August eNews

745 Little Neck Road

Virginia Beach, VA 23452

(757) 340-2840

info@kgpc.org kgpc.org

The Facts about a Feasibility Study

Since KGPC is embarking on a feasibility study for the next few months, I wanted to share more information on what that actually entails and why Session believes this is important.

What is a Feasibility Study? It involves a process of evaluating our vision and needs for the church, sharing those vision and needs with key leaders in this church for feedback, and then sharing a refined vision and needs to the congregation for your input.

Who will do the study? We have hired Mark Meyer, with Horizons Stewardship, to work with us on this feasibility study. He has worked with over 200 churches, including First Presbyterian Church in Hampton who give him high accolades.

How long will it take? Mark has been hired and is at work, having been in several zoom meetings already. It will last until the end of October or beginning of November.

Is this the beginning of a Capital Campaign? No. This is a study to determine if we do a capital campaign and, if so, what projects will be included, when it will start, and how much the campaign will try to raise. It will provide Session the needed information to decide how we will conduct a campaign.

What is the end product of this study? Mark will put together a report for Session that will share his findings and his determination of how much he believes we can raise if we move forward with a campaign. Session will use that information to discern any next steps we take.

What are the projects being considered for the feasibility study? While the list is not complete, those projects under consideration include a new parking lot, an improved HVAC system, a building renovation from the pre-design results, and funds to replenish the Capital Replacement Fund. These are the projects that have been mentioned to date as possibilities.

What can we anticipate in this study? Some folks will join together for a small group gathering to test out the vision and needs. They will be asked for input, energy level, and other feedback. Everyone will be invited to the congregational gathering that may be sometime in late September. This will be the chance everyone will hear the refined vision and needs, ask questions, and then be given a survey to share thoughts, opinions, and input.

Why are we doing this study? While Session is entertaining a capital campaign, no one wants to go into it without a solid understanding of why we are doing it, can we realistically raise that much, and how do we do it. This allows the congregation a voice to be part of this process before any decision is made. It allows valuable time for communication and understanding before we embark on any significant undertaking.

I hope this helps in understanding what we will be doing in the next few months regarding a feasibility study. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to me or our new Clerk of Session, Al Mayo. We are committed to keeping you up-to-date and in the loop with as much communication as needed.

It’s an exciting time in the life of this church. Please join me in praying for our future, praying for our Session, and praying for us to follow wherever God is leading us. We are not alone on this journey. This campus allows us to do some incredible ministry. As we repair and upgrade it, my prayer is that it will continue to bring people to Christ and demonstrate the love of God for decades to come.

Abide, Grow, Shine, Love,

Pastor Chris

KGPC God Winks

Submitted by Anonymous

A few years ago, I was cleaning out this old purse I haven’t touched in forever so I could take it with me as a carry-on bag to visit my son. You know how stuff just collects at the bottom? I found this beat‑up index card with Isaiah 41:10 on it — “Do not fear, for I am with you.” I wrote it down years ago when life felt pretty heavy, and had stuck it in the pocket of the purse where I put my wallet so that I would see it several times during the day. At some point, it must have fallen in the main pocket of the purse and I forgot about it.

I kind of laughed when I saw it because I hadn’t thought about that verse in ages. I tossed it on my dresser and didn’t think much more about it.

A couple days later at my son’s church, the pastor starts preaching… and it’s that exact verse. Same translation, same everything. I just sat there thinking, “Okay, that’s weird.” Not spooky weird — more like a gentle nudge. Like God saying, “Hey, I still remember what you were carrying back then… and I see what you’re carrying now.” When I got home, I took that card off my dresser and put it in the purse I use daily, my constant reminder that God is always with me.

“God winks” are those coincidences we know aren’t coincidences. They are celebrations for what God is doing in us and through us.

