YOUNG ADULT LIFE

NO LONGER UPDATED

2011-06-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

This blog will not be updated in the near future. For future updates, get on our Fusionews email list by emailing Naomi (naomig@fpcberkeley.org) or visit our webpage on the First Pres site. You can also find us on the group pages, Young Adult Ministries.

Called to Serve

2011-06-08T15:38:00.001-07:00

Here is a great class being offered at First Pres in G208 at 10am on Sundays this month and into July. Check it out!

SPEAKER SCHEDULE

June 5, 2011 – Steve Easton, Retired Superior Court Judge working with delinquency

cases. Developed peer court and juvenile drug court. First Pres.

member.

June 12, 2011 – Elizabeth Webb and Kishma Patnaik of Johnson O’Connor

Research Foundation: non-profit scientific research and educational

organization providing testing services and career guidance.

June 19, 2011 - Catalino Tapia, Scholarship Founder, Bay Area Gardeners Foundation.

Encore Purpose Prize Winner 2008

June 26, 2011 – Bob Nelson, Bay Area Realtor. Encore interests include assisting

entrepreneurs toward sustainability and scalability. First Pres.’ poet

and lyricist.

July 3, 2011 – Ellen Chen, medical doctor and currently working full time as a wife

and mother of two children. Member of First Pres.

July 10, 2011 – Dr. Arthur Ammann, Founder of Global Strategies for HIV Prevention,

to bring life-saving drugs to people in underserved regions. Member

of First Pres.

BAYCP - Hike-Nic!

2011-05-16T13:41:00.000-07:00

Point Reyes Hike-nic*
May 21st
12:00 Noon at Bear Valley Visitor CenterHike through beautiful Pt. Reyes National Seashore Park! Saunter down lush and casual Bear Valley Trail out to Arch Rock, where we'll picnic on the bluffs overlooking ocean waves. Bring your own drink and sandwich. Optional dinner at Osteria Stellina at 5pm. Meet at Bear Valley Visitor Center in Point Reyes at Noon. For directions and more information about the park, click HERE. Please RSVP to Sandra at 510-334-4965 or email. (Hosted by BAYCP)
*Formerly known as Bike-nic

Summer Camp!

2011-05-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

Register here for our Summer Retreat for 20s & 30s for Friday evening through Sunday morning, June 10th - 12th! We will be staying at the Marin Headlands Hostel near Rodeo Beach. Linens and blankets provided, as is food (5 meals) & lodging (2 nights). The theme for the retreat is "Child-like Faith." We will be exploring what it means and looks like to have faith like a child through talks, discussion, arts, crafts, worship, other fun activities and free time! Cost for the retreat: $100. Space is limited to under 20 persons. Please make checks payable to First Pres or FPCB and bring to church on a Sunday to the front reception desk or to Evans in an envelope marked "Evans." Checks can also be mailed: 2407 Dana St. Attn: Evans Presley-McGowan. We will email the group with further details the first week of June, including suggested carpooling.
REGISTER TODAY!
Any questions? Contact Mika mgpritchard.berman@gmail.com or Evans evanspm@fpcberkeley.org.

LiNK Screening

2011-04-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

Interested in North Korea? Want to know more about the refugee crisis? There's a couple screenings coming up in the Bay Area that are worth noting, hosted by the non-profit LiNK (Liberty in North Korea):

April 14, 2011	7pm, UC Berkeley	Evans Rm 45 970 Evans Hall Berkeley, CA 94720-3841

April 16, 2011	6pm, Regeneration Church	238 E 15th St. Oakland, CA 94606

For more info or to attend with someone else, contact Kelsey Schweickert.

Meet 'n' Eat - April 3rd

2011-03-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

This Sunday immediately after the 5:05 Service
(Mears - down the hall from Bistro)
Are you a newcomer to our church, or looking for ways to get plugged in? Join us for dinner with 5:05 ministry leaders and First Pres staff.

OneW April 6th!

2011-03-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

OneW, our night of worship, discussion and fellowship every first Wednesday of the month, is back on April 6th! Danny Yost will be our host and James Obert will be our speaker. Our worship will again be led by the trifecta Milton, Judy & Jason. Doors Open @ 7pm. The "after party" begins around 9pm. Invite friends from First Pres or the larger community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Do Justice Volunteer Day!

2011-03-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

Join us for a day of volunteering! On April 2nd we will be volunteering at a Habitat for Humanity site here in the East Bay. This is a great way to do some good, have fun and meet other people in the community, all at the same time! There are about a dozen of us so far, and we've got space for at least another ten.

Sign-up online here. Any questions? Email Evans or Nelly (missions coordinator).

