As we install and ordain our new officers this Sunday in both services, Katie leads us in worship with scripture from Acts 6:1-7. Have you ever wondered what makes us Presbyterian or what that word even means? Come learn how we discern the will of God together and determine the leadership of our congregation.

It's also 5-Cents A Meal Sunday. Bring your offerings to the collection bins at the front during the first song or hymn.

Hello Church,

Many of you have been so kind to take the time to send me your notes and cards of concern along with your prayers for healing, inspiring scriptures and even a few humorous memes. All of these are much appreciated and needed. You are a very loving and funny church family. I am very grateful, thank you.

As for my condition, I suffered a severe fracture of my left heel bone (calcaneus). Surgery put everything back together again but recovery is very slow. One of you aptly described this recovery period as “orthopedic prison”.  While there has been some progress, there has been some setbacks as well. So, I still have a long sentence to serve. Your continued prayers for healing and patience are appreciated.

Finally, I want you to know I miss being with you at church, but I have a new appreciation for our church's livestream. It is the next best thing to being there. So thanks to all those responsible for making that available.

I hope that all of you had a very merry Christmas and that you begin the new year with hearts full of the spirit that comes with Christmas and sustains and empowers us all.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13

Sincerely,
Kent Anderson

by Rene Sasser

We are excited to announce the upcoming registration dates for our SACPC preschool for the 2026-2027 school year! We look forward to welcoming both returning and new families to our program.

January 7 - Registration opens for current preschool families
January 12 - Priority registration for church members
January 14 - Registration opens to the general public

Families are encouraged to register as early as possible to help with planning for the coming year.

If you or someone you know would like more information about the preschool, the registration process or would like to schedule a tour, please contact Rene Sasser at 910-762-9693, ext. 214 or rsasser@sacpc.org.

We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with families in providing a nurturing, faith-filled early learning experience.

by Donna Philips

Learn to play pickleball. Lessons available on Monday or Tuesday at 3:00 in Brown Hall for men and women. Contact Donna Philips at 404 226-5976 for more information.

by Sue McCaffray

Join the Thursday Night Disciples via Zoom for a six-week study of the classic book "If You Want To Walk On Water You've Got To Get Out Of The Boat" by John Ortberg about one memorable stormy night on the Sea of Galilee. The study meets every Thursday from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm between January  22 -  February 26.

Participants read a chapter in the Participant's Guide each week (acquire your own: ISBN-13: 9780310823353), and discuss a video that we watch together. Reading Ortberg's original book of the same title is optional. Contact Dave Hoff  to sign up and get the Zoom link. It's fun! And you don't have to leave the house!

by Shelley Hobson

The Stillpoint Monday 5:00 ZOOM class will begin a new book study on January 12th.  We hope you’ll join us for our weekly devotion and book discussion with our newly-selected book: Christian Minimalism by Becca Ehrlich.

"Ehrlich’s insightful self-help guide will resonate with Christians wishing to streamline an overstuffed life."―Publishers Weekly

Logically, we all know our purpose in life is not wrapped up in accumulating possessions, wealth, power, and prestige―Jesus is very clear about that―but society tells us otherwise. Christian Minimalism attempts to cut through our assumptions and society’s lies about what life should look like and invites readers into a life that Jesus calls us to live: one lived intentionally, free of physical, spiritual, and emotional clutter.

Written by a woman who simplified her own life and practices these principles daily, this book gives readers a fresh perspective on how to live out God’s grace for us in new and exciting ways and live out our faith in a way that is deeply satisfying.

If you are interested in joining us and need the ZOOM link, contact Shelley Hobson or Lynn Kozik.

by Ed Hobson

The Malawi Partnership Committee is grateful for the support of the SACPC Congregation. As of December 31, 2025 we have received support for the important program in the amount of $19,122.40. This amount will go a long way toward supporting the education needs of the families of the Chuluchosema CCAP Church in Malawi. Although this is short of our goal of $25,000 we are very thankful and there is still time to support this mission if you haven't yet done so.

