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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.

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 Bella Events 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.

Great Day of Service
Saturday, April 25 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon

On Saturday, April 25th, the youth of Second invite you to join them for an intergenerational mission day as we seek to serve the city! We’ve partnered with several local organizations in the past to make a meaningful impact. But this year, we will focus our time and energy solely on beautifying the grounds of Trinity Commons. The day will kick off with Donuts & Devotion at 8:15 a.m. before walking across the street. We will serve until 12:00 p.m.

This project is unique in that Restoration Housing has renovated and reimagined Trinity United Methodist Church as affordable housing units for the aging in our community. Restoration Housing will provide snacks, water, and t-shirts… just make sure to register by April 8th to receive a free shirt!

Evening VBS
June 7–10 (Sun.–Wed.) | “Paying Attention to God in Daily Life” | Register by May 31

We’re excited to kick off the summer with our Evening Vacation Bible School, beginning Sunday evening, June 7, with a shared dinner and opening program. Adults are invited to join a special study led by mission co-worker Dr. John McCall, who will guide us in diving deeper into Scripture and growing together in faith. Meanwhile, children (Pre-K through 5th grade) will enjoy a theatre-themed VBS experience, full of creativity, storytelling, and faith-filled fun! Childcare will also be available for our youngest participants. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to learn and grow as a church family, side by side across generations. Register by Sunday, May 31.

Adult Evening Study Theme: “Paying Attention to God in Daily Life”

Following Jesus is a lifelong journey of growing in His love. As we learn to love God and our neighbor, the pace and pressures of daily life can easily distract us from spiritual growth. Yet God continually invites us to notice His presence. During our evenings together, we’ll explore practical and meaningful ways to cultivate an attentive, God-centered life in the midst of everyday routines.

About Our Speaker:

Dr. John McCall has served as a mission co-worker in Taiwan for 29 years, teaching Preaching, Spiritual Theology, and Pastoral Ministry at the three Presbyterian seminaries in Taiwan and in China. He has also pastored three churches in the United States. John’s ministry, both in Asia and in the US, focuses on helping people cultivate a vibrant, world-blessing faith.

For 4 Year Olds–Middle School: Children’s Theatre Camp

This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome back Meghan Griffith as the leader for our Evening VBS Children’s Theatre Camp! Children are welcome to bring friends.

Dinner: June 7

Plan to join us on June 7th to kick off Evening VBS with a congregational meal from Three Little Pigs BBQ! Menu includes Pork BBQ, Baked Beans, Mac and Cheese, Coleslaw, Garden Salad, Hot dogs and Chips.
Meal Cost: Adult – $15.00. Child 5 to 12 yrs old – $7.00. Child Under 5 – Free.

Registration

Register by Sunday, May 31.

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.

Churchwide Retreat
August 21–23 (Fri.–Sun.) | Eagle Eyrie Conference Center | Lynchburg, VA
Register by June 1

Join us August 21–23 at Eagle Eyrie in Lynchburg for our annual churchwide retreat! You won’t want to miss this intergenerational opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal where there will be programs for ALL AGES! The retreat begins with dinner on Friday evening and concludes following mid-morning worship on Sunday. We’ll gather for a weekend of worship, fellowship, recreation, and renewal, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. Our guest speaker, Dr. Rachel Thompson Orfield, will guide us in times of reflection and spiritual growth as we explore what it means to live faithfully and joyfully in community.

Retreat Theme: “Love Builds Up: Unity, Conflict, and Grace in the Body of Christ”

• Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians addresses a church in crisis. The community was being torn apart by factions, arrogance, and selfish behavior, weakening their witness to Jesus Christ. In his letter, Paul speaks honestly to the church about these struggles and invites them into a way of life that prioritizes love, diversity, and belonging.
• Paul’s words, though ancient, still resonate today. Using First Corinthians as our lens, this retreat will invite us to explore what it means to live as the body of Christ—learning how love can shape our relationships, guide us through conflict, and draw us toward deeper unity. Through Scripture, reflection, and shared conversation, we will consider how God calls us to build one another up so that, together, we may more faithfully reflect Christ to the world.

Guest Speaker:

Rachel Thompson Orfield is Associate Pastor of First Pres. in Charlottesville. Prior to this role, she served as Pastor and Head of Staff at Harpeth Pres. in Nashville, TN, and as Associate Pastor for Youth and Young Adults at Second Pres. in Roanoke, VA. Rachel earned a degree in Classics and Sociology from Furman University, an MDiv from Duke Divinity School, and a DMin from Columbia Theological Seminary. Her greatest joys in ministry are in community building, faith formation, and preaching. In all aspects of her ministry, Rachel is committed to sharing the expansive love of God.

Registration

Registration and a $100 deposit are due by Monday, June 1. Check out the retreat brochure to learn more.

*This event is made possible by a generous grant from the Richter Fund, with guest speaker funding from the Trent Fund.

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.

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

“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!