Katie leads us in worship with scripture coming from Matthew 25:14-20. Our capital campaign prayer team will continue to assist with worship. All are invited to enjoy coffee & fellowship in the chapel directly follow worship.

by David Hoff & Parker Lucas

As we think and pray about our capital campaign during August, the Prayer Team would like to offer these thoughts to possibly include in your own quiet time:

As we grow up, one thing we lose is the feelings of awe and wonder at every facet of the world around us; sure, we might find brief moments of it gazing at a sunrise or sunset. However, we often take the beauty of creation, like the ocean, from the shores of our local beaches for granted. So in this season of gratitude, let us step into moments where we can be in awe and wonder of the work of God in our lives through the creation around us. You are encouraged to create these moments through silence in nature, whether from a beach chair or on a walk around the loop at Wrightsville Beach. You can use the prayer below, written by the Sacred Place nonprofit:

by Jeffrey Denlinger

After accepting the invitation from Jen Phelps to chaperone, I glanced over the Charlotte Youth Mission Trip attendee list. I knew Max and Josie Harrington. I also noticed the name 'Mirabelle Donovan', and remembered her amazing art piece from Lent. I also recognized her brother, Finn, on the list, but wasn’t familiar with the other four names. My thoughts went back to Mirabelle. Our worlds were about as distant as could be, with her being quiet and artistic, and me being much older, no children, and finding it difficult to sign my name in cursive. There was solid apprehension, why me?

Fast forward to Thursday evening, our final night in Charlotte. After a cookout dinner, we attended a candlelit communion service along with the other groups attending CROSS that week. Communion was followed by a time of prayer that included unique prayer stations spread throughout the room. You/SACPC were prayed for… The evening wrapped up with time to sit down and talk about our week and affirm our teammates. My apprehension was finally gone and I realized the connections I developed with everyone on the team, especially Mirabelle.  She wrote ”your jokes were MAYBE a little funny, you made this trip very enjoyable. I liked our talks.”

So what happened in four days? I’m convinced one of the best ways to overcome differences is to work alongside someone. Each day of our mission, we left CROSS Campus for various ministry sites in and around Charlotte. We were led by a CROSS intern, Isabella, who was perfect for our group. A Florida State Senior, Isabella was serving for a second summer, and we were her last team. She worked alongside Jen, keeping the group centered in our work and led exercises to remind us where and how we saw God in our day.

Our days went like this:

MONDAY: Clothed with Care - Sorted clothes to be given away; completed an Urban Walk (and got introduced to hostile architecture); undertook a financial challenge at Harris Teeter to feed 4 for 4 days with $20 (rice and ramen)

TUESDAY: Met with folks at Hope Haven, a substance abuse recovery space and program; Experienced a Prayer Room at a local church; You/SACPC were prayed for again!

WEDNESDAY: Sorted and repacked food at the Bulb; sorted clothes and household items at Crisis Assistance

THURSDAY:  Bed’s for Kids - painting and cleaning furniture; painted shelves at Restore Used Bookstore - both activities in extreme heat.

At one point we talked about the importance of FINISHING STRONG. Our youth did just that on Thursday! SACPC should be proud of this team and its leader, Jen Phelps. Almost without exception they were kind, did not judge, and gave each job 100%. And I would be remiss not to mention they also had fun. Games were played between jobs and after meals. 10:30 p.m. ‘lights-out’ was not always obeyed. They loved game night and pizza on Wednesday. And both cars were rocking with songs and laughter as they rolled from job site to site.

The fun was balanced with faithfulness, beginning and ending each day with devotions. Isabella ensured everyone participated in the singing and dancing. (I worried about coming home injured from the dancing … try to explain that!) Silas may be quiet, but he had some of the best one-liners of the week. Brooklyn is a runner and great finisher. Elle is also a great finisher and owner of a scary stare, using it frequently to let me know my jokes were bad. Charlotte is amazingly nice, always helpful, and a great worker. No one had more energy than Max, or more kindness than Josie.  Finn asked some of the best questions, but everyone had to help him keep track of his belongings. Mirabelle definitely surprised me. She is not shy, but outspoken and aware, and her handwriting may be worse than mine.

