Midweek News Jan 21, 2026

Jan 21, 2026

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, January 25, 2026. Worship 11:00 a.m. followed by fellowship, coffee, and cookies.

The weather forecast for this coming weekend is for a major weather event here in the mountains. Depending on the weather model it may be lots of snow or lots of ice. We are not calling off church services yet but will announce as usual on Facebook (Crossnore Presbyterian Church), on the website, (www.crossnorepresbyterianchurch.org), email and the greeting on the church phone (828-733-1939).

The Craft Group continues to meet on Wednesday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall. They are currently working on personal projects and planning the next group project. Please come and join in on the crafting, fun, fellowship and food. All are welcome!

Attached to this email is the 2025 financial report for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Fund. Due to the generosity of members and friends, we now have almost $16,000 in interest. These funds will be given as a grant to Crossnore Elementary School when they send the Session a grant application. Principal Bentley is using limited state and federal funds first before requesting our grant. Thanks to all who have contributed to the future of our Crossnore children.

Roof Project Update. Most of the work on the interior of the sanctuary has been completed. Everyone will be glad to see the interior scaffolding removed. There are some final supports to be bolted and some painting to be done but everything will soon be ready for a cleaning. Then the final decisions on carpet and pew upholstery can be made and their installation can be scheduled. The actual roof tiling and masonry work continues as weather allows.

The potluck last Sunday was great! Thank you to all who helped by organizing, setting up, cleaning up and preparing food. A big thank you to Cheryl Lewis for all she does! Potlucks are such a special time of fellowship. 

Midweek News Jan 14, 2026

Jan 14, 2026

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday. January 18, 2026. Worship at 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Our January Potluck will follow worship. We will be serving pulled pork. Please bring a side dish, salad, or dessert to share.

Two new elders for the Class of 2028 were elected last Sunday during the Congregational Meeting. Join me in congratulating Jonathan McKenzie and Janet Regan on their new roles in our congregation. We also thank Linda Drivas and Gene Hodges as they complete six years of service as elders.

Session will meet Tuesday, January 20, at 3 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

The Roof Project is moving along. The crews have been installing tiles on the roof and making great progress. Inside the sanctuary, planned repairs are continuing also. A huge thank you to George Riggsbee for his continued vigilance and leadership during this huge project.​

Midweek News Jan 7, 2026

Jan 7, 2026

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, January 11, 2026. Worship at 11:00 a.m. A Congregational Meeting will be held following worship this to elect our 2028 Class of Elders.

Due to the generosity of our congregation, we collected $20,350 for our annual Christmas Eve Offering, December Mission Project. This exceeds any previous years’ donations. We are so grateful for all who contributed to this project. Fifty percent of the donations will go to Reaching Avery Ministries and fifty percent will go to Volunteer Avery to be used as emergency funds for gas, propane, kerosene, and electricity to families and individuals in financial need in Avery County.

This past Sunday, we used the communion ware for the first time that was given to our congregation as a gift from Re. Daniel Coffey. He commissioned the communion ware and baptismal font bowl through Doe River Pottery. Please read his letter of thanks (attached to this email) for supporting him on his journey through seminary and ordination.

Tuesday, January 6, was cleanup day for the fellowship hall. Christmas ornaments and decorations were packed away and the room was cleaned up by a wonderful group of volunteer elves.

The next Session Meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 13, at 3 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

Our January potluck will be on January 18 following worship. We will be having pulled pork. Please bring a side dish, salad, or desert to share!

The roof project is moving along, and the first roof tiles are scheduled to be placed beginning on Thursday, January 8. While the warm weather isn’t great news for our ski slopes, it means our roofing and masonry guys can get some work done!

MAYLAND FELLOWSHIP GATHERING - Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 4 p.m., Light refreshments served afterwards., Hosted by: Pineola Presbyterian Church, At the intersection of Hwy 221 & NC-181, Pineola, NC

Please Join us in welcoming Mrs. Bonnie Clark, Executive Director of Feeding Avery Families, a non-profit Christian organization

A thank you from Ruth Shirley, Director of Volunteer Avery: (This note was written before receiving our Christmas eve offering for emergency heat and electricity.)

Dear Crossnore Family,

First, let me just say, thank you!

Thank you for the many ways you support Volunteer Avery. From getting needed supplies to helping with building supplies, our needs have been great. We continue to help with our elderly community for basic needs. At this time the request for help with ramps for elderly have increased substantially. As you might imagine, we are very busy with heating oil.

Your donations helped so many. You helped to make sure that those struggling from the hurricane in our county received the assistance they need so badly. Again, thank you for your commitment to helping those in need in Avery County. We are stronger and better because of your caring. We are making a difference in helping Avery County. May you have a blessed New Year.

With Sincere Appreciation,

Ruth Shirley

Midweek News Dec 10, 2025

Dec 10, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

 3^rd Sunday of Advent, December 14 2025 Choir Practice – 10:00 a.m., Worship in the fellowship hall – 11:00 a.m, Cookies and coffee following worship.

The church choir practices every Sunday at 10 a.m. They are preparing anthems for Advent and Christmas, and you are invited!

Our December Mission Project is our annual Christmas Eve Offering which provides emergency funds for gas, propane, kerosene, and electricity to families and individuals in financial need in Avery County. You can bring your offering to our Christmas Eve Service, 5:30 p.m., December 24^th, or you can mail a check made out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church (P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616) and designate it for the “Christmas Eve Offering.” Every dollar collected will go to help those struggling in our county to stay warm during the frigid months in the mountains.

Wooden ornaments, tumblers, cutting boards, bunnies, and other crafts will be offered for donations this Sunday. All donations will go to the Crossnore Children’s Endowment Fund. We received an anonymous donation of $20,000 this past week to add to the endowment principal. Thanks be to God!

We are providing dinner for Wayne and Jennifer Pinter on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. If you would like to help provide meals, please give Pastor Kathy a call at the office (828-733-1939) or on her cell (828-260-2512

Mark these Dates on Your Calendar

• Sunday, December 21, 11 m., Advent Worship with guest harpist, Michael Willis; Christmas Potluck following worship.
• Wednesday, December 24, 5:30 m., Christmas Eve Candlelight Service in the fellowship hall.
• Sunday, December 28, 11 m. Christmas Sunday Worship Service- Rev. Maggie Lauterer, preacher.
• December 25- January 1, Church Office will be Pastor Kathy will be reachable on her cellphone.

A Big Thank You to all the elves who came last Saturday and decorated our fellowship hall for Christmas. The Chrismon decorations on the tree and the garlands are stunning! What beautiful gifts for our Advent and Christmas Seasons.

        

Donating Online to Crossnore Presbyterian Church

To make a donation online go to www.crossnorepresbyterianchurch.org and locate the "Give Here" box or the "Donate Here" box and click on the yellow "Donate" button. Enter your donation amount and then select one of the three payment options provided by PayPal.   If you have a PayPal account that you use like a bank account and you want to use it for your donation select this first option. The second option is Venmo, which is a mobile payment app that many use to make credit card or debit card payments. If you prefer to use Venmo, choose this. The third option is to just use a credit or debit card without using a PayPal or a Venmo account. Most of you will probably choose the third option.

Once you have entered the amount and type of payment, you will see a screen where you can add a note to indicate to which fund your donation should be applied, i.e. general fund, Christmas Eve fund, roof fund, Volunteer Avery fund, etc. You will add your payment card information on this screen also. When finished, click the "Donate Now" button at the bottom.

Update on the church sanctuary structural support and repairs: The first stage scaffolding is scheduled to be taken down this week. The reinforcement plates on half of the high trusses have been painted with the help of volunteers: George Riggsbee, Robert Dunn, and Eric Sowder. The scaffolding towers will be moved soon to provide the structural support and repairs on the back half of the sanctuary.

Midweek News Dec 3, 2025

Dec 3, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

2nd Sunday of Advent, Communion, December 7, 2025. Choir practice 10:00 a.m., Worship at 11:00 a.m. we will have a brief Congregational meeting to elect a Nominating Committee for the Class of 2028 Elders. We will then gather for coffee and birthday cake to celebrate December birthdays.

Volunteers are needed this Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-12 noon, to help with Christmas/Chrismon Tree Decorating.

The church choir practices every Sunday at 10 a.m. They are preparing anthems for Advent and Christmas and you are invited!

