Dear Saints of SSPC,

Starting this Sunday, we’re beginning a new sermon series called “There’s Someone I’d Like You to Meet.” It’s a chance for us to slow down and pay attention—to the parts of Scripture we tend to rush past, and to the people whose stories we might only vaguely know, if we know them at all.

When we think of the Bible, of course the big names and dramatic moments usually come to mind. But the biblical narrative is also shaped by the faithfulness of people who stand just outside the spotlight—the ones who aren’t even given a name or who only appear briefly; the ones who don’t say much or, at first glance, seem like minor, unimportant characters. And yet, time and again, it’s through these lives that God’s work moves forward.

In this series, we’ll spend time with these lesser-known biblical figures. The goal is not to turn them into heroes, but to listen carefully to what their stories show us about the way God works. Their lives are a powerful reminder that faithfulness is often quiet, obedience is rarely tidy, and God’s work is so often done through people who are uncertain, imperfect, and deeply human—just like us.

As we dig into these stories together, we’ll be invited to think about what they mean for our own lives. Where do we see ourselves in their questions, their risks, their willingness to show up without knowing the full picture? What might it mean to trust that God is at work in our own lives, even when we can’t see it or easily put it into words?

At its heart, this series is an invitation to listen more closely, to resist the urge to jump to easy answers or dramatic moments, and to remember that God’s call often finds us in ordinary moments and through unexpected voices. We really hope you’ll join us for worship in the weeks ahead as we listen together—because there are a number of folks we’d love for you to meet!

With gratitude for our life together,

Rachel

Our Worship & Music Committee meets on the second Monday of each month to discuss upcoming plans for worship, items brought to our attention, wedding and funeral policies, and special services. It’s time to refresh our “ex-officio” member list—that is, our volunteers who help with specific tasks such as putting out poinsettias or hydrangeas, decorating for Christmas, and other special events like Kirkin’ of the Tartan.

If you aren’t all that excited about attending meetings and are more of the worker-bee type, this is for you! Activities range from sitting and assembling candles for Christmas Eve to standing on a ladder to hang decorations. Please contact Bettye Russell to let her know you would like to help.

Coming up is preparation for the Kirkin’. We will meet in the Social Hall at 10:00 a.m. on January 24 to assemble the banners and decorate the sanctuary. Your help is welcome.

We also need an acolyte chairperson. Let me know if you are interested.

The sermon series “There’s someone I would like you to meet… faithful voices, quiet courage, God at work beyond the spotlight” begins this week. The Chancel Choir will sing Voullaire’s “Blessed Are the Pure in Heart,” pointing to the servant girl of Naaman. The piece is in the style of Johannes Brahms. We are back in rehearsals and would love to have you join us. Give me a call, and we can have a folder and robe ready for you. Rehearsals are at 6:45 p.m., right after dinner, on Wednesday nights.

Kirkin’ of the Tartan is on January 25. The two services, at 8:30 and 10:30, will be identical. Suzanne Morrison has been gathering names of those interested in carrying banners in the processional. The 8:30 service is in need of carriers, so please let her know or call Donna in the front office. First Coast Highlanders Pipe and Drum Band will be playing once again. They have been coming once a year for over 15 years to play for us. It’s loud, exciting, and colorful worship that celebrates our Presbyterian heritage and family connections. So wear yer plaidies, wear ear protection if needed, and gang ye to worship!

Love & Gratitude,

Rhonda

Congregational Meeting Announcement:

We will hold a Congregational Meeting immediately following the 10:30 AM worship service on February 1, 2026. The purpose of this meeting is for the Congregation to formally vote on the Terms of Call for the Pastors and review the budget for the coming fiscal year.

This Table Is For You: An Invitation

There are many things about my work here that I greatly enjoy, but none greater than teaching the new members’ class. Why is that so? Well, I’ve always loved seeing things grow. I remember taking an Irish potato, sticking toothpicks in the sides to hold it halfway into a glass of water. Give it a week or two and—wow—a pretty vine to place in the kitchen window. This time of year, when it seems that so many trees and plants are lifeless, I watch my green collards grow.

So you won’t be surprised that I take joy in watching people grow. And growth is what takes place when persons explore the rich soil and water of God’s nurturing Spirit. Hopefully, these classes stimulate mental growth, but more importantly, spiritual growth—growth in the knowledge of our Lord and our Christian faith.

I’m not promising any kind of magic, and I’m certainly not suggesting that we Presbyterians are the only children God’s got. Yet, we are a people worth joining. Our history, beliefs, and church government are worthy companions to a growing and shared faith in Jesus Christ. I invite you to join us in exploring the possibilities of your taking root here. Both prospective members as well as current ones are welcome.

Plans call for our meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. on January 25, then February 1 and 8. Enter the Ashantilly side door, and someone will greet you, offer you coffee and donuts, and direct you to the meeting place. Those who wish to join the church will be received in the 10:30 service on Sunday, February 15.

Jim Jackson

Sunday, January 18

8:30 am Early Worship - Sanctuary

9:30 am Sunday School - Various Locations

10:30 am Late Worship - Sanctuary

4:00 pm Youth Ensemble - Music Attic

5:00 pm Middle School Youth - Youth Suite

6:00 pm All Youth Supper - Youth Suite

6:30 pm Youth Group - Youth Suite

Monday, January 19

Office Closed for MLK

2:00 pm Mahjong Group - Library

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, January 20

7:00 am Youth Devotions - SSI Chick-fil-A

9:30 am Staff Meeting - Upper Room

4:00 pm Session Meeting - Upper Room

Wednesday, January 21

10:00 am Hands and Heart Quilting Ministry - Music Attic

10:00 am Grief Support Group - Parlor

10:00 am Early Music Ensemble - Rhonda's Office

1:15 pm Sonshine for the Soul - John Law

3:00 pm Chancel Ensemble - Sanctuary

4:00 pm KidZ Crew - Veranda

5:00 pm Chancel Bells - Bell Room

6:00 pm Wednesday Night Supper - Social Hall

6:45 pm Chancel Choir - Sanctuary

Thursday, January 22

9:00 am TSN Savannah Day Trip - Off Campus

9:00 am Congregational Care Team - John Law

Friday, January 23

Office Closed

All day Youth Group - Rock the Universe