Zikomo Kwambiri! (Thank you very much)

by Catheryn Thomas

The painting in the Sanctuary, Narthex, Chapel, Parlor, and 15th Street entrance is complete. The new flooring has been installed in all those same areas (except the parlor, which has its beautiful original wood). The staining of the platform and powdercoating of the floor vents should happen in the upcoming days. And the AV installations will happen over the next weeks (new screens and other equipment). More to come!

by Phyllis Smith

It’s time to get your ducks in a row and organize everything your loved ones will need when dealing with end of life issues. Ducks in a Row is a six session program to help you do just that. The class will meet every two weeks beginning January 13. The other dates are: January 27, February 10, February 24, March 10 and March 17. [PLEASE NOTE: The start date has changed.]

There will be speakers for four of the classes covering advanced directives, financial planning, estate planning, and funeral planning. There is no cost for the course but there is a $40.00 charge for the notebook that you will use to record all of your information. For couples there is an extra $5.00 for a partner package.

It is a valuable gift for your loved ones and we have lots of fun, too!

Menu: Pork Loin & Pulled Pork, Collards, Sweet Potatoes, Cornbread Stuffing, Salad, and Dessert. Cost is $25/family, $7/adult, and $5/under 12.

Join us on Wednesday, January 7 at 6:30 pm in Kardia Rm 224 for a talk by Sue McCaffray, wearing her retired history professor hat. This talk will focus on the late Russian anti-corruption campaigner Alexei Navalny. Navalny revealed in his prison memoir that he had become a Christian, and we will consider how this may have impacted the life he chose to lead.

January’s Women’s Bible study will be led by Peggy Hayes. The theme is "The Gift of the Woman Who Was Poor." Joy in Christ is more than happiness; it can change challenging circumstances into faith-filled, even joyous times. Main scripture passage is from Mark 12:41-44.

What can we do when someone close to us seems to be spiraling into a dangerous mental health crisis? Recent events as close as Southport remind us that it can be good to intervene before a tragedy strikes. But how?

Join us in Room 224 at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, January 14, for an informative session on mental health and law enforcement approaches, offered by two of our own: Rachel Marsh, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Malcolm Phelps, who retired from the WPD as Director of the Real Time Crime Center.

Join us for POPS on January 21 (after dinner at 6:30 in Room 224), as Rev. Barbara Hager discusses her work with the National Council Churches. Barbara will share recent work the NCC has been doing to combat Anti-Semitism and Christian Nationalism.

Have you ever wanted to sing Handel’s Messiah but didn’t know where to start? Here’s your chance! This February, SACPC will present “The Living Last Supper,” a moving blend of music and drama that brings to life the story of Jesus’ final meal with His disciples. The choir will perform selections from Messiah as part of this powerful worship experience — and we’d love for YOU to join us!

Rehearsal Schedule (in the Choir Room):
 
Jan 7 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 14 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 21 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 28 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 4 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 11 – 7:00–8:00 pm

Tech Week in Brown Hall:
 
Feb 17–19 (times TBD)
Feb 20 – Dress Rehearsal
Feb 21 – Performance | 7:30 pm
Feb 22 – Performance | 3:00 pm

FAQs:
Do I need to attend every rehearsal?
No — come when you can! We’d love to see you at as many as possible.

Do I need to read music?
Not at all! All are welcome — enthusiasm counts more than experience.

Can I invite a friend?
Absolutely! The more voices, the better.

Add your voice to this inspiring musical journey and help us share the story of Christ through the timeless beauty of Handel’s Messiah.

In January, we will be collecting warm hats, scarves, and gloves/mittens for all ages, baby through adult. Church World Service (CWS), which supports immigrants who have arrived in our country after a rigorous background check process that can take years, often come from warm climates and are unprepared for our winters. CWS helps immigrants navigate life in America in a variety of ways. Several people from SACPC volunteer with this valuable ministry. Let's help these new neighbors feel welcome and warm.

SACPC members and friends ae invited to participate in the preparation of weekly casseroles for the clients of the Domestic Violence Shelter in January, February, and March.  Aluminum casserole pans and lids are available in the mailroom as well as are the instructions for making and delivering the casseroles to the church on Sundays.  For additional information, please contact Carol Query at 910-470-3127 or click the link below to send an email.

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.

Beginning on Sunday, February 1 and continuing through the month our 3rd - 5th Grade Sunday School class will embark on a study of Prayer! The class is entitled "Hey, God, Let's Talk."