Our December Mission Project is our annual Christmas Eve Offering which provides emergency funds for gas, propane, kerosene, and electricity to families and individuals in financial need in Avery County. You can bring your offering to our Christmas Eve Service, 5:30 p.m., December 24 th , or you can mail a check made out
to Crossnore Presbyterian Church (P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616) and designate it for the “Christmas Eve Offering.” Every dollar collected will go to help those struggling in our county to stay warm during the frigid months in the mountains.

Our October- November Mission Project was raising funds for Thanksgiving Bags for those in need in our county. We received $3,200 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards for 32 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County and enough funds to cover all the special items in the Thanksgiving Bags.
The bags were delivered before Thanksgiving. Thanks to everyone who donated, who shopped, and who prepared and delivered the bags. Thanks for caring and sharing! A special thank you to Charlotte Davila and Jane Sowder for leading this mission project.

Wooden ornaments, tumblers, cutting boards, bunnies, and other crafts will be offered for donations this Sunday. All donations will go to the Crossnore Children’s Endowment Fund.

We will be providing dinner for Wayne and Jennifer Pinter on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. If you would like to help provide meals, please give Pastor Kathy a call at the office (828-733-1939) or on her cell (828-260-2512). We need folks to begin this week.

The Advent Devotional mailing went out last week. If you have not received yours, call or email the church office to let us know. (828-733-1939 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

The Memorial Garden is being transformed into a beautiful work of art! Eric and Jane Sowder, Richard Akelewicz, John Kehoe, Allen Middleton, and other volunteers have been working hard to build the rock walls, build up the ground, and install drainage before the cold weather sets in. This coming Spring, the walls and steps will be finished, and the native shrubs and flowers will be planted.

The Linville Land Harbor Band will present their Christmas Concert at 7 p.m., this Saturday, December 6, at the Land Harbor Recreation Center. Great Christmas music with some fun variations on contemporary tunes..Singalongs. All is free, and open to the public. A great time will be had by all!

Mark these Dates on Your Calendar
~ Sunday, December 7, 11 a.m., Advent Worship followed by a brief Congregational Meeting to elect a Nominating Committee for the Class of 2028 Elders.
~ Sunday, December 21, 11 a.m., Advent Worship with guest harpist, Michael Willis; Christmas Potluck following worship.
~ Wednesday, December 24, 5:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Candlelight Service in the fellowship hall.
~ Sunday, December 28, 11 a.m. Christmas Sunday Worship Service- Rev. Maggie Lauterer, preacher.
~ December 25- January 1, Church Office will be closed. Pastor Kathy will be reachable on her cellphone.

The Linville Land Harbor Band will present their Christmas Concert at 7 p.m., this Saturday, December 6, at the Land Harbor Recreation Center. Great Christmas music with some fun variations on contemporary tunes.

Singalongs. All is free, and open to the public. A great time will be had by all!

Update on the church sanctuary structural support and repairs: In the past couple of weeks, the timber construction team installed the truss panel point reinforcement plates and cut the LVLs to size. The architectural engineers from Bennett were here directing the placement of the hydraulic jacks and the installation of the LVLs. This week, the reinforcement plates will be painted. When half the sanctuary repairs are completed, the scaffolding towers will be moved to provide the structural support and repairs on the back half of the sanctuary. What a miracle to have all this advanced technology and skilled labor to assure the sanctuary will be here for generations to come! Our deep gratitude goes to George Riggsbee, our faithful engineer, who is here almost every day working side by side with the construction crews, and has been working on the roof project for over six years!!

The Memorial Garden is being transformed into a beautiful work of art! Eric and Jane Sowder, Richard Akelewicz, John Kehoe, Allen Middleton, and other volunteers have been working hard to build the rock walls, build up the ground, and install drainage before the cold weather sets in. This coming Spring, the walls and steps will be finished, and the native shrubs and flowers will be planted.

Midweek News Nov 26, 2025

Nov 26, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

First Sunday of the Advent Season, November 30, Choir practice at 9:30 a.m., Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by fellowship with coffee and cookies.

Wooden ornaments, cups, mugs, cutting boards, bunnies, and other crafts will be on sale this Sunday. All donations will go to the Crossnore Children’s Fund.

We will be providing dinners for Wayne and Jennifer Pinter on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. If you would like to help provide meals, please give Pastor Kathy a call at the office (828-733-1939) or on her cell (828-260-2512)

The Advent Devotional mailing went out on Wednesday. If you don’t get yours by December 3, call or email the church office to let us know. (828-733-1939 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). Thank you to Jim Taylor, Richard Akelewicz, Janet Regan, Maggie Lauterer, Sarah Proctor, and Gaye Meade for helping stuff envelopes and get everything ready to mail.

Our October- November Mission Project was raising funds for Thanksgiving Bags for those in need in our county. We had $3,200 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards for 32 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County and enough funds to cover all the special items in the Thanksgiving Bags. The bags were delivered over the last couple of days. Thanks to everyone who donated, who shopped, and who prepared and delivered the bags. Thanks for caring and sharing! A special thank you to Charlotte Davila and Jane Sowder for leading this mission project.

For everyone who helped make our booth at the Christmas Tree Festival this weekend a success, thank you! Special thanks to the craft group and Cheryl Lewis for creating crafts to sell and to Marie Cook for overseeing all details for our booth. Thanks to everyone who volunteered to staff the booth on Saturday. A Big Thank You to Jason DeWitt, the creator and director of the first annual Christmas Tree Festival! All the donations collected from our booth will go to the CPC Crossnore Children’s Fund. 

Volunteers are needed; please help as you are able

• Saturday, December 6, 10 a.m.- 12 noon, Christmas and Chrismon Tree Decorating in the fellowship hall

Mark these Dates on Your Calendar

• Sunday, December 7, 11 a.m., Advent Worship followed by a brief Congregational Meeting to elect a Nominating Committee for the Class of 2028 Elders.
• Sunday, December 21, 11 a.m., Advent Worship with guest harpist, Michael Willis; Christmas Potluck following worship.
• Wednesday, December 24, 5:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Candlelight Service in the fellowship hall.
• Sunday, December 28, 11 a.m. Christmas Sunday Worship Service- Rev. Maggie Lauterer, preacher.
• December 25- January 1, Church Office will be closed. Pastor Kathy will be reachable on her cellphone.

Update on the church sanctuary structural support and repairs: This week, the timber construction team installed the truss panel point reinforcement plates and cut the LVLs to size. The architectural engineers from Bennett were here directing the placement of the hydraulic jacks and the installation of the LVLs. With the completion of half the sanctuary repairs, the scaffolding towers will be moved to complete the structural support and repairs on the back half of the sanctuary. What a miracle to have all this advanced technology and skilled labor to assure the sanctuary will be here for generations to come! Our deep gratitude goes to George Riggsbee, our faithful engineer, who is here almost every day working side by side with the construction crews, and has been working on the roof project for over six years!!

The Memorial Garden is being transformed into a beautiful work of art! Eric and Jane Sowder, Richard Akelewicz, John Kehoe, Allen Middleton, and other volunteers have been working hard to build the rock walls, build up the ground, and install drainage before the cold weather sets in. This coming Spring, the walls and steps will be finished, and the native shrubs and flowers will be planted.

Midweek News Nov 12, 2025

Nov 12, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, November 16, 2025. Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by our potluck luncheon in the fellowship hall.  This is our Thanksgiving Feast. Roast Turkey and drinks will be provided. Please bring a Thanksgiving dish to share.

Bible Study continues this Wednesday, November 12, and run through November 19, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. “Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” and is being led by Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston. Tim shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.” Tim is using “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). .

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 10 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider joining.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are currently working on Christmas ornaments to sell at our table during the Christmas Tree Festival November 21 & 22 in Newland’s town square. The donations we
collect will go towards the CPC Crossnore Children’s Endowment.

We have raised $3,300 for our October- November Mission Project We are raising funds for Thanksgiving Baskets for those in need in our county. We will purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards and toiletries, socks, throws, and holiday decorations for 30 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County!
We continue to need drivers to take the Thanksgiving Baskets to their homes. If you would like to help deliver the baskets, please email Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Update on the church sanctuary structural support and repairs: Thanks to George Riggsbee and Greg Gacek for painting all the metal braces and bolts last week. The timber construction team is preparing the wooden supports that will secure the new purlins. In the next couple of weeks, the architectural engineers from Bennett will be here to oversee the jacking of the ceiling. What a miracle to have all this advanced technology and skilled labor to assure the sanctuary will be here for generations to come!

