This week on Fridays at First, Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons navigates a winter weekend shaped by snow, schedule changes, and a healthy dose of humor. With a significant winter storm on the way, Richard shares updates on the cancellation of Sunday services, the postponement of New Member Weekend, and the rescheduling of retirement celebrations for Rev. Stan Johnson.

Along the way, listeners are treated to Richard’s musings on emergency preparedness—including a memorable trip to Costco in search of a generator—and reflections on surviving the storm with warmth, wit, and perspective.

The episode also looks ahead to the upcoming Yellow Bag Weekend, highlighting how donations benefit Miracle Hill Ministries and recalling last year’s especially fashionable finds.

Finally, Richard is joined by co-host Michelle Ward and guest Chelsea Fraser from the Fine Arts Ministry, who shares exciting updates on new art initiatives coming soon to First Pres.

Practical updates, meaningful ministry moments, and a few laughs—all wrapped into one snowy episode of Fridays at First. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the listen.

Fridays at First is the weekly podcast of First Presbyterian Church in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, hosted by Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons. Each episode offers timely updates from the life of the church, thoughtful conversation, and faith-shaping insight for the week ahead.

From congregational news and upcoming events to meaningful interviews and pastoral reflections, Fridays at First helps you stay connected to what God is doing at First Pres and how it shapes our shared life of faith. Episodes often include conversations with ministry leaders and guests who help us explore both the joys and challenges of following Christ in today’s world.

In this week’s episode, Dr. Gibbons highlights the upcoming retirement of Rev. Stan Johnson, shares details about New Member Weekend, and previews the launch of the new Sunday morning series “Tough Topics in a Digital Age.” He is also joined by Stephanie Johnson for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation on the sensitive topic of abortion.

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the First Pres community, Fridays at First is your weekly guide to what’s happening, what’s coming, and how to prepare your heart for worship.

New episodes drop every Friday.

Fridays at First welcomes the new year with gratitude, celebration, and a look ahead to what’s next at First Presbyterian Church. In this episode, co-host Michelle Ward shares thanks to the many volunteers who helped make Christmas Eve services meaningful to so many guests, celebrates the joy of the Children’s Christmas Joke Hotline, and offers important updates—including the upcoming retirement of Rev. Stan Johnson after more than 22 years of faithful service.

Michelle is joined by Tiffany Boggs, Women’s Ministry Discipleship Coordinator, for a conversation about entering the new year with intention, gratitude, and spiritual focus. Together, they highlight upcoming discipleship opportunities for all ages, including the Pastor’s Bible Study with Rev. Dr. Richard Gibbons, featuring a deep dive into the book of Romans.

The episode also previews Communion Sunday and a special musical offering with guest Dr. Benjamin Harlan. Tune in for encouragement, community news, and ways to grow deeper in faith as the new year begins at First.