SACPC Weekly Updates for Sept. 9-16, 2025
Sunday, September 14, 2025
14th Sunday after Pentecost
This Sunday
"Pray This Way: Our Father in heaven"
Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, Jesus responded "Pray this way" and shared what we know as the Lord's Prayer. We say this prayer every Sunday, so often that sometimes we say it without thinking about its meaning. For the next six weeks, we are going to study each line of the Lord's Prayer so we can reconnect with God and reinvigorate our own prayer lives. This Sunday, we will focus on the first line: "Our Father, who art in heaven..." with scripture coming from Psalm 103:1-18 and Matthew 6:7-13 and Katie leading us in worship.
It's also 5-Cents A Meal Sunday. Bring your offerings to the collection bins at the front during the first hymn. We will also enjoy a Moment for Mission from Dottie Playforth, Special Events Volunteer Coordinator with the Salvation Army.
It's also 5-Cents A Meal Sunday. Bring your offerings to the collection bins at the front during the first hymn. We will also enjoy a Moment for Mission from Dottie Playforth, Special Events Volunteer Coordinator with the Salvation Army.
Previous Contemporary Worship
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
SACPC(USA) | January 18, 2026 | 9:00 am Contemporary Worship
Jan 18, 2026 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
Previous Traditional Worship
SACPC(USA) | February 8, 2026 | 11:00 am Traditional Worship
Feb 8, 2026 • Rev. Parker Lucas
SACPC(USA) | January 25, 2026 | 11:00 am Traditional Worship
Jan 25, 2026 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
SACPC(USA) | January 18, 2026 | 11:00 am Traditional Worship
Jan 18, 2026 • Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
Announcements
Wednesday Fall Programs Start THIS Week!
by SACPC Communications
Now is the time to find your people and your purpose. Scroll through our Holy Happenings and ministry sections to see all the exciting programs we have available.
Fall Spiritual Life Retreat Registration Now Open
Spirit, Open My Heart: A Celebration of Beauty, Joy, and Peace
by Sue McCaffray
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 from 9:30 am - 3:00 pm at the beautiful Southport Presbyterian Church, led by our old friend Rev. Ann Jahnes. The cost will be $20, including lunch.
Registration is open now and closes October 15. Your payment will secure your spot. Hope to see you there! Click the button to register now.
Mark your calendars for our one-day fall Spiritual Life retreat on Saturday, October 25 from 9:30 am - 3:00 pm at the beautiful Southport Presbyterian Church, led by our old friend Rev. Ann Jahnes. The cost will be $20, including lunch.
Registration is open now and closes October 15. Your payment will secure your spot. Hope to see you there! Click the button to register now.
Men's Pickleball Fall Schedule
by Matthew Hilliard
Men's Pickleball is back for our 2nd season. Meetup in Brown Hall every Monday starting September 8th from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. We have extra paddles if you don't have one and all skill levels welcome!
Welcome Our Preschool Staff to the Church Community!
by René Sasser
We are thrilled to introduce the wonderful staff of SACPC Preschool which started back to school September 3. As a ministry of SACPC, the preschool plays an important role in nurturing young hearts and minds, and we are blessed to have a team of dedicated educators leading the way.
Front Row: René Sasser, Maria Smith, Wortley Forbes, Diana Moore
Second Row: Cacky Daughtry, Lora Padula, Carol Kays, Brandy Spaulding
Back Row: Amy Allen, Kara Johnson, Sally Mayes
Second Row: Cacky Daughtry, Lora Padula, Carol Kays, Brandy Spaulding
Back Row: Amy Allen, Kara Johnson, Sally Mayes
We invite the entire church family to join us in praying for the preschool’s success this year. Let’s extend a warm welcome to the staff, students and families. Your smiles, greetings, prayers and encouragement mean more than you know!
Want to Get Involved?
There will be opportunities throughout the year to volunteer, donate classroom supplies, or simply stop by to say hello. Stay tuned for upcoming ways to support this vital ministry. Together, let’s build a loving, faith-filled environment for the youngest members of our community.
Want to Get Involved?
There will be opportunities throughout the year to volunteer, donate classroom supplies, or simply stop by to say hello. Stay tuned for upcoming ways to support this vital ministry. Together, let’s build a loving, faith-filled environment for the youngest members of our community.
Our Favorite Native Plant Cheat Sheets
by Earth Care Team
“...[T]he mountains and hills will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field will clap their hands...”