The church’s memorial garden is getting a complete renovation due to the damage from Hurricane Helene.  Eric and Jane Sowder have designed the new garden and with help from volunteers are beginning to stabilize the ground surface and construct the new rock walls. It will be exciting to see the completion of our new beautiful memorial garden next spring. Thanks to the Sowders and all who are helping!

Thank you from Pastor Kathy: I had a wonderful month enjoying the beautiful Autumn, having time with family and friends, walking, resting, cooking, watching movies, reading, and traveling. I want to give a special thank you to Pastor Jim Taylor for his great job as pastor in residence, to Mike Hannah for keeping the beautiful worship music flowing, to Ashlyn DeWitt for holding down the office, to the Session for faithfully covering their responsibilities, to George Riggsbee and Mike Gragg for their ongoing work with our sanctuary repairs, and to all the volunteers who continue to give of their time and talents to keep our ministry and mission going forward.

Thank you!

Midweek News Oct 29, 2025

Oct 29, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Communion Sunday, November 2. Worship at 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall. We will celebrate November birthdays following worship with birthday cake. Pastor Kathy returns to the office on Friday, October 31 and will be leading worship on Sunday.

Thank you to Pastor Jim Taylor for acting as our pastor-in residence during Pastor Kathy’s absence.

Please remember to set your clocks back one hour on Saturday night/Sunday morning.. It is "fall back" to standard time for this year.

Our October- November Mission Project is raising funds for Thanksgiving Baskets for those in need in our county.  We are hoping to raise $3,000 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards and toiletries, socks, throws, and holiday decorations for at least 25 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County.  We also need drivers to take the Thanksgiving Baskets to their homes. Make checks out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designate for Thanksgiving Baskets.  If you would like to help deliver the baskets, please email Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Our next Bible Study will continue on Wednesday, November 5, and run through November 19, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. “Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” and will be led by Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston. Tim shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.” Tim will be using “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). Please contact the church office to reserve a copy- $10 each: 828-733-1939.

Men’s Breakfast Group will meet at Kaye’s by the River, 503 Pine-ola Street, Newland, at 8:30 a.m., on Friday, November 7. All the men in our congregation are invited.

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider joining. 

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

Midweek News Oct 22, 2025

Oct 22, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, October 26, 2025. Worship at 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall followed by coffee, cookies and friendship time. Pastor Jim Taylor will be our worship leader and preacher.

Pastor Kathy is on vacation and study leave for the month of October. She will return to the office on Friday October 31. Jim Taylor has stepped in as the pastor in residence. He will be in the church office on Wednesdays. If there is a pastoral concern, please contact him. His cellphone is: 828-963-0349; his email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Ashlyn Dewitt, our Administrative Assistant, will be in the church office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays- 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. The Elder on Call is Marie Cook. Cell: 828-773-3650; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Our October- November Mission Project is raising funds for Thanksgiving Baskets for those in need in our county. We are hoping to raise $3,000 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards and toiletries, socks, throws, and holiday decorations for at least 25 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County. We also need drivers to take the Thanksgiving Baskets to their homes. Make checks out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designate for Thanksgiving Baskets. If you would like to help deliver the baskets, please email Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Women’s Gathering will meet at Barbara Stuart’s home this week Thursday, October 23, 4-6 p.m. Her address is: 157 Rhododendron Loop in Linville Land Harbor. Please park at the Golf House and carpool. Bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share.

The Presbytery meeting is on Tuesday, October 28, at First Presbyterian in Rutherfordton. If you are interested in attending, please speak to Pastor Jim.

Sunday’s potluck was a success. Thank you to all who helped with setup and cleanup and to all who brought the delicious food. A very big thank you to Cheryl Lewis, our elder in charge of fellowship, for her leadership and work in making our fellowship events so successful. It is a big job. Take a minute to say thank you to her! Or let her know you can volunteer to help with the potlucks, etc.

Our next Bible Study will begin on Wednesday, October 29, and run through November 19, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. “Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” and will be led by Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston. Tim shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.” Tim will be using “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). Please contact the church office to reserve a copy- $10 each: 828-733-1939.

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider joining.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

This Weeks’s Roof Construction Update: More scaffolding has gone up in the sanctuary. It looks like a huge jungle gym in there.

Midweek News Oct 15, 2025

Oct 15, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, October 19. 2025 Worship 11:00 a.m. Pastor Jim Taylor is our Pastor in Residence for the Month of October while Pastor Kathy is on leave. Our October potluck Is this Sunday October 19 and will again be held at the Land Harbor Golf House and is a casserole luncheon. following worship. Just come directly from church or run home and pick up your dish to share. It is a potluck so bring your favorite casserole, meat dish, veggie, or dessert to share. The church ovens can be used to warm your dish during worship if you wish or you can also drop your dish off before church at the Golf House. Directions to the Golf House- turn into the main entrance of Linville Land Harbor (from Highway 221), then turn right (the lake will be on your left), stay on the main road past the recreation building, past the Pointe (where we had our church picnic), keep going until you reach a stop sign, and turn left onto Goose Hollow Road. The Golf House and parking lot will be on your left.  The GPS address is: 1665 Goose Hollow Road.

Pastor Kathy is on vacation and study leave for the month of October. Jim Taylor has stepped in as the pastor in residence. He will be in the church office on Wednesdays and leading worship on Sundays. If there is a pastoral concern, please contact him. His cellphone is: 828-963-0349; his email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Ashlyn Dewitt, our Administrative Assistant, will be in the church office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays- 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. The Elder on Call is Marie Cook. Cell: 828-773-3650; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Our October- November Mission Project is raising funds for Thanksgiving Baskets for those in need in our county. We are hoping to raise $3,000 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards and toiletries, socks, throws, and holiday decorations for at least 25 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County. We also
need drivers to take the Thanksgiving Baskets to their homes. Make checks out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designate for Thanksgiving Baskets. If you would like to help deliver the baskets, please email Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Women’s Gathering will meet at Barbara Stuart’s home on Thursday, October 23, 4-6 p.m. Her address is: 157 Rhododendron Loop in Linville Land Harbor. Please park at the Golf House and carpool. Bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share.  

A thank you goes out to Lisa Moore, Mary Noble, Lila Taylor, Richard Akelewicz, Emmy Zobel, Jonathan McKenzie, John,Kehoe, Eric Sowder, and Jason Dewitt for painting Jacob’s Ladder Railings! They look wonderful!

Also, John,Kehoe, Eric Sowder and Richard Akelewicz have been hard at work in the Memorial Garden. This week they have broken up stone slabs, carried and placed them in the garden. Tough work! Thank you!

Our next Bible Study will begin on Wednesday, October 29, and run through November 19, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. “Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” and will be led by Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston. Tim shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.” Tim will be using “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). Please contact the church office to reserve a copy- $10 each: 828-733-1939,.

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.  

This Weeks’s Roof Construction Update: . The pews in the sanctuary have been moved in order for the inside scaffolding and supports to be erected. Inside scaffolding has been built and addition scaffolding is being delivered. It is great to see the progress.  While preparing to erect the inside scaffolding in the sanctuary, some of the flooring had to be taken up.  Between the top flooring and the rough underfloor, some cut up remnants of a children’s periodical called “The Water Lily” were found. The publication date is May 1926. (The first service in our sanctuary was in the summer of 1926). “The Water Lily” was published monthly by the National Temperance Society and was a four-page publication for Sunday schools. We’ve managed to piece together the first and second pages. I’m including them as a page 2 and page 3 in case you want to take a look.

Midweek News Oct 8, 2025

Oct 8, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, October 12. 2025 Worship 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall followed by cookies, coffee, and friendship. Pastor Jim Taylor is our Pastor in Residence for the Month of October while Pastor Kathy is on leave.

Pastor Kathy is on vacation and study leave for the month of October. Jim Taylor has stepped in as the pastor in residence. He will be in the church office on Wednesdays and leading worship on Sundays. If there is a pastoral concern, please contact him. His cellphone is: 828-963-0349; his email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Ashlyn Dewitt, our Administrative Assistant, will be in the church office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays- 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. The Elder on Call is Marie Cook. Her cellphone is 828-773-3650; her email is: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Rev. Daniel Coffey is leading the Wednesday Bible Study today October 8 and on October 15. His study is on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.” Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation. Everyone is invited to participate! All you need is your Bible.

