SSPC Newsletter - October 23, 2025

October 23, 2025

Among the things I enjoy most as Interim Associate Pastor is visiting—and being visited by—members of this congregation. I regularly visit facilities like Marshes Edge, Vitality, and Heritage Oaks. Some of our beloved members are unable to attend worship and other activities on our church campus, so there comes a time when we must take the church to them. That often includes serving communion where they live, which is a true privilege. I also enjoy visiting people in their homes, at Starbucks, or even over breakfast or lunch somewhere.

Keeping up with these visits still leaves me time and interest to meet with other members. I’m doing that now, but I’m sure there are still some of you who would enjoy a pastoral visit in your home or in my study at the church. I certainly don’t want to intrude, but I also don’t want to miss anyone who would welcome a visit. Please let us know—either by calling me at (864) 680-4318 or the church office at (912) 638-2220 x106.

By the way, I’m usually in my study on Wednesday evenings following dinner. And as we’ve been reminded in worship recently: All are welcome.

Rev. Jim Jackson

Worship & Music

In a traditional worship service, things pretty much go according to plan. We have an outline of when things happen, and there are reasons for the placement of each—sacrament, prayer, scripture, music, and sermon. Children’s Sunday is a perfect opportunity (like Youth Sunday) for children to learn about the different parts of our worship service and how to worship! There may be a few surprises because these sweet children will be moving around, singing, reading, acting, and praying. “God is Building a Home” is the title of the main presentation, so don’t be surprised to see a construction site! Frieda and I have really enjoyed putting it all together, and the children are very excited to bring the message to you. This Sunday at the 10:30 service is definitely one to make note of as you plan your weekend schedule.

The following Sunday (November 2) will be the observance of All Saints’ Sunday. The names of those who have passed away since last All Saints’ Day will be read, with a bell tolling for each. Our Chancel Ensemble will play an arrangement of “For All the Saints” written by Mark Lochstampfor. You, the congregation, will sing with the choir on selected verses for the first hymn at the 10:30 a.m. service. The anthem will be a new one for us—“Footsteps” (words by Jonathan Cook and music by Craig Courtney)—similar in theme to the poem Footprints.

Thanks to our Chancel Ensemble—Ed Jackson, Anne Marie Stirewalt, Judy Foster, Mike Morgan, and John Simmons—for playing for the Presbyterian Women Triennial Conference at Epworth last Friday evening. It was wonderful to see so many friends there.

As we inch nearer to Thanksgiving, there are many things for which to give thanks. Our Stewardship Committee has been preparing for the giving season in our church. The Island Concert Association will be mailing and distributing brochures for next year’s season, and the Messiah Chorus begins rehearsals soon. Both of these organizations are now 501(c)(3) corporations. Thankful giving can be made online at islandconcertassociation.org or by sending a check to ICA (Island Concert Association). The Golden Isles Community Chorus, Inc. (Messiah group) is newly formed and does not yet have a website. Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 20035, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. Rehearsals start on November 3 at 6:30 p.m. in our sanctuary and continue throughout the month. If you feel so moved, show up at that first rehearsal—bring a Schirmer score or borrow one—and enjoy singing great music! There will be two performances this year, December 6 and 7, both at 3:00 p.m. at St. Simons Presbyterian Church.

I am thankful for all these opportunities to spread the love of God to as many as possible. Music is a universal language that reaches all. Share these dates and times with your neighbors!

Love & Gratitude,

Rhonda

Happenings & Updates

THIS SUNDAY!

ASSOCIATE PASTOR NOMINATING COMMITTEE

HAPPENINGS

SIGNUP FOR WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER HERE!

Fall Festival Raffle

Be on the Lookout!

This beautiful quilt top was stitched with love by Kashey Odum's daughter, Carol Cottrell, with the border, backing, and binding completed by our Hands and Heart Ministry here at SSPC.

This cozy Halloween treasure will be raffled off at our Fall Festival next Wednesday, October 29, with all proceeds going to Sparrow's Nest in honor of Kashey!