Dear friends,

It is a great joy to bring you this very good news. Last week I called on six members of SSPC (Jeff Roberts, Kate Head, Emmeline Griffith, Sarah Neill, Carrie Wessel, and Michael Johnson) to interview a candidate who was interested in becoming our Interim Youth Director.

With Annie’s leaving, this had to be done quickly to cover the two trips planned this summer as well as all the other ways the youth group connects.

The candidate who expressed an interest is none other than Eliza Warner Ours. Well-known in her own right, completely experienced as a youth here under the love and leadership of Nat Scott, and an assistant on many trips, Eliza happens to be the 25-year-old daughter of Frieda Warner, our beloved Education Director. (Frieda had nothing to do with this other than giving me permission to ask Eliza, as if I needed it.)

Eliza will start today, June 1. Please keep the youth and Eliza in your prayers as they undertake this ministry together. And, if they need help-chaperones, drivers, meal bringers, assistants- please consider taking part in this important ministry with these amazing young people trying to faithfully find their way in a difficult culture. 

Lastly, you will find Judy Cauley’s letter announcing her retirement below. Since she will not leave until early September, this gives us some time to find her replacement. More will be said later when we celebrate her amazing care for so many of our children over the years. For now we can say, “well done, good and faithful servant.”

Gratefully, 

Rev. Dr. Steve Goyer

Interim Senior Pastor

I wanted to let you know the time has finally come for me to retire as Preschool Director. It has truly been an honor to be the director of St. Simons Presbyterian Preschool for the last 30 years.

I am excited to be getting married in September, heading to Italy, and then making a move to the mountains of North Carolina. I will always treasure the memories of children, teachers, and parents that I have met along the way.

Although this is a bittersweet time for me, I think of a wonderful quote from Dr. Seuss “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”

Thanks to all of you! It’s been a great career, and I will always cherish my time serving St. Simons Presbyterian Church.

Blessings,

Judy Cauley

Many of the music groups that met during the year are on hiatus due to many people leaving for summer vacations. Other groups have started to meet that you will hear about later this summer. We just “can’t keep from singing” or playing for that matter.

Right after Pentecost comes Trinity Sunday and, this time, Holy Communion.

On June 4th, we celebrate Communion. The Chancel Choir will sing Karen Marrolli’s rhythmic “Come Before the Table” with Harlan Hambright on the cajon (a box drum that he played for last week’s anthem). On June 11, we will sing a favorite of many, On Eagle’s Wings. This arrangement by Mark Hayes was given by the Chancel Choir in memory of my parents, Ron and Emily Helton. At my Dad’s service, it was sung by a choir of 50 and played by instrumentalists. Thank you, Chancel Choir for this donation to the music library.

On June 18, we will offer “Blessings” by Laura Mixon Story, arranged by Heather Sorenson. Here are the words to the chorus of this song: 

“What if Your blessings come through raindrops? What if Your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near? What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?” 

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. I hope your calendars are marked for August 20 – Bluegrass Sunday!   

Love & Gratitude, 

Rhonda 

P.S. Thanks to David Keen and Mike Kellar for installing rails on the sides of the choir loft for easy stair climbing! 

Sunday, June 4

9:00 am Sunday School - Various Locations

9:00 am Learn about Cumberland Island - Youth Suite

10:00 am Worship - Sanctuary

Monday, June 5

9:00 am Manna House - 1408 G Street

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, June 6

9:30 am Staff Meeting - Upper Room

10:00 am PW Circle Meeting - Gathering Room

Wednesday, June 7

10:00 am Grief Support Group - John Law

7:00 pm Chancel Choir - Sanctuary

Thursday, June 8

8:00 am Cumberland Island Day Trip - St Mary's Ferry

Friday, June 9

No Activities Planned for This Day