Seen Around Church: Week of March 1, 2026

Mahjong Players Learn and Laugh Together

The Intro to Mahjong group met last Wednesday for some fun! This group is informal and friendly and has beginner players learning from more seasoned players – all are welcome to join us! The next meetup is Wednesday, March 11, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the narthex. Contact Carol Morgan if you would like to be notified of future meetings!

Serve Sunday: Love in Action

This past Sunday, we explored the concept of serving as a spiritual practice. Rev. Lindsey Odom preached on service as a spiritual practice, reflecting on Mark 1:40–45. Missions and Outreach Committee members and other ministry leaders had tables set up in the narthex, offering more information on ways to get involved in serving our church, community, and the world. It was a beautiful morning where we considered the possibilities of how we can be the hands and feet of Jesus.

In her sermon, Lindsey reminded us that service is love in action; it is choosing compassion over comfort and moving toward people instead of away from them.

“Service is not an interruption to our spiritual lives; it is one of the primary places our spiritual lives are shaped and deepened,” she said. You can listen to her full sermon here.

For more information on how you can serve others with the many offerings at SMPC, see the Serve page on our website or complete this form to indicate where you might be interested in serving. There are big and small ways to get involved, and you are welcome at all!

Photo credit: Donna Podgorny and Katherine Martin

Wacky Wednesday Delivers on Cuteness

The SMPC Preschoolers celebrated Wacky Wednesday in serious wacky style! Thank you to SMPC Preschool Director Tammy Winchip for this cute photo! Reminder: SMPC Preschool is currently registering for the next school year. Visit the preschool’s website or contact the preschool office, 704-544-9831, to schedule a tour – we think it’s the best preschool in all the land!

Photo credit: Tammy Winchip

News from the Scouts: Eagle Project, Eagle Court of Honor and Ski Trip

Scout Troops 119 and 219 have had a busy week! On Saturday, March 7, Scout Kenan S. completed his Eagle project at Thompson Family Services and Tarun S. had his Eagle Court of Honor. Additionally, the troops took a trip to Winterplace, WV, for some ski/snowboard fun! We love seeing our Scouts so active and vibrant in the community!

Photo credit: Dean Elledge