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 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Sunday Re-Cap (July 27, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/27/sunday-re-cap-july-27-2026 Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/27/sunday-re-cap-july-27-2026
This Sunday, we began the new school year by reflecting on what it means to “fill the right cup.” We looked at Nehemiah’s story and saw how God used his heartbreak for Jerusalem to move him from self-living to self-giving. Together, we considered the places where our own hearts were stirred and how we could pour ourselves out in meaningful ways for others. We were reminded that as we served our families, schools, teachers, and community, God filled our cups in ways we might not expect.

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 Nehemiah 1:1-11
  • When we spend our lives trying to fill our own cup, it never feels full. Nehemiah held one of the most prestigious positions in the Persian empire, yet the turning point in his story came when he stopped living for his own comfort and allowed his heart to break for people he had never even met. The same invitation stands before each of us.

  • The question worth sitting with is: what breaks your heart? Nehemiah did not wait for someone else to act. When he heard about the broken walls and suffering people of Jerusalem, he wept, fasted, prayed, and ultimately said, in effect, I am someone who must do something about this. Identifying what genuinely moves us is often the first step toward discovering where God is calling us to serve.

  • On the hard days, remember Nehemiah's declaration in chapter 6 — that he was doing a great work and would not be pulled away from it. Whether you are a teacher, a parent, a grandparent, or someone quietly encouraging others behind the scenes, you are doing a great work. Do not come down from that wall.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Summer Serve Celebration (July 29, 2026)
You're invited to join us at this year's Summer Serve Celebration! You belong in the Hall of Fame of volunteers for all of the incredible work you've done this year serving this church and this city.

Join us in the Family Center on July 29th at 6:00PM for a meal in your honor along with some entertainment from our staff and a short time of vision casting as we look at upcoming opportunities to serve this next year.
Please RSVP Here
Blessing of the Backpacks (August 2, 2026)
Students & Teachers! You're invited to bring your backpacks to church on August 2nd for a special blessing as you start the new school year!

We will have a time of blessing during both 9:30AM and 11:00AM services, so please join us this Sunday and allow us to provide you with some extra blessings this back to school season.
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/2026/07/27/sunday-re-cap-july-27-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (July 20, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/20/sunday-re-cap-july-20-2026 Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/20/sunday-re-cap-july-20-2026
This Sunday, we walked through Genesis 22 and the story of Abraham and Isaac, reflecting on what it meant for Abraham to be asked to sacrifice his “most precious” son. We traced Abraham’s larger story, seeing how God repeatedly provided and kept His covenant, and how this moment uniquely tested whether Abraham loved God for who God is or only for what God gives. We then examined our own lives, asking what good gifts may have become idols and whether we are willing to lay them on the altar. Together, we were invited to trust that God will provide and to love and worship Him simply because He is worthy.

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 22:1-13
  • God is testing our love, not our obedience alone. Throughout Abraham's story, God had always promised something in return for obedience. But in Genesis 22, there was no guarantee—just a command. Abraham's immediate response revealed that his love for God wasn't transactional. We must ask ourselves: Are we following God because of what He provides, or because He is inherently worthy of our worship?

  • Our blessings can become our idols. Isaac was God's gift to Abraham—the fulfillment of decades of promises. Yet even this precious gift could not come before Abraham's love for God. What blessings in our lives—career success, financial security, relationships, comfort—have subtly shifted from gifts to idols? God may be calling us to lay these on the altar, trusting that He will provide what we truly need.

  • Faith means trusting God's character, even in uncertainty. Abraham traveled three days with the weight of God's command, carrying the wood, facing his son's questions. When Isaac asked where the lamb was, Abraham declared, "God will provide." He didn't know how, but he knew Who. Taking up our cross daily means following Jesus not for warm feelings or community perks, but out of pure commitment to His worthiness.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Teacher Recognition Sunday (July 26, 2026)
Teachers & School Faculty! We want to celebrate you as you prepare for the upcoming school year.

Join us on Sunday, July 26th at 9:30AM & 11:00AM for a special time of worship as we celebrate and pray over you.
 