If you’ve seen God at work in this church or in your life, write a short paragraph and send it to the church office (office@kgpc.org). Anonymous stories are accepted as well as those who don’t mind their name being known

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT KGPC

Sunday, August 2

No Adult Faith Formation

No Youth Donuts and Discussion

No King's Kids

10:00 AM - Worship Service

5:00 PM - Gather Dinner Church

Monday, August 3

12:30 PM - Lunch Bunch

4:00 PM - CPR Training

Tuesday, August 4

Primary Voting Day

6:30 PM - Grow Meeting

Wednesday, August 5

7:00 AM - Prayer Breakfast

9:00 AM - Summer Ladies Bible Study

5:30 PM - Best LIFE Group

7:00 PM - Summer Ladies Bible Study

Thursday, August 6

7:15 PM - Zoom LIFE Group

Friday, August 7

Parking Lot Line Painting at KGPC

Saturday, August 8

Click HERE for the Full Calendar

Click HERE for August Birthdays

Upcoming Special Events!

Below is an update from the Compassion Center in Rugese, Rwanda on the Sorghum Growing Project that our church funded last year:

“We are pleased to share that the sorghum crop is progressing successfully and has now reached the harvesting stage. This marks an important milestone for the participating caregivers, who are grateful and encouraged by the positive results of their hard work. The caregivers are optimistic that processing the harvested sorghum into flour and selling it in the local market will provide a sustainable source of income. They believe this opportunity will strengthen their economic resilience, improve household well-being, and help them better meet the needs of their families. To support this initiative, the local church has generously provided a safe and convenient space where caregivers can process and dry their harvested sorghum. Additionally, the church is helping to safeguard the harvest during the drying and storage period, ensuring that the produce remains secure as families prepare it for sale. This support has given caregivers confidence and peace of mind throughout the post-harvest process. The caregivers sincerely express their heartfelt gratitude for the support they have received. They testify that this assistance is transforming their lives by improving their livelihoods, increasing their self-reliance, and restoring hope for a brighter and more sustainable future. As they look forward to the next phase of processing and marketing their produce, they remain deeply thankful to God and to all those whose generosity and commitment have helped turn their vision into reality."

Two years ago, Ed McLeod Jr found a quilt that was made by KGPC's Quilters Group as a gift for his parents, Ed and Pasty McLeod. This Quilt which was presented to them in 1981 had the names of all the members stitched in around the border of the quilt. He returned the quilt to us thinking that it would hold more meaning for us here at KGPC than left in a closet at his house. Our current quilters group added a hanging loop to the quilt, and now it hangs in our prayer room. Stop by and check it out.

JULY 2026 SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

Session practiced the presence of God by Reading 1 Samuel: 42-47. We contemplated the Goliaths we face in our lives and how we have grown strong in our faith to face the Goliaths we encounter.
The clerk reviewed information from a meeting requested by the Finance Committee to discuss questions referencing a capital campaign feasibility study conducted by Horizons Stewardship.
The Finance Committee requested session representation on the generosity committee. Brenda Stone and Al Mayo will be the session representatives.
Session created a capital campaign feasibility study committee. The committee members are Mickey Walker, Bob Larose, Chuck Sandford, Daryl Mitchell and Al Mayo, Shannon Bronaugh and Elizabeth Chidester will serve in an advisory capacity and Pastor Chris and Rebekah Kerr-Montoya will serve ex-officio.
Session initiatives developed during this year's leadership summit were reviewed to determine the hows and the whos of implementation.
Michael Schnekser of the architectural firm Tymoff and Moss presented the initial renderings of a gathering space.

Davy and Georgia Jones celebrate 60 years together this year!

Come and enjoy some cake and memories with the happy young couple between 2-4 pm on Saturday August 8th in the Fellowship Hall.

The best present is having you celebrate with us.
Please bring only your fondest memories and warm wishes!

Serve is happy to unveil our 'Need Help Share' board in the Connection Point!

If you have an item (a microwave, a walker, a tool you need to borrow) or a service (a ride to an appointment, someone to feed your cat) that you need, please post your need on the board. And if you have something you can share, or a way you can help, post that.

Then, watch the board, and if you are able to help someone (or see someone that can help you), reach out to them!! What a beautiful way to love our neighbors and do life together!