Want to volunteer but not working on a house? Sign-up for a different site and invite a friend or your small group!

OneW - Mar 2nd

2011-03-02T16:01:00.000-08:00

Heads-Up! Tonight is our new monthly event for 20s and 30s. Join us on March 2nd @ 7pm for worship, fellowship and discussion with other 20s and 30s. We'll be meeting the first Wednesdays of the month. We look forward to seeing you there!

BAYCP - 30 Somethings Social

2011-02-23T17:20:00.000-08:00

Bay Area Young Christian Professionals Social for 30-Somethings
Saturday, March 19, SFMOMA at 3pm
Our next social will be a day at SF Museum of Modern Art and Yerba Buena Gardens. BAYCP is a community of 30-39 yo's getting together for fun social events. For more info, contact Sandra at sandraleelawson@gmail.com or 510-334-4965.

Men's Summit 2011 - Register Online Today!

2011-02-16T16:54:00.000-08:00

You don't want to miss this once-a-year event for guys at First Pres! We'll connect with each other in small groups, interact with God's word, join in friendly competition, and gather in worship and community as brothers in Christ. Our speaker will be Paul Kingsman, a graduate of Cal and an Olympic medalist, who will be leading us through the life of Peter.

Registration fees cover lodging and meals from Friday dinner through Sunday brunch. Scholarships are available; please contact Naomi Griffin for more information. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the scholarship fund by entering a donation amount before paying online. Register Today!

Dates: Friday-Sunday, March 18-20, 2011
Location: Redwood Christian Park, Boulder Creek, CA (directions)
Cost: $160 Economy rate (3+ men/room); $230 Deluxe rate (2 men/room)
Registration Deadline: March 11, 2011

Celebrate the Chinese New Year!

2011-02-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

Come with us to SF for the Chinese New Year Parade! Named one of the world's top 10 parades, the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco is the largest celebration of its kind outside of Asia. The parade goes from 5:30-8pm. Interested? Contact Dennis or Kristin.

OneW - NEW Young Adult Gathering: Feb 2nd

2011-01-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

OneW - *NEW* Young Adult Gathering: Feb 2nd, 7pm - 8:30pm

Join us on Wednesday, Feb 2nd @ 7pm in the College Lounge (1st Floor Geneva) for OneW - a *NEW* large group gathering for 20s and 30s held monthly on the 1st Wednesday. We will be begin our time with worship, followed by a welcome and a brief sharing by a young adult of where their faith intersects life. Questions and discussion are encouraged. This is a great opportunity to meet and interact with other 20s and 30s in the community. Friends are welcome. Drinks and desserts will be provided. For more info, contact: Evanspm@fpcberkeley.org.

Small Group Launch

2010-12-19T08:24:00.000-08:00

Interested in small groups? Want to meet some small group leaders? Would you like to join a group just starting? Come to our Small Group Launch! 6:45 PM, Sunday Jan. 9th in Mears. RSVP appreciated: Evans.

Winter Retreat - Save the Date!

2010-12-02T16:28:00.000-08:00

Get ready for our annual Winter Retreat, Jan 28-30th, this time to Twain Harte, CA! Details forthcoming, but know that we'll be staying in two adjacent cabins with room for about 25 folks and with access to an outdoor hot tub! Skiing option at Dodge Ridge. Register Online Today!

Christmas Party Dec 10th!

2010-12-01T10:11:00.000-08:00

Young Adult/Veritas Christmas Party
Friday, Dec 10th
7:00pm in G202

Enjoy an evening celebrating the holiday spirit at 3rd Annual Young Adult & Veritas Christmas Party! Come dressed to impress in holiday attire with appetizer or dessert in hand. A main dish and drinks will be provided. Also, we will be collecting nonperishable canned goods to donate to the Food Bank.
So that's:
- Dress to Impress
- Appetizer or Dessert
- Canned Good(s)

And yes, gingerbread shenanigans are back. See you there!

Dinner & Movie this Saturday: Harry Potter

2010-11-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

Interested in seeing the new Harry Potter movie this Saturday, 11/27? A group of us will grab dinner about 7pm in Emeryville before catching the show in the 9pm hour.

Contact Patrick if you're interested!

Dinners 4 Eight - Nov 5th, 6th or 11th

2010-10-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Join us for dinner on Nov 5th, 6th or 11th! Danny is in Berkeley, Nicole's in Oakland and Kristin's in Alameda. Meet other Young Adults in a casual small group setting while sharing food and conversation.

Sign-up here to let us know your preferred date and location, and if you would like to come with a another friend or spouse.