Mayland Fellowship will be held next Sunday, October 12, 4 p.m., at Newland Presbyterian Church, 199 Elk Street, Newland. Light refreshments will be served afterwards. Dr. Janet Speer will be talking about the 1940 flood from a spiritual and historical perspective and connecting it to hurricane Helene. For more information call 828-733-2186.

Our October potluck will again be held at the Land Harbor Golf House and it will be another casserole luncheon. It will be held on October 19 following worship. Just come directly from church or run home and pick up your dish to share. It is a potluck so bring your favorite casserole, meat dish, veggie, or dessert to share. The church ovens can be used to warm your dish during worship if you wish or you can also drop your dish off before church at the Golf House. Directions to the Golf House- turn into the main entrance of Linville Land Harbor (from Highway 221), then turn right (the lake will be on your left), stay on the main road past the recreation building, past the Pointe (where we had our church picnic), keep going until you reach a stop sign, and turn left onto Goose Hollow Road. The Golf House and parking lot will be on your left. The GPS address is: 1665 Goose Hollow Road.

The Women’s Gathering will meet at Barbara Stuart’s home on Thursday, October 23, 4-6 p.m. Her address is: 157 Rhododendron Loop in Linville Land Harbor. Please park at the Golf House and carpool. Bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share.

Our October- November Mission Project is raising funds for Thanksgiving Baskets for those in need in our county. We are hoping to raise $3,000 to purchase $100 Ingles grocery cards and toiletries, socks, throws, and holiday decorations for at least 25 individuals and families selected through Volunteer Avery County. We also need drivers to take the Thanksgiving Baskets to their homes. Make checks out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designate for Thanksgiving Baskets. If you would like to help deliver the baskets, please email Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Our next Bible Study will begin on Wednesday, October 29, and run through November 19, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. “Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” and will be led by Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston. Tim shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.” Tim will be using “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). Please contact the church office to reserve a copy- $10 each: 828-733-1939, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

A Thank You: We can’t thank you all enough for your continued love and generous support to our food pantry and our community. Your truly are a blessing. May th the Lord bless each of you. With Love, Minneapolis Baptist Church.

This Weeks’s Roof Construction Update: New Scaffolding was put up outside this week. Mostly in the front of the church. There may or may not be access to the front door of the sanctuary. In supports have been placed in the basement to reinforce the sanctuary floor and the scaffolding, etc. that will be used as they reinforce the beams and roof supports.

Midweek News Sept 24, 2025

Sept 24, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, September 28, 2025 - Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship 11:00 a.m. followed by coffee, cookies and fellowship.

The CPC September Women’s Gathering will be meeting at Cellucci’s Italian Restaurant (2855 Linville Falls Highway, Pineola) today, Thursday, September 25, 4 p.m. for dinner and fellowship. This is open to the women in our church family and friends.

Avery County Day of Remembrance & Honor will be held to mark the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene on Saturday, September 27, 10:00 a.m. in the Avery square across from the courthouse in Newland. The event will be an opportunity to reflect on, and pay tribute to those lost and missing and to all those who rose to help during and following the storm.

Rev. Daniel Coffey will be leading the Wednesday Bible Study Wednesday, September 17, through October 8. His study is on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.”  Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation. Everyone is invited to participate! All you need is your Bible.

“Fun with New Testament Backgrounds” (Wednesdays, October 29 - November 19, 3-4 PM, in the fellowship hall).  Dr. Tim Johnson, former professor and chair of the Department of Classics at the College of Charleston, will be our Bible Study Leader and shares the following description: New Testament stories and texts, formed in the first and second centuries AD, assume shared cultural contexts with their earliest audiences. These contexts often differ significantly from our modern views, and the difference can interfere with our understanding of scripture. What were common ethical viewpoints circulating at that time? What role did polytheism play, and what other religions competed with Christianity? How did governmental authority figure in? What other literature were people hearing and reading? Join me as we consider some of these questions and discover how New Testament backgrounds can enrich our comprehension of its message.”  The book we will be using is “The Greco-Roman World of the New Testament” by James S. Jeffers (Intervarsity Press: Downers Grove, IL). Please contact the church office to reserve a copy- $10 each. (828) 733-1939.

The Sunday School class will meet this Sunday, September 28, 10 a.m., in the conference room in the fellowship hall.  Note from Reta Jackson: Do you know what country is called the Flower Shop of the World, exports more than 3 billion bulbs a year and is home to Europe's largest public garden? All nature lovers are welcome to join us as we consider "The kiss of the sun for pardon.  The song of the birds for mirth, One is nearer God's heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth."

We had a great gathering for the September potluck at the Land Harbor Golf House last Sunday. The food was delicious and the fellowship was even better. Thank you to all who brought food. A special thank you to Chery Lewis (Fellowship Committee Elder/Chair), Daryl Storm, Marie Cook, Allen Middleton, Mary Louise Aldridge, John and
Diane Kehoe, and Duane Kirkman for setting for organizing, setting up, taking down, cleaning up and doing all the “things” needed to make a successful fellowship meal.

Our October potluck will again be held at the Land Harbor Golf House and it will be another casserole luncheon. It will be held on October 19 following worship. More information to follow.

We are mailing a Fall 2025 update on missions, roof and hurricane contribution spending at the end of this week.  Keep an eye out for it in your snail mail. Pastor Kathy and Ashlyn appreciate the envelope ladies, Gaye Meade, Linda Drivas, Mary Louise Aldridge, and Lynn O’Meara, who came and stuffed and sealed the 254 envelopes.

Our September Mission Project is building up our church’s General Fund. Our church family has been incredibly generous to all the various mission projects this summer, but the church’s General Fund needs a bit of a boost.  Offerings tend to be lean during the winter and spring months; so, this is our opportunity to build up a reserve that can help us with monthly expenses from late fall to late spring.

With the contributions collected and the pledges yet to be completed, we have raised $143,295 towards the second phase of the “Raising the Roof” Campaign of $140,000! Alleluia! Thanks be to God!  Pledge reminders will be sent out by the end of September. Thanks to everyone who contributed.  Beginning in 2021, our church has raised a total of $750,000 with the first and second roof capital campaign! Construction Update: Thank You to George Riggsbee, Robert Dunn, and Cheryl Lewis for the laborious task of marking all the places the shore towers will be placed in the sanctuary and in the basement. The next step will be completing the interior sanctuary structural reinforcement and repair.  As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible.

The Church Choir is practicing Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. Rhonda and Michael Ensley have given our church 145 Chrismons in memory of their son, Hunter. Rhonda expertly handmade every single beautiful Chrismon over the past 8 years. We are so grateful for such a special gift! Her ornaments along with the ornaments created by our craft group will adorn our Chrismon Tree during the Advent/Christmas Season.

Midweek News Sept 17, 2025

Sept 17, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, September 21, 2025. Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship 11:00 a.m.

Our September Potluck will follow worship and will be held at the Golf House at Linville Land Harbor. Just come directly from church or run home and pick up your dish to share. It is a potluck so bring your favorite casserole, meat dish, veggie, or dessert to share. The church ovens can be used to warm your dish during worship if you wish or you can also drop your dish off before church at the Golf House. Cheryl Lewis will be there, and it will be open. Directions to the Golf House- turn into the main entrance of Linville Land Harbor (from Highway 221), then turn right (the lake will be on your left), stay on the main road past the recreation building, past the Pointe (where we had our church picnic), keep going until you reach a stop sign, and turn left onto Goose Hollow Road. The Golf House and parking lot will be on your left. The GPS address is: 1665 Goose Hollow Road.

Reta Jackson is leading Sunday School Sunday, at 10:00 a.m. in the conference room in the fellowship hall. The class will look at notable stained-glass windows that are found in France, England, Germany and Scotland. Come and join us!

Rev. Daniel Coffey will be leading the Wednesday Bible Study this Wednesday, September 17, through October 8. His study is on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.” Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation. Everyone is invited to participate! All you need is your Bible.

The CPC September Women’s Gathering will be meeting at Cellucci’s Italian Restaurant (2855 Linville Falls Highway, Pineola) on Thursday, September 25, 4 p.m. for dinner and fellowship. This is open to the women in our church family and friends.

WE DID IT!!! With the contributions collected and the pledges yet to be completed, we have raised $143,295 towards the second phase of the “Raising the Roof” Campaign of $140,000! Alleluia! Thanks be to God! Pledge reminders will be sent out by the end of September. Thanks to everyone who contributed. Beginning in 2021, our church has raised a total of $750,000 with the first and second roof capital campaign!

