First ARP Church Gastonia

10/24/2026

Every child deserves love. Every child deserves hope. Every child matters to God.

This Orphan Sunday, we are reminded of God's call to care for the fatherless and to show His love through compassion and action.

"God settles the solitary in a home." — Psalm 68:6 (ESV)

Join us as we pray for orphaned and vulnerable children, the families who open their hearts and homes, and those working to make a difference.

10/23/2026

We're taking our Wednesday Evening Electives outside this Wednesday! Can't wait to see all the trunks and hand out all the treats!

10/22/2026

HELP US FILL THE BUCKETS!

We're gearing up for an AMAZING Trunk or Treat, and we need your help!

We're accepting donations of individually wrapped candy to make sure every little ninja, princess, and superhero leaves with plenty of sweet treats!

A little candy goes a long way in spreading BIG smiles! Thank you for helping us make this event special for our children & community! 🧡

10/20/2026

We’re busy. We’re productive. We’re always reachable.

And somewhere along the way, we started believing that was normal.

What does Sabbath confront in us when we refuse to stop?

Rev. Matt Kuiken + Rev. Dr. Brian Wood with "The Sabbath"

Maybe the hardest part of Sabbath isn’t slowing down. It’s surrendering control. #

10/18/2026

JOIN US IN PRAYER!

Looking for a time of prayer, encouragement, and fellowship? We invite you to join one of our weekly virtual prayer gatherings!

Monday | 10 AM & 8 PM
Women's H.E.A.L. Prayer Team - Zoom

Monday | 11:30am
Intercessory Prayer Time - Welcome Center

Tuesday | 6:30 AM
Dawn Prayer Meeting - Zoom

Tuesday | 1 PM
Women's Intercessory Prayer - Welcome Center

Friday | 7 AM
Men's Prayer Time - Zoom

“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)

All are welcome! Please call or email the church for Zoom links and more information.

10/17/2026

10/16/2026

Get ready for a night of camping-themed fun, fellowship, and adventure under the stars!

Kids Kount is a FREE respite night for foster, kinship, and adoptive families in our community, and ALL are welcome! Children in 5th grade and younger are invited to join us for a fun-filled evening while parents and caregivers enjoy a little time to recharge! **Registration is REQUIRED!

Please RSVP to Courtney:
📞 704-860-2330
📧 [email protected]

✨ “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” — Psalm 19:1 (ESV)

Help us spread the word by sharing this post with families who would love to join us! 💛

10/12/2026

We know how to stop working.

But do we actually know how to Sabbath?

There’s a difference—and it may reveal more about what we trust, what we value, and where we believe our security comes from.

Rev. Matt Kuiken and Rev. Dr. Brian Wood continue the conversation.

Full Episode of "The Sabbath" drops on 10/26!

Maybe rest isn’t the absence of something. Maybe it’s an act of faith.

10/08/2026

🍬 WE NEED CANDY! 🍬

First ARP has lots of Halloween fun coming up, and we need your help keeping the candy bowls FULL!

We’re collecting individually wrapped candy for our upcoming Halloween events. Grab an extra bag (or two!) while you’re shopping and drop it off at the church.

Every bag helps us welcome families, love our neighbors, and make these events extra sweet. 🧡 Bring on the candy, First ARP!

10/07/2026

Come for dinner and stay for fellowship! Electives and Growth Groups start at 6:30pm, adult choir rehearsal at 6!