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Dear BMPC,
This month we begin to say their names. Marian, who made beautiful things with her hands. Dick, who preached the good news for 96 years. Pat, who taught generations of children the gift of faith. Bess, a child of God, who practiced wonder on a daily basis. An artist, a preacher, an educator, a wonderer: so many ways to live out a vocation, and each one began in a gift they did not make themselves.
On All Saints Sunday, November 1, we give thanks for all of our departed saints, and for the claim God laid on each of their lives. We give thanks for all that was completed in them.
That Sunday also opens the November movement of The Long View: Time. For four weeks we will practice remembering, and learn from the saints that our lives sit inside a much longer story than this week's news. I'll preach on the theology of memory, and our Sunday faith formation class will go deeper with Heath Rada on grief and Bob Tuttle on end-of-life questions.
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Those saints showed up. Week after week, in good years and hard ones, they filled these pews and kitchens and ministry teams. You are doing the same. Thank you for showing up through All Creatures Great and Small, for the gardens and the generosity, and for loving this place and this valley with such steadiness. Called to embody Christ's love, we ask: has everyone been fed? Your gifts are how we answer.
If your pledge card is still on the kitchen counter or in the car, please bring it Sunday or drop it by the office by November 15. It helps our elders plan faithfully for the year ahead.
Keep on wondering-
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Memory and Saints:
Four Sundays in November
Every November, the church takes a long look at the people we have loved and lost. This year we are doing it together, in conversation, and we would love for you to join us. Whether you are grieving right now, remembering someone from long ago, caring for a parent, or simply curious, there is a place for you. All ages are welcome.
Join us in CR1 on four Sundays at 9:45:
November 1: All Saints and the Truth About Grief. Heath Rada opens the series with an honest conversation about loss. He will talk about what he thought grief was before he went through it himself, and what he has learned since.
November 8: Where Is God in the Pain? Mary Katherine leads a class on the hardest question of all. Where is God when we lose someone, or something? We won't offer easy answers, because there aren't any. We will wrestle honestly with what Scripture and our Reformed tradition have to say, and then turn to the theology of memory: what it means that
God remembers us, and what it means for us to remember those we love.
November 15: What a Year of Grief Has Taught. Heath returns with the lessons he has gathered over the past year. It is a practical, tender list that will help anyone who is grieving, or anyone who loves someone who is.
November 22: Facing Death Well. Bob Tuttle closes the series with the practical side of death and dying: what to know at the hospital, how to plan a service, and how to write down your wishes and have the conversation with the people you love. Yes, even write your own obituary, with a few dates left out. It is a gift to your family not to sweep death under the rug, and a gift to
yourself.
This series runs alongside our worship this month, when we are thinking about time, memory, and the communion of saints. Bring a friend, a parent, a teenager. You don't need the right words, or any words at all.
Called to embody Christ's love, we ask: has everyone been fed? This November, we hope that includes the people who are hungry for honest company in grief.
| | | | Church Life In November @ BMPC | | |
Discover BMPC
Sunday, November 8
12:15pm
Curious about BMPC or interested in becoming a member? Join us for a Discovery Class on Sunday, November 8, at 12:15 p.m.! This is a relaxed opportunity to learn more about who we are, what we believe, and how to get connected to the life of our church. Whether you’re exploring membership or simply want to learn more, you are welcome! Lunch will be provided, and we’d love to have you join us.
| |  | You're invited to the Fall Harvest Potluck! | |
Sunday, November 15
5:30pm
Gather around the table for an evening of food, fellowship, and gratitude!
We will provide the turkey and ham. Bring a favorite dish to share as we celebrate the gifts of the season and the joy of being together as a church family. All are welcome—there’s always room for one more at the table!
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RAD Wednesdays
RAD wraps up our fall season on November 4!
We’ve had a wonderful time exploring the Ten Best Ways through stories, art, music, and hands-on activities as we learn how to love God and care for one another. Thank you to all our children, families, and volunteers who make RAD so special!
STAY TUNED: RAD will return in February for another season of faith, fun, and fellowship. We can’t wait to see you there!
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Sunday, November 8
Join us in the sanctuary on November 8 for a special Children’s Worship Service at 11am!