Between services, we'll have some goodies for you to pick up including a "Fill Your Cup" station where you can grab a cup and fill it with supplies for your classroom.
Summer Serve Celebration (July 29, 2026)
You're invited to join us at this year's Summer Serve Celebration! You belong in the Hall of Fame of volunteers for all of the incredible work you've done this year serving this church and this city.

Join us in the Family Center on July 29th at 6:00PM for a meal in your honor along with some entertainment from our staff and a short time of vision casting as we look at upcoming opportunities to serve this next year.
Please RSVP Here
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/2026/07/20/sunday-re-cap-july-20-2026#comments 0 Back to School https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/back-to-school Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/back-to-school

Back to School / Back to Church

As you start finding your new rhythms with the beginning of the school year, we want you to keep LVfirst as a part of your weekly rhythms!

Here are some events to help you stay connected during this back to school season!

Teacher Recognition Sunday

Teachers & School Faculty! We want to celebrate you as you prepare for the upcoming school year.

Join us on Sunday, July 26th at 9:30AM & 11:00AM for a special time of worship as we celebrate and pray over you. Between services, we'll have some goodies for you to pick up including a "Fill Your Cup" station where you can grab a cup and fill it with supplies for your classroom.

Blessing of the Backpacks

Students & Teachers! We invite you to bring your backpacks to church on August 2nd for a special blessing as you start the new school year!

Backpacks can receive a blessing during both 9:30AM and 11:00AM service, so please allow us to provide you with some extra blessings this back to school season.

Family Ministry Open House

The whole family is invited to join our LV Kids & LV Students team on August 12th as we launch the ministry year! Come learn more about all of our upcoming opportunities, meet our amazing staff and volunteers, and build excitement for the months ahead!

The event will kick-off in the Family Center at 6pm for a welcome pizza/salad dinner (optional), followed by some time for visiting the ministry stations for kids, students, and families. Families are encouraged to visit the Sanctuary towards the end of the evening for a family prayer.
RSVP Here!

2nd Grade Bibles

Join us in worship on August 30th as we present our 2nd graders with Bibles! It has been a longstanding tradition at Lawrenceville First to gift all of our 2nd graders with their own Bibles at the beginning of each school year.

We will recognize our 2nd graders at our 9:30AM service and they will officially receive their Bibles during our 11:00AM service.

Want more information? Visit our website at www.lvfirst.org/back-to-school

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/back-to-school#comments 0 LVfirst Invites Local Teachers to Fill Their Cup https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/lvfirst-invites-local-teachers-to-fill-their-cup Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/lvfirst-invites-local-teachers-to-fill-their-cup

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Caleb Clark by email: calebc@lvfirst.org  or by phone: 770-963-0386

LVfirst Invites Local Teachers and School Faculty to Fill Their Cups with Free Classroom Supplies at Special Sunday Service

Lawrenceville, July 14, 2026 — The Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church (UMC) is inviting local teachers and school faculty located in the city of Lawrenceville to "Fill their cups" with classroom supplies provided for free by the church at a special Sunday service event.

Every year, Lawrenceville First UMC hosts many different back to school events from July to August in an effort to get local teachers and students geared up for the upcoming school year. One such event is its annual Teacher Recognition Sunday which is a special Sunday event the church incorporates into its weekly worship to celebrate local teachers and school faculty. This year, the event will take place on July 26 with the theme of "Fill Your Cup", which will not only give local teachers some well deserved recognition, but also provide a cupful of free school supplies for any teacher that needs it.
 
According to a report released by the National Center for Educational Statistics in 2021, the average teacher will spend nearly $459 on classroom supplies out-of-pocket without reimbursement. Given that the average teacher salary in Georgia is $59,253 (indeed.com), which is about $4,937 per month, that $459 paid out-of-pocket makes up a not unsubstantial percentage of their monthly paycheck.

The city of Lawrenceville is home to over 20 different Gwinnett County Public Schools, which collectively employee around 3,000 of the school system's approximate 24,000 employees (gcpsk12.org). Through its Parents First Initiative and School Engagement programs, Lawrenceville First UMC has supported many of those teachers in Lawrenceville schools including: Central Gwinnett & Discovery High Schools, Moore Middle, Jordan Middle, Jenkins Elementary, Lawrenceville Elementary, Baggett Elementary, Simonton Elementary, and Rock Springs Elementary Schools. Thanks to this Sunday service, many local teachers will now be able to spend more time working on lesson plans and less money stocking their classrooms this upcoming school year.