Our September Mission Project is building up our church’s General Fund. Our church family has been incredibly generous to all the various mission projects this summer: Offerings tend to be lean during the winter and spring months; so, this is our opportunity to build up a reserve that can help us with monthly expenses from late fall to late spring.

The Church Choir meets on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

We are in need of volunteers to stuff envelopes on Thursday, September 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Please let Pastor Kathy or Ashlyn know if you can help.

Rhonda and Michael Ensley have given our church 145 Chrismons in memory of their son, Hunter. Rhonda expertly handmade each beautiful Chrismon over the past 8 years. We are so grateful for such a special gift! Her ornaments along with the ornaments created by our craft group will adorn our Chrismon Tree during the Advent/Christmas Season.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

One of the large, old trees in our parking lot was reluctantly removed this past week. Due to its declining condition, it had become a danger and was at risk of falling on the church. We honor its long life and the shade and beauty it provided over the years. While we know many will miss it, this decision was made with care and safety in mind.

Pastor Kathy had an opportunity to visit with long time member and friend, Patricia McGarr in Charlotte last week. Patricia is doing well and sends her love to the congregation. She is still tending her flowers.

Midweek News Sept 10, 2025

Sept 10, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, September 14, 2025, Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship 11:00 a.m., fellowship with coffee and cookies following worship.

We welcomed the teenagers and staff from Grace Cottage at Crossnore Communities for Children to worship this past Sunday. We are happy to say they will be joining us on a regular basis. 

Reta Jackson is leading Sunday School the next two Sundays, at 10:00 a.m. in the conference room in the fellowship hall. This Sunday will focus on Norway’s Stave Churches, and the following Sunday will look at notable stained-glass windows that are found in France, England, Germany and Scotland. Come and join us!

Rev. Daniel Coffey is leading the Wednesday Bible Study beginning this Wednesday, September 10, through October 8. His study will be on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.” Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation. Everyone is invited to participate! All you need is your Bible. 

September’s potluck will be held at the Golf House at Linville Land Harbor on September 21 following worship. Just come directly from church or run home and pick up your dish to share. It is a casserole potluck so bring your favorite casserole, veggie, dessert to share. 

Our September mission project will be building up our church’s General Fund. Our church family has been incredibly generous to all the various mission projects this summer: The continuing Hurricane Helene Relief/Recovery Fund ($36,000-balance); 80 bags of groceries for the Minneapolis Food Pantry; over 300 paper and hygiene products and pet food for Feeding Avery Families; and continuing to grow the CPC Children’s Endowment ($173,447- which includes principal and interest). But the church’s General Fund needs a bit of a boost. As of July 31, our General Fund was in the red by $5,000; our expenses for July were $20.423 and our revenue was $15,368. Offerings tend to be lean during the winter and spring months; so, this is our opportunity to build up a reserve that can help us with monthly expenses from late fall to late spring.

A big thank you to John Kehoe and Allen Middleton for picking up and spreading the gravel on the small road next to the Memorial Garden. The restoration of the Memorial Garden after the damage from Hurricane Helene is ongoing. 

The Church Choir meets Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: Thanks to the Organ Donors—The LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) beams arrived and thanks to the cleaning, sanding and staining crew of volunteers they are ready to be installed to help support/reinforce the internal roof structure. The new balance left to be raised for the second phase of the roof campaign will be shared this Sunday. Every gift- large or small- matters! We are almost done! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible.

George Rigsbee & Rick Crawford sanding, painting, and stacking.  Good job fellas!

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

Midweek News Sept 3, 2025

Sept 3, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Communion Sunday, September 7, 2025, Sunday School – 10:00 a.m., Worship – 11:00 a.m., Fellowship following worship with birthday cake to celebrate September birthdays!

We warmly welcome the teenagers and staff from Grace Cottage at Crossnore Communities for Children as they join us for worship this Sunday.

Reta Jackson will be leading Sunday School starting this Sunday, September 7, at 10:00 a.m. in the conference room in the fellowship hall, looking at places of worship in Europe. The class will begin in France with three of that nation’s cathedrals: Chartres, Mont St. Michel and Rouen. The second Sunday will focus on Norway’s Stave Churches, and the third Sunday will look at notable stained-glass windows that are found in France, England, Germany and Scotland. Come and join us!

This Wednesday, September 3, 3- 4 p.m., our final Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor will be held.Daniel Coffey will be leading the next Wednesday Bible Study from September 10 through October 8. His study will be on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.” Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation. Everyone is invited to participate! All you need is your Bible.

George Riggsbee’s “Bolting Party” yesterday, Tuesday, September 2, was a success. We had 30 people show up and all the bolts, washers and nuts were place in the fixtures to be painted. We were finished by noon. George sends a big thank you to all who came to help. It made a big job easy and got it done quickly.

Our August mission project was collecting hygiene, paper, cleaning supplies and pet food for Feeding Avery Families. We collected over 300 items. Feeding Avery Families came with their van, picked them up and the supplies have been delivered to their facility. Thank you to all who donated!

The last program in our Summer Series of Speakers and Music, “Realignment: American Politics in Transition” was presented last night, Tuesday, September 2, by Dr. Karl Campbell, Department of History, ASU.”. It was a packed house of over 100 people, a great way to end the successful 2025 Summer Series. Dr. Campbell provided a non-partisan exploration of the major realignment of our political system as both the Republican and Democratic parties transition into new parties with new values, policies and constituents.

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: ServPro finished removing the old carpet and pew upholstery from the sanctuary last week. Thanks to the Organ Donors, Cheryl Lewis, Jo Riddle, Mary Louise Aldridge and Robert Dunn for moving the organ out of the sanctuary and onto the truck. And to the Tacky Ladies and all the volunteers for continuing the laborious task of removing tacks and staples from the pews. The next step will be completing the interior sanctuary structural reinforcement and repair. A big thank you to George Riggsbee who has been and continues to be our faithful and fearless structural engineer, six years and counting!

We only have $6,700 left to raise in the second phase of the roof campaign! Every gift- large or small-matters! We are almost done! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible.

After the roof and sanctuary repair construction is completed, the next step will be laying new carpet and upholstering the 30 pews in the sanctuary. The old carpet and pew upholstery have been there since the 1980s. This project was supposed to be done 6 years ago when we discovered that our 100-year-old sanctuary roof had to be replaced first. We already have $52,000 in donations designated for this project.  Alleluia!

The Church Choir is returning to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the Fellowship Hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

Midweek News Aug 27, 2025

Aug 27, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, August 31, 2025. Worship 11:00 a.m., followed by coffee and cookies during fellowship time.

This Sunday is the final Sunday of our August Mission Project. We have been collecting paper products, cleaning supplies, and pet food for Feeding Avery Families. The following items are needed: paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, toilet wipes (septic safe), cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, dog and cat food. We will be collecting
these items through the end of August. We are also collecting for Daily Change. Remember you August Mission donations and your Daily change donations this Sunday!

September 3rd, 3-4 p.m., will be the final Wednesday afternoon Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor based on the book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” You are invited to join in this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life!

Daniel Coffey will be leading the Wednesday Bible Study from September 10 through October 8. His study will be on: “Shalom: Five Glimpses of Peace, Restoration, and God’s Providence in Scripture.” Bible passages will begin with the Book of Genesis and end with the Book of Revelation.

George Riggsbee is throwing a “Bolting Party” and you are invited; this Tuesday, September 2 beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Church Fellowship Hall. A note from George: “The basement cleanup turn-out was outstanding! Thank you so much for your help. The next congregational event will be the “Bolting Party”. The sanctuary truss reinforcement plates require over a thousand bolts that need the hex head, washers and nuts painted. I have made fixtures for the painting and the bolts need to be placed in these fixtures. We can sit at the fellowship hall tables to insert the bolts and nuts. No heavy lifting or wrenches are required. With a dozen or so persons we’ll get this knocked out fairly quickly. Let’s meet Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Thank you so much for your help and contribution to Raising the Roof.”

The last program in our Summer Music and Speaker Series will be this Tuesday, September 2, at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Karl Campbell will present “Realignment: American Politics in Transition”. Our political system is currently undergoing a major realignment. Both Republicans and Democrats are transitioning into new parties defined by new values, policies, and constituents. Dr. Karl Campbell (Department of History, ASU) will offer a non-partisan exploration of the issues and historical forces behind the confusing political transformation we are living through today.