YA Women's Retreat! Nov 12th - 14th

2010-10-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for this? The Young Adult Women are going on retreat! We'll be at Kristin's cabin in Twain Harte, CA (about 2.5 hrs away) Nov 12-14th . And best of all, the cost is only $30! Sign-up below and bring a check written to "FPCB." Any questions? Contact Kristin: kristin.codiga@gmail.com.

Halloween Party - Oct 30th

2010-10-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

Join us for food, fun, and good ol' fall country times with caramel apples, bean bag throw and horseshoe toss. The grill will be hot and the night cold, so dress warmly as your favorite character and bring a dish, snack or drink to share.

6-10 PM
Evans' Place
557 Vernon St.
Oakland, CA 94610

GCC Follow-Up

2010-10-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

For those of you who missed some of the amazing speakers at the Global Church Conference, go here for the audio files.

If you went to the GCC, please fill out the feedback survey.

What's the next step? Join us on November 14 at 1:00 PM in the Calvin Room for "Know Your Neighbor: Local Mission Partners Address the Needs of the East Bay." We'll hear from four Bay Area organizations as they share about the challenges they are facing and what they are doing to address them. Then, you consider opportunities to join in and care for your neighbors.

GCC Oct 15th-17th - Deadline this Sunday, Oct 10th!

2010-10-07T19:17:00.000-07:00

Our main upcoming church-wide event is the Global Church Conference, or GCC, Oct 15th-17th where we hear from various speakers from the Majority World. The places represented this year are Nicaragua, Indonesia, Ethiopia and Palestine. You can find out more and register online today: http://www.fpcberkeley.org/gcc2010.asp. Deadline is this Sunday, Oct 10th.

Bike-As-You-Like, October 14th -18th

2010-10-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Are there really any Fall Colors in the Sierra Foothills? Find Out!

Pedal as little or as much as you like on the Sixth Annual First Pres Bike-As-You-Like Tour. We'll start south of Placerville and dip in and out of the Sierra Foothills headed towards Angel's Camp. We'll see really, really, really big trees in in the Calaveras State Park and dance on the dance-floor stump there. We'll sleep under the open stars, appreciating the crisp snap of Autumn and the fine riding weather it brings. Support vehicles will carry your gear or your tired body as necessary. Rumor has it that the food will be excellent. Fee: $100 plus a share of the gas for the full 4 days, pro-rated for portions thereof. Scholarships are available. Space is limited. E-mail Brett D'Ambrosio (outdoor@claresco.com) for more information.

Fall Retreat!

2010-08-25T17:53:00.001-07:00

Update:

View Facebook Photos here!

Old Post:

Register today for our YA Fall Retreat @ Big Basin Redwoods, Sept 24th - 26th! For more info, visit the registration page and register online today!

Hike Tilden!

2010-08-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hike this Saturday!
10am - 12pm

This Saturday 8/21 we're hiking in Tilden Park. Meet at 10am at the Environmental Education Center (parking & public transit accessible) for a 2 hour hike. Bring a water bottle and sun protection. Evans' cell: 302 220 6479 (spotty reception - try text if call doesn't go through).

Directions:

Public Transit: Take #67 from Berkeley BART.

Driving (on Google Maps: Tilden Park Indian Camp):
Take the Buchanan Exit off of I-80/580. Follow Buchanan through Albany up towards the hills. Buchanan turns into Marin Avenue. Take a Left on Euclid. Take your 2nd Left onto Grizzly Peak. At funky intersection, head straight but to the right to go onto Canon Drive. Follow Park signs to Indian Camp / Environmental Education Center. See you there!

Outdoor Movie Night!

2010-08-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hi friends,

This Saturday, join the young adult group for an outdoor movie night! To begin the evening, our own film maker Tim Sloat will showcase his 15 minute film 'Expected.' We'll take a brief intermission and then begin a fun comedy, possibly a Will Ferrel flick, all on the outdoor big screen.

Hope you can join us! Feel free to bring a snack, drink, chair and or friend.

Time/Date:
August 7, 8:00pm - 11:30pm

Location:
Nicole Johnston's (Hamilton Hacienda)

112 Hamilton Place

Oakland, CA

Suggested parking:
First Christian church, lot behind the house. Enter from Fairmount Street. Park and enter backyard directly.

Map:

View Outdoor Movie Night! in a larger map

Alameda Beach Day!

2010-07-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

Come join us for an afternoon at our local beach down the road in Alameda. We're going World Cup style with games, face paint, and flags. Opening ceremonies (we start the games) at 1:30.

Regardless of your level of competitive spirit or physical ability, we would love your presence for this fun afternoon together! kook, hoops, kicking, throwing, smiling. Feel free to bring a drink or snack to share and your game face.