As Christians prayer is an important part of our relationship with God and becoming comfortable with the concept of Prayer is an important part of our Christian Education and spiritual growth.

Families with children in this age group will receive additional information about this opportunity this week.

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.

Bring out your best recipe and prepare to compete for fabulous prizes and lots of recognition. We will gather for taste testing and judging, fellowship and fun. Open to all middle and high school students. Friends welcome!

Chefs - bring your dish already prepared and ready to serve!

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!

There is a long history of caring for God’s creation in our denomination:

1990: The 202nd General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) adopted a policy report “Restoring Creation for Ecology and Justice.” The policy calls for Presbyterians to focus on caring for creation as a central concern to be incorporated in the life and mission of the church at every level.

1995: A grassroots national organization, Presbyterians for Restoring Creation, was founded. This organization is now known as Presbyterians for Earth Care. This group has been involved in every PC(USA) general assembly striving to advocate for issues of environmental concerns and providing training and education on all levels of our denomination.

2010: The Earth Care Congregations program was initiated to inspire churches to care for God’s earth by integrating earth care into all aspects of church life. Currently, there are several hundred Earth Care Congregations across the country. Thirty-seven PC(USA) churches in NC are certified Earth Care Congregations.

2023: SACPC formed an Earth Care Team following several of Reverend Harrington’s sermons that discussed caring for God’s creation and a youth Sunday School class focusing on Earth Day topics and asking how we as a church can help. The new Earth Care Team determined our best path forward was to work toward having SACPC become designated as an Earth Care Congregation.  What drew our team to this program were its origins in our denomination, its track record in guiding congregations through earth care and restoration, continuing opportunities for service and education, and the importance of incorporating spirituality and prayer into earth care. The application process involved documenting and initiating earth friendly activities and practices in the areas of worship, education, facilities and outreach. The Earth Care Pledge was affirmed by Session and signed by the Clerk of Session.    

2024: Our application was submitted and approved, and SACPC became an Earth Care Congregation. Each year, we are required to document our progress in order to maintain our certification.   We are currently working on that application.

The Earth Care Pledge:
Our worship and discipleship will celebrate God’s grace and glory in creation.
Our education will encourage and support each other in keeping and healing the creation. Our facilities will be managed, maintained and upgraded to respect and cherish all creation. Our outreach will encourage community involvement and public policy to protect and restore the earth.

For the next several weeks, the Earth Care Team will provide reports on how our church is progressing on fulfilling the Earth Care Pledge. You can help by completing the congregational survey about what earth friendly activities you practice at home, and we invite you to join our team. There are 9 active members of our team, co-led by Gwen Behen and Shelley Hobson, and more are welcome! We meet via environmentally-friendly ZOOM once a month.  

For more information, contact Gwen or Shelley.

As an Earth Care congregation, we’re committed to living more sustainably and honoring God’s creation. We’d love to hear about the earth-friendly habits you and your family are already practicing at home. Please take a few moments to complete this short survey. The Earth Care team will share the results in late January. Thank you for participating and for being an important part of our journey to care for creation!

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.

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

Henry Sandlin who passed away 1-3-26.

Dr. Bill Rippy who passed away 1-4-26 at age 103.

Jack Woods' cousin Judy Moore & family.  Judy's husband Lewie is in remission from cancer (thanks to MANY prayers). 

Carolyn Wells and family will have a reception to honor the life of Charles Wells on Sunday, January 18, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, in the church Dining Room.

Emily Vassar who broke her elbow 12-22-25 and has surgery planned for 12-30-25. Prayers for successful surgery and pain management.

Laura and Neal Grimes' 5 year old grandson, Lucas, who has neuroblastoma. Grandparents are friends with Trudy Keever.

Deme Nunley who was recently hospitalized due to a fall but is now home.

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)

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.

January 6: Shelley Hobson, Caroline Johnson, Jack Waldrop
January 7: Sheila Woods, Cecil Worsley
January 8: Russell Herring, Maddy Noble
January 9: Megan Johnson
January 10: Kathryn Ciarrocca, Tory Hilliard
January 11: George Franck, David McGowan
January 12: Walter Bland, John Pasquariello
January 13: Kent Anderson, Charlene Boyd, Jane Shelton, Randy Warner

View our most recent Session Reports.