Seen Around Church – Week of May 3, 2026

Big Fun for Our 4th & 5th Graders!

Our fourth and fifth graders had a fun day of bowling and arcades last week! Thank you to our parent chaperones for making this event possible.

Photo credit: Christy Trimmer

SMPC Supports the American Red Cross Through Blood Drive

Despite a chilly, dreary Saturday morning, donors and volunteers showed up in a big way for the SMPC American Red Cross Drive on Saturday, May 2. Ministry leader Bill Ramsey was on a “trip of a lifetime,” so church members and frequent donors/volunteers Terry and Dave Gaines jumped in as substitute leaders.

Bill and Donna Ramsey with their children, Will and Amy

“We collected a total of 44 units that day,” said Terry. “The Red Cross professionals celebrated at the end! They were so pleased with the turnout and believe it was a record for our site. We had three walk-ins and two first-time donors.”

Several donors commented that the SMPC drive location was by far their favorite, Terry said, and we give all props and kudos to the amazing Red Cross staff, who are so efficient and professional. They keep things moving so that donors don’t have to wait. Of course, we also couldn’t do it without our incredible blood drive volunteers, who offered donut holes, coffee and “typical” post-donation snacks, as well as company in the canteen area where donors rehydrated and recovered.

Terry had an exceptionally poignant moment that morning: she was able to reconnect with her now-grown children’s former teacher, Jessie.

“Jessie was my son’s chemistry teacher and the one whose extraordinary act of kindness was the subject of my Advent devotional a few years ago (read it Terry Gaines),” she said. “Jessie also helped with my daughter’s track team at Charlotte Latin. It was special! I sent photos to my kids of us giving blood at the same time and also hugging at the snack table. Jessie is a member of our SMPC neighbor, Light of Christ Church.”

The day’s success was no doubt due to Bill’s dedication and pre-planning. The team poured their energy and enthusiasm into the day in his honor. Thank you to all who donated on Saturday. The next opportunity to serve in this ministry is Saturday, August 8. Sign up to donate or volunteer at the drive here.

Photo credit: Terry Gaines

Church BFFs!

We love how the church cultivates friendships across generations! Here, church buddies Bart and Hannah smile big for us! What a sweet moment! (And, Hannah, we love how you accessorize!!❤️❤️)

Photo credit: Meghan Stenvall

BYG Welcomes Fifth Graders

Our middle and high schoolers welcomed the fifth graders during May BYG (Big Youth Group) on Sunday night. The fifth graders were paired with youth mentors at the beginning of the night, and the crowd of 40+ youth quickly got to business, having FUN!

“We loved welcoming our fifth graders into youth group where we began to explore what it means to be called to a community that truly shows up for one another,” said Rev. Lindsey Odom, Associate Pastor of Youth and Missions/Outreach.

The group enjoyed burgers, hot dogs and church member Geena Woodard’s incredible mac ‘n cheese! Thank you to all our parent chaperones for helping make the night happen, and thank you to Lindsey for leading our youth with love!

Photo credit: Lindsey Odom