[Isaiah 55:12]
and all the trees of the field will clap their hands...”
[Isaiah 55:12]
The Earth Care Team has compiled recommended cheat sheets to help you add more native plants to your fall gardens and landscaping.
Also, don't forget next week is the 10th Annual Cape Fear Native Plant Festival! 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.
Nursery Opportunity
by Lynn Warner
We are currently in need of additional nursery help on Sunday mornings. This is a paid opportunity. If you are a college student or someone who is in need of some extra money please reach out to Amy Allen, our nursery coordinator for further information. The hours are 8:30 am - 12:30 pm on Sunday mornings. We look forward to adding some additional workers for our amazing children on Sunday mornings!
Thank You!
by Vickie Lapp
Dear Friends!
Anxiety weighs down the heart, but kindness cheers it up.
-Proverbs 12:25
I have been so blessed during the last 4 months by YOU! Within minutes our lives were changed, when I fell back in May. God’s love has been seen and felt through this wellness journey; in the many ways you have reached out to us during our time of need.
The visits and the calls made things feel normal and took my mind off the reality of my situation. The meals and gift cards eliminated the stress for Robb's need to prepare food when he was already shortening his work week to take care of me.
Thank you for the prayers, cards, flowers, visits, calls, errands, the ramp, transportation, delicious food and love you provided us. Your kindness is appreciated and will never be forgotten. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Much love, Vickie Lapp
Anxiety weighs down the heart, but kindness cheers it up.
-Proverbs 12:25
I have been so blessed during the last 4 months by YOU! Within minutes our lives were changed, when I fell back in May. God’s love has been seen and felt through this wellness journey; in the many ways you have reached out to us during our time of need.
The visits and the calls made things feel normal and took my mind off the reality of my situation. The meals and gift cards eliminated the stress for Robb's need to prepare food when he was already shortening his work week to take care of me.
Thank you for the prayers, cards, flowers, visits, calls, errands, the ramp, transportation, delicious food and love you provided us. Your kindness is appreciated and will never be forgotten. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Much love, Vickie Lapp
Women's Pickleball
by Donna Philips
Beginning September 8 and 9… Mondays and Tuesdays at 1:30 pm or 3:00 pm in Brown Hall. Please note, we will be limited to only one court during the renovations. All are welcome. Contact Donna Philips at 404 226-5976 to register.
Holy Happenings @ SACPC
Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study
Presbyterian Women's Bible Study
SEP 9, 10 &11 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
SEP 9, 10 &11 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
September's Presbyterian Women's Bible study will be led by Lynn Atkinson. The theme is Mary Magdalene, the Tower. Our faith is strengthened by learning more about Mary Magdalene, a towering witness to the resurrection. We will explore scripture from John 20:11-18, John 11:17-27.
All are invited to attend. The same lesson will be given on September 9, 10, and 11 at 10:00 am in Dining Room. See Katherine Brandi for details.
All are invited to attend. The same lesson will be given on September 9, 10, and 11 at 10:00 am in Dining Room. See Katherine Brandi for details.
M&M (Music & More)
M&M (Music & More)
SEP 10 | 4:45 PM
Children's Choir Rm
SEP 10 | 4:45 PM
Children's Choir Rm
M&M is a joint ministry between Music and Christian Education. Children experience music by singing, playing pitch and rhythm games, ringing handbells, and playing Orff instruments; while also developing a strong foundation for faith formation. They support our worship services with their musical talents on a scheduled basis. Contact Cindy Litzinger for more details.
POPS Meal
POPS Meal
SEP 10 | 5:30 PM
Brown Hall
SEP 10 | 5:30 PM
Brown Hall
The menu for Wednesday, SEP 10 is Garden Salad, Spaghetti with Bolognese Sauce, Garlic Bread, and Dessert. Cost: $25/family $7/adult $5/under 12.
POPS Fall Kickoff
POPS Fall Kickoff
SEP 10 | 6:30 PM
Brown Hall
SEP 10 | 6:30 PM
Brown Hall
Join us for a fun night as we kick-off our fall POPS program with the Port City Ukuholics. This ukuele band is based in Wilmington and plays classic rock, dance, folk, pop, country and Hawaiian music. Our very own Shelley Hobson is a member of the band. This night should put a smile on your face.
POPS Meal begins at 5:30 pm in Brown Hall.
POPS Meal begins at 5:30 pm in Brown Hall.
