Let us journey from the wilderness up to the mountaintop on this Transfiguration Sunday as Katie preaches from Matthew 17:1-9. We will have one worship service at 10:00 am, which will include the annual meeting of the congregation. Together, we will celebrate all God has done and is doing in the life of our congregation as we listen for how God is calling us to worship and serve.

by Parker Lucas

The wilderness is more than a physical place filled with nature, in scripture it is also a spiritual space. Through Jesus, Hagar and Ishmael's stories we learn God is not absent in the wilderness, but often speaks most clearly to us in this time and space.

The challenge is learning to slow down enough to recognize when we're in a spiritual wilderness encounter. In these moments we need to find ways to connect more closely with God and to listen for what God has been saying to us all along.

Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and intentional stillness can transform our spiritual wilderness encounters from what feels like isolation to a holy sanctuary, like Christ did in Matthew. We then can emerge ready to be messengers of hope to others wandering in their own deserts.

As we meditate on last Sunday's teachings from Genesis 21:14-21 and Matthew 4:1-11 try one or two of these practices this week:

1. Daily Silence: Set aside 10 minutes each day to sit in silence and listen for God.
2. Nature Connection: Take a 20-minute mindful walk, paying attention to your senses.
3. Journaling: Write honestly to God about your current wilderness or struggles.
4. Scripture Meditation: Slowly read and reflect on one of the wilderness passages each day.
5. Sabbath Practice: Identify one thing to "fast" from this week to create space for listening.
6. Reach Out: Contact someone you know who is struggling and offer presence and support.

by Katie Harrington

On Sunday, February 15 we will have one unity worship service at 10:00 am. As part of our worship, we will also hold the annual meeting of the congregation to present the annual report and the budget, vote on changes in terms of call for the pastors, elect the Congregational Nominating Committee, and hold the annual meeting of the corporation. It will be a time of celebration and gratitude for all God is doing and will do at SACPC!

Please note: Sunday school will be canceled Sunday, February 15 with one exception, the adult Walking in the Word class will meet at 9:00 am in Room 236 for those wishing to attend. All are welcome!

by Lynn Warner

Get ready for CAMP FUSION 2026: Road Trip: On the Go with God. Registration is now open! This one-of-a-kind experience combines the elements of VBS, music, creative arts, and mission work! Space is limited so register early. Needs based scholarships available.

Grades K - 5th Full Day
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Completed Grades K - 5th
Registration: $120/per child
(includes camp T-Shirt, snack & lunch)

Campers will experience a fun-filled morning session full of VBS-style activities including Bible stories, crafts, snack time, and music followed by a camp provided lunch. Then, the afternoon session explores camper's musical, dramatic and artistic talents by working together to bring the magic of music, creative arts, and faith to life.

Preschool Half Day
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Ages 3 years old (potty trained) - Have not completed kindergarten
Registration: $30/per child
(includes camp T-Shirt & snack)

Preschool children will experience all the fun-filled VBS-style activities including Bible stories, crafts, snack time, and music that the older children experience during the morning session; however, the preschool camp ends at 12:00 pm and will not include lunch or the afternoon session.

If you have any questions please contact Lynn Warner.

by SACPC Staff

Our beloved and historic pews have been refurbished and arrived this week. They are carefully being reassembled.

Friendly reminder, the sanctuary is still an active construction zone. For everyone's safety, please refrain from walking through or viewing this area.

by Emily Donovan

In the 1980s, the Japanese government began investigating the health benefits of time spent in nature as a response to the severe increase in stress reported within its population. Since then, a growing body of research shows time spent slowly, attentively, and repeatedly in nature helps ease stress, calm the nervous system, lower inflammation, and support emotional and physical well-being. The Japanese call this practice shinrin-yoku or "forest bathing."

