Spring is in the air at First Lutheran, and with it comes a season of renewal, growth, and connection—and we are so excited to share what’s new!

• Our New Website Is Here!

We’re thrilled to officially introduce our new First Lutheran Church website! This has been a labor of love designed with you in mind—making it easier than ever to stay connected, find information, and grow in your faith.
Whether you’re looking for:

• Upcoming events
• Sermons and Bible studies
• Ways to serve
• Or how to get connected

…it’s all right there at your fingertips. This is more than just a website—it’s a tool to help us grow together as the body of Christ.

• Stay Rooted with Portals of Prayer

As we step into a new season, don’t forget to pick up your April–June copy of Portals of Prayer.
This daily devotional is a simple yet powerful way to stay grounded in God’s Word. Just a few minutes each day can shape your heart, guide your thoughts, and strengthen your walk with Christ.

• Find Your Place to Serve

Spring is the perfect time to ask: “Where is God calling me to serve?”
There are so many opportunities here at First Lutheran—from welcoming guests, to helping with events, to serving behind the scenes. And with Vacation Bible School (VBS) right around the corner, we’ll need helping hands and joyful hearts more than ever!

• VBS is coming soon, and it’s one of our biggest outreach opportunities of the year. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, this is your moment!
• Fellowship Is Coming—May Potluck!

We’re also looking forward to gathering around the table as a church family. Be on the lookout for our May potluck!
There’s something special about sharing a meal, laughter, and stories—it’s where community truly comes alive.

•  Need Help Getting Connected?

If you haven’t already, now is a great time to download and start using the First Lutheran Church app. It’s one of the best ways to stay engaged with everything happening here.
And remember—you’re not alone in this!

•  If you need help downloading or setting up the app, I would be more than happy to help you.
•  If you’re searching for where you fit in and how you can serve, don’t hesitate to reach out.

❤️ Let’s Grow Together
This season is all about stepping forward—deepening our faith, building relationships, and living out our calling.
At First Lutheran, you’re not just attending—you’re connected.
Let’s embrace all that God has in store this spring… together. 

Growing Together, Serving Together
Spring is in the air at First Lutheran Church, and with it comes a beautiful reminder of how God is moving through the many ministries and hands that serve here each week. As we journey through this Lenten season, our church family has been hard at work preparing, serving, and sharing the love of Christ in so many meaningful ways.
Our school children have begun planting and working on flowers, bringing new life and beauty to our campus. At the same time, many of our members have been faithfully tending to the church grounds, helping prepare our space to welcome guests and celebrate the season ahead.
Behind the scenes, Vacation Bible School preparations are already underway, and we are excited about the opportunity to pour into the lives of children this summer. It takes many hands to make VBS special, and we look forward to seeing how God will use each volunteer in this ministry.
Throughout the week, several of our ministries continue to make a powerful impact. Good News Club, LWML, and our Jackson House ministry are all actively serving and sharing Christ’s love in our community. These ministries are wonderful examples of how God uses His people to reach others.
As Easter approaches, our Handbell Choir is also preparing to minister, and we look forward to the beautiful way they will help lead us in worship as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord.
We are also excited to share a new opportunity to serve. We have begun a donation initiative to support Ouachita Children's Center and two additional local agencies that have recently lost funding for some of their needed supplies. A huge shout-out to Shannon Collier for helping make this connection and opening the door for First Lutheran to step in and help meet these needs. What a blessing it is to be part of a church that cares deeply for others.
With so much happening, there are many ways to get involved here at First Lutheran. Each of us has been given gifts by God, and when we use them together, we help build up His kingdom and share His love with the world around us.
If you are wondering where you fit or how you can serve, I want you to know that I am here for you. Helping people find their place in the life of the church is something I care deeply about, and I would love to help you discover where your gifts can be used.
As we continue walking through the season of Lent together, let us remember this truth:
God has called each of us to be part of His work. When we serve with joyful hearts and open hands, we reflect His love and help grow His kingdom.
There is a place for you here. And we are grateful to walk this journey of faith together.
Grace and peace,
Katrina Watkins
Assimilation Director
First Lutheran Church ✝️