College & Young Adult Events

Welcome Week Events

North of the Arch
August 11 • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Welcome to Athens, Class of 2029! As you explore your new home, be sure to swing by our Cool Off Zone in front of Athens First UMC during North of the Arch. We’ll be out front with free Kona Ice to help you beat the heat and friendly faces ready to say hello. Whether you're looking for a church community, a place to grow in faith, or just a refreshing treat on your walk, we’d love to meet you and help you get connected.

College Cookout and Color Wars
August 14 • 6:30 p.m.
Ready to make some unforgettable memories? Join us for one of our most epic nights of the year—College Cookout and Color Wars! We’ll start the evening with a cookout packed with good food and good vibes. Then, get ready to go all in for our color powder fight—a wild and colorful way to make new friends and celebrate the start of the school year. Come dressed in clothes you don’t mind getting messy, and bring your friends for an evening of pure fun.

Welcome Back Lunch
August 17 • 12:00 p.m.
There’s no better way to kick off a new semester than with great food and even better company. Join us right after worship for our first Sunday Lunch of the school year—and yes, it’s completely free! Whether you’ve been with us before or this is your first Sunday, this is the perfect opportunity to meet other students, connect with our community, and hear more about what’s coming up this fall. Sunday Lunch is at the heart of our ministry, and you don't want to miss this! 

The Insta Drop
August 18 & 19
Follow us on Instagram at @athensfirstcya and keep an eye on our stories—we’ll be popping up all around with free giveaways, spontaneous meet-ups, and surprise treats. Whether you're heading to class or walking through Tate, be on the lookout. Tag a friend and come say hi!

Dinner & Bingo Night
August 20 • 5:00 p.m.
Bring your appetite and your competitive spirit! Join us for a night of free dinner and classic BINGO fun. Dinner will be served at 5:15 p.m., followed by BINGO at 5:45 p.m. with tons of prizes up for grabs. It’s a great way to relax midweek, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and hang out with old and new friends. Bingo Night is the kick-off to our weekly churchwide dinners. The evening is a beloved tradition that will fill you up with some good old-fashioned joy! No experience necessary—just show up and get ready for a good time.

Weekly Gatherings
Beginning August 17
Our rhythm of life together begins this week, and we’d love for you to be part of it!

• Sunday School | 10:00 a.m. — Dive deeper into Scripture and conversation in a relaxed, welcoming space.
• Sunday Lunch | 12:00 p.m. — Stick around after worship for a free meal and a chance to connect.
• Wednesday Dinner | 5:30 p.m. — Join us every week for a homemade midweek meal with friends, on us.
• Wednesday Small Group | 6:30 p.m. — Real conversations, meaningful relationships, and spiritual growth.

Whether you're new to faith, coming back to church, or looking for community on campus, there's a place for you here. Come as you are—we can't wait to see you.

Natalee Dukes Hamby, Associate Minister |