The Grace Place
SUNDAY WORSHIP
We look forward to seeing you in worship this Sunday.
Celebration Worship meets in the Sanctuary at 9:00 a.m. You may view our Order of Worship here.
Connexion Worship meets in the Family Life Center inside Morgan Hall at 11:15 a.m. You may view our Order of Worship here.
Sunday School classes meet throughout the church from 10:15 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Find your class by asking a Welcome Host on Sunday or by consulting this list.
We look forward to seeing you for Wednesday Night activities! On January 14th, we will be serving a Mexican nacho bar and assorted cookies.
Updates on the special January Book Conversation and studies beginning January 28th are available on our website.
Be in the Know...
Church Community Announcements
Join us for a 5K Fun Run!
5K Fun Run/Walk to Benefit Amani Sasa
Over the past year, we have been talking about walking the way of Jesus. Our ministry partner, Amani Sasa, is holding a “virtual 5K” to raise money to support their ministry to refugees in Uganda. While you can participate virtually (anytime/any place), we invite you to join our group on this fun run/walk together at 5:00 p.m. on March 7th. When we finish our route back at FBC, we enjoy a light pizza supper and fellowship. Please use this link to register for our team:
Holiday Hours
Our church administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of the federal holiday, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
FBC Family & Friends Get Away!
Adventure is calling once again! Round up your friends and book a cabin at Tugaloo State Park for February 14-17. (You can come earlier or stay later than those dates.) We will have a worship service on Sunday morning led by Ron Murray and Ellee Hilley, as well as a meal after service. Don’t wait any longer to book your stay! Learn more and find the registration here:
We celebrate Ronnie!
Ten years ago today (January 14), a fearless, agile, creative, and resourceful young man joined the staff of First Baptist Griffin. He is seldom in the spotlight. Rather, he finds his way into the corners of the building most have never seen. He may be climbing high into the steeple or descending deep into the recesses of the basement, walking along the roofline, or shimmying up a precarious ladder in plain sight — whatever the case may be, he is on a mission. His work is to find, fix, and set things right. And he performs this work admirably. He also makes time to volunteer in the community, to sing in the church choir, and to lend a hand to neighbors who need his skills. Who is this individual? Well, of course, this person is Ronnie Hopkins. Thank you, Ronnie, for your selfless and enduring commitment to the well being of our church. Happy 10th Workiversary!
January Book Conversation
Howard Thurman: Seeing Jesus from the Underside
Howard Thurman was one of the most influential voices in American Christian spirituality in the 20th century. His writings served as the theological underpinning of the Civil Rights Movement in America and he was a deep influence on such prominent figures as Martin Luther King, Jr., Maya Angelou, Arthur Ashe, and Alice Walker. What is the significance of Howard Thurman’s thought for the church today? Join us for the final conversation co-facilitated by Rev. Steven Norris and Rev. Dr. Cleopatrick Lacy as we explore Thurman‘s legacy and message for the Church. We will meet on Wednesday nights in FBC Griffin’s Morgan Hall from 6:00-7:00 pm.
Session 3 (January 21, 2026): How do we live in the upside-down Kingdom of God?
FBC's Scout Troop 2 is holding its annual Chicken Q fundraiser on Sunday, January 18th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A plate consisting of 1/2 BBQ chicken, baked beans, slaw, bread, and a brownie costs $15. Scouts will be available in the welcome areas of the church on Sunday mornings if you would like to purchase tickets. Meals should be picked up in the drive thru lane at the Scout Lodge on January 18th between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. only. If you have questions about the event, please contact Brad Jester or any of our Troop 2 scouts.
As part of my doctoral work, I am conducting a survey of our congregation around issues of addiction and faith. Would you be willing to take an anonymous survey and return it the church office within the upcoming week to aid me in my research? The survey will take no more than 15 minutes of your time. If you can help, please pick up a survey as you leave the service today. Copies will be located by the exits and in Sunday school classrooms. If you would rather fill out a survey online, please visit this site: https://bit.ly/norrissurvey25
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Steven
Note: If you have trouble with the link, please reach out to Leila Wells Rogers.
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? You do not have to suffer alone. Please consider participating in our GriefShare group. Meetings begin February 18th and run through May 20th. Sessions meet in Education Building Room 301 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. Registration is required. Find details on our website, or call the church office for more information.
New Members
Roll out your best Welcome mat for our newest members, Robert (Robbie) and Jeanne Bailey, who joined the church recently. We are excited to have Robbie and Jeanne in our congregation!
Communication Preferences
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Grace Notes
a weekly blog written by Senior Pastor, Steven Norris
The Hidden Battle of Addiction
The epidemic of addiction has wreaked untold havoc on individuals and families throughout our community, nation, and world. According to the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), one in every six Americans (16.8%) aged 12 and older experienced a substance use disorder in 2024. For the past two years, I have been studying the nature of addiction as part of my doctoral work with Fuller Theological Seminary.