I feel very fortunate to have been part of this team. This is one of the great benefits of our faith and our church. When the young and not-so-young work together, we are bound to see GOD.

by Earth Care Team

"God dresses grass in the field so beautifully..." [Matthew 6:30]

Native plants are critical to our local ecosystems and, by definition, are best suited to our little corner of God’s world. The U.S. Forest Service encourages native plant practices because they require less fertilizers, pesticides, and water, while also preventing erosion. Native plants also benefit wildlife by providing appropriate food and shelter.

While the Bible does not explicitly discuss native plants, restoring our properties through the use of native landscaping can become a spiritual practice that honors and glorifies God's original design for how all creation was meant to function and thrive.

As we approach the fall planting season, the Earth Care Team invites you to grab some friends and/or neighbors to participate in the 10th Annual Cape Fear Native Plant Festival!

10th Annual Cape Fear Native Plant Festival
SEP 17 - 21
Hosted by the Native Plant Alliance, Wednesday (9/17) - Friday (9/19) will feature a series of educational talks in the evening about sustainable landscaping. Saturday (9/20) is Native Plant Shopping Day, check the festival website for a list of participating vendors. Sunday (9/21) is the Native Plant Garden Tours. Tickets are required for the garden tours.

by Susan Dykes

Click the button below to see our Finance Committee's most current updates.

by Katherine Brandi

The Presbyterian Women’s 2025 Honorary Life Member Award was a surprise presentation to Melinda Stewart on Sunday, July 27, 2025 during the 10:00 a.m. worship service. Melinda has spent much of her life serving others near and far. During her husband John’s work career, they lived in several states and overseas and were active church members in every location. Melinda has cared for and served her immediate family, friends, neighbors, and community members everywhere God has placed her.

She has been very active in the life of St. Andrews-Covenant since joining in 2011. She serves with energy, creativity and works tirelessly. She has worked in many ministries of the church, often behind the scenes. We are blessed to have Melinda serve with us and among us.

by Katie Harrington

On September 7, we will begin worshiping in Brown Hall and return to the following regular Sunday morning schedule:

9:00 am Contemporary worship
10:00 am Sunday School
11:00 am Traditional worship

The location change to Brown Hall is temporary and due to construction happening in the Sanctuary over the next 5 - 6 months. Although our worship location will change, all of the elements of a SACPC Sunday morning service will remain--faithful people, great music, preaching, prayers and sacraments. God will be present with us!

Additionally, because Brown Hall will become our temporary worship space Rally Day festivities will look different this year. Please know, our staff and ministry teams have been working hard to ensure a smooth transition and to prepare some fantastic fall programs.

by Christian Education

Blogger T. M. Suffield says that in Christian formation we are formed towards Jesus with our heads, our hearts, and our hands. We change what we think, feel, and do.

Lifelong education is essential for this journey. If you have been taking a summer break from Sunday school - or maybe an even longer break than that - it's back to school time! All of our adult classes resume at 10:00 am on September 7.

Look for upcoming news about how each of our four weekly classes will spend their time this fall, but plan now to join any of these groups of folks who would love to see you.

Evans Feezor (Rm 215)
The Men’s class will be using The Present Word Adult Bible Lessons for the fall, studying the land of Judah from Isaiah to Exile with lessons on Isaiah and Renewal of the Temple; Jeremiah and the Promise of Renewal, and Ezekiel and the Exile of Judah. Contact Steve Miller for more information steve.miller@smithturf.com

Walking in the Word (Rm 236)
We will still be working our way through the book of of Acts this fall. Contact Randy Barrow for more information randykbarrow@gmail.com

Living Faith (Rm 214)
This fall the lectionary lessons take us through the heart of the gospel in Luke and John, in which we meet Jesus the teacher as he shares lessons of radical hospitality, God’s persistence in seeking the lost, and the value of persisting in faith through difficult times. We encounter some head-scratching parables. Come join our lively bunch as we put our heads and hearts together. Contact Sue McCaffray for more information smccaffray@sacpc.org \

Venture (Rm 240)
We will take up a special study from Proverbs 6 about six things the Lord hates. If you are curious, please join us! We have coffee and wonderful refreshments. Contact Kathy Benson for more information kathybenson@juno.com

Stillpoint via Zoom
Stillpoint is a small group of women seeking spiritual growth by means of contemplative study and reflection.  We read spiritual books and participate in group discussion.  Our current book is “Somehow: Thoughts on Love” by Anne Lamott.  The next book will be “The Book of Forgiving” by Desmond and Mpho Tutu. We welcome visitors and invite you to join us!  Contact Lynn Kozik at clmkozik@gmail.com or Shelley Hobson at shelleyhobson@me.com for more information.

