A Note of thanksgiving for Thanksgiving from your pastor

Dear Friends in Christ –

Rev. Brian Henderson, pastor of St. James Presbyterian Church on James Island, brought the word to our reconvened Community Thanksgiving Service Tuesday evening. I mean he brought it!

The Lukan text of the ten lepers who called out to Jesus as he is on his way to Jerusalem could be centered on many things – boldness, healing, gratitude. But Pastor Brian’s message was that though only one man returned to Jesus, that man was a Samaritan – again the man even further on the margin – and he returned ecstatically

  1. praising God.

  2. thanking Jesus God.

Why would we not do the same? Let's take a moment from the chaos, the corruption, the craziness to breathe deeply above our boots and let ourselves smile that we are so loved.

Grateful to be your pastor.

Best love,

 
 

Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m.

Find upcoming events and announcements here.


Listen to sermon podcasts here. Click here to view all Second Presbyterian Church videos. Find upcoming events and announcements here.

Source: sermons

A Note from Your Pastor: In Gratitude This Veterans Day

In Gratitude This Veterans Day



Dear Friends in Christ –

I’m engaged in a month-long study/consideration/contemplation/exploration of gratitude. Diana Butler Bass is leading this online with her book, Gratitude as the text. Have I surrendered to the journaling and the zoom calls and podcasts? No. (Anyone surprised?) But I’m positioned for an awareness of my place in the realm of God as a beloved, forgiven, empowered person. I more easily and more often embrace the unmerited blessings that are mine – and yours/ours.

The study highlighted BOATLIFT, an Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience. Tom Hanks narrates the epic story of the 9/11 boatlift that evacuated half a million people from the stricken piers of lower Manhattan the day the Twin Towers fell. I remember that day and the heroic efforts of men and women who stepped up to do what they could.

On this day we remember the men and women who gave their all-in service to our great nation. Let us all take a moment to lift each one and their loved ones in gratitude. And may we pray for the courage to stand in God’s righteousness and purpose in the days ahead.

In gratitude on this Veterans Day,

 


Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m.

Find upcoming events and announcements here.


Listen to sermon podcasts here. Click here to view all Second Presbyterian Church videos. Find upcoming events and announcements here.

Source: sermons

A Note from Your Pastor

A Note Ahead of Sunday, October 16, 2022

Dear Second Family,

Greetings from the road! I’m grateful for the grace that allows me to accompany my daughter SaSa as she visits colleges. I wanted to say how I will miss being with you Sunday for so many reasons, especially as two of the institutions that Second Church has partnered with for decades will be present.

Rev. Dr. Marion Platt will preach. He is the CEO of Star Gospel Mission, which we have supported since its founding in 1904. He is bringing an energy and heart that is transformative for this vibrant ministry.

Dr. Douglas Lungu will be here from the Medical Benevolence Foundation, presenting in Sunday school, giving a Minute for Mission during the church service, and staying for lunch after church. He is the medical director from Malawi leading MBF into its next phase as they work to strengthen local leaders who oversee mission hospitals, clinics and nursing schools. We have partnered with them for nearly 60 years.

These two institutions put flesh on Jesus’ mandate to care for those in need. It is our joy to join with them in the good work of the Realm. It will be an inspiring Sunday!

With great joy in being your pastor,

 


Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m.

Find upcoming events and announcements here.


Listen to sermon podcasts here. Click here to view all Second Presbyterian Church videos. Find upcoming events and announcements here.

Source: sermons

Keeping the word after Uvalde

A vigil this week at the Princeton Theological Seminary reunion.

“Lord, how long will I cry, and you will not hear? I cry out to you, “Violence!” and will you not save?" – Habakkuk 1:2

The words of the prophet Habakkuk resonate throughout our communities and our country. As I write, my mind defaults to us/them – no matter which sideand I’m sick of it.

Why is it that we aren’t willing to act? We’re in paralysis. We’re concretized in our self-righteousness. We’re stuck in a stalemate. They see it. We do too. Yet neither is willing to blink… and children die.

Pointing fingers won’t break the impasse. Thoughts and prayers offer little comfort. Jesus said “If you keep my words, you love me. If you don’t keep my words, you don’t love me.”

Just because we don’t know the answer doesn’t mean there isn’t one. Love is a verb. Let us keep the word. May we be fierce, resolute, and unafraid.

