SACPC Weekly Updates for Feb. 24 - Mar. 3, 2026
Sunday, March 1, 2025
2nd Sunday in Lent
This Sunday
"The Good News Is: Great Love"
Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
How fiercely does God love? What love does God require from us--for God and our neighbor? We will continue our theme for this Lent "Tell Me Something Good" as Katie preaches from Luke 7:36-50 and Matthew 25:35-40.
Previous Contemporary Worship
SACPC(USA) | February 22, 2026 | 9:00 am Contemporary Worship
Feb 22, 2026 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
SACPC(USA) | February 8, 2026 | 9:00 am Contemporary Worship
Feb 8, 2026 • Rev. Parker Lucas
SACPC(USA) | January 25, 2026 | 9:00 am Contemporary Worship
Jan 25, 2026 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
Previous Traditional Worship
After the Amen
Reflections from last Sunday's message
The good news is . . . so good it catches us by surprise!
by Katie Harrington
Sunday's sermon about turning water into wine wasn't just about saving a host from embarrassment; it was a prophetic sign of God's abundant kingdom where there is always more than enough. We live in a world consumed with scarcity thinking. We worry about not enough resources, not enough time, not enough hope in today or tomorrow. Jesus offers us a view. The 180 gallons of the finest wine represents grace upon grace, joy overflowing, and a feast with room for everyone.
This Lenten season, we're called to become 'good news people' who actively look for and share the small and large moments of grace in our daily lives. We can train our hearts to recognize that the good news of the gospel is often surprising us, liberating us, and grounding us in who God created us to be.
As we meditate on last Sunday's teachings from John 2:1-11 try one or two of these practices this week:
This Lenten season, we're called to become 'good news people' who actively look for and share the small and large moments of grace in our daily lives. We can train our hearts to recognize that the good news of the gospel is often surprising us, liberating us, and grounding us in who God created us to be.
As we meditate on last Sunday's teachings from John 2:1-11 try one or two of these practices this week:
- Daily Good News Journal: Each evening, write down three good things that happened that day, no matter how small.
- The "Tell Me Something Good" Challenge: Ask this question to at least three people this week—family members, coworkers, cashiers, neighbors.
- Scarcity Audit: Notice when scarcity thinking creeps in. When you catch yourself thinking "there's not enough," pause and ask, "Where might God's abundance be at work here?"
Announcements
Back In The Sanctuary
by Katie Harrington
March 8 will be our first Sunday of worship in our newly renovated sanctuary. Join us for a worship service filled with joy and gratitude!
Thank You Note | Looney Family
by Beth Looney
Dear SACPC —
Thank you for the prayers you have lifted up for my son, Jack Looney, over the past six years while he served in the Navy. Walking through those years knowing that the SACPC family was praying for his safety, strength, and peace brought us so much comfort.
In January, Jack completed his service and is now home as a civilian, living in Durham with his wife of four years, Julia. During his time aboard the USS Carl Vinson, he served on multiple deployments, including his most recent nine-month deployment in the Persian Gulf.
So many prayers for Jack’s safety have been answered over the years. As we take his name off the prayer list, we ask that you continue to hold other service members and their families close in prayer. Please know that your prayers truly matter — they carry our kids through long days, homesickness, uncertain moments, and all the challenges that come with military life.
Thank you again - we have appreciated your support!
Beth & Jack Looney
Thank you for the prayers you have lifted up for my son, Jack Looney, over the past six years while he served in the Navy. Walking through those years knowing that the SACPC family was praying for his safety, strength, and peace brought us so much comfort.
In January, Jack completed his service and is now home as a civilian, living in Durham with his wife of four years, Julia. During his time aboard the USS Carl Vinson, he served on multiple deployments, including his most recent nine-month deployment in the Persian Gulf.
So many prayers for Jack’s safety have been answered over the years. As we take his name off the prayer list, we ask that you continue to hold other service members and their families close in prayer. Please know that your prayers truly matter — they carry our kids through long days, homesickness, uncertain moments, and all the challenges that come with military life.