During Lent, Rev. Lucas & Emily Donovan will offer weekly meditative nature meetups inspired by the medical practice of forest bathing. Each session is an invitation to rest, listen, and receive God’s care through the natural world—allowing our bodies, minds, and spirits to be gently restored.

by SACPC Staff

Our theme for Lent is Tell Me Something Good which invites us to return to the roots of Jesus’ radical good news which was about liberation, mercy, love, and grace. Beginning Ash Wednesday (FEB 18), a limited number of printed copies will be available on the credenza outside Brown Hall. Our friends at A Sanctified Art have provided a special e-reader version of this year’s Lenten devotional, which you can access on your computer and mobile devices. In order to protect their work, please refrain from sharing this link or posting it on social media.

by Julian March

Click the link below to access the most current Session report for December.

by Rene Sasser

We’re excited to share wonderful news about an opportunity to support the ministry of our preschool in a powerful way. Thanks to the generosity of a member of our church congregation, all donations made to the preschool will be matched, doubling the impact of every gift. This matching gift is being offered as a way to encourage our church family to invest in the vital work of the preschool—nurturing young children, supporting families, and laying a strong foundation rooted in faith, learning, and love. Every contribution made during this matching period will go twice as far in strengthening programs, resources, and the daily care provided to our students.

Whether you are a long-time supporter or considering a gift for the first time, now is a meaningful moment to give. Your generosity, combined with this matching gift, will make a lasting difference in the lives of our children and in the future of this important ministry.

Please include “Preschool Matching Fund” on a check, or select the Preschool Matching Gifts Fundraiser fund when giving online. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Together, we can make an even greater impact.

by Phyllis Smith

Due to overwhelming demand a new Ducks In a Row class will begin on Mondays from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm starting March 16 in Kardia Rm 224. These classes meet every other Monday through May 18. Future class schedule includes March 30, April 13, April 27, May 11, and May 18.

This class was created to help prepare for end of life issues and give our loved ones all the information they will need at a difficult time. Four guest speakers will talk about Advance Directives, Financial Planning, Estate Planning, and Funeral Planning. The class size is limited to 20 people with a registration cut-off date of March 5.  

The program is a non-profit and there is no charge for the class. The notebook used costs $50.00 and a Partner Pack for couples is $10.00. You will keep all materials. The cost reflects a small increase due to skyrocketing printing and materials costs.

by Emily Vasser

THANK YOU, dear friends, for your thoughtfulness, generosity, love and especially for your prayers for me these past six weeks. Yes, it’s possible to break an elbow (yeouch). That said, surgery was successful and I’m on the mend!

Your delicious meals, phone calls, cards, texts, emails and offers of transportation have been strong comfort and support — soothing balm in a challenging season.

When I walked in the 15th Street doors for the first time, 20 years ago now, I immediately felt the love and friendship in this place, “the sweet aroma of Christ” that Paul talks about. That has never been more true for me, even from a distance. I look forward to the joy of worshipping with you in person, to studying, singing and laughing with you. You’re all sorely MISSED!

In His Peace,
Emily Vassar

February’s Presbyterian Women’s Bible study will be led by Beth Cherry. The theme is Finding Our Joy in Christ: “I Will Say It Again, Rejoice”.  Christian joy emerges from a deep belief that God is good, and God reigns forever.  Main scripture passage is Philippians 4:1-23. The same lesson is given each day.

Menu: Chips & Salsa, Chicken Enchilada Casserole, Mexican Rice, and Mexican Brownies. Cost is $25/family, $7/adult, and $5/under 12.

Our own Mary Farmer will lead us on a walk through the long history of St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

Ash Wednesday Taizé Service
FEB 18 | 7:00 pm
Brown Hall

We begin our observance of Lent with a quiet, candlelight worship service for Ash Wednesday in the Taizé style. Imposition of ashes will be offered.

Additionally, self guided prayer stations sponsored by our Youth Ministry will be available in the Gathering Area from 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm. Make time to enjoy this meaningful experience.

Please note: There will be no POPS dinner or classes on Ash Wednesday.

“A Living Last Supper” is a dramatic and poignant depiction of Jesus and his disciples on the night before his betrayal. Each disciple rises to share his thoughts upon learning that there is a traitor among them. The St. Andrews-Covenant Choir enhances this powerful narrative with music from the Lenten portion of Handel’s Messiah, creating an unforgettable Lenten experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a profound moment in history brought to life through music and drama.

