The Friday Five - 04.17.26
1. Take Our Hospitality Ministry to the Next Level
There’s a wonderful opportunity just around the corner for us to grow together in one of the most important parts of our church life—hospitality. On May 2, a high-level training event will be held at Epiphany UMC, focusing on greeting, ushering, and creating a welcoming environment for all who walk through our doors.
This year, we’ve intentionally set aside funding for both Front Door Ministries and Leadership Development, and this training beautifully brings those two priorities together. Because of that, the church will cover the registration cost for anyone who is willing and able to attend.
As we continue to grow, we’re preparing to welcome new waves of first-time guests in the months ahead. That makes this moment especially important. A person’s first experience at church can often become their entry point into discipleship—and we want to be ready not just to welcome people, but to help them truly feel that they belong.
It’s also important to remember that all are called to the ministry of hospitality. Whether you’ve served in a formal role before or not, each of us plays a part in creating a warm, inviting, Christ-centered community.
We’re already seeing great momentum, with more than five people having RSVP’d so far—let’s keep it going! If you’d like to be part of this meaningful opportunity, please RSVP to me (Pastor Kenneth) by Monday, April 20, and I’ll make sure you get registered.
Let’s continue building a church where everyone who enters knows they are seen, valued, and welcomed.
Rev. Kenneth Stewart
Lead Pastor
2. Exit 57 Benefit Concert — TOMORROW!!!
Get ready for an afternoon of great music, fun, and community at our Exit 57 Benefit Concert this Saturday from 3:00–6:00 p.m. This is an event you won’t want to miss!
Admission is $15 at the door ($5 for kids, and children 5 and under are free), and your ticket includes small bites and refreshments, access to all games and craft activities, and an awesome live concert from Exit 57—our favorite local band featuring our very own Aaron Carpenter, Gus Steinmetz, and Tim Gerber.
In addition to the music, there will be raffle tickets available for a variety of gift baskets, plus a crowd-favorite highlight: everyone in attendance will get the chance to bid on who gets dunked at the end of the day—Me (Corina), Bill Rouse, or Pastor Kenneth!
We’d also love your help in making the day a success. Be sure to check the link below for ways to volunteer, including set-up, clean-up, and needed supplies. In addition to the listed items, we are also collecting Kroger gift cards (in any amount) and old scrap newspapers.
And don’t forget—we have a Facebook event page! Be sure to like and share it to help spread the word and invite others to join in the fun.
As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or ideas. Thank you for your continued support—we hope to see you there!
Corina Atherton
Director of Family Ministries
3. Thank You from Kairos Prison Ministry
To say that Milford First is supportive of the upcoming Kairos weekend at Chillicothe Correctional Institution would be a massive understatement. The people of our wonderful church are baking over 70 dozen cookies. Seventy-five members of our amazing church have committed to pray throughout the weekend. Their names will be included on the prayer chain that will encircle the room. Out of our abundance, the generous people of Milford First have donated over $3300 to help shine the Christ light at CCI — this in addition to the covenant relationship with Kairos through our missional outreach. And last — but certainly not least — 26 Wonder Kids colored placemats. We have seen big, tough men cry over a placemat decorated by a child.
This congregation truly is a light on a hill.
“I was in prison and you visited me.”Some give by going; others go by giving. Thank you, thank you, thank you! May God continue to bless you, as you humbly provide blessings to others.
In Christ’s love,
Rich Grant and Fred Thomas
4. AMDLC is holding an Art Show- This coming Thursday!
Event Details:
A Million Dreams Learning Center Art Show & Silent Auction
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Donation Deadline: Friday, April 17, 2026
You’ve never seen art quite like this—because these creations come from little hands inspired by a big God.
A Million Dreams Learning Center invites you to its 1st Annual Art Show, an evening celebrating the creativity, joy, and imagination of the children we serve. Guests will enjoy a gallery of one-of-a-kind student artwork, a bake sale, a silent auction, and a family craft station for all ages.
This event is more than an art show—it’s a celebration of childhood and a reminder that God continues to create beauty every day. All proceeds from the evening will support an important goal: building a new playground addition to create a safer, more enriching outdoor space for our children.
AMDLC is also seeking donations for their silent auction, including gift cards, services, event tickets, themed baskets, or handmade items. All donors will be recognized at the event, with business names displayed alongside donated items—offering a meaningful way to support local families while connecting with the community.
If you would like to contribute, donations can be dropped off at the center or arranged for pickup.
Join us for an evening of creativity and purpose—bring your family, invite a friend, and help us make big dreams come true for our children.
Rev. Kenneth Stewart
Lead Pastor
5. A Testimonial on Fuel for Flight from Our Packing and Delivery Crew
Earlier this week, Trena Panko from Milford High School spoke with us and shared some thoughtful insight on the difference that Fuel For Flight is making. Watch her testimonial to get a powerful look at how Fuel for Flight is changing lives—both for the students receiving food and those helping make it happen. Click the link below!
We’re also less than a month away from the Milford Meander on May 9—a scavenger hunt through historic Milford that supports Fuel for Flight. All proceeds go toward continuing this vital work in our community. Help us spread the word by sharing the event, inviting a friend, grabbing a yard sign, and making plans to join us.
Buy your tickets now!
