Seen Around Church: Week of April 13, 2025

Celebrating 20 Years of Literacy and Impact: SMPC Joins in Honoring Augustine Literacy Project

The Charlotte chapter of the Augustine Literacy Project (ALP) celebrated its 20th anniversary last week, and SMPC members and staff were there to help mark the milestone.

Representing SMPC at the celebration were Kathy and Frank Graham, Shelby Ullman, Associate Pastor of Youth and Missions/Outreach Lindsey Odom, Megan Fuller Egiziano (Kathy Graham’s sister), and Linda and Brett Thompson.

ALP is committed to improving the reading, writing, and spelling skills of young, aspiring readers in under-resourced communities. They do this by offering free, long-term, one-on-one instruction from highly trained tutors.

We are proud to support this transformative organization as a church family and excited to see what the future holds for ALP and the students it serves!

Interested in becoming an ALP tutor? Contact Lindsey Odom to learn more.

Photo credit: Lindsey Odom

Sweet Surprises, Sent with Love 

One of our SMPC Circle groups gathered last week to fill Easter treat boxes for their college students — a “sweet” act of motherly love and care from afar!

Each box was packed with goodies, encouragement, and reminders that no matter how far from home, these students are still deeply connected to their SMPC family.

Thank you to these moms/friends for sharing the love this Easter season!

Photo credit: Leanne Royster

Congratulations to Natalie Gaines and John Ellis!

SMPC joyfully celebrates the marriage of Natalie Gaines and John Ellis, who were recently united in a beautiful ceremony held right here in our sanctuary and officiated by Pastor Matt Brown.

Natalie, the daughter of Terry and David Gaines, grew up at SMPC, making the occasion all the more special for our church family. Surrounded by loved ones, Natalie and John exchanged vows in a service filled with joy, love, and meaningful moments.

As an added blessing, Leisa Lackey, Jane Royther, Susan Hicks and Marge Kruse coordinated a heartfelt effort to repurpose the stunning wedding flowers. Bouquets were delivered to SMPC members, spreading beauty and joy throughout our community.

We give thanks for this celebration of love and for the ways our church family continues to care for one another in meaningful, creative ways. Congratulations, Natalie and John!

Hosanna! Palm Sunday at SMPC Marked with Meaningful Worship, Fellowship

Palm Sunday at SMPC was full of joy as our children took part in a festive Palm Parade, waving palms while we sang the “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” as a congregation to mark the beginning of Holy Week. We shared in meaningful worship, lifted our voices in praise, and enjoyed time together in fellowship as a church family. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a beautiful day of celebration and connection!

Photo credit: Rebecca Guzman

Happy 91st Birthday, Carol!

What a beautiful moment we captured with SMPC member Carol Brundage, who celebrated her 91st birthday on Friday, April 11! We were lucky to see her on Palm Sunday and share birthday hugs and warm wishes.

Carol’s gorgeous flowers — which perfectly complemented her outfit — were from the Gaines/Ellis wedding held in our sanctuary the day before. Beautiful flowers and beautiful lady!

Happy birthday, Carol! Your grace and presence are a gift to our church family.

Photo credit: Mary Katheryne Zagora

A Fresh Look for Easter: Thanks to Our Mulch-Spreading Volunteers!

Spring has arrived, and thanks to the hard work of our amazing volunteers, the SMPC campus is looking more beautiful than ever—just in time to welcome everyone for Easter!

Over the past week, volunteers spread 310 bags of mulch across our grounds, giving our flower beds and outdoor areas, including the Courtyard/Columbarium, a fresh, clean look. On Wednesday, another 150 bags were delivered, and Facilities Manager Steve Stevenson is generously taking the lead on distributing those.

We are so grateful to everyone who gave their time and energy to help prepare our campus for Holy Week and Easter. Your efforts make a difference!