My Omaha Film Screening & Conversation

First Presbyterian — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:58:51 +0000

My Omaha Film Screening & Conversation
When: Fri, Oct 23, 6:00 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm)
Where: Chapel

What does it take to stay connected when our deepest beliefs pull us apart?

My Omaha is a documentary following filmmaker Nick Beaulieu as he returns to Omaha to document the city’s racial justice movement while reconnecting with his terminally ill, conservative father. Through his relationship with community organizer Leo Louis II, Nick confronts a side of his hometown—and himself—that he had not fully seen.

The documentary premieres October 5 on PBS’s Independent Lens. On Friday, October 23, First Presbyterian Church of Portland’s Service Beyond Our Walls committee invites the congregation, downtown neighbors, students, and the wider Portland community to gather in the FPC Chapel to watch the film together.

At a time when political and social divisions can make honest conversation difficult, My Omaha asks what it means to tell the truth about injustice, listen across deep disagreement, and remain in relationship when convictions pull us apart.

After the 85-minute film, Nick and Leo will join us live for a conversation with the audience. Watch the trailer for the film by clicking here!

Admission is free but RSVPs are appreciated at this link.
Free parking will be available in our underground garage on 12th.

Walk the Wildwood 2026

First Presbyterian — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 21:50:18 +0000

A Walk the Wildwood success!

On August 8th, 78 walkers enjoyed blue skies and comfortable temperatures at Hoyt Arboretum after the week’s smoke cleared. A quarter of participants were first-timers—including two recent Portland arrivals who found the event on our website. 2026 was also a year in which walkers were joined by six canine participants, the greatest number since the event’s inception!

Thanks to generous participants and donors, we raised $21,164 and welcomed two new Student Champions. Funds help provide quality education in a loving environment for children at Kamwenge Secondary and Vocational School in Uganda, celebrating its 20th anniversary. We also collected 300 sneakers to be repurposed (and add a few more dollars) or be recycled.

Survey comments captured the day’s spirit: “We enjoyed learning about the school in Uganda, spending time outside with fellow church members, and meeting new people.” Another shared, “All of the leaders were well prepared… and the walking route was great.”

Heartfelt thanks to volunteers: Bill Resley, Steve Primack, Chris Nilson, Pat and Sandy Castles, Anne Clark, Fonda Lucas, Chris Rasmussen, Steve Snodderly, Kara Morris, Greg Aldrich, Patty McFarland Hoder, Ann Snodderly Martin, Joe Whittington, Amy Wood, Will Deming, Midge Birnie, Melissa Dailey, Marah Murphy, Lauren Deming, Rick Lee, Juno Apalla, Linda Lewis, Miss’ipi Chef, Cindy Finch, the Hoder family, Alexis Crawford, and Rebecca Green, and event leader Kathryn Hill!

Hope to see you on the trails next year!

— Walk the Wildwood 2026 Leadership Team

Featured – First Presbyterian Church of Portland

My Omaha Film Screening & Conversation