We'll be along the beach somewhere between Park St and Kitty Hawk Rd (link to a map).

Looking forward to seeing you and a few new friends there!

Organizers:
Kristin: kristin.codiga@gmail.com
Nicole: 510.316.6196 nicolemjohnston@gmail.com

Late Afternoon in the Park!

2010-07-04T16:25:00.000-07:00

Join us at Ohlone Park in Berkeley this Saturday, July 10th, 4pm - 7pm. We'll be enjoying the late afternoon soon, throwing a frisbee or other ball around, and just hanging out. Bring a snack, side dish or other munchies to share. See you there! Email Andy if you have any questions.

Sci-Fi Book Group

2010-07-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

Interested in science-fiction? Want to read and discuss themes in sci-fi books? Join a group of others unabashedly interested in exploring multiple universes. Most discussions will happen online about once a month, with opportunities to meet at a local pub for further sharing. Contact Carl Olsen for more info.

Rafting - Spots Left!

2010-06-08T17:16:00.000-07:00

We still have spots available for the rafting trip, June 17th-20th with the deadline tomorrow, June 9th! Past this date, email Evans to see if there's a spot left. For more information and to reserve your spot today, click here!

Habitat Build - June 5th!

2010-05-27T14:38:00.000-07:00

Join other Young Adults on Saturday, June 5th for a Habitat Build! The site is located at 940 84th Avenue (and E Street) in Oakland. People can call Jeremy at 415-748-1108 if they can't find it (or have
other questions). It's also 1 mile from Colisem BART for people who want to bike or walk.

Folks should plan to be there by 8:30am, work till 4pm, and bring their own lunch.

Register Online to reserve your spot today (available only to us until Friday, May 28th), and then let Jeremy know!

BBQ Saturday!

2010-05-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Young Adult BBQ this Saturday! Join us for fun, food, games, music and more! Bring a side dish or snack to share. We'll provide the meat and drinks.

Where: Hamilton Hacienda (Nicole's Place)
112 Hamilton Place, Oakland, CA
When: 5:30pm - 9pm, Saturday May 15th

Parking can be found behind the1st Korean Christian Church Of Oakland: 111 Fairmount Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611-5918. In the back corner of the parking lot you will find a large wooden gate in the fence. Come on in! We're on the other side.

Register Now! River Rafting June 17th-20th!

2010-05-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Join us as we make the return to Bigfoot Country for another round of River Rafting with our stupendous guides, Andrew & Holly! Register today !

June 17th-20th (Thurs-Sun)
Curly Jack Campground, Klamath National Forest
$119 (Scholarships available! Email Evans)
Reserve your spot today! Register online here.

Plan to drive up Thursday the 17th during the day or night, raft Friday and Saturday with downtime Saturday afternoon, and return on Sunday, arriving in Bay Area late afternoon. It's an adventure of a lifetime as we raft, swim, camp, cookout, rock jump, paddle battle, creek walk, and more!

Just how big is this adventure? For your reference:

First Pres Live! ... Hang out afterwards

2010-05-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, May 8th @ 7pm is another First Pres Live event! Come to First Pres for an evening of worship - pure singing and prayer. When it's over around 8:30pm, gather with other Young Adults in the back of the sanctuary to hang out afterward!

Hike 'n' Bike Photos

2010-04-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

We had a grand ol' time in Redwoods Regional! Who's up for round 2?

Hike 'n' Bike - Sat April 24th

2010-04-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

We're headed to Redwoods Regional Park for a Hike 'n' Bike on Saturday, April 24th! Plan to meet at 10am, we'll finish by 12pm. You'll have your choice of hiking or biking. Plan for a light snack afterwards in Redwood Bowl (the field off to the right from the Center):

View Larger Map

Park at the Redwood Bowl Staging Area off of Skyline Blvd, right before turning into the Space Center.

Directions: Off of US 13, take the Joaquin Miller Road Exit. Head away from the bay (Right if heading N on 13, Left if heading S on 13). After a little over a mile, take a left onto Skyline Blvd. The staging area will be on your right in about 1.5 miles (if you see the Space Center you've gone too far).

Address for the Space Center: 10000 Skyline Blvd, 94619 (but only gets you to intersection of Joaquin Miller & Skyline).

Pics from the Pizza & Game Night

2010-04-12T16:44:00.001-07:00

See pictures here from our Game Night:

And the now-infamous Crash of Stash:

Fun Friday 4/9 - Pizza & Game Night!

2010-03-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

Come join us in the College Lounge for Pizza & Game Night! Feel free to bring your favorite game or join in with others!