Our RAD kids will lead worship and share what they’ve learned this fall as they explored the Ten Best Ways to live as God’s people. Come celebrate their faith, creativity, and growth as they help lead our congregation in worship!
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Christmas shopping with Route 45
Sunday, November 22
We have adopted children with SVCM Christmas Cheer program and will be shopping for them! Afterward, we'll have dinner at Good Company in Swannanoa.
We hope your 4th or 5th grader can join us!
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Sign up now for Advent Adventures!
Join us on Wednesdays, December 2, 9, and 16, from 3–4:30 p.m.! Children are invited to journey through the Advent season with fun activities, creativity, stories, and opportunities to grow in faith as we prepare for the joy of Christmas. We can’t wait to celebrate the season together!
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It’s time to get ready for our Christmas Eve Children's Service! Practices will be held on Wednesdays from 4:30–5:30 p.m., December 2–16, with a dress rehearsal on Wednesday, December 23, at 2:00 p.m.
If your child is in Pre-K or older and will be in town on Christmas Eve, we would love for them to participate! No experience is necessary—just a willingness to be part of sharing the Christmas story with our congregation.
To sign up, please email Brittany or sign up here.
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Wednesday, November 4
7:30-9:30pm
Inspiration Point at Camp Rockmont
Email david@bmpcnc.org for more info.
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Tuesday, November 17
7:30-9:30pm
Church House
We will continue our discussion on the Fruits of the Spirit and will focus on Kindness. We will have a devotion followed by a craft. All are welcome!
| | | Get Connected in the Life of the Church! | |
- Sunday morning usher or greeter
- Help with Spaghetti Dinners on Wednesday evenings
- Assist with our vibrant RAD Wednesdays program for pre-k thru 5th graders
- Become a Youth Advisor and work with our Middle and High Schoolers
- Join a Faith Formation Class on Sundays or during the week
- Volunteer during a service project led by our mission team
And so much more!
Need help getting connected? Call the church office at 828-669-2725 and let us help!
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On November 1 following 11am worship, all women are invited to join the Presbyterian Women’s Fall gathering. A variety of salads will be served. Please bring candy and/or snacks to support the Youth ministry of the Church.
There is a need for cookie makers to supply receptions following memorial services. If you would be willing to contribute, please contact Janet Martin at jbm4194@gmail.com. Ushers and greeters are also needed for memorial services. If you would be willing to be on the list as a possible usher for these special services, please contact Andrea DeWitt at and.dewitt8@gmail.com.
Mark your calendar now for future PW gatherings:
January 10 for the Winter gathering
May 11 for the Spring gathering
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All Women are invited to Lydia Circle Service Night!
Sixteen women began the 2027 Malawi Period Pad Project last month by tracing & cutting flannel for the outside covers of the pads. We will be continuing this work every 4th Tuesday of the month. All are invited to join us in the library and parlor at church!
| | Old Fellers Celebrate Art Lindsay's 100th Birthday! | |
November Dates
11/1 Pottery Painting 1:30-4:30pm
11/4 Potato Dinner Fundraiser 5:15-6:30pm
11/8 Donuts and Devotions 9:45-10:45am Youth Room
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11/8 Nintendo Tournament 2-4pm Fellowship Hall
11/11 Small Group 6:30-7:30pm
11/14-15 PYC Fall Youth Retreat Camp Grier
11/15 Rake and Run 2-5pm
11/15 Fall Harvest Potluck
11/17 Margaritas, Mocktails and Mamas (Middle and High School Moms Group) 7pm Soup Swap
11/18 Small Group 6:30-7:30pm
11/22 Donuts and Devotions 9:45-10:45am Youth Room
Church and Lunch
Friendsgiving Fellowship Hall 5:30-7:30pm
11/25-28 - No Youth Group - Happy Thanksgiving!
11/29 Youth Lead Family Worship
| | I had the opportunity to attend the PYWA Come to the Mountains Annual Event for youth workers in Montreat this week! I was also grateful to be part of the planning team as a local person and help with the evening events. I always love an opportunity to learn more about how I can better serve our students and to connect with other youth workers from around the country who are doing this same work. | | |
The workshops I attended were Youth in Worship, Gospel of Play, and Everything Is Theological which gave me lots to think about, and I was also able to participate in a Soul Care workshop. The worship experiences and keynote speakers were incredible!