POPS Program: Let's Talk About
Social Righteousness & Justice
POPS Program: Let's Talk About Social Righteousness & Justice
SEP 17 | 6:30 PM
Kardia Rm 224
SEP 17 | 6:30 PM
Kardia Rm 224
Join us for this important and timely discussion on social righteousness and justice with Rev. Jerrod Lowery and Dr. Rev. Gary Smith. Come early and enjoy a POPS Meal at 5:30 pm in Brown Hall.
POPS Program: Flood Risks & Resiliency in Wilmington
POPS Program: Flood Risks & Resiliency in Wilmington
SEP 24 | 6:30 PM
Kardia Rm 224
SEP 24 | 6:30 PM
Kardia Rm 224
Localized flooding is on the rise. Join the Earth Care Team for an important conversation with our very own Tony McEwen and City of Wilmington Chief Resilience Officer, Craig Harris, about what communities can do to be more resilient and proactive to flood risks; as well as ways we can work together to help promote and support flood resilience strategies locally and at the state level.
POPS Meal at 5:30 pm in Brown Hall.
POPS Meal at 5:30 pm in Brown Hall.
Music on Market: ASU Steely Pan Steel Band
App State Steely Pan Steel Band
SEP 28 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
SEP 28 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
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!
Thursday Night Disciples Book Study
What's So Amazing About Grace?
Thursday Night Disciples
OCT 2 | 6:30 pm
Zoom
OCT 2 | 6:30 pm
Zoom
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 pm - 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!
Music on Market: Gentlemen's Quartet
Gentlemen's Quartet
NOV 9 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
NOV 9 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
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!
Music | Contact Cindy Litzinger
Update on Contemporary Music Director Search
Several of you have asked about the search for our new contemporary music director, and I wanted to share an update. We’ve been working diligently—posting, searching, and interviewing—and will continue the process until we find the right person.
In the meantime, we’re excited to announce that contemporary worship will resume at its regular time of 9:00 AM on Sunday, September 7. You’ll see many of your favorite familiar faces leading music, and perhaps even a new one or two!
Please help us spread the word about this opportunity, and most importantly, keep this search in your prayers as we continue to discern God’s leading.
In the meantime, we’re excited to announce that contemporary worship will resume at its regular time of 9:00 AM on Sunday, September 7. You’ll see many of your favorite familiar faces leading music, and perhaps even a new one or two!
Please help us spread the word about this opportunity, and most importantly, keep this search in your prayers as we continue to discern God’s leading.
Exciting News! New Handbell Group Forming!
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.
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.
Go & Serve | Contact Gary Smith
September Donation Drive
Good Shepherd Center, Salvation Army, & the Rescue Mission
During September, Go & Serve will be collecting non-perishable foods for our neighbors who struggle to feed themselves. Everything will be distributed among Good Shepherd, Salvation Army, and the Rescue Mission, all of which work to help those in need. Suggested food items include those listed below.
Please bring your donations to the table in the Gathering Area where we will be collecting while we worship in Brown Hall. Thank you for loving our neighbors this way.
- Cereal, both hot and cold
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Instant rice and potatoes
- Canned soup
- Canned chicken and tuna
- Packaged snacks
- Pasta and pasta sauce
- Sugar or flour
- #10 cans of fruits, vegetables, or beans
Casserole Preparation for DVSS Clients
by Carol Query
With fall almost upon us, it is time for each of us to consider preparing a 13x9 casserole of comfort food to give to the clients of the Domestic Violence Shelter. Aluminum pans and lids are available in the mailroom cabinet beside the big white freezer. Once you take the container, you make a casserole in it, bake it, freeze it, and return it to the church freezer on a given Sunday so that it can be delivered to the Open Gate mid-week.
Each week, two casseroles are delivered to the Open Gate which in turn are delivered to the actual shelter. Here between 25 -30 predominately women and children are housed and fed to protect them from their abusers. The clients are most appreciative and often send verbal messages through the DVSS employees.
There is a calendar of available dates to deliver prepared casseroles in a notebook in the mailroom next to the small dining room. For further information, contact Carol Query by email or call 910-470-3127.
Each week, two casseroles are delivered to the Open Gate which in turn are delivered to the actual shelter. Here between 25 -30 predominately women and children are housed and fed to protect them from their abusers. The clients are most appreciative and often send verbal messages through the DVSS employees.
There is a calendar of available dates to deliver prepared casseroles in a notebook in the mailroom next to the small dining room. For further information, contact Carol Query by email or call 910-470-3127.