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: ServPro has finished removing the old carpet and pew upholstery from the sanctuary this week. You need to pick up an old roof tile (located to the left of the lower parking lot) and you can sign a new roof tile (located in the fellowship hall). Donations for the old tiles are appreciated! Because we received $16,500 towards the second phase of our roof campaign last week, we only have $7,500 left to raise!  Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible. After the roof and sanctuary repair construction is completed, the next step will be laying new carpet and upholstering the 30 pews in the sanctuary. The old carpet and pew upholstery have been there since the 1980s. This project was supposed to be done 6 years ago when we discovered that our 100-year-old sanctuary roof had to be replaced first. We already have $52,000 in donations designated for this project. Alleluia!

A big thank you to Mary Noble who restarted our Sunday School and led a well-attended and appreciated Sunday School class from June 8 through August 17 on “Tending the Wild Garden” by Eugenia Ann Gamble.

Our next Sunday School class will begin on September 7 and run through September 28. Reta Jackson will be teaching about French cathedrals and stained-glass windows.

The Church Choir has returned to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

Midweek News Aug 30, 2025

Aug 20, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, August 24, 2025. Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall, Please join us in the fellowship hall for coffee and cookies following worship.

Last night’s (Tuesday, August 19) performance “An Evening of Appalachian Music and Stories” by Lynn Church and Family with Lynn Church and Family was a special gift. The Churches share their music to the praise and honor of God. The event was very well attended and the audience truly enjoyed the music.

Wednesday, August 20, through September 3^rd, 3-4 p.m., our Wednesday afternoon Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor is based on a new book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” You are invited to join in this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life!

Our August Mission Project is collecting paper products, cleaning supplies, and pet food for Feeding Avery Families. The following items are needed: paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, toilet wipes (septic safe), cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, dog and cat food. We will be collecting these items through the end of August. We have one more week to go!

Thanks to all who helped with the annual church picnic at the Linville Land Harbor Pointe last Sunday. Everyone had a wonderful time and enjoyed the food and fellowship. A special thank you to Cheryl Lewis for all her hard work! Also thank you to all the volunteers, from the grillers to the organizers, servers and those who helped clean up. Dwayne Kirkman gets a special thank you for taking all the garbage to the dump! And another thanks to all who brought food to share!

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: ServPro is continuing to remove the old carpet from the sanctuary floor and the upholstery from the pews this week. They have begun to take the ceiling down in the basement to prepare for the shoring and scaffolding to come. We are closer to our fund-raising goal. We only have $8,600 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! You can take an old roof tile (located to the left of the lower parking lot) and you can sign a new roof tile (located in the fellowship hall). Donations for the old tiles are appreciated! We are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. It is best to avoid that area and park in the lower lot as we don’t always know what they will be doing.

Mary Noble is leading Sunday School, 10 a.m., in the conference room in the fellowship hall. She is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

We recently received the 2025 Stafford Family Trust Grant for $20,000! $10,000 fulfills the pledge already made to the roof fund and $10,000 is going to the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment. We owe our deepest gratitude to the Stafford Trust begun by Ivan and Melba Stafford. We have been the recipient of these generous annual grants for over a decade. Some background—the Stafford Family Trust was established by Ivan and Melba Stafford. Ivan Stafford came to Crossnore School to teach after graduating from Davidson College. He met and married Mable Stroupe, a colleague, who was the older sister of Dr. Mary Martin Sloop’s daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Sloop. After serving in the US Navy during WW11, Ivan earned a doctoral degree and Melba earned a master’s degree at UNC-Chapel Hill. Ivan taught and served as Vice President of Lees-McRae College, Morris Harvey College, and Montreat Anderson College. Melba spent many years as the Principal of Crossnore Grammar School and later tutored children with reading disabilities. She retired as a highly regarded English teacher at Owens High School in Black Mountain, NC. Ivan climaxed a lifelong involvement in Scouting by working on the National Scout Executive Council. After 50 years of traveling life’s highway together, Ivan and Melba died within a few days of one another and rest together with their family near the Crossnore Presbyterian Church they so loved.

The Church Choir is returning to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

The next in our Summer Music and Speaker Series will be on September 2, at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Karl Campbell will present “Realignment: American Politics in Transition”. Our political system is currently undergoing a major realignment. Both Republicans and Democrats are transitioning into new parties defined by new values, policies, and constituents. Dr. Karl Campbell (Department of History, ASU) will offer a non-partisan exploration of the issues and historical forces behind the confusing political transformation we are living through today.

Midweek News Aug 13, 2025

Aug 13, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, August 17, 2025, Sunday School 10:00 a.m., Worship 11:00 a.m. in the fellowship, Annual Church Picnic at the Pointe in Land Harbor. You can just come straight from church or plan to go home and pick up you dish and show up by 1:00 p.m. We will have hot dogs and hamburgers. Please plan to bring Cheryl Lewis.

Continuing on Wednesday, August 13 through September 3^rd, 3-4 p.m., our Wednesday afternoon Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor will be based on a new book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” In his introduction, Hamilton says, “Jesus’ words were consequential, and if you want to follow Jesus today, it is not enough to know that he died and rose again.  You are meant to know what he taught about God and God’s will for humanity. We’re not only meant to embrace these words, but to seek to live them.” You are invited to join in this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life! If you would like to reserve a book ($10), please contact Pastor Kathy, 828-260-2512 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Thursday, August 14, Ashlyn needs help with the new directory mailing from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Yes, another envelope stuffing party in the fellowship hall. Everything will be ready to go. If you can help, please let Ashlyn know.

On Tuesday, August 19 at 7:00 p.m. in the church fellowship hall, Lynn Church and Family present “An Evening of Appalachian Music and Stories” with Lynn Church and Family. Join us for an evening of mountain music and storytelling performed by Lynn Church and his sons Eli and Ethan. Lynn, who owns Three Nails Hardware in Newland, grew up listening to the music his family members played and sang in their homes and on their front porches. Many of the tunes were created right here in Avery County. The Churches share their music to the praise and honor of God.

Our August Mission Project is collecting paper products, cleaning supplies, and pet food for Feeding Avery Families. The following items are needed: paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, toilet wipes (septic safe), cleaning supplies, laundry detergent sheets, dog and cat food. We will be collecting these items through the end of August.

Mary Noble is leading Sunday School, 10 a.m., in the conference room in the fellowship hall. She is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: Work continues on the roof as the weather allows. It certainly has been a wet August!.

Serve Pro has set up dehumidifiers in the sanctuary to help dry it out after the huge thunderstorm and roof leakage. They will be here this Thursday, August 14, to take out the old carpet and the pew upholstery.

You can take an old roof tile (located to the left of the lower parking lot) and you can sign a new roof tile (located in the fellowship hall). Donations for the old tiles are appreciated! We are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. We only have $25,000 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. It is best to avoid that area and park in the lower lot as we don’t always know what they will be doing. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible. There is the possibility of falling debris and lots of nails.

The Church Choir has returned to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the fellowship hall. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

There are a few Our Daily Bread (September, October, November) devotionals available on the table where the name tags are kept as you come into the fellowship hall. Feel free to pick one up as long as the last.

Midweek News Aug 6, 2025

Aug 6, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

A huge thank you to all the 25 volunteers who came on Monday and Tuesday to help clean out the basement. The job was finished by noon on Tuesday. Many things made their way as donations to Blair Fraley Sales Store, Restore, and Ram’s Rack to the dump and to storage. The library and choir robes were carefully packed and will be stored in a member’s climate-controlled basement. Special thanks to Eric Sowder the master mid behind the work!

Our August luncheon will be our annual church picnic at the Pointe in Land Harbor, on Sunday, August 17. We will have hot dogs and hamburgers. Please plan to bring some thing to share. More info to follow.

Dr. Curt Ryan’s presentation of “Understanding the Lines of Conflict in the Middle East.” was well attended by 90 people. Dr. Ryan did a great job of giving broad perspective of the conflicts that are taking place and the diversity of views in the Middle East.

On August 19 at 7:00 p.m. in the church fellowship hall, Lynn Church and Family present “An Evening of Appalachian Music and Stories” with Lynn Church and Family. Join us for an evening of mountain music and storytelling performed by Lynn Church and his sons Eli and Ethan. Lynn, who owns Three Nails Hardware in Newland, grew up listening to the music his family members played and sang in their homes and on their front porches. Many of the tunes were created right here in Avery County. The Churches share their music to the praise and honor of God.