There is no secret that I love my job, but after this week in Montreat I’m coming away from this week encouraged, inspired, and reminded of just how lucky I am to do what I do. Grateful for this work, for this community, and especially grateful for our students.
| | The youth group had a great time on the Fall Retreat in Pigeon Forge, TN! | | | Thank you to everyone who came out for Tacos & Trivia! We had a great evening filled with great food, fun questions, lots of laughter, and meaningful fellowship across generations. | | | At the Fall Festival, we had groups dressed as Minions and characters from Lord of the Rings! | | The youth group loved taking part in faith-sharing this past Sunday! | |
Follow us on the 'gram!
Are you on Instagram? Follow @bmpyouth by scanning the QR code to see what we're up to and get to know a little more about our wonderful youth!
| | Everyone is welcome at The Table, our young adult group. | | |
11/19 - Friendsgiving
Fellowship Hall, 6:30pm
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The Table is our young adult group which is a welcoming community for young adults in every stage of life. Whether you're a college student, starting your career, settling into a new season, or simply looking for a place to connect, there's a seat for you.
We know that "young adult" can look different for everyone, and busy schedules often make it difficult to build meaningful relationships. That's why we gather once a month in a relaxed, low-pressure environment where you can enjoy a meal, share conversation, and get to know others without expectations or obligations.
Our hope is to create a community where people can build authentic friendships, encourage one another, and grow in faith together. Whether you've been part of BMPC for years or are visiting for the first time, you are invited to come as you are. There's always a place for you at the table.
Email Katie at katie@bmpcnc.org to find out more!
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Margaret Fouse honored for her work on the BMPC gardens
In 2010, Margaret Fouse began the creation of the beautiful gardens you see surrounding the church building. Since then, she has faithfully planted, weeded, pruned, and culled hundreds of plants. Through the years, many individuals have helped out, and today she has a devoted team which includes Nancy Zuk, Nancy Webster, and Sherri Young.
Last spring, Margaret completed the requirements for becoming a Certified Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation. She prioritized the use of native plants, water conservation, and avoiding pesticide use to help wildlife thrive. Her gardens provide food, water, cover and places to raise young for important wildlife and pollinators.
Margaret and her team will be honored with a Certified Wildlife Plaque to be placed in the garden just beside the church front door. A dedication ceremony was held on Sunday, October 11.
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A note from our Bookkeeper, Suzane Churchman
Did you know that the Finance Team creates the budget based on 2027 pledge commitments?
As the Finance Team works to assess each Ministry Team's budget requests for 2027, we are also looking at the pledge numbers coming in to determine if we can meet all of the budget requests or not. The sooner you get your pledge cards in (or enter your pledge through the QR code or link for pledges), the more information the Finance Team has to determine BMPC's 2027 annual budget. So, if you haven't yet turned in your pledge information, please do so as soon as possible either by emailing Suzane at finance@bmpcnc.org, or by placing your pledge card in Suzane's box on her front door, or by using the link or QR code to enter your 2027 pledge.
If you have any questions about entering your pledge, please reach out to Suzane at finance@bmpcnc.org.
| | | Outreach & Mission Updates | | |
November’s Outreach Ministry Team focus is on Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry.
This organization is vital to the wellbeing of so many in our community. A team of
committed staff, volunteers, churches, and community partners work together to provide
essential support and compassionate service to our neighbors in the Swannanoa Valley.
Whether it’s housing, food, clothing, or direct financial assistance for things like rent,
heating, transportation, and utilities, their goal in every interaction is to affirm every
individual’s inherent dignity and worth regardless of their social or economic
background.
SVCM’s programs are largely run by committed volunteers who work three hour shifts every week. The volunteers work directly with our neighbors in need by welcoming them, helping to identify their immediate needs, and assisting them in our clothing closet and food pantry. Other volunteers help keep client files and databases up to date. If you would like to become a volunteer working with our neighbors, please contact Ali Conroy
at ali@svcmblackmountain.org.
Here are some specific volunteer opportunities that we could use your support on!
Clothing Closet
● Monday: 12 - 3 p.m.
● Thursday: 12 - 3 p.m.
● Friday: 12 - 3 p.m.
Intake & Reception
● Monday Reception: 12 - 3 p.m.
● Friday Reception: 12 - 3 p.m.