Are you interested in learning about becoming a member of SACPC? Then join us for the Membership Exploration class on Sunday, February 22 at 10:00 am in the Dining Room. This class will provide a general overview of St. Andrews-Covenant and our ministries, as well as what it means to be part of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

If you want to become a member of SACPC (which is not required), you may choose to do so on Sunday, March 1, at 10:00 am in the Dining Room to meet with the church's Elders. Please connect with Rev. Lucas if you plan to attend!

Would you like to give our preacher a piece of your mind? Be a Sermon Shaper! This Lenten POPS Series meets every Wednesday, 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm from February 25 - March 25. Join Katie and friends as we discuss upcoming sermon texts each week in Lent.

NOTE: WE WILL HAPPILY INCLUDE YOU VIA ZOOM! Please contact Sue McCaffray for the link.

by Jane Smith

If you're like me, you thoroughly enjoy the children's art work that regularly lines the halls outside the preschool classrooms. And if you're in the building on a weekday morning, you smile at the sounds of the little ones' voices in the building.

For February, we have the chance to love on those kids by providing them with the supplies they need as they learn. The list has been compiled by SACPC Preschool Director Rene Sasser with input from the children's teachers. Items are child friendly. If you have questions about the list, you can contact Jane Smith or Rene Sasser. (Jane Smith, ) or Rene.

Below is both a list of items that can be purchased locally along with links for those of you who might prefer to shop online.

Dot art markers
Colored dot stickers
Velcro - strips and/or dots
Thermal laminating pouches (9x11.5)
8.5x11inch sheet protectors
Small white school glue bottles (1.25 ounces or 4 ounces)
School glue sticks
Tempra paint sticks
Method foaming soap

From Lakeshore Learning:
Textured Rubbing Plates 
Playful Penguins Ice Blocks 
Mix & Match Magnetic Construction Vehicles 
Mix and Match Magnetic Rescue Vehicles 

From Bella Luna Toys:
Nesting Bridges 
Wooden Rainbow Tunnel 
Any of the wooden block sets in this collection 

We will return to western North Carolina to continue rehabbing homes damaged by Helene. The trip is scheduled for May 3-9, 2026. We will be staying at First Presbyterian Church in Spruce Pine. We will be partnering with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and the United Methodist Committee on Relief. The cost is $160 for lodging and food, and Go and Serve will reimburse half of this amount if you desire. Please direct questions to Gary Smith or Parker Lucas.  If you want to sign up for the trip, please email Gary. The trip is limited to 20 participants.

Our Children's Ministry will offer The One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) coupon books again this year during Lent. Items will be available on Ash Wednesday (FEB 18) and throughout the Lenten season.

The Coupon Book suggests a different idea each day for families to consider as we realize how blessed we are and how we can help others. There is a suggested amount of money to put in your fish box each day as you follow the instructions for the day.

Fish boxes will be returned on Palm Sunday (MAR 29) during both services of worship!

Middle and high school girls are invited to gather for fellowship, friends, fun and fondue!

Middle and high school students gather for fellowship, Bible study and our small group ministry every other Wednesday night. "Doors open" at 6:30pm - Programming begins at 7:00 pm.

Middle and high school guys are invited to Brown Hall to fellowship, games and the March Madness selection show on the big screen.  Friends are welcome and the ranch fountain will be flowing!

PLEASE NOTE: You may make a non-refundable 50% deposit on this trip to reserve your spot. Full balance must be paid no later than May 1st!! We will be taking a group of high school students to the Montreat Youth Conference June 14th-20th. Spots are limited and will be open to members of our Youth Group initially, and then open to friends, if space allows. Trip cost is: $600/person.

We will be taking a group to the Middle School Conference at Massanetta Springs. This trip is for CURRENT 6th - 8th grade students. Registration will initially be opened to members of our youth group, and then open to friends, as space allows. Trip cost: $400/person.

The Cape Fear Tree Alliance is hosting a native tree give away on Saturday, February 14 at D.C.Virgo.

From 9:00 am. - 11:00 am, families of DC Virgo, Boys and Girls Club, DREAMS, Voyage and Dorthy B. Johnson Pre-K may pick up 2 trees each.