Posts Currently On the Board

*NEEDED - Help Moving on Thursday August 6th - Kailey Stephens

*NEEDED - "Help me or I can hire you to make a quilt" - Suzanne Long

*NEEDED - Someone to teach or help me make string jewelry (like beaded bracelets) - Suzanne Long

AVAILABLE PAID ASSISTANCE - Landscaping/Yard Work - Cade Schmitt

AVAILABLE RECREATION - Kayaking from the Long's House - Suzanne Long

*Means New This Week

For more information on these items, Check the Need/Help/Share Board in the Connection Point, or reach out to the poster!

10 AM Worship Series Information

Bible Stories for Children of All Ages

Most of us have heard these stories since we were kids. But what happens when we look at them from a different perspective? These familiar “children’s” stories will take on a whole new meaning as they teach us about sin, temptation, faithfulness, courage, disobedience, and trust. We will uncover deeper truths about what it means to be human and to live as God’s chosen people. Join us this summer as we return to our favorite childhood stories and realize they are for ALL God’s children.

August 2 - David and Goliath I Samuel 17

When everyone cowered at Goliath’s challenge, young David stepped forward to face the giant. Refusing Saul’s armor, David took with him into battle his slingshot and a few stones. This epic battle celebrates the underdog. Against all odds, the little guy wins because of his courage and faith in God. But in the real world, the underdog rarely wins.

Reflection Questions: When have you felt like the “little guy”? List the giants in your life, those obstacles that seem unsurmountable. What do you already have that you could use to combat those giants? How will you take the first step to face them with faith and courage?

Check the link below for a refreshing children's take on David and Goliath.

Click HERE For the Veggie Tales Telling of This Week's Story

August 9 - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego Daniel 3
Rev. Kailey Stephens Preaching

These 3 Jewish men refused to worship King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden idol. What are the golden idols we are expected to worship today? Willing to die for their convictions, they are thrown into a fiery furnace. Much to the surprise of the bystanders, a fourth figure is seen in the furnace with them. Their miraculous survival changed the culture of their day. How might our faith and counter-cultural way of life influence the hearts of those around us?

Reflection Questions: What have been the “fires” in your life when you felt tested? How has a “fourth figure” walked with you through it?

August 16 - Daniel and the Lion’s Den Daniel 6

How far would you go to be faithful to God? Would you risk your life? Those are the questions Daniel had to answer when a law forbid him to pray to God. He remained faithful despite the threat of being thrown in the lion’s den. God protected him both from the lions and from those scheming against him. What are the ways society asks us to compromise our beliefs and actions today? How do you respond?

Reflection Questions: What laws would you be willing to break, or jobs you’d be willing to give up, in order to be faithful to God?

August 23 - Jonah and the Whale Jonah 1-4

This is a story about the mercy of God to a people who did not deserve it and a prophet who just doesn’t get what mercy is all about. While we may want to limit God's grace to those whom we think really deserve it, God's love is wider and more universal than we can imagine. Jonah struggles with obedience when he’s asked to do something he doesn’t want to. Even prophets can be disobedient. Who are our Ninevites? When was the last time you didn’t want to do something God asked you to?

Reflection Questions: Name a situation when you were upset or disappointed that someone received a second chance, forgiveness, or mercy. What has acted like a “whale” in your life?

August 30 - Youth Retreat Sunday

Join us while our youth share the amazing things they learned

Gather Dinner Church Worship Information

The Story that Changed Everything: Peter and Cornelius

Peter and Cornelius’ sixty-six verse story in Acts is one of the great turning points in Church history. Peter is transformed in his ways of thinking about who can be accepted into the church which begins a new mission to the Gentiles. Cornelius becomes the first uncircumcised Gentile baptized and welcomed into Jesus’ following without conforming to the Jewish law. What relevance does that story have for us today? In what ways do we need to be transformed? What are the new missions we are sent on?

August 2 Acts 10:34-43 God Shows No Partiality (Neither Should We)

August 9 Al Mayo Leading Dinner Church

August 16 Acts 10:44-48 The Spirit Did What??!!