 

Here are some direct links to resources from the PC(USA) Office of Christian Formation shared by the presbytery that might be helpful.

Source: sermons

We have work to do.

Dear Friends in Christ –
 
I received this from Father Kennedy, the Chaplain at Porter Gaud, the school my daughter attends, and I wanted to share it with you.

“[... We] are rooted in the belief that all people are creatures made in the image of God. Each and every one of us - without exception - is a product, recipient, and reflection of Divine love. We are all therefore persons with innate and immeasurable dignity and worth, persons of one human family, whose lives are intricately interwoven with one another. 
 
The acts of white supremacy and violence experienced in the city of Buffalo over the weekend - and all forms of racism and hatred - are anathema to this vision of the human person. Such events fracture the human family and remind its members that things are not as they should be, that we are not as we should be.”
 
We have work to do!
 
Best love,

 
Source: sermons

A Summer Update

Dear Friends in Christ – 

I’m writing this morning to bring you up to speed on a couple of things important to our community and work. 

First, Sarah Craven, our DCE has taken a teaching position closer to her home. She writes:


Dear friends and family of Second Presbyterian,

It was with great joy that I began my time here at Second last year.  Second is a church that is alive and growing in the Holy Spirit.  Each new member class is filled with people who will only add great resources and faith to this family. However, after much prayer and discernment, it is with great sadness that I resign as your Director of Education.

This decision was far from an easy one and ultimately the decision that was made is the best decision for my family. Although this was a difficult decision for me to make, my family is incredibly excited about our next steps and current direction in our lives.  I will be teaching History at a local school just a few miles from our home.  We know that the Lord has great plans for us, just as He does for you at Second.

Thank you for the opportunities that you have given us to be a part of your lives. Second has been a place of love and acceptance and we will keep you in our hearts and prayers as we go from this place.
— Many blessings and prayers, Sarah Craven

In her year with us, Sarah has been instrumental in reestablishing our Sunday School, promoting small groups and building community. Join me in expressing our gratitude and wishing her and her family the best. 

We are excited to continue growing in the ways God is leading us here at Second, in this particular place at this particular time. As we prepare our search for a DCE with a focus on children and youth, we are developing plans to engage the whole congregation in such a way that will meet needs during this time of COVID as well as grow community and disciples. Good things are ahead!

 

Next, I want to share with you the report that was given to Session from Russell Smith, our Contractor, regarding the substantial progress in the repair of fire damage and restoration of the tower. 

I’m happy to report much progress has been made on the behind the scenes work required for this project. Although the work that is taking place now doesn’t always provide the feeling of great progress to the observer on the ground, I can assure you it is of utmost importance to the ultimate success of the projects at hand. I look forward to reporting back when we have a permit in hand and a schedule of work to be completed. 
— P. Russell Smith

Find to full update on the progress of the lightning strike and masonry repairs here.

Second Church Family, we recognize these are challenging times, as are most it seems, but we are favored to face them without fear and in anticipation as we observe the movement and follow the guiding of God’s Spirit.   
 
With joy in being your pastor, 

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Let's worship together- even while we're apart

Dear Friends in Christ:

The Session met Tuesday evening. After considering the latest information regarding the COVID-19 virus, it was decided to suspend Sunday worship until such time it is safe for us and those we love to gather again. This decision, made from love, not fear, is a statement of our care for each other and our community.

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It was also decided that we not attempt to replicate the Sanctuary worship experience, but a more intimate time of welcome, prayer and proclamation. So rather than preaching to an empty hall, I’ll reflect on God’s word for us from my study. This will be available on the homepage at www.2ndpc.org beginning 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. Let’s determine to be of one body at that time!  

All other meetings and Bible studies held at the church are suspended with the prayer that we utilize different platforms to communicate and care for each other – email, text, Skype, FaceTime calls, written cards and notes, but most of all prayer. This is our chance to be the people of God for each other and the world. The need far exceeds our capacity, but not that of the one whom we serve. 

And don’t neglect to support your church through online giving. Our work depends on our generous obedience. 

“Let not your hearts be troubled – neither let them be afraid.”

In the hymn written for our 200th anniversary celebration, "Wragg Square", Mary Edna Fraser and Julia Harlow wrote, “Through earthquake, fire and hurricane, enduring wages of war, through many hardships which the Church sustained, our peace and hope we secure.” Through this hardship we shall be sustained in solidarity with each other and by our God!