Beginning this Wednesday, August 6^th through September 3^rd, 3-4 p.m., our Wednesday afternoon Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor will be based on a new book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” In his introduction, Hamilton says, “Jesus’ words were consequential, and if you want to follow Jesus today, it is not enough to know that he died and rose again. You are meant to know what he taught about God and God’s will for humanity. We’re not only meant to embrace these words, but to seek to live them.” You are invited to join in this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life! If you would like to reserve a book ($10), please contact Pastor Kathy, 828-260-2512 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Our August Mission Project is collecting paper products, cleaning supplies, and pet food for Feeding Avery Families. The following items are needed: paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, toilet wipes (septic safe), cleaning supplies, laundry detergent sheets, dog and cat food. We will be collecting these items through the end of August.

The groceries and financial donations from our July mission project were delivered to the Minneapolis Food Pantry this past Tuesday—80 bags of groceries and a check for $500 for perishable items. Thanks to Clarence Kenyon, Charlotte Davila, Mary Louise Aldridge, and Carroll and Linda Berkley for taking all the groceries. Thanks to everyone who contributed!

Sanctuary Roof Project Update: The crew worked all last week removing the old tiles from the sanctuary roof and securing the plywood and membrane on half the roof. You can take an old roof tile (located to the left of the lower parking lot) and you can sign a new roof tile (located in the fellowship hall). Donations for the old tiles are appreciated! We are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. We only have $25,000 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. It is best to avoid that area and park in the lower lot as we don’t always know what they will be doing. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible. There is the possibility of falling debris, etc.

The Church Choir is returning to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

Mary Noble is leading Sunday School, 10 a.m., in the conference room in the fellowship hall. She is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in this Wednesday, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

Linda Drivas and Lila Taylor volunteered as representatives from our church at the Back to School Bash at Avery High School, this past Thursday. 1,800 students and their families received backpacks, school supplies, community resource information, and free food. What a wonderful way for our community to come together to help prepare students for the new school year.

Midweek News July 30, 2025

July 30, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Communion Sunday, August 3, 2025, Sunday School at 10:00 a.m. in the conference room, Worship at 11:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Birthday cake, coffee and lemonade to celebrate August birthdays following worship in the fellowship hall.

We are moving to the fellowship hall for worship for the foreseeable future. Progress on the roof has reach the point where keeping the sanctuary set up for worship is not possible.

We are continuing to collect groceries and checks for our July Mission Project this Sunday. We are collecting food for the Minneapolis Food Pantry. Perishable groceries are also needed- you can write a check to Crossnore Presbyterian Church, designate it for food, and it will be used to buy cheese, butter, eggs, breakfast sausage, and hot dogs. The groceries and financial donations will be taken to the Minneapolis Food Pantry and distributed to so many in need.

The Church Choir is returning to Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

Mary Noble is leading Sunday School, 10 a.m., in the conference room in the fellowship hall. She is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree. The Chrismons that are already finished are on display in the fellowship hall. The group hopes to have all new Chrismons on the Chrismon Tree this December.

The Summer Bible study will meet this Wednesday, July 30, 3-4 p.m. We are sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. Everyone is invited to participate. Our study will focus on Mary Magdalene.

Our next program in the Summer Series of Speakers and Music will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 7 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. Dr. Curt Ryan will be discussing “Understanding the Lines of Conflict in the Middle East.” From the Gulf wars to the war in Gaza, the Middle East has been ravaged by wars, undermining the stability of the entire region. In this presentation, Dr. Curtis Ryan (Department of Political Science, Appalachian State) will explain the key actors and interests driving current conflicts, with a view to finding the prospects for peace.

Roof Update: The old tile has been removed. New plywood is being installed with lots of pounding and banging and dust in the air. It is great to see the progress. You can take an old roof tile (located to the left of the lower parking lot) and you can sign a new roof tile (located in the fellowship hall). Donations for the old tiles are appreciated! We are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. We only have $26,500 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed! As the construction continues, please be extremely careful, particularly during the week, when driving into the church. The driveway across the front of the church into the upper parking lot may be blocked off. It is best to avoid that area and park in the lower lot as we don’t always know what they will be doing. Be extremely careful driving or walking through that area and avoid it, if at all possible. There is the possibility of falling debris, etc.

Beginning August 6^th and continuing through September 3^rd, from 3-4 p.m., our Wednesday afternoon Bible Study led by Pastor Jim Taylor will be based on a new book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” In his introduction, Hamilton says, “Jesus’ words were consequential, and if you want to follow Jesus today, it is not enough to know that he died and rose again. You are meant to know what he taught about God and God’s will for humanity. We’re not only meant to embrace these words, but to seek to live them.” You are invited to join in this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life! If you would like to reserve a book ($10), please contact Pastor Kathy, 828-260-2512 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CPC Men’s Breakfast group will meet this Friday, August 1, 8:30 a.m., at Kayes’ Down by the River Restaurant. All men are invited to attend for a wonderful time of good food and fellowship.

This past Tuesday’s Summer Series: The Rule of Law: A Panel Discussion- Larry Coleman, Luther Munford, Karl Campbell, was well attended with over 100 people in the audience. The presentation was informative and well received. Thank you to Larry, Luther, and Karl for preparing and presenting this complex and difficult topic during these times.

Our August t luncheon will be our annual church picnic at the Pointe in Land Harbor, on Sunday, August 17.

Our Daily Change Offering collected on Sunday, June 29^th, totaled $243.19. Thanks to all who contributed! Our monthly daily change offerings go to the Presbyterian Hunger Program which provides grants to help feed people and alleviate hunger in our local, regional, national, and global communities.

Volunteers are also needed to help with the Back to School Bash, 4-8 p.m. at Avery High School, on July 31. If you would like to volunteer, please let Pastor Kathy know as soon as possible (828-260-2512).

Midweek News July 16, 2025

July 16, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, July 20, Worship at 11 a.m. Our July Potluck Luncheon will be held following worship. The menu is Cheryl’s home smoked pulled pork. Please bring a side dish to share.

Sunday School has returned on Sundays at 10 a.m.! Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class in the conference room in the fellowship hall. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

Our July Mission Project is collecting groceries for the Minneapolis Food Pantry. Canned meats (chicken, tuna, beef), canned soups and stews, cheese macaroni dinners, spaghetti sauce, spaghetti, cereal, oatmeal, sugar, flour, cornmeal, canned fruit, cooking oil, and pet food are needed. Perishable groceries are also needed- you can write a check to Crossnore Presbyterian Church, designate it for food, and it will be used to buy cheese, butter, eggs, breakfast sausage, and hot dogs. Please bring checks and your bags of groceries to the church and let’s fill up the front of the sanctuary by the end of July!

Daniel Coffey’s Ordination Service for the Ministry of Word and Sacrament was held, July 16, at Grace Christian Church in Vilas, NC. Our congregation was well represented. Pastor Kathy and Rev. Maggie Lauterer assisted in the worship service. Congratulations, Daniel!

The next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held next Thursday, July 24, 4-6 p.m. at Gingercake Recreation Club in Jonas Ridge. The address is 6420 West View Ave. Newland, NC. Please bring your own beverage and something salty or sweet to share.

The Summer Bible study met on Wednesday, July 23, and 30, 3:00-4:00 p.m. Pastor Kathy is continuing to use the Lectio Divina reflection and will be focusing the study on John, the beloved disciple of Jesus.

Beginning August 6^th through September 3^rd, 3- 4 pm., our Wednesday Bible Study will be based on a new book by Adam Hamilton called “The Message of Jesus: Words that changed the world.” In his introduction, Hamilton says, “Jesus’ words were consequential, and if you want to follow Jesus today, it is not enough to know that he died and rose again.  You are meant to know what he taught about God and God’s will for humanity. We’re not only meant to embrace these words, but to seek to live them.” Pastor Jim hopes you’ll join him for this wonderful journey as we listen again to those wonderful words of life!  Books are $10. If you would like to reserve a book, please contact Pastor Kathy, 828-260-2512, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

The Church Choir meets for practice on a new day and time: Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

Our Daily Change Offering collected on Sunday, June 29^th, totaled $243.19. Thanks to all who contributed! Our monthly daily change offerings go to the Presbyterian Hunger Program which provides grants to help feed people and alleviate hunger in our local, regional, national, and global communities.