Children | Contact Lynn Warner
Bible Presentation Sunday
Bible Presentation Sunday
SEP 14 | 9:00 am
Brown Hall
SEP 14 | 9:00 am
Brown Hall
All 3rd & 4th graders are invited to join us at the 9:00 am worship service to receive The Adventure Bible which is designed for new readers aged 8-12 to help them navigate the powerful stories of the Bible!
The Bible presentation will be followed up with a six week interactive Sunday School class called Dive Deep designed to help children discover what an amazing gift the Word of God can be in their lives!
The Bible presentation will be followed up with a six week interactive Sunday School class called Dive Deep designed to help children discover what an amazing gift the Word of God can be in their lives!
Grades K - 2 | Wonders of Worship
Wonders of Worship
SEP - 14 - OCT 26 | 10:00 am
Lower Level Rm 25
SEP - 14 - OCT 26 | 10:00 am
Lower Level Rm 25
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.
Grades 3 - 5 | Dive Deep into God's Word!
Dive Deep into God's Word
SEP - 14 - OCT 26 | 10:00 am
Lower Level Rm 26
SEP - 14 - OCT 26 | 10:00 am
Lower Level Rm 26
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.
Reach out to Lynn Warner if you have a child interested in receiving a new Bible and participating in this fun and formative study.
Children's Events
Youth | Contact Jen Phelps
DGroups Start SEP 10
D-Groups
SEP 10 - NOV 19 | 6:30 pm
Lower Level
SEP 10 - NOV 19 | 6:30 pm
Lower Level
Middle and high school students gather for fellowship, Bible study and our small group ministry every other Wednesday night. **Note our new location back in the church beginning this fall.**
Programming begins at 7:00 pm. See Jen Phelps for more details.
Programming begins at 7:00 pm. See Jen Phelps for more details.
Youth $5 Putt Putt
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.
Youth Events
GIVING | Contact Susan Dykes
July 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 September 9, 2025
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 Grieve For:
Brian Morgan Faulk, son of Ron and Chris Faulk, died September 3. There will be a memorial service for Brian at 2:00 on Sunday in Brown Hall.
We Pray For:
Lil Conley remains at Duke. Cards can be sent to Lil Conley, 3223 Old Chapel Hill Road, Unit B, Durham, NC 27707 Please use this link to her CaringBridge site.
Rev. Parker Lucas continues to recover from surgery. He welcomes cards and calls.
Our Malawi partners would like to request your continual prayers for Malawi’s general elections, which take place on September 16. General elections are to elect president, members of parliament and ward counselors. We pray that God will help Malawians to choose a God fearing leader.
Please pray for Rev. Jerrod Lowry, the General Presbyter and Stated Clerk of our presbytery as he undergoes treatment for colon cancer. Pray for Rev. Laura Lupton, our Acting General Presbyter and Stated Clerk as she takes on additional tasks for the presbytery while Jerrod is on medical leave.
Rev. Parker Lucas continues to recover from surgery. He welcomes cards and calls.
Our Malawi partners would like to request your continual prayers for Malawi’s general elections, which take place on September 16. General elections are to elect president, members of parliament and ward counselors. We pray that God will help Malawians to choose a God fearing leader.
Please pray for Rev. Jerrod Lowry, the General Presbyter and Stated Clerk of our presbytery as he undergoes treatment for colon cancer. Pray for Rev. Laura Lupton, our Acting General Presbyter and Stated Clerk as she takes on additional tasks for the presbytery while Jerrod is on medical leave.
Service Personnel:
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.
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.
Birthday Celebrations | Sept. 9 - 16, 2025
September 9: Colleen Holliday, Trudy Keever, Lindley White
September 10: Peggy Hayes
September 11: Katie Grace Marinos, Franc Payne
September 12: Rosalind Barker, Sam Morrison
September 15: Tom Garner, Bob Padula, Will Whitley
September 16: Lynn Atkinson, Mike DeCocco
September 10: Peggy Hayes
September 11: Katie Grace Marinos, Franc Payne
September 12: Rosalind Barker, Sam Morrison
September 15: Tom Garner, Bob Padula, Will Whitley
September 16: Lynn Atkinson, Mike DeCocco
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. 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
SACPC Weekly Updates for Jan. 20-27, 2026
January 20th, 2026
SACPC Weekly Updates for Jan. 13 - 20, 2026
January 13th, 2026
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