Thank you again - we have appreciated your support!
Beth & Jack Looney
January Financial Highlights Now Available
by Susan Dykes
Click the link below to view our most current financial highlights.
Lenten Daily Devotionals
by SACPC Staff
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 or mobile devices. In order to protect their work, please refrain from sharing this link or posting it on social media.
Double the Impact!
A Special Matching Gift for Our Preschool
by Rene Sasser
Thanks to the generosity of a member of our church congregation, all donations made to the preschool during the month of February 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.
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.
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.
Ducks in a Row Registration Ends March 5!
by Phyllis Smith
A new Ducks In a Row class begins 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.
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.
Holy Happenings @ SACPC
POPS Meal Menu
POPS Meal Menu
FEB 25 | 5:30 pm
Brown Hall
FEB 25 | 5:30 pm
Brown Hall
Menu: Salad, Stuffed Shells w/ Marinara, Garlic Bread, and Dessert. Cost is $25/family, $7/adult, and $5/under 12.
Lenten SermonShapers Bible Study
Lenten SermonShapers
FEB 25 | 6:30 pm
Kardia Rm 224
FEB 25 | 6:30 pm
Kardia Rm 224
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.
NOTE: WE WILL HAPPILY INCLUDE YOU VIA ZOOM! Please contact Sue McCaffray for the link.
Grounded in Goodness
Grounded in Goodness Nature Meetups
FEB 26 | 12:00 pm
Halyburton Park
FEB 26 | 12:00 pm
Halyburton Park
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.
Membership Exploration Class
Membership Exploration Class
MAR 1 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
MAR 1 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
Reminder, those interested in becoming 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. This time will be spent meeting with the church's Elders. Please connect with Rev. Lucas if you plan to attend!
Dinner with Pastor Nonato
Dinner with Pastor Nonato
MAR 3 | 6:00 pm
Dining Rm
MAR 3 | 6:00 pm
Dining Rm
Please bring a main dish, salad, or dessert to share and join us for a potluck dinner with Nonato Santos, the pastor of the Petropolis Presbyterian Church in Manaus, Brazil, our partner congregation. Pastor Nonato will be in town for two days to discuss his church's ministry to communities along the Paraguay River and its campaign to build a own boat to facilitate this ministry.We are planning a mission trip to Brazil from August 1-7, 2026. See Gary Smith for details
Presbyterian Women's March Bible Study
Presbyterian Women's March Bible Study
MAR 10*, 11 & 12 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
*MAR 10: Circle 2 meets at Eden Village
MAR 10*, 11 & 12 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
*MAR 10: Circle 2 meets at Eden Village
March’s Bible study will be led by Barbara Hager. The theme is "The Woman Who Was Bent Over." As followers of Christ, we are to serve with a compassionate and healing spirit and be part of setting people free. The main scripture passage is Luke 13:10-17. Same lesson each day.
PLEASE NOTE: On Tuesday, March 10 Circle 2 will gather at Eden Village for study and fellowship with their friend, resident John Porter. Wednesday and Thursday meetings are at the regular time and place.
PLEASE NOTE: On Tuesday, March 10 Circle 2 will gather at Eden Village for study and fellowship with their friend, resident John Porter. Wednesday and Thursday meetings are at the regular time and place.
Sanctuary Dedication
Sanctuary Dedication
MAR 15 | 10:15 am
Sanctuary
MAR 15 | 10:15 am
Sanctuary
Our sanctuary and HVAC system have been beautifully renovated. On March 15 at 10:15 am, we will gather to dedicate them to the glory of God. Come for a time of music, prayer, and celebration between our regular 9:00 am and 11:00 am worship services. No Sunday School.
Music | Contact Cindy Litzinger
Living Last Supper
Enjoy some of these memories from The Living Last Supper.
M&M (Music & More)
We broke out the "fancy" drums for m&m and had a very special guest, our own Pat Litzinger, lead a session on percussions.
