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Dear friends,
The countdown has begun! Vacation Bible School begins this Monday!
Today, our church was buzzing with energy as adult and youth volunteers transformed Kirk Hall into an Egyptian throne room. Crafts were prepped, costumes were readied, and dozens of little details were put into order. I am so grateful to Maria Blackshaw for her leadership and vision, and to everyone who gave their time and talents to prepare our space where dozens and dozens of children will encounter God’s love in creative and memorable ways.
This year, our Morning VBS (pre-k through 5th grade) will explore the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Along the way, our children will hear the simple refrain (from one version of a children’s storybook Bible):
“Was Joseph happy? No. But God was with him. And God helped him.”
Joseph’s story reminds us that faith does not mean life is always easy. There are disappointments and unexpected challenges. But through it all, God remained with Joseph, just as God remains with us. That’s a promise children need to hear, and one that adults need to remember, too.
If you haven’t registered your child yet, there’s still time! We’d love to have them.
Please keep our children, families, and volunteers in your prayers in the week ahead. May we all be reminded that no matter what life brings, God is always with us.
Grace and peace,
Elizabeth Link
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July 19, 2026:
- 10:00am Worship Service with Congregational Meeting, Sanctuary & Live Stream
- 5:30pm Welcome Families to the Alexa House
See the full calendar HERE.
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Congregational Meeting | July 19
This Sunday, July 19, we will hold a congregational meeting for the purpose of electing Elders of the Class of 2029. The Nominating Committee will present the following slate: Paul Bryan, Barry Green, Jason Horn, Anna McLean, Cayce Myers, Catherine Prescott, Eddie Smith, Sr., and Sharon Stewart.
Learn what these nominees love about Second Pres below!
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Paul Bryan
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because of our focus on helping communities not only in our own neighborhoods of Roanoke, but internationally as well."
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Barry Green
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because it is a community of grace, thoughtful faith, and genuine welcome, and I am honored to continue serving alongside people who have become such an important part of my life."
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Jason Horn
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because it gave me the space to grow my faith on my own timeline, free from judgment or rigid expectations."
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Anna McLean
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because of the emphasis the church has on service and missions. Service not only to the members of the church, but to the greater Roanoke Valley, our country and to those in need abroad."
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Cayce Myers
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because of the people and church community."
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Catherine Prescott
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because within this church community that provides so many faith shaping activities and study for people of all ages, I get to enjoy and be challenged by serving as a Habitat for Humanity volunteer and being a member of the Chancel Choir."
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Eddie Smith, Sr.
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because of our amazing pastors, wonderful congregation, and our continual mission to serve our community as well as serving mission efforts around the world."
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Sharon Stewart
"I love Second Presbyterian Church because it reminds me of my church growing up and so I’m comfortable and feel at home."
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Flowers in Worship
Open Flower Date | August 2
Sunday, August 2 is the final available summer date for anyone wishing to sponsor flowers in the sanctuary. Please contact Denise Revercomb to see if the date is still open. Thank you for helping us continue this special tradition.
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Morning VBS | "Jospeh's Journey"
July 20–23 (Mon.–Th.) | 8:30 a.m.–12 noon
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This year’s Morning Vacation Bible School (Pre-K–5th grade) will explore the inspiring story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Together, children will discover how God was always with Joseph (like God is always with us) through challenges, change, and moments of great need. Register today!
Our VBS programs thrive thanks to the energy and commitment of our youth and adult volunteers! If you’re interested in helping with crafts, games, storytelling, or snacks, we’d love to have you join the team. To volunteer, click the registration button and choose volunteer, or contact Maria Blackshaw or Meredith Koliba.
VBS After Care Camps* | July 20–23 (Mon.–Th.) | 12 noon–4:00 p.m.
We’re pleased to again offer VBS After Care Camps for families seeking extended care during VBS week! In partnership with local sports and arts organizations, children will enjoy fun, enriching afternoon “mini camps” held right here at the church. This opportunity allows families to take full advantage of the free Morning VBS while adding engaging afternoon activities. Please note that space will be limited and a $180 fee will apply for the aftercare portion. Register for After Care Camps today!
*Note: After Care Camps are open to Kindergarten–5th grade children.
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Men's Night Out @ Salem RidgeYaks
Wednesday, July 22 | Gates Open 5:30 p.m.