6:30 PM
Friday, April 9th

First Pres Berkeley
College Lounge

Fun Friday March 12th!

2010-03-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

Come join us for Fun Friday, March 12th! 6:30pm is dinner, with a short Nooma video to follow and discussion. We'll be awarding a Fenton's gift certificate to one of you who took the Young Adult survey, so come join us in the College Lounge (1st floor Geneva) for the fun, food & fellowship!

Facebook Event Page

House Worship!

2010-02-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

Join us this Friday for house worship, hosted by Tricia Crispens! Gather around 7pm, with worship beginning around 7:30pm. Stay as long as you like. Click here to go to facebook event.

Location: 1149 Norwood Ave. Oakland, Ca 94610

View Larger Map

Men's Summit - Register Today!

2010-02-22T15:34:00.000-08:00

Men -

We have an all-church men's retreat coming up, March 19th-21st. It's going to be quite a fun, full weekend at Redwood Glen Conference Center in the Santa Cruz Mtns, with Highland Games on Saturday (feel free to bring your kilts!), small groups, former First Pres pastor Doug Bunnell speaking, and plenty of free time to relax & recreate.

Register now - scholarships are available... we want everyone who wants to be there to come, regardless of ability to pay!

Winter Retreat Survey

2010-02-21T17:01:00.000-08:00

For those who went on the Winter Retreat, please let us know your feedback!

https://spreadsheets0.google.com/viewform?formkey=dFpFU3dxMncxcTNwc1dmZ2RwWlEtV0E6MA

We're in the midst of planning a spring and summer retreat, so if you have any ideas.... email me or post a comment here! Current ideas include a hostel in downtown Sacramento, a cabin in Truckee or camping nearby... but we're open to whatever y'all have in mind!

Fun Friday 2/12!

2010-02-10T18:18:00.000-08:00

We're revamping the format for Fun Friday!
Taco & Burrito Bar - 6:30pm
Mixer around 7pm
NOOMA Video "Flame" @ 7:30pm
Done around 8:30pm

Meet in the College Lounge - See you there!

Watch a preview of "Flame."

See the full video here.

Hunger Justice Leader Opportunity - Bread for the World

2010-02-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

An opportunity for persons interested in hunger justice issues, sponsored by Bread for the World:

Do you have what it takes to be Hunger Justice Leader? Or do you know someone who does?

Selected participants will attend an advocacy training workshop—all expenses paid—in Washington, D.C., June 12-15, 2010. Then they too will commit to going back to their communities to lead advocacy efforts.

Please apply now to take part in this powerful opportunity to:

Gain skills in advocacy, team-building, and community organizing.
Connect with like-minded young leaders from across the United States.
Explore the biblical foundations of faith and justice.
Speak out on Capitol Hill by visiting members of Congress.

The application deadline is March 12, so don’t wait. Apply now.

Young Adult Tahoe Photos

2010-02-04T14:33:00.000-08:00

Facebook | Mika Pritchard-Berman's Photos - First Pres: Young Adult Tahoe Photos

YAL Winter Retreat

Friday Film Fundraiser

2010-01-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Middle Eastern Film and Food Night

What: The fantastic film "Garbage Dreams" and a simple Middle Eastern dinner
When: Friday January 22 at 7 pm
Where: First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley, Geneva Hall Room 202
How Much: $15 for students/unemployed; $20/25 for others (as you are able)
Why:

To see a great film about a poor community in Cairo Egypt (www.garbagedreams.com)
To hear about the work Amy will be doing among a poor community in the Middle East
To help support the ministry that Amy will be joining (proceeds from this film night will go towards her ministry).

Buy tickets at the door, but RSVP ahead of time is helpful.

Contact Renjit at renjitm@gmail.com for more info or to RSVP

A note on parking: Pay parking is available in the First Pres garage (even FPCB members need to pay because this is not an official church event.)

Winter Retreat - Register Now!

2010-01-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

A few spots are left! Register Now!

Room for Rent in North Oakland/Glenview Area - Available Now!

2010-01-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

I have been given the opportunity to live in a wonderful apartment in a great part of town but unfortunately I am unable to afford it by myself, therefore I am looking for someone who could pay half, which would be $800. The room that would be yours is HUGE! if needed, you could fit all your bedroom furniture plus a couch and tv area, and still have room to move around. The apartment is two stories and very roomy. I absolutely love the apartment and I am so blessed to be living in such a great town, with wonderful neighbors! I do have two kittens, so if your allergic or dont like cats, then I am sorry that this wont work out.

please contact me if you are interested!
Tricia Crispens - 631.988.0973

And I will gladly send pictures… looking for someone to move in mid January-early February

Fun Friday Films - January

2010-01-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Here are the films we watched at January's Fun Friday, for those who missed it!

