Church Family Moment for Sunday, July 26, 2026
July 21, 2026
Stop by the church on any Tuesday morning or Thursday afternoon, and chances are you’ll see tables, usually in groups of four, passing around white rectangle tiles with various numbers, shapes and characters. To the untrained eye, it might look random, but trust us: there is a lot of thought and strategy behind the movement of these tiles!
Welcome to the SMPC Mahjong groups – where friends old and new gather for this fun and sometimes complex game that has only recently gained popularity in Charlotte. Originally from China, mahjong was brought to the United States in the 1920s and rose in prominence in the 1930s, particularly within Jewish American communities.
Some of our SMPC members, like Carol Morgan, play regularly with neighbors and friends outside of church. Carol saw an opportunity to create community at SMPC with this ancient game and hosted a series of beginner mahjong lessons in the spring.
“I know how much fun I have meeting people to play during the week – it’s a great way to connect with old friends, meet new people, and keep the brain active,” said Carol. “I had no idea how much it would take off at SMPC, but it makes me so pleased to see people meeting regularly and with such enthusiasm.”
When Carol’s beginner mahjong lessons were over, participants didn’t want the fun to end. They had found a new challenge – and a unique place to foster friendships – around a mahjong table!
“That’s really the beauty of it,” said Mary Katheryne Zagora, SMPC Financial Administrator and leader of the new mahjong groups. “People came for a class, but they stayed for community. It’s become a weekly rhythm of laughter, learning, and connection.”
SMPC Mahjong regularly draws 12-16 players on Tuesday mornings (10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and Thursday afternoons (1:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m.). All ages and skill levels are welcome. And yes, men are welcome, too! And, if you are new to the game, you still belong at the SMPC Mahjong table! To get connected and on the email list, contact Mary Katheryne Zagora.