Come on down to the Lower Level on Sunday, September 7 to see all the fabulous new changes that have been made this summer! Our youth have officially relocated from The HUB to their new home in the Lower Level and our children's ministry areas have been updated as well. Come tour the spaces, get a new backpack tag, and see where your Sunday School classes will be!

by Sue McCaffray

POPS Programs return on Wednesday, September 10 at 6:30 pm in Kardia Rm 224 (unless otherwise noted). We have an exciting line up full of timely and important topics with some amazing guest speakers. There's something for everyone!

Sept. 10: Welcome back! Ukuholics perform in Brown Hall
Sept. 17: Let’s Talk About Social Righteousness & Justice
with Jerrod Lowry and Gary Smith
Sept. 24: Flood Risks & Resiliency in Wilmington
with Tony McEwen, American Flood Coalition & Craig Harris, City of Wilmington Chief Resilience Officer
Oct. 1: Malawi Partnership Update
Oct. 8: Let’s Talk About How We Nurture God's People
with Steve Hein and Jerry Bron
Oct. 15: Wilmington’s Affordable Housing Crisis
with Laura Bullock, Vigilant Hope
Oct. 22: What’s the Big Deal about the Reformation?
with Gary Smith
Oct. 29: Wetlands Matter
with Keri Allen, NC Coastal Federation
Nov. 5: Caregiving Older Adults
with Holly Pilson & Kandace Gray, Cape Fear Council on Aging
Nov. 12: Let’s Talk About How SACPC Exhibits the Kingdom of Heaven to the World
Nov. 19: Fall Finale: Stay tuned!

by Matthew McDonald

Former worship leader Matthew McDonald has been working on something truly special—a Christian meditation app called Peace, designed to help believers slow down, breathe deeply, and draw closer to God through scripture-based guided meditations.

Now, Matthew is inviting the St. Andrews-Covenant family to be among the first to experience it.

The Peace app is preparing to launch its free beta testing phase, and you’re warmly invited to join the community. Whether you’ve practiced meditation before or are brand new to it, this is a beautiful opportunity to deepen your connection with God in a calm, prayerful space—anytime, anywhere.

To register, simply visit www.seekpeace.io and sign up to be part of the beta test. Your participation and feedback will help shape the future of Peace and bless countless others.

This is more than an app—it’s a movement. Let’s grow in stillness, reflection, and faith together.

by Katherine Brandi

Our new study, Finding Resilience, Joy, and Our Identity in Jesus Christ, written by the Rev. Dr. Rhashell D. Hunter begins the week of September 8th.  ALL women are invited to join our New Testament scripture study on any day the circles meet; the second Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday of each month, September through May at 10:00 a.m.

Excerpts from the author’s study introduction:

“In the last several years we have experienced stress and change. We have seen changes in our churches, families, work, sociopolitical environments, and even our relationships. We have adjusted based on global, societal, and governmental events, and our lives are different than before.

In the midst of it all, it is hard not to be consumed by conflict and anguish. We all experience stress and anxiety at times, but there is hope. …There is a way that leads to joy and resilience. The way is by connecting to the One who sustains us in times of anxiety and confusion, our Savior Jesus Christ.

This Bible study follows Mary the Tower (Mary Magdalene), Mary “of a certain village, the woman who was poor, the prodigal child, the woman who was bent over, the travelers on the road to Emmaus, as well as Jesus. These biblical characters and writers’ model for us resilience, joy, and finding our identity in Christ.  …[May] their witness call each of us to greater devotion and faithfulness.”

Questions, contact Katherine Brandi.

by Catheryn Thomas

Starting September 7, Brown Hall will be unavailable for use on the weekends (except for the three Music on Market events planned for the fall). During the week, the front half of the gym will be available for POPS Meals on Wednesday evenings and NHHS football dinners on Thursdays. One court will be available during the week for our existing pickleball groups, and we will have space available for preschool play time during the week.