RAM, where a boy struggles to find his identity apart from his 'friend':

Some Questions:

How has technology aided us?
How has technology become a part of us?
Do I have a healthy or unhealthy relationship with technology? How so?

A True Act of Kindness, where a robot makes a penultimate sacrifice for another:

Some Questions:

Must 'true kindness' require sacrifice on our part?
Who is someone in our lives that's made a sacrifice for our sake?
Have we ever made that kind of sacrifice for someone?

The Piano, where an elderly man thinks back on his life as he plays a song:

Some Questions:

Where do we find meaning in life?
What relationships are most important to us?
What are the 3 highlights of my life so far?

Fun Friday 1/8

2010-01-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

Fun Friday Tomorrow!

Group Game @ 6pm
Chili and Cornbread @ 7pm
Film and Discussion @ 8pm
Hangout Afterwards!

Koob @ 4pm Sunday!

2009-12-12T16:05:00.000-08:00

Koob on Sunday before the 505, 4pm! Hopefully the weather holds... otherwise, it'll add a whole new element to the curious, courageous game of Koob!

How else would you describe Koob?

Christmas Party! Friday Dec 11th @ 7pm

2009-12-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

Join us at First Pres in the Calvin Room for a Christmas Party Extravaganza!

7pm in the Calvin Room (off central courtyard)

We'll eat together, sing some carols and then have the most ridiculous gingerbread-building competition you've seen! (This year, at least) This is a great way to have fun and meet others in the young adult community, as well as Veritas, the graduate student community.

Main dish and drinks will be provided - bring a holiday snack or side dish to share. Canned food donation and wearing a tacky Christmas sweater also highly encouraged!

Man Date ManDate - Photos

2009-12-07T10:55:00.001-08:00

See photos from the awesome weekend at Marin Headlands here. Ladies, try not to be jealous. ;)

Real men balance on driftwood.

What's a ManDate without wrestling?

Lud-John's Open! Hooded Danny goes deep!

Chris takes a commanding pose.

Nick, What are you pointing at?!

Ludden = Sexy

Mission Study Team Survey

2009-12-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

As part of the transition process at First Pres, in searching for a new direction and new head pastor, the Mission Study Team has put together a survey that should take about 15-20 minutes to complete. We would love for you to participate, whatever your affiliation to First Pres is. The more input, the better, as we move forward, sharing Christ with each other and the world.

From Helen, a young adult on the MST:
First Pres is in the middle of a comprehensive Mission Study to look at our past, present, and future. The Mission Study is a necessary step required by the Presbytery. It will provide important information in the process of calling our next Senior Pastor. As a part of our process, we are conducting this Survey to gather input from as many members of our community as possible. This includes young adults and it's our time to speak up! It should only take 15 minutes. To take the online Survey now, click here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=dJCfmNK1AHyjmtUqvy2z_2fQ_3d_3d

Men's Man-Date! Dec 4th-6th: Register Today

2009-11-20T13:47:00.000-08:00

The Young Adult Men have a mandate for a Man-Date! We're headed to the Marin Headlands Hostel for a weekend of mancation: relaxation, recreation and plenty of man time. Activity options include beachin' it, hiking, koob, foosball, ping pong and pool, for starters! Email Evans ASAP with any questions and to reserve your spot!

REGISTER NOW!

When:
Dec 4th-6th (Fri-Sat)
Arrive for dinner on 4th
Leave after late bfast on 6th

Where:
Marin Headlands Hostel (only 45 min away!)
941 Fort Barry,
Sausalito, CA

What to bring:
Y-chromosome
Musical Instrument
Sports Equipment
Hygiene Stuff (optional, tho requested)
Layered Clothes (also optional, tho recommended)
The Word
Whatever else you need to survive

Cost: Only $50
(covers 5 meals & 2 nights lodging - a steal!!)

Want to register now? Any questions? Email Evans!

Rest-assured deadline WAS Tuesday Nov 24th (but email me anyway as we may have a spot or two left! And if you can't stay overnight, feel free to join us Saturday during the day - just let me know!)

See you there!

Service Saturday Tomorrow, 11/21!

2009-11-20T13:31:00.000-08:00

We've got enough volunteers for this Saturday (Thanks everyone!), but if you would like to stop by and show support with a food donation or smile, you're most welcome!