Music Events
Calendars
Happenings
SACPC Students
Children
Kindermusik
Adults
Worship Opportunities
Youth Summer Trips
Holy Week 2026
Advent 2025
Earth Care
Music
SermonShapers
Grounded in Goodness
2026 Lent & Holy Week
Go & Serve | Contact Gary Smith
Support Our Preschool this Month
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
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
March Donation Drive
by Jane Smith
During March, Go & Serve will be collecting non-perishable foods for Good Shepherd, Salvation Army, and the Rescue Mission. Suggested food items include: cereal pasta pasta sauce canned fruits and vegetables (including #10 cans) canned soup packaged snacks canned chicken or tuna Thank you for loving our neighbors in need in this way.
Ramp Build
by Gary Smith
Our shelter care team built ramps in January and February for disabled individuals living in homes near our church. Ten men participated in the builds. Special thanks to David Smith and John Bohbrink for their leadership of these builds.
Children | Contact Lynn Warner
One Great Hour of Sharing Calendar
Available Ash Wednesday
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!
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!
CAMP FUSION 2026 Registration NOW OPEN!
Road Trip: On the Go with God
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)
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Completed Grades K - 5th
Registration: $120/per child
(includes camp T-Shirt, snack & lunch)
Preschool Half Day
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Ages 3 years old (potty trained) - Have not completed kindergarten
Registration: $50/per child
(includes camp T-Shirt & snack)
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Ages 3 years old (potty trained) - Have not completed kindergarten
Registration: $50/per child
(includes camp T-Shirt & snack)
If you have any questions please contact Lynn Warner.
Children's Events
Calendars
Happenings
SACPC Students
Children
Kindermusik
Adults
Worship Opportunities
Youth Summer Trips
Holy Week 2026
Advent 2025
Earth Care
Music
SermonShapers
Grounded in Goodness
2026 Lent & Holy Week
Youth | Contact Jen Phelps
DGroups Meet MAR 4
DGroups
MAR 4 | 7:00 pm
The POOL
Doors open at 6:30 pm
MAR 4 | 7:00 pm
The POOL
Doors open at 6:30 pm
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.
March Madness Guys Night
March Madness Guys Night
MAR 15 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Brown Hall
MAR 15 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Brown Hall
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!
Montreat High School Youth Conference
Montreat High School Youth Conference
June 14 - 20, 2026
Completed Grades 9 - 12
Montreat, NC
$600/person
REGISTRATION OPENS SUNDAY, MARCH 1 AT 8:00 PM!!
June 14 - 20, 2026
Completed Grades 9 - 12
Montreat, NC
$600/person
REGISTRATION OPENS SUNDAY, MARCH 1 AT 8:00 PM!!
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.
Masanetta Middle School Conference
Masanetta Middle School Conference
July 9-12, 2026
Completed Grades 6 - 8
Massanetta Springs, VA
$400/person
REGISTRATION OPENS SUNDAY, MARCH 1 AT 8:00 PM!!
July 9-12, 2026
Completed Grades 6 - 8
Massanetta Springs, VA
$400/person
REGISTRATION OPENS SUNDAY, MARCH 1 AT 8:00 PM!!
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.
Teacher Workday Service Day
We're spending the day with Sam from Vigilant Hope who will help us learn more about our neighborhood. We will have activities at the church and a field trip to one of their sites at Lake Forest Baptist Church. Registration required.
Youth Events
Calendars
Happenings
SACPC Students
Children
Kindermusik
Adults
Worship Opportunities
Youth Summer Trips
Holy Week 2026
Advent 2025
Earth Care
Music
SermonShapers
Grounded in Goodness
2026 Lent & Holy Week
What can be recycled in New Hanover County?
by Gwen Behen
If you’re like most of us, the answer to that is sketchy at best.
This video is very clear, and it comes from Joe Suleyman, in charge of the Recycling Facility at the Landfill. Watching this will be time well spent if you are concerned about cleaning up the earth and helping our landfill last a little longer.