]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/16/lvfirst-invites-local-teachers-to-fill-their-cup#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (July 13, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/13/sunday-re-cap-july-13-2026 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/07/13/sunday-re-cap-july-13-2026
This Sunday, we turned to 1 Kings 19 and walked with Elijah into the depths of fear, exhaustion, and depression after his great victory on Mount Carmel. We reflected on how even God’s strongest servants can feel utterly alone and how, like Elijah, we often withdraw when we’re hurting. We heard how God met Elijah not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the sound of sheer silence, reminding us to rest, care for our bodies, and make space to listen for God’s quiet voice. Together, we affirmed that seeking help, serving others, and leaning into God’s steadfast love are faithful ways to move through our own seasons of despair, trusting that God will take care of 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 1 Kings 19:9-18
  • Take Care of Your Physical Needs: When you're running on empty, the first step toward healing is rest and physical care. God didn't rebuke Elijah for his exhaustion. He sent angels to feed him and let him sleep.

  • Listen for God in the Stillness: God came to Elijah in a whisper. We need to downshift emotionally, remove the noise and clutter from our lives, and take intentional time with God to hear His voice.

  • Develop an Attitude of Otherness: God led Elijah out of despair not by removing his problems, but by giving him a new mission focused on others. When we forget our worries and invest in helping others with their needs, we often find our way out of discouragement.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Teacher Recognition Sunday (July 26, 2026)
Teachers & School Faculty! We want to celebrate you as you prepare for the upcoming school year.

Join us on Sunday, July 26th at 9:30AM & 11:00AM for a special time of worship as we celebrate and pray over you.
 
Between services, we'll have some goodies for you to pick up including a "Fill Your Cup" station where you can grab a cup and fill it with supplies for your classroom.
Summer Serve Celebration (July 29, 2026)
You're invited to join us at this year's Summer Serve Celebration! You belong in the Hall of Fame of volunteers for all of the incredible work you've done this year serving this church and this city.

Join us in the Family Center on July 29th at 6:00PM for a meal in your honor along with some entertainment from our staff and a short time of vision casting as we look at upcoming opportunities to serve this next year.
Please RSVP Here
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

This Sunday we will have only ONE SERVICE at 11:00AM for our God & Country service.
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/2026/07/13/sunday-re-cap-july-13-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (June 28, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/29/sunday-re-cap-june-28-2026 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/29/sunday-re-cap-june-28-2026
This Sunday, we continued our “Cool for the Summer” series by revisiting the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. We reflected on how David’s real battle began before he faced the giant, when he was offered Saul’s armor and had to decide whether to trust in appearances or in God. We recognized the ways we, too, try to wear “someone else’s armor” through comparison, imitation, and imposter syndrome, instead of living as the unique people God has created us to be. Together, we were invited to lay down that ill‑fitting armor, remember God’s past faithfulness, and courageously step into our callings as our true, God‑given selves.

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 1 Samuel 17:31-40
  • Past faithfulness builds present courage: David's confidence didn't come from his own abilities but from remembering how God had saved him from lions and bears. When we recall God's faithfulness in our past, we gain courage to trust Him with our present giants.

  • The armor threatens our identity more than the giant threatens our life: While Goliath could have killed David's body, wearing Saul's ill-fitting armor threatened to kill David's unique identity as God's image bearer. We must resist the pressure to conform to others' expectations and instead embrace who God created us to be.

  • God's glory shines when we're fully alive as ourselves: We don't need to fake it, copy others, or wear armor that doesn't fit. God is inviting us to step onto our battlefields with our unique gifts and experiences —trusting that He is enough.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Prelude to the Fourth (July 1, 2026)
Join us this Wednesday, July 1st for our Prelude to the Fourth celebration!
From 3:30-9:30pm we will be at Lawrenceville Lawn celebrating the Fourth of July with our community!

