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“Build It Together” Habitat for Humanity Partnership Build
Second Presbyterian & St. John’s Episcopal
Winter–Spring 2026

With great anticipation, we are set to begin our work on our 2026 Partnership Build for Habitat for Humanity with St. John’s Episcopal in late-February. Second Pres volunteers are assigned the 1st/3rd Saturdays AND 2nd/4th Thursdays. Sign up to volunteer through our SignUpGenuis.

Men’s Bible Study
Thursdays | 7:15 a.m. | Reading Room/Zoom

Women’s Bible Study
Six-Week Session Resumes March 5
Thursdays | 10:30 a.m. | Session Room

Join us for a six-week women’s study exploring Jesus’ most profound and memorable teachings in Matthew 5–7. What did the Sermon on the Mount mean to Jesus’ first listeners, and how does it continue to speak to us today? Together, we’ll consider the historical and theological context of these teachings and reflect on how Jesus’ words offer a roadmap for faithful living.

Using Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner’s Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven by Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, we’ll explore how Jesus’ message grows out of his Jewish tradition and continues to challenge, inspire, and shape hearts and minds across the centuries. Registration is available on Realm.

Dates: March 5, 12, 19, 26 (No meeting April 2–Maundy Thursday), April 9, 16

*A limited number of books are available for purchase in Elizabeth Link’s office, or you make pick up a copy from your favorite book seller.

Whist Game Night
for Young Adults/Young Families
Sunday, March 22 | 5:00–7:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall

Whist is a classic four-player, trick-taking card game, typically played in two partnerships, using a standard deck. And the excitement only rises when you have competing teams. Teams of 4 compete to win the most hands, as 2 players from each team travel to other tables to play. Is this night just about playing cards? No! This style of Whist provides the opportunity to meet everyone in the room, share in some friendly competition, and join in fellowship with others. And perhaps even find out you have a new favorite card game… or playing partner. Capacity is 40, so register now if you plan to come!

Easter Flowers 2026
Order Online by March 23

If you would like to give memorial or celebration flowers for the April 5 Easter services, please complete the online order form here. The deadline for receiving orders is Monday, March 23.

The Bible in Black & White
“Like I Was Saying…” – Conversations Today
Wednesdays in April (Beginning April 8) | 12:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall

Trent Symposium for Newly Ordained Ministers
Fri.–Wed., April 17–22

The Kittye Susan Trent Symposium for Newly Ordained Ministers is a congregation based continuing education event for newly ordained ministers. From April 17–22, we will welcome eight ministers from across the country to Roanoke to participate in this program. On Sunday, April 19, the participants will join us in worship and attend our Sunday school classes. While they are with us, please join us in welcoming them into our vibrant congregation as we worship and learn together.

Congregational Dinner & Program | Tuesday, April 21 @ 6:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, April 21 at 6:00 p.m., we will have our annual Trent Symposium Dinner. During this time, we will enjoy a meal together followed by a program offered by Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty titled, “Sustaining Rootedness in an Age of Fragmentation.”

Details (Menu from Lib & Amy Catering):

• Apricot Dijon Glazed Pork Tenderloin, Fresh Green Beans with Pancetta, Roasted Garlic Rosemary Potatoes,
• Spring Mix Salad, Rolls, and Assorted Desserts.
• Cost: $15 per adult | $7 for children ages 5–12 | Children under 5 free.
• Register by Sunday, April 12.

About the Program: “Sustaining Rootedness in an Age of Fragmentation”
Within the context of the 16th-century reformations, John Calvin envisioned the local congregation as the nexus of social change, with tremendous potential to model alternative ways of living and to create communities of belonging. Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty will draw upon new research being done by religious leaders and scholars in Brazil, the Netherlands, and South Africa to invite you into a conversation about how remaining rooted within the Reformed tradition can be life-giving, sustaining, and transformative as the nation and churches experience a great deal of growing cynicism and instability.

About the Speaker: Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty
Elizabeth Hinson-Hasty is the J. Roy Davis Chair of Theology and History at Union Presbyterian Seminary. She is often called upon to speak or preach on matters of faith and public life. Her most recent book, Authentic Christian Freedom: Deconstructing the American Gospel of Liberty, was featured among the top book recommendations made by The Presbyterian Outlook in 2025. She and her husband, Lee, make their home in Charlotte, NC. You can learn more about her current research and other interests at elizabethhinsonhasty.com.

SAVE THE DATES for Morning VBS | July 20–23, 2026 | “Joseph’s Journey”

Registration opens this spring . . . stay tuned!

“Joseph’s Journey,” July 20–23 (Mon.–Th.), 8:30 a.m.–12 noon

• This year’s Morning Vacation Bible School (Pre-K–5th grade) will explore the inspiring story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Together, children will discover how God was always with Joseph (like God is always with us) through challenges, change, and moments of great need. Registration for Morning VBS will open this spring.
• Our VBS programs thrive thanks to the energy and commitment of our youth and adult volunteers! If you’re interested in helping with crafts, games, storytelling, or snacks, we’d love to have you join the team. To volunteer, please contact Maria Blackshaw or Meredith Koliba.

VBS After Care Camps*, July 20–23 (Mon.–Th.), 12 noon–4:00 p.m.

• We’re pleased to again offer VBS After Care Camps for families seeking extended care during VBS week! In partnership with local sports and arts organizations, children will enjoy fun, enriching afternoon “mini camps” held right here at the church. This opportunity allows families to take full advantage of the free Morning VBS while adding engaging afternoon activities. Please note that space will be limited and a fee will apply for the aftercare portion. Additional details and registration links will be available when VBS registration opens in the spring.
• *Note: After Care Camps are open to Kindergarten–5th grade children.

“Show Your Faith”
Christian Education 2025-26

Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see…” (Matthew 4:14-16). While faith can be deeply personal, it is never meant to be private. We are called into community to show our faith in our everyday choices, our words, and our actions.

At Second Presbyterian Church, it is our joy and mission to help equip and encourage you on that journey. This year, we invite you to take our theme “Show Your Faith” to heart. Let your light shine in bold, faithful living. Show your faith and show up, just as you are: whether you are seeking to grow, have a heart full of questions and doubts, or you just need a little fuel for your flame.

Consider the ways you are called to learn more and grow this church school year. The 2025-26 Christian Education Booklet is full of opportunities for you. May these opportunities for spiritual formation and growth inspire you to live your faith boldly and brightly for Christ. Show up this year and let your faith shine!