The public is welcome from 11:00 am - Noon, and may also choose two trees each.

This is a good opportunity to increase the tree canopy in our area.  Come and find your tree.

by By Emma Marshall

In January, a group of young adults (ages 18-35) from across the country gathered on Zoom. One member shared on-the-ground updates from her experience attending COP30 as part of PC(USA)’s denominational staff; another taught the group how to construct a meaningful land acknowledgement or Indigenous People’s Month statement for one’s congregation. The conversation was rich and exciting, even Spirit-filled.

The group was CANOPY, the Creation Action Network of Presbyterian Young Adults. Since September, this group of 40-odd young people has gathered in virtual space to connect, teach and learn, and take action in solidarity with God’s creation. All leaders in their own right in congregations, on campuses, in workplaces, across the country, and within the denomination, CANOPY members long for many things: connection with other faithful young people, tools to promote creation justice in their communities, accountability for churches and the denomination, opportunities to act and serve, and the development of friendships and mutuality.

These many longings have brought CANOPY together, and several months into the work, our advocacy and activism are beginning to take shape. Specific issues in creation justice have come to the fore. One concerns the rights of Indigenous people and movements for Indigenous justice, including #LandBack; recent progress in the Presbytery of San Gabriel has made this issue especially salient. The other concerns the impact of global conflict on climate - from Gaza to Venezuela to the Congo, where land and resource stewardship are implicated in violent conflict, and the conflict itself degrades land and resources. Several CANOPY members are also working with the PEC Advocacy Committee on overtures for GA227, stepping up to participate in decision-making and discernment in the faith community they claim as their own.

CANOPY’s work continues to develop and evolve as our bonds and connections as a group strengthen, deepen, and multiply. Watch this space—we can’t wait to tell you where we’ll go next.

Emma Marshall has been Presbyterians for Earth Care's Young Adult Organizer since June 2025. She completed an MDiv at Princeton Seminary in May 2025 and is in her final semester of an MSW degree at Rutgers University; she is also a candidate certified ready to receive a call in the PC(USA). She spends lots of time with her dog, Daphne, roaming the hiking trails and antique shops of central New Jersey.

The Presbyterian Hunger Program strives to walk with people in moving toward sustainable choices that restore and protect all of God’s children and Creation. In Lent, we slow down, take time, and examine our internal spiritual lives and the way we live out our Christian faith in the world around us. Our hope is that this Lenten calendar will be the beginning of actions intended to create more mindful behaviors throughout the year.

As an Earth Care Congregation, we believe caring for God’s creation is a big part of how we live out our faith every day. Recently, we asked church members to share how they’re already caring for the Earth in their own lives. Thank you for your participation, your responses were encouraging and inspiring.

Many of you also shared concerns and ideas, plus areas where you’d like to learn more. We heard a real need for clear, trustworthy information and practical guidance around caring for clean water and air, understanding recycling guidelines, and finding ways to get involved locally.

We offer these survey results as a starting point for prayerful reflection, learning and action as we seek to be faithful stewards of God’s creation together at home, at church, and in our community. Please contact Shelley Hobson or Gwen Behen if you wish to join the Earth Care Team

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.

Click here to access the complete CareLine.

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

Hospitalizations: Please here to email Rev. Harrington and Rev. Lucas or call the church office at 910.762.9693 to leave a message.

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

The safe return of the high school ski trip participants and chaperones with no injuries. 

Kathy Denlinger's mother, Shirley Shea, died on January 31, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Ron Faulk, who is in rehab following complications from his surgery.  .

Those experiencing homelessness and the help given by the warming shelters.

Randy Warner’s mother, Betty Baxter, as she recovers from surgery on February 9 for a broken hip.

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

February 12: Bill Aman
February 13: Ann Benson, Betty Feezor, Coleman Gould, Cate Swain
February 14: Collin Berry, Martha Compton
February 15: Jay Andrews, Lora Padula
February 16: Mary Farmer, Bill Raney, Mary Claire Stuart

View our most recent Session Reports.