better.

Surrender brings peace: The invitation is to shift from being "over it" to allowing Jesus to be "over it"—to physically and spiritually sit at His feet, relax in His presence.

Coming up at LVfirst

Everything coming up at LVfirst in the next weeks.

LV Students Pancake Dinner (February 17, 2026)
Join us for our annual LV Students Pancake Dinner. All proceeds will go towards our students' upcoming Spring Break Mission Trip.

Come out and join us in the Family Center from 6-8PM on February 17th and support our students!

Ash Wednesday Service (February 18, 2026)
Join us on Wednesday, February 18th for Ash Wednesday — where we will officially start the season of Lent together as a church family. Join us at 5:00PM in the Family Center for Soup and Sandwiches as we come together to share a meal and then head to the sanctuary for service at 6:30PM.

Find More Events at LVfirst

Next Sunday at LVfirst

Get a head start on Sunday's sermon!

Help us keep putting Lawrenceville first!

Read the Latest Edition of the Newsletter

Learn More about Our Build Your Church Campaign

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/02/02/sunday-re-cap-february-2-2026#comments 0 NOTICE: Worship ONLINE ONLY this Sunday https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/01/31/notice-worship-online-only-this-sunday Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/01/31/notice-worship-online-only-this-sunday

Worship Services Moving Online this Sunday, February 1, 2026

Hey LVfirst Family!

We hope you've been enjoying the snow today! Due to the current conditions and continued forecasts for tomorrow, we have made the decision to move ALL WORSHIP SERVICES ONLINE tomorrow morning. The church building will be closed tomorrow with no groups meeting or LV Kids & LV Students programming.

We will live stream a pre-recorded service tomorrow morning at 9:30am and 11:00am on Facebook, YouTube, and the Church App/Website. Even though we may not be gathering in-person, we are looking forward to worshipping together online this weekend.

If you need to get in touch with us, please call (770) 963-0386 and remain on the line.
We pray that you stay warm, and we look forward to seeing you online tomorrow!

Things to Know for Sunday

1. Our Group Connect Event has been moved online. We have set up a page at www.lvfirst.org/groups where you can find videos and information about all of the different groups that meet at Lawrenceville First.

2. LiVE Group registrations are still open and THIS WEEKEND ONLY we are waiving the $20 book fee for new registrations. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to grow in community at Lawrenceville First!

3. It's the first Sunday of the month, so that means it's Dollar Days! Even though we aren't gathering in person, you can still make your regular gift and you dollar days gift online at www.lvfirst.org/give

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