Thank you for your patience as we transition to temporarily worshiping in Brown Hall while we finish the updates to the Sanctuary.

by Sue McCaffray

Join our spirited Zoom group of Thursday night Disciples as we ponder Philip Yancey's classic book. We meet on Thursdays, October. 2-Nov. 6, 6:30-8:00 pm.  Each week we read a couple chapters from the participant's guide and view a video together as we discuss. Reading Yancey's original book is optional. Contact Dave Hoff to sign up and for more information. We'd love to have you!

by Sue McCaffray

Save the Date!

Each one of us is created in the image of God. This means that there is a divine spark of the Holy Spirit within every one of us. The purpose of this retreat is to open our hearts to that spark, letting it shine and glow. Mark your calendars for our one-day fall Spiritual Life retreat on Saturday, October 25, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, at the beautiful Southport Presbyterian Church, led by our old friend Rev. Ann Jahnes.

Registration will be required, and details will follow shortly. Men and women of all ages welcome.

Walking in the Word adult Sunday school class continues with its study of Luke during August, 9:00 am - 10:00 am every Sunday in Room 236. All are welcome!

Our Fellowship Team invites everyone to join us in the Chapel after worship for sweet treats, coffee, water, and lemonade. 

Join us on Sunday, August 17th at 2:00 p.m. to celebrate the installation of Associate Pastor Rev. Parker Lucas. There will be a brief reception following the service in the chapel.

The majority of our local public schools will start a new school year at the end of August. What better way to begin the school year than by being with your church community and receiving a special blessing to start the year off right! 

We invite all students, teachers, parents and grandparents to join us for a special Back to School Blessing on Sunday, August 24th at the 10:00 am combined worship service. It's also Commitment Sunday. We will celebrate with a lunch in Brown Hall following worship.

Join us for one joyful worship service at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary, followed by a celebration luncheon in Brown Hall. Together, we’ll affirm our faith and shared calling to be Joyfully Present & Prayerfully Connected by turning in our 3-year commitment cards during the meal. 

We are excited to continue our Football Ministry, this being our 7th season in a row supporting the New Hanover High School football team. This is an impactful men's ministry allowing us the opportunity to get to know the young men that live in our neighborhood and hopefully build relationships.  We provide the "Team Meal" on Thursdays for the entire season, starting September 4th from 5:30 to 6:30 pm in Brown Hall. So, if you're looking for a ministry to get involved with, please join your fellow men. Please feel free to call me should you have any questions. Go Wildcats!

David Massey (910-617-8546)

Join us for a musical journey with the Appalachian State University Steely Pan Steel Band! This dynamic ensemble delivers an exhilarating mix of calypso, classical masterpieces, classic rock and roll and even some heartwarming Appalachian mountain music. These talented musicians will have you dancing in your seat and singing along. Don’t miss out on this unique celebration of sound!

Experience an afternoon of musical brilliance with the Gentlemen’s Quartet (GQ), as they present a modern, elegant take on timeless classics and popular hits, from Beethoven to John Legend. Their unique arrangements fuse multiple genres together in a perfect symphony of sophistication, virtuosity and humor. With impressive musical credits that include Broadway, The West End, and performances with artists such as Vanessa WIlliams, Dee Snyder, Tony Bennett, The Manhattan Transfer, Audra McDonald, James Taylor, etc., these versatile musicians promise an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind concert!

Our choir brings together individuals who love to worship through music.  We rehearse weekly and sing during the 11:00 am traditional worship service and for special worship events (i.e. Christmas Eve, Easter, etc.).  Whether you're a seasoned vocalist or a beginner, all are welcome! Come and share your voice and make a joyful noise with us. Practice begins Wednesday, September 3 in the Choir Rm. See Angela Burns for details.

We are truly blessed by the wonderful interest in our handbell ministry. We've had folks express a desire to join our group and in order to make a space for all to continue to enjoy the job of making music together, we're forming a second bell choir!

Whether you're a seasoned ringer or new to handbells, we invite you to join us.  

Here are the details:
 
When: Thursdays, 10:00 am - 11:00 am beginning Sept. 18
Where: Handbell Room
Questions?  Cindy Litzinger

Thank you for your support as we continue to expand our music ministry together.