I am, by no means, an expert on addiction or addiction treatment. My expertise is in the area of faith and ministry within the church. However, I have invested significant time researching the intersection of faith, spirituality, addiction, and recovery. Research shows that the most effective means of treating and overcoming addiction is through holistic practices that meet the needs of mind, body, heart, and soul. Therefore, the church has a role to play in that endeavor.
This past Sunday, I presented my congregation with an introduction to some of that research. In the few days since, I have been humbled by the way members of our community have opened up to me with their stories. I’ve heard story upon story of spouses, siblings, parents, children, and friends who have been profoundly impacted by the grip of addiction.
As I listened, it reinforced my belief that the cliché is true: “everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” If the one-in-six statistic is true, there are 10,000+ citizens of Spalding County alone that are dealing with some form of substance use disorder. How many friends, neighbors, acquaintances, and co-workers are secretly struggling but are afraid to speak up? Stop and think about it the next you allow your eyes to gaze across a busy restaurant or stand at the back of the checkout line at the local grocery store. The next time you are sitting at a red light on Taylor St. or Hill St., take a moment to notice the cars around you. How many folks are facing battles that we know nothing about?
It is one thing to recognize a problem and another to do something productive about it. I suggest that we start with prayer. Take time to pray for God’s strength to be manifest to those who struggle. Pray that chains may be broken for those who are still caught in the bondage of addiction. Pray for understanding and compassion that we might help overcome the stigma and embarrassment faced by those who suffer. Pray that people of faith may be agents of God’s grace and love.
Another thing that we can do is to begin to tell our stories. Addiction thrives in isolation and secrecy, but honesty and vulnerability disarm the beast. The more we can tell our stories, the better we can be community to one another. The better we exhibit true community, the stronger we are. Take a chance. Share your story. You may be surprised by the way your courage invites others to do the same.
Did you miss a Grace Notes article? If so, we encourage you to read it on our website!
Be in the Know...
Adult Ministries Announcements
XYZ Activities
Our senior adult ministry will resume its meetings on January 13th at 11:30 a.m. in Morgan Hall. The program will be BINGO with Seth! The meal will be vegetable beef soup, cornbread, and cobbler.
WOM Activities
WOM will resume meetings on January 13th at 1:00 p.m. in the Hardee Hospitality Room, located in the Family Life Center. The program is "What Does 2026 Hold?" There is no need to bring anything to this meeting.
WOM's evening meeting will resume on the first Wednesday evening of February.
Are you plugged in?
Did you know that we have 12 adult Sunday school classes that meet each week at 10:15 a.m. throughout the church? If you want to dive deeper into scripture, or if you are looking for a place to be reassured of God's love, we invite you to check out our Sunday school groups. See what is available here: Sunday School Classes.
Living generously through ministry to our students...
Children and Student Ministry Announcements
Did you know that you can support our Weekday Education program simply by shopping for groceries? Kroger and Ingles both offer "rewards" for nonprofits when you link your grocery store account to a particular organization. If you would like to help, you may sign up with the following information.
KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM
Weekday ID #: 23153
Sign up online with your Plus Card at krogercommunityrewards.com
INGLES TOOLS FOR SCHOOLS PROGRAM
Weekday ID #: 31058
Sign up at your local Ingles store or online at www.ingles-markets.com
Get Your Student Connected
KIDMIN Schedule
We are excited to provide your student opportunities to learn more about God's Word and work here in our own town and around the world. If your student has not gotten involved in our Sunday school classes or Wednesday night activities, then we invite you to check out our programs this week. Sunday school for all age groups begins at 10:15 a.m. Contact Lori Welborn for preschool and grade school children's program information. Contact Seth Brown for middle and high school student program information.
A Note for Families Using the Gym...
If you would like to request access to the weight room, aerobics room, or gymnasium outside of a regular church activity, then we need your signature on a waiver (in accordance with our insurance policy expectations). Please see Leigh Ann Williams in the Church Administrative office during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00-5:00 p.m.). Members and regular participants at First Baptist will find the gym available for their use on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays after 6:00 p.m. If you would like to inquire about the schedule for the gym on any other day, please reach out to the church office to ensure that your use would not conflict with anyone who has reserved the space.
Living generously in service to others...
Missions
Last May, our church participated in a drive to collect coins for the End the Wait Foundation, which supports individuals waiting to receive life-giving kidney transplants. As a follow up to our generous donation to this organization, we wanted you to know of a positive outcome that has taken place. Lori Harvey's friend, Shaina McCoy had alerted Lori to the existence of this organization because she was waiting on a kidney transplant herself. As of December, Shaina was matched to a kidney donor and received the transplant she has needed for three years now. Lori reports that Shaina is doing well. If you would like to see the news report on Shaina's story, you can access it here:
Caregivers Clothes Closet Needs
The Caregivers Clothes Closet is in need of blue jeans of any size (but especially boys, sizes 4-16 and larger sizes for men), as well as adult-sized book bags. You will find drop boxes in the Welcome Center on the Hill Street side of the church and in the Welcome area on the Family Life Center side of the church. Thank you for supporting this ministry and those who are vulnerable in our community.
