Dear all, 

Please remember we move to ONE WORSHIP SERVICE this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. through Labor Day. 

It's also important to know we're hard at work moving forward after Annie Arvin's ministry here at St. Simons. Our first priority is to plug the hole she left in her care of the youth program. This week a committee has been formed to find and call an "interim youth director" to ensure the summer plans for the youth program will stay in place. Our first meeting is today, and we hope to announce a resolution soon.

Related to this, below you will find a letter from some of the youth sharing their sense of loss with Annie's resignation. As hard as it is, it's encouraging they felt the freedom to bring their voice to this. In keeping with St. Simon's emphasis that everyone has a voice (as long as it's decent and in order), the Session voted to publish it in today's newsletter. 

Lastly, if you weren't already aware, Anita and I have planned a trip to Italy (Tuscany) from June 1-12. I will be in the pulpit this Sunday and around till next Wednesday, so if you have any need of me, please reach out before then.

During our time away, the pulpit will be filled on June 4 by Bill Hoff, a friend and associate of mine while at Riverside in Jacksonville. Bill retired a few years after I did and is a fine preacher. Then on June 11, our own Nat Scott will preach. Most of you already know what a fine teacher and leader he is, so you should look forward to his leadership in the pulpit. 

I also want to thank Laurie Bentley, our Parish Associate of Pastoral Care, who will step in and co-officiate in worship. Laurie is also the go-to for pastoral care needs, along with the Deacons and the Pastoral Care Committee headed by Molly Macaulay, Anne Aspinwall, and Coco Bujold. Please call on them if need be.

You can still get me "if needed" via email, cell phone, or text 904-718-7777…emphasis on "if needed." 

Gratefully, 

Rev. Dr. Steve Goyer

Interim Senior Pastor

Dear Congregation,

The youth of SSPC are deeply sorrowed by the “untimely departure,” of our beloved pastor and friend Annie Franklin Arvin. We recognize that there are powers and reasons above us upon her leaving, yet we still feel as though this was a big surprise to not only the youth but the congregation as well.

No explanation is needed other than God's plan, which we fully trust in. However, we do feel stripped so quickly of this light source in our lives and are quite saddened by the session allowing her to leave so quickly without saying goodbye.

In light of this, the youth want to share the love that we feel for Annie. Annie was not just our youth leader, but a dear friend that came to our dance recitals and music performances. She was one of our greatest advocates and someone we could always count on. Annie was a light on our Sunday nights and someone we got up to see early Tuesday mornings. We know that while she will no longer be with us, wherever she goes, new people and faces will be blessed by her light as well. While she will no longer be with us, she lives in our hearts and our souls as we continue through our teenage years.

With Gratitude,

The Youth of SSPC

The season of Easter ended with the observance of Ascension Sunday last week. “God has gone up with a shout!” the choir sang with energy and joy accompanied by organ and brass, clarinet, and cymbals. Thank you to all of those that enhanced our worship service on Sunday. Thank you for your kind words and praise.

We now observe Pentecost, just about the only time we use the liturgical color of red. I would like to encourage everyone to wear flame colors – red, orange, yellow - for this service. WORSHIP WILL BEGIN AT 10:00 AM – THIS WILL BE THE ONLY SERVICE FROM MAY 28TH UNTIL LABOR DAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD.

There will be a processional of flying doves, banners, and streamers carried by our youth and/or children. Please let either me or Frieda know if you are interested.

The Chancel Choir will sing Pepper Choplin’s joyful and energetic anthem, Fill-a Me Up with Tom Haughney as soloist.

On June 4th, we celebrate Communion. The Chancel Choir will sing Natalie Sleeth’s “Go Into the World.”



As we approach the summer, plans are being made to feature special soloists and groups while the choir is on vacation.  The Early Music Ensemble (which meets each week in my office) will be playing on August 13th.  

Love & Gratitude,  

Rhonda 

Sunday, May 28

9:00 am Sunday School - Various Locations

10:00 am Worship - Sanctuary

Monday, May 29

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, May 30

9:30 am Staff Meeting - Upper Room

Wednesday, May 31

11:00 am Early Music - Rhonda's Office

1:30 pm Hands & Heart Quilting Ministry - Music Attic

4:00 pm Chancel Ensemble - Sanctuary

7:00 pm Chancel Choir - Sanctuary

Thursday, June 1

No Activities Planned for This Day

Friday, June 2

No Activities Planned for This Day

ELDERS

Sandi Goeldner 

KevIn Lokey

Lee Malone

Bryan Neill

Daryl Rabert

Tate Simpson

​Carrie Wessel

DEACONS

Anne Aspinwall 

Judy Benjamin 

Lynda Bisher*

Jackie Griffin 

Michael Johnson* 

David Keen 

Lowell Korb 

Graham Owens* 

Katie Rossiter 

Linda Seierstad

*Completing Unfinished Term

TRUSTEE

Bob Killian