The Session has called a congregational meeting for the purpose of approving the terms of call for an Associate Pastor for Congregational Life and Care. The search committee would like to ask for your continued prayers that the Spirit would prepare the way for vibrant future ministries for those who will serve here.

Come see the newly renovated Education Wing, meet and schedule dates with your teaching team and see what kids will learn this year. This training session is for 1st and 2nd floor teachers and leaders. Child care is provided. Contact Anne Lowrance for questions.

All are invited to celebrate Anne Lowrance, who has served the Presbyterian Church faithfully in ministry for 40 years, the last nine being here at Covenant. 

With her warmth, patience and unwavering love for children, Anne has been an abiding presence in the journeys of Covenant families - often from the moment they enter the Education Wing. Anne's last day on the Covenant staff is Aug. 31.

The 11 a.m. contemporary worship service will pause until Jan. 5 to allow time for a redesign that incorporates your hopes and dreams for the service. You are invited to share feedback at a listening session on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 11 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

The Session approved the pause on Monday in response to feedback indicating the service is not fulfilling its potential as a vital part of Covenant's ministry. The pause will allow for a thoughtful review and total relaunch. Covenant began the service five years ago to broaden our reach and attract non-traditional churchgoers. That mission remains just as relevant today.

The worship ministry asks for your continued prayers during this time of discernment. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Clare Chinery, chair of the worship committee.

Covenant has a tradition of supporting our college-age students near and far! We match you up with a Secret Saint to pray and care for you through the year. Students, sign up here.

• A call for Secret Saints: Support a college student with small care packages and encouraging notes. This is a great opportunity for an individual or group. Sign up here.

Consider preparing dinner for families living in emergency shelter on their way out of homelessness through Charlotte Family Housing. Volunteers will prepare a meal for 15 to 20 people and deliver to Hawthorne Place at St. John's Baptist Church. Contact Julia Watkins for details.

When you shop for school supplies, consider buying extra items for children at Highland (Charlotte) and Crossnore Elementary (Avery County). Drop-off bins are in the Rec Wing and outside Lucy's office in the Sanctuary building.

• Red, blue or green notebooks and pocket folders; pencils; crayons/markers; composition notebooks; glue sticks; notebook paper and children's scissors. In addition, tissues, hand sanitizer, sharpies and Post-its for teachers. 

• Blessing of the Backpacks, Sunday, Aug. 25: Students of all ages, bring your school bags to worship as we pray for God's blessings on the new school year.
   
• Children's Choir Enrollment Party, Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 5:45 p.m.: Singers from kindergarten to fifth grade are invited to celebrate the start of a new year.
   
• Open Table Kickoff Talent Show, Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 6:30 p.m.: Hear musicians, comedians and performers and enjoy a cookout-style meal. Share your talent!
   
• Youth Fall Kickoff Dinner, Sunday, Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m.: Youth and parents are invited to preview the season ahead and learn about our theme for the year.
   
• Comedy Club Night with Susan Sparks, Covenant is proud to welcome the nationally recognized comedian, author and pastor. Susan has delivered TED Talks and appeared on national broadcast outlets. Join us Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. for a laughter-filled start to our season. Learn more.