Discipleship

Finishing the Unfinished Task through... Discipleship

First Reformed strives always to be a learning church. The Church is the Holy Spirit's School – a Christian Kindergarten. Amidst their profound spiritual experiences, the early Christians craved learning – there was no anti-intellectualism among them. Disciples are literally "learners." The early disciples were "devoted" to the "Apostles' teaching." The Church ought to encourage the study of Scripture and the reading of literature from throughout the ages that reflects the best of the historic understanding of the doctrines of the Church. But the New Testament also speaks of the attitude with which we should learn. The early believers were "filled with awe" at the teaching of the Apostles (Acts 2.43). Matthew tells us the people were "amazed" at the teaching of Jesus (Matthew 7.28). Here are some of the ways we at First Reformed hope to follow in the footsteps of those early believers:

First Reformed's Inquirers' Class

Understanding that it can be daunting to become a new member of an established family, we have designed a course taught by the pastor to introduce new comers to our church - its history, activities and beliefs. Through this course, we disciples of Christ will learn what it means to be a committed member of His Church.

Adult and Children's Sunday School

Our Christian Education program for children and adults seeks to progressively move the learner along a logical path toward maturity.

Adult Sunday School offers opportunities to grow in the faith and to become equipped for Christian service. Our Children's program uses Bible-based curriculum taught by a committed and caring staff. Classes meet Sunday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

WIC

The goal of Women in the Church is that every woman know Christ personally and be committed to extending His kingdom and compassion in her life, home, church, community, and throughout the world and thus to glorify God. WIC follows a biblical strategy for encouraging and equipping women to share their gifts and graces for the mutual good, and to maintain a holy fellowship (Titus 2.1-5). The Titus mandate for women to nurture women is the driving force of our women's ministry. To this end, WIC carries out a number of specific ministries: Bible Studies, women's conferences, large and small group social events, the care of families and individuals in special need, local outreaches into the community like MOPS, world missions support, as well as a number of other ministries designed to meet the needs not only of women but of the entire church.

Covenant Groups

Covenant Groups are small groups led by elders and other qualified leaders that meet weekly or bi-weekly with the shared goal of fellowship with God and one another through Bible study and prayer. People of all ages meet in homes throughout the week. Child care is normally provided. We are always looking to expand the number of Covenant Groups to meet the fellowship needs of our growing congregation.

Men's Breakfasts

Motivated by a desire for "one man to sharpen another" (Proverbs 27.17), a number the men of First Reformed gather monthly for breakfast and discussion of a book they're reading together.

Youth Ministry

The Junior and Senior High Youth Groups are staffed by young adults who emphasize challenging Bible study and meaningful fellowship. Our youth groups hold periodic events combining fun activities and learning to reach out in Christ's service to others. To this end we provide Summer opportunities for our youth to be involved with Short Term mission trips.

Conferences and Retreats

Two conferences are held each year. The Pittsburgh Reformation Conference is held each Fall. We seek to bring the best speakers from around the country – like Michael Horton, Bob Godfrey, Brian Chappell, Wilson Benton, Ralph Davis and others. The conference concludes with a combined worship service of the NAPARC churches from the Pittsburgh area. First Reformed's Missions Conference is held each Spring. A missions-minded pastor, like Frank Barker, brings messages to challenge us to a commitment to world-wide evangelism and missionaries share their work of making Christ known. In addition to these conferences, occasional retreats for women, men, youth and leaders are held.

Prayer Chain

A prayer chain makes it possible for all interested members of the congregation to respond with prayer to serious needs that may arise in the church family. The prayer chain is activated by calling the church office, the pastor or another designated person. A "Praise and Petition" sheet is published weekly and included in the Lord's Day bulletin to encourage thanksgiving and intercession for the church, its members and friends.

First Press

First Press is First Reformed's monthly newsletter. It includes devotional articles by the pastor and others, as well as news.

12900 Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235, Phone: 412-793-7117 Fax: 412-793-7267