Where:
Downtown Berkeley CVS (formerly Long's)
1451 Shattuck Ave
Berkeley, CA‎

When:
9am-4pm

Fun Friday Film - November

2009-11-19T17:02:00.000-08:00

Here is the film we watched this past Fun Friday:

While simple and short, there is a variety of questions and themes to consider:
- Is that the dude from E.T.?
- What's with the children and merry-go-round?
- What's the significance of color? B&W?
- Why don't the children have doors in their stomachs?
- Can we "get happy"? Yet don't we try?
- How is the flashing light in the end a beacon? Or is it a distraction? Nostalgia?
- Productivity v. Coming Alive
- Creativity v. Living Dead
- Are we to become more like children? (and inherit the Kingdom of God?)
- Yet how can we rule the world... and lose our soul in the process?
- How can we sell-out our lives, our creativity?
- Within creativity there is destruction... and destruction, creativity?

What are your thoughts/comments/questions? Feel free to post them in the comments section below.

Salsa This Sunday 11/8!

2009-11-02T12:58:00.001-08:00

This Sunday we're gonna mix it up again - For all those interested, we're headed for Salsa dancing after the 505 this Sunday, Nov 8th, from 7:15pm 'til we drop!

From Xiaosheng: "Allegro Ballroom is the BEST place to dance salsa in the bay area (IMHBCO :). It's beginner-friendly and alcohol-free. You can dress up or dress casual. And it's only $8!!!! Come around 7:15pm for the beginner or the intermediate lesson (in two separate rooms). I will be there at 7:15. Dance party starts around 8:20. "

Allegro Ballroom - 5855 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608-1923; Phone: (510) 655-2888

www.allegroballroom.net

Warriors Game Monday Nov. 9th - 10 bucks!

2009-11-02T01:03:00.000-08:00

For those interested, there's $10 tickets for the Warriors' Game Monday 11/9 @ 7:30pm. I'll already be there as part of a Davidson Alumni night, but feel free to join us as we celebrate Warriors Mania and you, too, can be a fan of Stephen Curry.

This Sunday: Koob @ 4pm!

2009-10-28T21:46:00.001-07:00

Join us out on the field behind the prayer garden for some Koob @ 4pm, this Sunday 11/1!

Don't Koob? You will! Anyone can play - like bocce ball with blocks... and some strategery. :)

See you then,
Evans

Spooktacular Potluck!

2009-10-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

Kristin Codiga is Hosting a Halloween Party! Bring on the fun, food and friends as we set to carvin' pumpkins and givin' candy to bumpkins!

Event Details:
Saturday, Oct 31st
7:30pm-10:30pm
1134 Bay Street
Alameda, CA

For more info and to RSVP, go to the FB Event Page.

GCC Podcasts Are Here!

2009-10-19T13:09:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the Global Church Conference, you can now listen to the podcasts of all the plenary sessions and seminarys on the First Pres website!

Game Night This Sunday!

2009-10-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

Game night this
Sunday, Oct 18
730p to 10p
(come on over after the 505 service)
Place: Nicole's house in Oakland
112 Hamilton Place
510.893.2350
Email Nicole with any questions. Hope to see you there!

Fun Friday Film

2009-10-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Here's the film from this past Fun Friday, entitled "The Butterfly Circus":

The reviews are in: an incredible film said some, kind of weird said others. What are your thoughts? And any other films you'd like to share? Email Evans!

Also, more about Nick Vujicic, the guy who played Will:

Visit his website here.

Fun Friday - 10/9

2009-10-08T10:58:00.001-07:00

Join us this Friday for another Fun Friday!

6 PM - Games in the Gym, including 4-square, 9-square(!), bowling & dodgeball1
7 PM - Dinner from local Telegraph Restaurants
8 PM - Short Film Clip & Discussion
9 PM - Head out and Hit the Town with Friends!

Service Saturday - 10/10

2009-10-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

Interested in volunteering with other young adults? Join us at the Alameda County Community Food Bank, 9am-12pm, this Saturday, Oct 10th.

For more information, contact Nicole Johnston.

Fall Retreat Photos!

2009-10-01T17:44:00.001-07:00

YAL Fall Retreat - Endless Summer

For those of you who needed it, here's proof that Nature is therapeutic for the mind (& soul!). Next trip is the Winter Retreat, Jan 29-31. Mark your calendars now!

Fall Retreat Survey!

2009-10-01T17:19:00.001-07:00

Resource Links

2009-09-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

First Pres Berkeley Site:
Click here to visit the homepage of First Pres. Click here for Adult Ministries, and here to go to the Young Adult page on the site. For the Veritas Graduate Student Fellowship, click here.

Classes
For more information about upcoming classes at First Pres, please visit our Learning Communities page or Education page for more info. For all things audio, including classes, sermons and more, please visit our Audio page.

