Worship has been described as "the primary work of the congregation." It is certainly critical in the life and ministry of the church. Worship is the one activity that involves the entire congregation. It is our primary contact with our community. When people are looking for a church they start by attending worship. And often it is worship that becomes the deciding factor in determining whether or not a person will continue a relationship with a church. Most people consider worship to be the primary motivation and encouragement for the life of faith.
At First Presbyterian worship is a vibrant blend of worship styles, music, the dramatic and visual arts, and participatory engagement of the congregation. Our aim is to capture the energy and spiritual quality of contemporary worship while embracing the richness of traditional worship.
Worship design and content are highly regarded at First Presbyterian. Staff resources are devoted to the careful planning of each service. We began 2025 with the annual worship theme: “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Grace”. A monthly theme is selected to support that theme. Recent themes include:
A Message From Pastor RJ Leek
07/03/26
The Breath of the Spirit: Pneuma in the New Testament
In the New Testament, the Greek word pneuma carries the rich meanings of breath, wind, and spirit. Just as God breathed life into Adam in the Old Testament, Jesus breathes new life into His followers through the Holy Spirit—pneuma. In John 20:22, the risen Lord “breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit [pneuma].’” This intimate act echoes Genesis 2:7, showing that the same divine breath that created humanity now empowers the Church for resurrection life.
Pneuma appears over 350 times, most often referring to the Holy Spirit—the third Person of the Trinity. Jesus describes Him in John 3:8: “The wind [pneuma] blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit [pneuma].” The Spirit is invisible yet powerful, unpredictable yet purposeful—bringing conviction, comfort, guidance, and transformation.
Paul develops this beautifully. In Romans 8, he contrasts life according to the flesh with life in the pneuma: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God” (v. 14). The Holy Spirit indwells believers, intercedes with groans too deep for words, and produces fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, and more (Galatians 5:22-23). He is the guarantee of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14) and the One who unites us as one body (1 Corinthians 12:13).
Every breath you take is a reminder of physical life sustained by God. Yet the greater reality is spiritual: the pneuma of God dwells within you. He refreshes the weary, convicts the complacent, and equips you for every good work. Surrender afresh today. Let the wind of the Spirit fill your sails.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, breathe on me anew. Fill me with Your presence, guide my steps, and produce Your fruit in my life. May I walk by Your power today. Amen.