Hallelujah! (Wash your hands:) 

In Christ,

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Response to COVID-19

Dear Friends in Christ:

I write to assure you that we are monitoring the coronavirus very carefully and our response, as a place where people gather for solace, learning, and community. We are coordinating closely with other churches, the Kindergarten, the city, and the agencies that are charged with public health in our state. 

These things are clear. The threat is real and growing, but there are practical things we can do for safety of ourselves, those whom we love, and those who will visit this church seeking comfort in these uncertain times. 

I know by now you have heard all of this many, many times, but it continues to be the sanest advice in a sea of misinformation:

  • Wash your hands often and thoroughly

  • Try to avoid touching your face

  • Keep your distance from anyone who may be coughing and in general, practice “social distancing,” including close contact and shaking hands

  • If you’re feverish or aching, call your doctor (do not go to the emergency room unless that is your only means of care) and care for yourself

  • Stay in your home if your immune or respiratory system is compromised

At this time, we are planning to hold worship this Sunday. There will be sanitizer at the entrance to the church and there will be soap and fresh paper towels in the washrooms. The surfaces in the education building are wiped regularly and the Sanctuary is cleaned thoroughly, but special measures will be made to make sure that the Sanctuary is as clean as possible for Sunday.

We must be vigilant but continue to lead our lives. I know that we also, as a community, will find solace in being together and praying for those affected by the coronavirus. While we are known to be a loving, friendly congregation, we will avoid contact during the “greeting” of those around us at the beginning of the service and Nicole, as our greeter supreme, will be refraining from her loving gift of welcoming hugs. As your Second Family, we will work together to make sure that those for whom venturing outside of their homes is limited, are checked upon regularly, visited if desired, and offered assistance with their shopping and errands.

While we wish that our entire congregation could be with us this Sunday, we realize that there are some who will choose not to be in a public space. We also realize that members may only place their pledge or offering in the plate when they are in church. We would ask that you keep Second Presbyterian in your prayers as well and consider keeping current with your pledge or make a special gift to ensure that the church is able to maintain operations during this unsettling time. You may always mail in a check to the office or make a gift online.

In short, we do not know what the coming days will bring to our community and to the world, but we will continue to pray for each other and the world. If we are forced to suspend worship in the Sanctuary in the coming weeks, I plan to preach on a regular basis and pray for your safety and well-being. We will continue to post the sermons online and will be exploring the possibility of live streaming. I will also continue to be in touch with you as this situation evolves and pray that it will be short-lived.

At times like this, I realize it is difficult to comprehend why we are in the midst of a pandemic. As I often remind you, we have a God who would not love us less for anything we have done, but who by God’s very nature, could not love us more! Jesus said, “Peace I leave you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

Good words for eternity – and for now. Peace be with you.   

In Christ,

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Easter Sunday

Dear Friends in Christ –

George Burns and Gracie Allen were entertainment royalty. They started in vaudeville, transitioned to radio, and then to TV. Burns played the straight man with the gravelly voice (10 to 15 El Producto cigars a day will do it!) to Gracie’s winsome comedy. His parents were Orthodox Jews and she was a staunch Irish Catholic girl.

Gracie would die decades before George. The story goes that after her death, George went to sort through her papers and on top of everything in her desk he found an envelope addressed to him.

He opened it, and found this, "George, never place a period where God places a comma.” Perhaps you’ve heard this before.

George Burns died at 100 attributing his longevity to the El Productos. But that phrase "never place a period where God places a comma" has lived on with new resonance. I think this is something to keep in mind as we celebrate Jesus’ rising this Sunday.

There were some who prayed, those who feared, most who assumed the story was done – just another would-be-prophet, wanna-be-Messiah shown to be delusional and dead. But this time was different. What some thought to be a period was actually a comma as certain women found an empty tomb and a messenger delivering the obvious. "He’s gone. He told you where to find him." You see, Jesus obviously had things to do!

Men and women, so do we. This Sunday let’s embrace the reality that death is deposed! New life beckons in Jesus Christ! We’ll worship together in the Sanctuary. Remember, invite your friends, your neighbors, those who you long to see and even those you’d rather not. Let’s come together to worship the risen Christ!