In addition, there are several opportunities in November & December to support the
programs and outreach of SVCM. These include:
SVCM’s Johnny Raines Christmas Cheer Program
For families facing financial hardship, Christmas can bring an added burden. Johnny Raines Christmas Cheer gives community members the opportunity to step in and make sure the children of the Swannanoa Valley have the joy of receiving a gift on Christmas morning. For more than 20 years, Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry has connected sponsors with families in our community through the Christmas Cheer program. Sponsors receive a child’s wish list and have the joy of choosing gifts that will bring a little extra Christmas cheer.
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The deadline for submitting a sponsor application is November 6. Visit
www.svcmblackmountain.org/jrcc to complete the application via the Sponsor button.
SVCM’s 16th Annual Deck the Trees Holiday Fundraiser
Now celebrating 16 years, Deck the Trees will once again bring holiday wonder to the
Swannanoa Valley! This cherished fundraiser benefits the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry (SVCM) Fuel Fund, which helps our neighbors in need to keep their homes warm during winter. The yearly theme will inspire more than 50 beautifully decorated trees in Swannanoa and Black Mountain. You’ll find many of them at Peri Social House, Tyson Furniture Company, White Horse Black Mountain, and Town Hardware & General Store - plus dozens of other local businesses decked out for the season. From December 4 to January 4, you can vote for your favorite tree(s) by donating. Vote as many times as you’d like. Every dollar goes directly to the SVCM Fuel Fund.
Voting is easy:
Scan the QR code at each tree to donate online or drop cash or checks in the
donation box next to the tree. (Online donations encouraged.)
For an ongoing list of needs for the Crisis Ministry and Neighbor Care Clinic, go
to https://www.svcmblackmountain.org/donatetoday and scroll down to Other
Ways to Give. There is a donation basket in the narthex for donations.
Here is what we need most right now:
● Pots, pans, dishes, silverware
● Baby wipes
● Adult backpacks
● Incontinence bed underpads
● Blankets and comforters, all sizes
● Sheet sets, all sizes *highest priority for Queen*
● Comforters and Blankets
● Period Pads
● Deodorant
● Canned Meat
● Toilet paper
● 16oz. Ball canning jars with lids (or similar)
● Laundry Detergent
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Alternative Gifting is just around the corner!
Google any of these if you aren't familiar to see what good works they are doing.
Local: Appalachian Community Relief(free food pantry)
Black Mountain counseling center
BMPC Week Day School(Scholarships)
CIMA(immigrant support group)
Hammer n Heart(a division of SVCM)
Ministry of Hope(Chaplain for the women's prison)
GLOBAL: EbenEzer Guatemala (scholarships)
This Child Here (camp support for children in Ukraine)
Malawi medical mission
Holiday cards will be available with explanations for you to give at Christmas.
Your Mission Team thanks you in advance for considering all or any of the above gifts!
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2 Sonora Clover
3 Alison Banzhoff
Dan Stitt
Randy Phillips
Cassie Melvin
4 Carolyn Crowder
5 Kiersten Hall
Ann Wilde
6 Robin Stile
Chet Alexander
Peggy Bolton
7 Judy Rozzell
8 Virginie Pomeroy
Vivian Pickett
Brian McCachren
9 Flora Gardner
10 Eli Banks
Isaac Dannenberg
Rachel Gable
Evie Wiggs
Anita Case
11 Aram Baker
Betsy Wilson
12 Isaac Baraki
Vanessa Pickett
14 Ross Verbrugge
16 Cherie Lunsford
Goldie Ginn
17 Ella Davis
Ann Thomas Georgeson
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18 Parker Fisher
Laurel Broadhurst
Jeff Turpin
Jim Gentry
19 Kevin Griffin
20 Avery Van Note
Carolyn Johnson
Junith Koon
Betsy Hay
21 Colton West
Daniel Wiggs
Sharon Welker
Maria Schlegelmilch
22 Adlai Dwight
Caleb Holladay
Wilson Jumper
Craig Georgeson
23 Judy Hollins
Jonathan Patton
25 Matt Coward
26 Kay Layman
Jennifer Holt
27 Jonathan Kadau
28 Vivian Gardner
Rick Rozzelle
29 Vivian Rachman
Connor Mailander
Bill Henderson
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