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Join us for a Men’s Night Out at the Salem RidgeYaks game on Wednesday, July 22. Thanks to the generosity of Don Wilson and Evergreen Memorial Trust, we have reserved Suite 8, which includes 20 complimentary tickets—available on a first-come, first served basis (4 remain). The air-conditioned suite is located on the second floor, with access via stairs or elevator. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the game begins at 6:35 p.m., with the RidgeYaks taking on the Augusta GreenJackets. To claim one of the remaining tickets, email Meredith Koliba. Tickets will be held at the Will Call window under the name Second Presbyterian. If complimentary tickets run out, additional tickets may be purchased at the gate.
| | Montreat Youth Conference Meal/Snack Sponsorship | On Sunday, July 26, our senior high youth head off to Montreat Youth Conference. This conference is a highlight for our youth as they connect with other youth and adults from around the country, explore their faith in new ways, and grow in relationship with God. This year, we are thrilled to be joined by three Taiwanese youth, as well. To help cut costs, we are asking for members to sponsor a meal/snack. Sign up via the SignUpGenius. Contact Ben with any questions (benb@spres.org). Thank you! | |
Preschool Endowment in Action!
Check out the fantastic new canopy over the preschool playground's Tot-Lot! We are grateful for the ways the Preschool Endowment is working to improve the safety and experience of our preschool children and staff.
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Preschool Spots Available for 2026–27
The preschool has a few spots open in the Twos Plus and Threes classes for the new school year, beginning mid-August. There is also space on the waitlist for Young Twos and PreK. Please email Preschool Director Alice Light to learn more or enroll.
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Preschool Hiring
Additionally, the preschool is hiring Infant Assistant Teachers for the morning and afternoon positions. Contact Preschool Director Alice Light with interest.
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Rally Day Picnic
Sunday, August 30 | 10:00 a.m. | Braeloch Pavilion
| Save the date and plan to join your church family for our end-of-summer Rally Day Picnic at Braeloch (the farm of Nancy and Al Hammond located at 2353 Hammond Dr, Vinton, VA 24179) at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 30! We look forward to this time of worship and fellowship outdoors with a picnic buffet-style meal from Three Li’l Pigs Barbeque (options will be available for dietary restrictions—i.e. gluten free, vegan). We’ll have a bounce house, balloon art, face painting, and other fun activities. Commonwealth Coach and Trolley will once again provide transportation for those wanting a ride to Braeloch from the church. VOLUNTEERS are needed for setup, clean up, and to bring desserts. If you can help, sign up via SignUpGenius. Register by Friday, August 21. | |
Kroger Community Rewards
Do you shop at Kroger? If so, your groceries can help support our church at no extra cost to you! Simply link your Kroger Plus card to Second Pres through the Kroger Community Rewards program, and Kroger will donate a portion of your eligible purchases to support our ministry. It’s an easy way to give back while doing your regular shopping—every soda and bag of chips benefits our programs! Thank you for supporting the ministries and outreach that serve our community.
Rewards Statement:
01-Mar-2026 to 31-May-2026:
87 Households
$347.98 Total Donations
If you would like to link Second Presbyterian Church to your Kroger account, follow these steps:
- Visit the Kroger Community Rewards webpage.
- Scroll down and click “Link Your Shoppers Card: Get Started.”
- Sign-in to your Kroger account (you’ll need your Kroger Plus card handy. If you are a Kroger shopper and do not have one, you may ask for one at Customer Service).
- Search for “Second Presbyterian Church” or use our NPO account number: JC314.
- Click “Enroll.”
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BJ Millar
Campbell Tims
Our sympathies extend to Lawrence and Sally I’Anson on the death of Lawrence’s mother, Ann I’Anson of Portsmouth, VA, on Sunday, July 12. Our prayers are also with their son, Ryan.
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The Outreach Offering for July will support four vital Summer Camp Programs that serve children and families across our community. PCC’s Pathways for Youth provides engaging summer programs for K–12 students, and Outreach funds will help support hands-on educational experiences, STEM activities, college and career exploration, transportation, and enrichment opportunities that build confidence and life skills. West End Center serves 145 students through a seven-week full-day summer program, and donations will help provide healthy snacks, transportation for educational and recreational outings, additional staff for safety and supervision, and paid internships for older youth. Salvation Army’s Camp Rappahannock offers life-changing camp experiences for children who might not otherwise have access to them, and contributions will help fund scholarships, transportation, meals, lodging, outdoor adventures, character-building programs, and faith-based activities that foster confidence, resilience, and hope. Kids Soar provides enriching summer opportunities for local children, and donations will help fund program scholarships and a special educational field trip to Smith Mountain Lake, giving participants valuable experiences for learning, recreation, and lasting summer memories. Your generosity ensures each of these programs can continue to offer meaningful, educational, and joyful summer experiences for children who need them most. As of Thursday, July 9, $1,178 has been collected.
Monthly Food Collection for PCC: The food items for the month of July are canned vegetables (other than corn or green beans). Pull top cans preferred. A donation bin is in the coat closet (please check the expiration date before donating).
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Second Presbyterian Church
214 Mountain Avenue SW
Roanoke, VA 24016
Office Hours:
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Mon.–Thurs.: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM–1:00 PM
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Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 8:30 AM–12:30 PM
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