Five Loaves & Two Fish Food Pantry
If you would like to be part of this ministry team, or if you would like to donate canned or boxed food goods, please contact the church office. Donation boxes are located in the Welcome Center and in the Family Life Center.
Benevolence Ministry
Our Benevolence Ministry and Caregivers Clothes Closet serves the public each Monday morning from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (with the exception of holidays). If you would like to volunteer for this ministry, then please contact the church office.
Rehearsal Schedule
BEGINNER'S UKULELE
Beginner's Ukulele class meets on Tuesdays from 12:00-1:00pm. Contact Ellee ([email protected]) if you are interested in joining.
HANDBELLS
Rehearsals on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. in the Handbell Room.
INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE (ORCHESTRA)
Rehearsals on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. in the Instrumental Room.
PRAISE TEAM
Rehearsals on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. (Vocals in the Hardee Hospitality Room through January 21) and at 7:00 p.m. (Full band) in Morgan Hall.
SANCTUARY CHOIR
Rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the Choir Room.
UKULELE ENSEMBLE
(Big Group)
Rehearsals on Thursdays at noon in the Instrumental Room.
Church Community News
Thank you, FBC!
Dear FBC Family,
David and I want to express our sincere appreciation to all who called, texted, sent cards, and prayed for us after our recent surgeries. We greatly appreciate each and every act on our behalf. We are recovering and doing well! David hopes to be released next week so he can return to his normal daily activities. Thank you again! God bless!
David and Beth Horne
Exercise Opportunities
Yoga classes will resume on January 6th on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center.
Journey in Grace Class
Do you have questions about faith? Would you like to know more about First Baptist Griffin? We invite you to join us for Journey in Grace, which meets at 10:15 a.m. on the first Sunday of each month in the Heritage Room with a minister. Light refreshments are served.
Ministry Opportunity
Phyllis Wilcox has been laying the ground work to open a women's shelter in Griffin that will be called Penny's House of Hope. If you would like more information about this effort, or if you wish to make a donation, please contact Ms. Wilcox at 470-574-8457.
Did you Know...?
If you missed the worship service, you can always watch it on demand from our website. Visit fbcgriffin.org/watch-live and then select Watch Last Service or Watch on Demand if you would like to find an older service. Both Celebration and Connexion worship services are archived in this space. Special events held in the Sanctuary can also be viewed on demand by searching the year and month they took place.
Comcast Broadcast of Celebration Worship Information
If you watch the broadcast of our Celebration Worship service on Sunday mornings at 11:00 a.m. (Channel 26), please note that they are now listing our service as two (2) thirty-minute broadcasts. If you are recording the service for later viewing, then you will need to schedule your recorder to pick up both "blocks" of the service from 11:00-11:30 and 11:30-12:00.
I NEED TO KNOW...
We get it...finding the information you need is not always be easy. If the answer to your question is not obvious here, please reach out to us.
We have a very active church membership! If you would like to request the use of a meeting space at the church, please contact Leigh Ann Williams.
If you would like to request access to the weight room, aerobics room, or gymnasium outside of a regular church activity, then we need your signature on a waiver (in accordance with our insurance policy expectations). Please see Leigh Ann Williams in the Church Administrative office during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00-5:00 p.m.). Members and regular participants at First Baptist will find the gym available for their use on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays after 6:00 p.m. If you would like to inquire about the schedule for the gym on any other day, please reach out to the church office to ensure that your use would not conflict with anyone who has reserved the space.
Are you inviting friends or family to church? Or maybe you just need to know all the places you can park when you are here? Visit this link: DIRECTIONS AND PARKING.
Contact us at 770-227-5517 by Friday at noon (or Thursday if Friday falls on a holiday) if you need us to help coordinate a ride to worship service.
If you would like to place flowers in the Sanctuary or Morgan Hall in honor or in memory of a loved one, then please contact Alice Blake at 678-463-6305.
The First Baptist Church Endowment Foundation, Inc., is a separate entity from FBC Griffin. If you wish to donate to the FBC Endowment Foundation, there are three convenient ways to do so. Please make checks payable to the FBC Endowment Foundation, Inc.
1) Mail a check to FBC Griffin, P.O. Box 908, Griffin, GA 30224.
2)On Sunday morning, place a check in the blue FBC Endowment Foundation envelope (located in the pew rack or in the Welcome Center) in the offering plate.
3)Drop off a check in the church office.
For more information about the Foundation, please visit https://fbcgriffin.org/fbc-endowment-foundation/.
Access to the church outside of regular business hours may be requested through the Church Office. Please contact Leigh Ann Williams during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30-noon, 1:00-5:00 p.m.) to inquire about this process.
We want to help you use the electronic resources available to you at our church. If you have a question or need a tutorial, or if you need help troubleshooting a technology problem with some of our resources, please REQUEST IT HERE.
New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, Monday following Easter, Memorial Day, Juneteenth (observed on June 20th this year), Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day following Thanksgiving, Christmas Day
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Mailing address: P.O. Box 908, Griffin, GA 30224