This month children in our county are either getting ready to return to school or, in the case of our year-round schools, are already in the classroom. For some of those children, the beginning of school means a return to regular meals, community, and much more stability than they’ve had during the summer.

Once school starts, many of these children will be provided with free breakfasts and lunches, but snacks that they can either eat during or after school are also important. Some of you may not be aware that teachers often purchase such snacks themselves. Please prayerfully consider helping fill these students' bellies this month. Donations needed:

• granola bars 
• fruit or applesauce cups
• individually-packaged crackers
• pudding cups
• small water bottles or juice pouches 

Donations may be delivered to the table in the 15th Street lobby. Thank you!

Mark your calendars for Sunday evening, August 17! Gather at 5:30pm at Fort Fischer for a Family Beach Night. Bring a picnic dinner if you wish or just snacks - whatever works best for your family. The Children's Team will provide popsicles! Families come in many variations - all are welcome!!

Make it a wonderful day by coming to worship at 10 a.m. and then celebrating with church friends later that day at a Family Beach party at Fort Fischer!

This is a 6-week interactive class designed to explore the Who, What, Where, When's and How's of worship! Beginning September 14, Children in Grades K - 2 will be involved in a special study called WONDERS OF WORSHIP where we will explore what worship is all about and why it is central to our lives as Christians. This class is designed to prepare children to understand why we worship and what it all means as an important Spiritual Rite of Passage.

This is a 6-week interactive class designed to help new readers discover what an amazing gift the Word of God can be in their lives! This class guides 3rd - 5th grade students on how to use The Adventure Bible each child will receive during the 9:00 am worship service on Sunday, September 14.

Reach out to Lynn Warner if you have a child interested in receiving a new Bible and participating in this fun and formative study.

Curious about Confirmation? We will have a Confirmation class during the upcoming school year for students going into the eighth grade and older. If you are interested in learning more about our confirmation process, this get together is for you! No commitment, just a time for questions and conversation (and cookies). This information session will be on Sunday, August 17 at 11:00 am in the Dining Rm. See Jen Phelps for questions.

Families of Rising 6th Graders: NOW is the time to contact Jen Phelps about getting your child involved in our youth ministry. Email Jen ASAP.

Our annual lock-in event for middle and high school students! This year, we will be in the main church building. Friends are welcome - just warn Jen how many you are bringing so we can plan accordingly!

Middle and high school students are invited for a night out at the new Surf's Up Mini Golf in Carolina Beach. Friends are welcome, but advance registration is required - and let us know if you want to ride with us to and from the church or meet us there.

Thank you for contributing to the work and love of Jesus through St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church. Your gifts enable us to stay Faithfully Present in Our Community by providing beneficial programs and spiritual events that lift up, motivate, and provide joy!

Financial updates will be provided each month.  If you have any questions, please contact Susan Dykes, Financial Administrator, 910-762-9693x207, sdykes@sacpc.org; or our Church Treasurer, Ed Hobson, treasurer@sacpc.org.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again:  Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:4-6

Teachers and students who will soon be returning to school.

The family of Marilyn Kimbro who passed away July 6th. There will be a reception at her home August 23rd at 10:00 am.

Hank Montgomery as he recovers from a leg injury.  

 Billy Purdom (USS Stout DDG ), Smith Beacham (Poland/Germany), Jack Looney (USS Carl Vinson, San Diego, CA) , Samuel Makepeace (Fort Moore, Georgia), Brennan Litzinger (Fort Bliss, Texas), Mikayla Reifert (Tinker AForce base in Oklahoma), Bradley Garrett (Coast Guard, Elizabeth City)

Prayer requests: Click here to tell us about your need.

Hospitalizations: Please click here to email Katie Harrington or call the church office at 910.762.9693 to leave a message.

August 12: Taylor Williams
August 13: Walter Futch, Don Harris 
August 14: Linda Montgomery
August 15: Terry Wilson
August 16: Kady Hurd, Marjie Kunz
August 17: Brooke Brownfield, Catherine Daum, Robert Keith
August 18: Alex DeSherbinin, Thomas Lockamy
August 19: Randy Barrow

View our most recent Session Reports.