We could use some help for our evening shifts, so if you're planning to be around, please consider volunteering for a little bit in the evening.
Sign Up to Volunteer
Summer Serve Celebration (July 29, 2026)
You're invited to join us at this year's Summer Serve Celebration! You belong in the Hall of Fame of volunteers for all of the incredible work you've done this year serving this church and this city.

Join us in the Family Center on July 29th at 6:00PM for a meal in your honor along with some entertainment from our staff and a short time of vision casting as we look at upcoming opportunities to serve this next year.
Please RSVP Here
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

This Sunday we will have only ONE SERVICE at 11:00AM for our God & Country service.
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/2026/06/29/sunday-re-cap-june-28-2026#comments 0 Campmeeting Updates https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/25/campmeeting-updates Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/25/campmeeting-updates

Campmeeting Wrap Up

This years Campmeeting is sadly coming to a close, but we still have one day left to celebrate! Here is what you can expect from our last day of Campmeeting and for the future of this long-time LVfirst tradition.

One More Night of Campmeeting

We've got one more night of Campmeeting in store for you! Make sure to join us this evening at 6:00PM for dinner and 7:00PM for worship.

This evening, our friends — Shoal Creek Blue Grass Band — will be bringing the music! This is always a great way to wrap up an incredible week of Campmeeting. We hope to see you out there this evening!

For those of you who pre-ordered your Chick-Fil-A Box Dinners, you will be able to pick those up at the potluck table. We do have a few extras that will be available on a first-come-first-served basis.

A Standing Ovation for Franco

Earlier this week, we announced that our campground caretaker, Franco, is retiring at the end of this month. For 17 years, Franco and his wife, Ramona, have loved and cared for the LVfirst Campground. When we announced his retirement on Tuesday night, he received a well deserved standing ovation.

While it's always sad to see someone who's been a part of this church family for so long begin a new chapter, we are also looking forward to what is to come.

As announced last Sunday, Amy Valdez Barker and her husband will be moving into the caretaker house, and Amy will take on the role of Campground Program Coordinator at LVfirst. In addition, our own Jonathan Snyder will be taking on the role of Maintenance Coordinator. We are excited to welcome both Amy and Jonathan to the team and look forward to the skill sets they each will bring to the Campground.

Campmeeting Challenge

Earlier this week, we received Jeff Poynter's Campmeeting Challenge.

The challenge is for everyone who came to Campmeeting this year to donate $100 to the Campmeeting offering ($200/couple). These funds raised go exclusively towards the maintenance, repair, and improvement of the Campground property throughout the year.

Our goal for this year is to raise at least $15,000 for this year's Campmeeting Offering.
Click Here to Donate Online (Select Campmeeting Offering)

Important Dates

Join us on Wednesday, July 1st for our Prelude to the Fourth celebration!

We will be at Lawrenceville Lawn celebrating the Fourth of July with our community! We have multiple shifts available, so please consider volunteering for a shift while you enjoy the festivities.
Let Us Know You're Coming
Join us on Sunday, July 5th for our annual God & Country service. There will be ONLY ONE SERVICE on July 5th at 11:00AM in the Sanctuary.
]]> https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/25/campmeeting-updates#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (June 22, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/22/sunday-re-cap-june-22-2026 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/22/sunday-re-cap-june-22-2026
This Sunday, we explored the history and heart of campmeeting as a Methodist tradition rooted in evangelism, joy, and relationships. We looked at Ezra 6 and the rebuilding of the temple, noticing how God transformed opposition and fear into celebration and renewed worship. We then turned to stories of Jesus—from the Samaritan woman and Zacchaeus to the synagogue leader’s daughter—to see how encounters with Christ changed attitudes and restored joy. We reflected on how our own perspectives are shaped by the messages we consume, and we were invited to ground our attitude and joy in a living relationship with Jesus, our perfect example of a loving Father.

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 Psalm 122:1 & Ezra 6:22
  • Evangelism is about bringing good news: Campmeetings remind us that sharing our faith isn't about being pushy or uncomfortable—it's about being "euangelion," bringers of good news. We're called to help people fall in love with Jesus through authentic relationships and genuine joy.
  • Jesus sees us when we're stuck in negativity: Like the Samaritan woman at the well and Zacchaeus in the tree, we all experience times when we're drowning in life's disappointments and failures. Jesus sees us in those moments, recognizes our worth as children of God, and fills us with joy through relationship with Him.
  • Our attitude shapes our reality: What we focus on—whether negative social media algorithms or the love of Christ—profoundly impacts how we experience the world. When we're grounded in God's love, joy can surround us everywhere, even on our metaphorical deathbed, because our perspective has been transformed by Jesus.