Tread Lightly During Lent
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.
Please contact Shelley Hobson or Gwen Behen if you wish to join the Earth Care Team
GIVING | Contact Susan Dykes
January Financial Highlight
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.
CareLine Updates as of February 24, 2026
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.
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
Philippians 4:4-6
We Pray For:
Reese Meiggs and her family, friends of Julian and Rachel March. Reese, a kindergartner, is undergoing treatment at CHKD in Norfolk, Va, for a cancerous brain tumor.
John Troy Scott, brother of Page Tootoo, who was placed in hospice care in New Hampshire.
The sanctuary renovation team as they near the end of the process.
John Troy Scott, brother of Page Tootoo, who was placed in hospice care in New Hampshire.
The sanctuary renovation team as they near the end of the process.
Service Personnel:
Billy Purdom (USS Stout DDG ), Brennan Litzinger (Fort Bliss, Texas), Mikayla Reifert (Tinker AFB in Oklahoma), Bradley Garrett (Coast Guard, Elizabeth City)
Birthday Celebrations | Feb. 24 - Mar. 3, 2026
February 24: Tim Bottoms, Mary Butner, Clint North, Tina Wallace
February 25: Bob Thurston
February 26: Thom Potratz, Tommy Wallace
February 27: Barbara Avent, Charles Gainey, Allen Michael Kraus, Paul Richardson, Carolyn Wells
February 28: Kathy Benson, Nancy Bullard, Kurt Kronenfeld, Parker Lucas, Sue McCaffray
March 1: Gwen Behen, Maryellen Hinson, Eli Huss, Craig Murden
March 2: Abigail Holder
March 3: Jack Richardson, Clyde Strassner, Emily Vassar
February 25: Bob Thurston
February 26: Thom Potratz, Tommy Wallace
February 27: Barbara Avent, Charles Gainey, Allen Michael Kraus, Paul Richardson, Carolyn Wells
February 28: Kathy Benson, Nancy Bullard, Kurt Kronenfeld, Parker Lucas, Sue McCaffray
March 1: Gwen Behen, Maryellen Hinson, Eli Huss, Craig Murden
March 2: Abigail Holder
March 3: Jack Richardson, Clyde Strassner, Emily Vassar
View our most recent Session Reports.
SACPC Contacts
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
For pastoral concerns:
Katie Harrington kharrington@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x203
Parker Lucas plucas@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x202
For financial questions:
Susan Dykes sdykes@sacpc.org; x207
For newsletter, website, social media, and other communication questions:
Emily Donovan (edonovan@sacpc.org)
For the front desk:
call 910-762-9693 x201
For facility use reservations, Memorial Garden & The Block information:
Catheryn Thomas cthomas@sacpc.org; x229
Session Contacts: If you have questions, concerns or recommendations feel free to contact any session member individually or email the session at session@sacpc.org.
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
For pastoral concerns:
Katie Harrington kharrington@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x203
Parker Lucas plucas@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x202
For financial questions:
Susan Dykes sdykes@sacpc.org; x207
For newsletter, website, social media, and other communication questions:
Emily Donovan (edonovan@sacpc.org)
For the front desk:
call 910-762-9693 x201
For facility use reservations, Memorial Garden & The Block information:
Catheryn Thomas cthomas@sacpc.org; x229
Session Contacts: If you have questions, concerns or recommendations feel free to contact any session member individually or email the session at session@sacpc.org.
Recent
SACPC Weekly Updates for Feb. 24 - Mar. 3, 2026
February 24th, 2026
SACPC Weekly Updates for Feb. 17-24, 2026
February 17th, 2026
SACPC Weekly Updates for Feb. 10 - 17, 2026
February 10th, 2026
SACPC Weekly Updates for Feb. 3 - 10, 2026
February 3rd, 2026
SACPC Weekly Updates for Jan. 27 - Feb. 3, 2026
January 27th, 2026
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