In great anticipation -

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Palm Sunday

Dear Friends in Christ –

Imagine this: first century, you’re on your way to Passover.

You’ve saved up for the temple tax. You’ve arranged for your work, property, home to be cared for…

You approach the temple. You hear a ruckus. Crowds in Jerusalem – the population is swollen. You hear screams. Then you see goats and cattle stampeding…towards you. You hold your loved ones close. You can’t believe this could be coming from the temple! You place your family back out of harm’s way, but you continue and you see people running, the money changers, the keepers of the livestock. The temple is a mess. Coins on the floor. How will you pay the temple tax? So how will you be forgiven?

And then you hear: There’s a prophet inside who speaks of the temple as if it belongs to him. He’s tearing the place up! And taking on the temple authorities? Who is this?

It's Jesus.  He’s cleaning house.

Men and women, I hope you’ve been cleaning house, discarding everything that would keep you from his side. These times demand the people of God to be suited up and ready!

In great anticipation -

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A Note From Your Pastor

Dear Friends in Christ –

I just read Rev Cooper’s snapshot for this Sunday – You Can Use My Helmet, Love God.

My family and I are preparing to leave for a break. Yep, it's Spring on Tuesday and we’ll be taking a break from hectic schedules, deadlines and devices – a couple of days to decompress and to enjoy each other.

We’ll also be breaking away from incessant rants, screeds and tweets, from the reportage of horrifying disasters of genocide and bridge collapses – concrete and cultural.

But a retreat is only a change of zip code if one isn’t intentional in seeking re-creation, renewal and refreshment.

I’m taking this seriously. I’ll be listening to Sunday’s sermon once it's posted. I’ll be praying for you and for our church and for our country and for the world with which we’ve been  charged in God’s confidence and in joy.

With great joy in being your pastor -

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Fifth Sunday of Lent Snapshot

For the past several weeks Lenten sermons have been inspired by Paul’s admonition to the young, struggling church at Ephesus to “Put on the full armor of God.”  The series of sermons has drawn from Ephesians 6:10-19 by examining the components of God’s armor: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the foot coverings of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith.

We live in an era of frequent estrangement and hostility in many aspects of life, so putting on armor fit for fighting OTHERS seems feasible, right?  NO!  Paul is very clear that the enemy is not “flesh and blood.”  The real enemies are often intangibles — “principalities.”  It is ideas and emotions and faith—or lack of faith— that inform our decisions, our loyalties, our values, and our actions.

This week we are issued via scripture yet another part of God’s armor: “the helmet of salvation.”  For a human brain to think with the mind of Christ ... Ah what a blessing to this hurting world!

- Rev. Gale Cooper

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REV. GALE COOPER is our guest preacher this Sunday. She was born in Windsor, England before immigrating with her family and growing up in Richmond, VA. She and her husband, Elliott, have two adult, married daughters- including our own Cathy Lipp- and three grandsons. She is looking forward to her 50th wedding anniversary coming up this year. Gale is currently a volunteer chaplain with Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy and Bishop Gadsden Retirement community. Being a wife, mother, friend, priest, artist, and writer have been the main blessings of her life. She likes to paint, sew, read, be with friends and travel.

Fourth Sunday of Lent

Dear Friends in Christ –

Some of you have heard the story of how my wife Rebecca and I met.

It was at a party that she would never have attended except to get away from a South Carolina farmer that had come to New York to save her from the city. But thank heavens she didn’t want to be saved from the city and attended this party that included actors and actresses all living on no budget and coming together for a little wine and cheese and to practice sight reading polyphony and madrigala. (I know)

I came late to the party myself. I waited until the Super Bowl was over. I walked in and was immediately captivated by the new girl – dressed in black, braid, and serious black shoes. 

When a break in the evening came, I sat near her and opened the conversation with, “I like your pumps.” Eighteen months later we were married. Shoes have always resonated with me.

Then there were beach shoes, then baby shoes, now horse riding boots, boxing shoes and daughters beginning to wear serious black shoes. Shoes matter. Because they take you places, different places. But there is one pair that fits all who will dare to wear them. God’s shoes of peace allow God’s people – all of God’s people to stand firm to stand together to withstand the wiles and attacks of the enemy. 

Sunday morning we prepare to slip on, strap up, pull on, lace up, tie on the shoes of God’s peace. And together we’ll lift the shield of faith. 

In great anticipation -

 

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