Coming Up at LVfirst

Campmeeting (June 21-25, 2026)
Campmeeting is officially underway! If you missed us yesterday, be sure to join us the rest of the week for worship under the Arbor! 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.
Get Your Shirts for Campmeeting!
Shirts for this years Campmeeting are now available to buy! These shirts were completely designed by our LV Kids, so any and all proceeds will go towards reducing the cost of retreats and outings for our LV Kids Ministry!

If you're currently registered for LV Kids' & LV Students' Campmeeting activities, a shirt is already included. You do not need to submit an order.
Order Your Campmeeting Shirts Today
Pre-Order Your Chick-Fil-A Box Dinner
Don't forget to pre-order your Chick-fil-a Box Dinner for the Thursday (June 25th) evening dinner at the campground during this years Campmeeting!
Place Your Order Here
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/2026/06/22/sunday-re-cap-june-22-2026#comments 0 Sunday Re-Cap (June 15, 2026) https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/15/sunday-re-cap-june-15-2026 Mon, 15 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.lvfirst.org/blog/2026/06/15/sunday-re-cap-june-15-2026
This Sunday, we continued our “Cool for the Summer” series by diving into the story of Gideon in the book of Judges. We reflected on the names and labels that have been placed on us, and how they can become limiting scripts that keep us stuck “threshing wheat in a winepress” – living in fear, insecurity, and self-doubt. We heard how God met Gideon in his pit, called him a “mighty warrior” before he believed it, and invited him to address the very injustice that broke his heart. Together, we were reminded that God sees our potential, goes with us, and calls us to step out in faith to meet the needs we see in our world.

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 Judges 6:11-16
  • God reminds you who you are before you believe it. Just as God called Gideon a "mighty warrior" while he was cowering in a winepress, God sees your potential even when you only see your limitations. The voice of God speaks truth about your identity that contradicts the negative scripts running in your head.

  • The thing that frustrates you is often where God is calling you. If you see a problem in the world that breaks your heart or stirs your spirit, that's likely your invitation to be part of the solution. God's response to our complaints about what's wrong is often, "Go in this might of yours—I'm commissioning you to address it."

  • God's presence is strength enough. You don't need to be the strongest, smartest, or most qualified. When God says "I will be with you," that changes everything. Your adequacy doesn't come from your résumé or your family background—it comes from God's empowering presence in your life.

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.
Get Your Shirts for Campmeeting!
Shirts for this years Campmeeting are now available to buy! These shirts were completely designed by our LV Kids, so any and all proceeds will go towards reducing the cost of retreats and outings for our LV Kids Ministry!

If you're currently registered for LV Kids' & LV Students' Campmeeting activities, a shirt is already included. You do not need to submit an order.
Order Your Campmeeting Shirts Today
Pre-Order Your Chick-Fil-A Box Dinner
Don't forget to pre-order your Chick-fil-a Box Dinner for the Thursday (June 25th) evening dinner at the campground during this years Campmeeting!
Place Your Order Here
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/2026/06/15/sunday-re-cap-june-15-2026#comments 0 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!
Register Your LV Kids Here!

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).
Register Your LV Student Here!
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!
Register for LV Kids Ambassadors Outing
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!
Sign Up for LV Students Campmeeting
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

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!
Register for LV Kids Ambassadors Outing
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!
Sign Up for LV Students Campmeeting
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/2026/06/01/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!
Sign up today!
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
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/2026/05/25/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!
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!
Sign up today!
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
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/2026/05/18/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!
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!
Sign up today!
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.
Sign up today!
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.
Sign up today!
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/2026/04/27/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!
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!
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)
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!
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.
Sign Up Today!
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!
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!
Sign Up to Volunteer at Easter Festival
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.
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.
Sign Up Today!
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!
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!
Sign Up to Volunteer at Easter Festival
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