To view info on our past Young Adult class on Dating, please visit the Lost Art of Romance blog.

Men's Ministries:
For First Pres Men's Ministries, click here. Email Evans for more info on Young Adult Men's ministries.

A great resource for men is Ransom Heart Ministries, founded by John Eldredge. Here you can sign up for daily devotional emails specifically designed for men, as well as learn more about resources for men.

Women's Ministries:
For First Pres Women's Ministries, click here. If you are interested in a women's bible study, please contact Nicole Johnston for more info.

Mission Opportunities:
For First Pres Mission Activities, click here.

Magazines:
One magazine that's particularly relevant to Young Adults following Christ is Relevant.

A great resource for general Christian news is the Christian Century.

Bible Studies:
An easy way to search the bible online is Bible Gateway.

For the NRSV, visit this site, Oremus.

If you like to dive into the Greek and Hebrew, this site provides a free downloadable program and PDFs of transliterations: Scripture4all.

Signs aka "Love Without Talking"

2009-09-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

Here is the short film shown at our Friday BBQ - Enjoy!

Themes of our discussion included:
- Loneliness
- Relationship
- Missed Opportunities
- Misplaced Expectations
- City Life and "all its non-glamour"
- Hopes/Dreams
- Meeting people

Photos

2009-09-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

General Pics on Facebook!

YAL Fall Retreat - Endless Summer

ManDate Photos 12/5

Endless Summer Fall Retreat

2009-08-31T18:40:00.000-07:00

Close out the summer and welcome in the Fall with one last camping trip! Don't miss out on a weekend of sleeping on the edge of Lake Tahoe, enjoying hours of relaxation, and drawing closer to Christ through worship, teaching, and conversation. Meet new people and deepen existing friendships while soaking in the beauty of God's creation. Possible activities include hiking, biking, climbing, beachin' it out, fly fishing, chillaxin', taking a polar bear plunge, and more!

Surf instructors will be our new Adult Ministries Intern, Evans Presley-McGowan and Lindsey Reed, Alta Bates Chaplain and Young Adult member extraordinaire! Excellent Food provided by Chef Brett. What more could you ask for? Oh, right, warm weather - well, dress warm! It's gonna be a blast!

Dates: Friday-Sunday, September 25-27

Location: DL Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe

Cost: $80 (includes campground fee and meals from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch)

Registration: Click here to register online. (Registration deadline is Friday, September 18; sign up online today!)

More Information: contact Evans Presley-McGowan or call (510) 848-6252 ext. 249.

Fun Fridays

2009-08-31T17:10:00.001-07:00

First Fridays are now Fun Fridays since they fall on the 2nd Friday of the month.
Fall Dates:

Sept 11th: Koob Tournament, Cookout, Film "Signs" & Discussion!
Oct 9th: @ First Pres - 9-square, Asian Ghetto food, Film "The Butterfly Circus" & Discussion!
Nov 13th: @ First Pres - Fun @ 6pm, Food @ 7pm, Film "MORE" @ 8pm

Dec 11th @ 7pm: Christmas Party - Joint adventure with Veritas!
Meet in the Calvin Room and bring your favorite Holiday Snack/Dish - We're having a party! Feasting on Holiday Dishes, Singing Carols and the most ridiculous Gingerbread House Competition EVER!

Upcoming Dates:
Jan 8th @ First Pres
Feb 12th @ First Pres
Mar 12th
Apr 9th
May 14th

Small Groups

2009-08-31T17:08:00.001-07:00

First Pres Berkeley is a big church, and it's easy to get lost. Small groups are a great way to make a big church feel smaller, foster meaningful and caring relationships, and have fun in the process!

We have a number of small groups, from only Young Adult ones to intergenerational ones, and ones for singles, couples or mixed. Look for more information here as groups form, either out of the Open Door or common interests. You can also visit the Small Groups Page on the First Pres website.

Currently in the works:

Men’s Group (meets fortnightly on Sundays @ 3pm)
Outdoors Group (Brett often leads these trips)
Service Group (most recently was Saturday 10/10 at the Alameda County Community Food Bank)
and more!
Contact Evans for more info.

Open Door

2009-08-31T17:07:00.001-07:00

The Open Door is a great way for young adults to meet others and get connected with a small group. We meet every Wednesday at 7pm at our new location, the bottom floor of McKinley (come to the central plaza area, and you can’t miss us!). For Fall 2009 our discussion will revolve around What does it mean to be in Community? as we discuss the early Christian community in Acts. A light snack is provided, guided study of the Word, and usually a multimedia song/video to discuss as well. We have new people every week – stop on by!

For more info, email Evans.

2009-08-31T16:27:00.000-07:00