First Thoughts Blog Archives - Page 2 of 5

Close-up of a stained glass window at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, featuring blue, green, and purple geometric shapes divided by black metal lines.

Savoring the Season of Life

One of our members was in New Zealand for Easter. Down under, the season was fall. Instead of spring flowers, autumn leaves decorated the Easter cross. While we start to swelter,…

In the Season of Ascension at First Presbyterian Church

I’m still basking in the wonderful Lent and Easter we had together. I’m filled with gratitude for all the interaction we had over Golden Threads. So many conversations as you…

A colorful, stylized painting of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge with arched windows and a decorative façade, surrounded by trees.

Religion in the Early Days of Baton Rouge

We’ve collected some church history facts as First Presbyterian anticipates its 200th anniversary in 2027. Last month, we talked about the early missionaries of the late 17th century who ministered in…

A man in a gray suit and a woman in black stand smiling, feeling it’s a privilege to serve, in a warmly lit living room with vintage decor.

What a Privilege to Serve at First Presbyterian Church

As I write this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of awe for the journey we have shared over the past 26 years together….

Celebrating 200 Years of First Presbyterian Church, Part 1

We’ve collected some church history facts as First Presbyterian anticipates its 200th anniversary in 2027. What was it like to be a missionary in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries in…

Two large fireworks with orange and blue streaks explode above the roof of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, lighting up the night sky.

Is This Sci-Fi? Growing in Christ in the New Year

2025! Sounds like a song from the 60’s about a far distant dystopian future. Shouldn’t we all be riding in sky cars like on the Jetsons cartoon? And how is the…

Stained glass window with geometric shapes and patterns at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, overlaid with "Season of Memories and Hope.

Advent: A Season of Memories and Hopes

At the close of the year, we welcome the loosening of heat’s grip (at last) and the pleasantness of our town in these months. We also start thinking about Thanksgiving…

Two hands form a heart shape framing the setting sun, with an orange sky behind—capturing warmth at Baton Rouge Presbyterian Church.

Neither Optimist nor Pessimist: Finding a Balance

My mother always called me a pessimist and my usual reply was to say that I’m simply a realist. I think most of us have grown to feel this way….

Text "So Much Still Ahead" centered on abstract blue and purple shapes, echoing the spirit of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge.

So Much Still Ahead: Retiring From First Presbyterian Church

I have to tell you, it’s been really hard for me making a decision to announce my retirement so far in advance. It feels like something that in reality it…

FPCBR Blog

Savoring the Season of Life

In the Season of Ascension at First Presbyterian Church

Religion in the Early Days of Baton Rouge

What a Privilege to Serve at First Presbyterian Church

Celebrating 200 Years of First Presbyterian Church, Part 1

Is This Sci-Fi? Growing in Christ in the New Year

Advent: A Season of Memories and Hopes

Neither Optimist nor Pessimist: Finding a Balance

So Much Still Ahead: Retiring From First Presbyterian Church

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