August 23 Acts 11:1-18 Who Are We to Hinder God? COMMUNION

August 30 Youth Retreat Sunday at Dinner Church

Click HERE For the Sign Up Genius

BOOK CLUB

The Correspondent

by Virginia Evans

September 29th 7:00 pm

[No Book Club in August]

As always, ALL are welcome!

For more info contact Julie Seipel at jseipel57@gmail.com

Our Book Club meets on the last Tuesday of the month

at 7:00 p.m. in the Parlor.

Need a book, contact Julie Seipel for information.

KGPC FINANCIAL REPORT

PERIOD ENDING: JUNE 2026

MONTH OF JUNE

Cash Income--------- $57,122

Cash Expenses -------($53,357)

Surplus(Deficit)-------$3,765

YEAR-TO-DATE COMPARISON

ACTUAL INCOME:-------

ACTUAL EXPENSES:--

DIFFERENCE:----------- -

2025

$328,623

($296,319)

$32,304

2026

$334,548

($330,422)

$ 4,126

Click HERE for Financial Summary

2025 Internal Audit Results

Grow In Your Faith!

Our Livestream is available Sundays on YouTube and also on Facebook! Use the links below. The links will also be in the Sunday Morning Worship email.

Click HERE for the Worship Guide

Click HERE for our Service Live Stream

Those Serving our Church This Sunday:

Head Usher: Roy Phelps

Greeter: Marion Mitchell

Nursery Workers: Natalie Whiting

Tech Team: Cameras - David Scholefield; Slides - Mandi Powell;

Soundboard -Bob Larose; Livestream - Cade Schmitt

Communion Preparer: Brenda Stone

Communion Servers: Al Mayo, Chuck Sandford, Pam Sandford

Time and Talents

Here is all our current lists looking for volunteers!

Gather Dinner Church

Faith Formation Information!

Faith Formation Classes are on Summer Break! We look forward to seeing you in September when classes resume!

Spring ‘26 “LIFE” Groups

(“LIFE” L=Love God, I=Impact Others, F=Find time together, E=Engage authentically)

Join a LIFE group this Spring!

Prayerfully consider where you might spend “LIFE“ at KGPC!

There is a place for you in this small group experience. And there is always room for more… more members & more groups.

For more information, contact Julie Seipel (jseipel57@gmail.com).

Please contact the LIFE facilitator for details on the LIFE group you would like to be a part of.

Sunday:

Sabbath LIFE, 8:45-9:45 a.m. @ church, Suzy Farley (suzyfarley@yahoo.com)

Monday:

Lunch Bunch LIFE, 12:30-2pm @ church Connection Point, bring a lunch, Julie Seipel (jseipel57@gmail.com)

Tuesday:

Porch LIFE, 6:30 p.m., every other Tuesday @ Chuck & Pam Sandford’s home (chuck_sandford@yahoo.com)

Wednesday:

Prayer Breakfast LIFE, 7 a.m. @ church Fellowship Hall, Don Bradway (bradway.don@gmail.com)

Best LIFE group, 5:30 p.m., various restaurants, Jenn Baden (jennifer.baden@gmail.com)

Thursday:

Biscuit Bunch LIFE group, 8:30 a.m., 3rd Thursday of the month, @ church, Daryl Mitchell (darylwmitch@gmail.com)

Zoom LIFE Group, 7 p.m., every other week, online, in the comfort of your home, Karen Pleas (pleask.2@verizon.net)

Monthly LIFE groups:

Book Club, 7 p.m., last Tuesday of each month @ church, Julie Seipel (jseipel57@gmail.com

Home Communion

Are you unable to make it to worship on a regular basis? Would you like to still participate in the sacrament of Communion? Every Communion Sunday, we have several elders willing to bring Communion to you in your home.

If you would like to receive home Communion, please notify Miriam Callahan or the Church Office. (757-340-2840)

Session Members

The Members of Session are always open to have conversations about what is happening in the church. Let's Talk!

Class of 2027