The Sanctuary Roof Project is moving forward. We are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. An anonymous matching gift of $12,500 will be given to the church as soon as we raise $12,500. We are only $700 short! This will add a total of $25,000 to our campaign goal with only $30,000 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed!

This week marked another milestone in the Sanctuary Roof Project. The old roof tiles began to come off the roof. They are being removed from the front porch of the church so that more scaffolding can be put up. It may become necessary to block the front door to the church. If we need to move to the fellowship hall for worship or drop off area in the front drive of the church is blocked there will be people in the parking lots to help direct traffic. You may want to consider coming in the second driveway entrance.

The next Summer Series program will be held this Tuesday, July 22, 7 p.m., in the church sanctuary: The Rule of Law: A Panel Discussion- Larry Coleman, Luther Munford, Karl Campbell. This summer, the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, John Roberts, joined many legal scholars, historians, and government experts from across the political spectrum in warning that “the rule of law is endangered.” Two lawyers, Larry Coleman and Luther Munford, will join political historian Karl Campbell in an open discussion about the controversies relating to the rule of law in America today.

Volunteers are needed to pick up donated food from Food Lion in Banner Elk on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the early afternoon. These donated groceries go to Reaching Avery Ministry Food Pantry in Newland, one of our partner non-profits. If you would like to help, please call Reaching Avery Ministry (RAM) at 828-733-5127.

Volunteers are needed to help with the Back to School Bash, 4-8 p.m. at Avery High School, on July 31. There will be school supplies for 1,800 students, resources for families, free food, and activities for all ages. If you would like to volunteer, please let Pastor Kathy know (828-260-2512).

An update on the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Fund is attached to this email., including contributions and interest for the 2025 quarter ending June 30, 2025.

Midweek News July 9, 2025

July 9, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, June 13, 2025. Sunday School – 10:00 a.m., in the conference room, Worship – 11:00 a.m., in the sanctuary, Coffee and cookies – following worship, in the fellowship hall

Sunday School has returned on Sundays at 10 a.m.! Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class in the conference room in the fellowship hall. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

The Sanctuary Roof Project is moving forward and we are continuing to receive donations for the second phase of our Roof Capital Campaign. An anonymous matching gift of $12,500 will be given to the church as soon as we raise $12,500. We are only $3,000 short! This will add a total of $25,000 to our campaign goal with only $30,000 left to raise! Every gift- large or small- matters! Thanks to everyone who has already contributed!

Dr. Tim Silver gave a very interesting talk last night on his book, Death in Briar Bottom: The True Story of Hippies, Mountain Lawmen, and the Search for Justice in the Early 70s. The Briar Bottom Campground is located in Burnsville. Over 80 folks attended and his books were sold out! This was the third program in our 2025 Summer Series.

Our July Mission Project is collecting groceries for the Minneapolis Food Pantry. Canned meats (chicken, tuna, beef), canned soups and stews, cheese macaroni dinners, spaghetti sauce, spaghetti, canned fruit, cooking oil, and pet food are needed. Perishable groceries are also needed- you can write a check to Crossnore Presbyterian Church, designate it for food, and it will be used to buy cheese, butter, and eggs.   Please bring your bags of groceries to the church and let’s fill up the front of the sanctuary by the end of July!

Our Summer Bible study continues this Wednesday, July 9, 23, and 30, 3-4 p.m. We will be sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. This process allows for a deeper understanding of scripture and how it relates to our lives today. Everyone is invited to participate.

The next Session meeting will be held this Tuesday, July 15, 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall.

The July Potluck Luncheon will be held on Sunday, July 20, following worship. The menu is pulled pork. Please bring a side dish to share.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

The Church Choir meets for practice on a new day and time: Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

The next Summer Series program will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 7 p.m., in the church sanctuary: The Rule of Law: A Panel Discussion- Larry Coleman, Luther Munford, Karl Campbell. This summer, the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, John Roberts, joined many legal scholars, historians, and government experts from across the political spectrum in warning that “the rule of law is endangered.” Two lawyers, Larry Coleman and Luther Munford, will join political historian Karl Campbell in an open discussion about the controversies relating to the rule of law in America today.

There is a BINGO night at the Land Harbor Rec. Center this Saturday, July 12 starting at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Come and join in for a fun night to support Avery High’s Exceptional Children’s Program! All proceeds go to benefit Avery High School students with special needs. Special guest caller: Wayne Matlosz, Cards: $2 or 3 for $5, 10 rounds – $10 prize each, 50/50 raffle, Refreshments for sale

Mayland Fellowship will meet this Sunday, July 13, at Buladean Presbyterian Church, 217 Blevins Branch Road, Bakersville, NC. 5 p.m.- business meeting; 5:30 p.m.- Rev. Dr. Byron Wade, General Presbyter, will give an update on hurricane recovery throughout the presbytery. Everyone is invited to attend.

Midweek News July 2, 2025

July 2, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Communion Sunday July 6, 2025. Sunday School at 10.00 a.m., Worship at 11:00 a.m. followed by birthday cake to celebrate July birthdays in the fellowship hall.

We welcomed back the staff and animal ambassadors from the May Wildlife Center, Lees-McRae College, as we celebrated God’s creation this past Sunday under the canopy of trees in God’s natural cathedral. The Daily Change was collected with everyone coming forward to place their coins and dollars in a big soup pot- how fitting! We will let you know how much was collected when all the coins are counted.

The Church Choir meets for practice on Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class in the conference room in the fellowship hall. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. All are invited to attend.

The next event in our Summer Series will be this Tuesday July 8, at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Dr, Tim Silver, professor emeritus of history at Appalachian State, will talk about his recent book Death in Briar Bottom: The True Story of Hippies, Mountain Lawmen, and the Search for Justice in the Early 1970s.   With a mix of true crime, southern history, and personal storytelling, Dr. Silver will explore the real story behind the killing of Stanley Altland in Yancey County in 1971.

The Donations toward the Roof Fund Matching Grant of $12,500 has reached $8,000 since this past Sunday. We only have $4,500 to go to match the grant!!

Our Summer Bible study continues this Wednesday, July 9, 23 and 30, 3-4 p.m. We will be sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. This process allows for a deeper understanding of scripture and how it relates to our lives today.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

The CPC Women’s Gathering spent a delightful afternoon this past Thursday at Jane Sowder’s home enjoying the beautiful daylily farm in full bloom. A big thank you to Jane for hosting such a fun afternoon!

~

Our July Mission Project is collecting groceries for the Minneapolis Food Pantry. Items needed include: canned meats (chicken, tuna, beef) and canned fruit. We will list more items to collect when we get more information from the food pantry which is closed this week.

Pastor Kathy represented our congregation at Daniel Coffey’s graduation from Union Seminary this past Saturday. He received two degrees: Master of Divinity and Master of Christian Education.


~

The CPC Hurricane Relief and Recovery Fund total income = $166,450.62; total expenses = $152,680.54; Balance = $13,770.08. (We will be receiving around $20,000 from Covenant Presbyterian Church to cover 50% of our hurricane fund expenses over the past two months- these funds will go back into our CPC hurricane fund). Thanks to everyone who has contributed in funds and volunteer support. It has been nine months since Hurricane Helene devastated our mountain communities- much has been accomplished with more yet to do. A report on the current projects is included in the bulletin.

Midweek News June 25, 2025

June 25, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Celebrating God’s Creation Outdoor Service, Sunday, June 29, 2025. Choir Rehearsal, 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary, Sunday School, 10:00 a.m. in the conference room, Worship, 11:00 a.m. Nina Fischesser and her student staff from the May Wildlife Center, Lees-McRae College, will be returning with their animal ambassadors to worship with us in God’s natural cathedral under the canopy of trees in the upper church parking lot area. Please bring your own lawn chair. You can come early and meet the staff and animal ambassadors around 10:15 a.m.

Sunday School has returned on Sundays at 10 a.m.! Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class in the conference room in the fellowship hall. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. The class with be reading and discussing the fruit of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is okay to miss a class or two, since each chapter is its own lesson. A great time to learn about how the Spirit is working within you and in our world!

Our Summer Bible study continues today, Wednesday, June 25, 3-4 p.m. We will be sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. This process allows for a deeper understanding of scripture and how it relates to our lives today. This study will go through July 9. Everyone is invited to participate.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

This Thursday, June 26, 4-6 p.m., Women’s Gathering at Jane Sowder’s home, Please carpool and bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share. Jane is sharing her home and gardens when the daylilies are in full bloom.

The next event in our Summer Series will be Tuesday July 8, at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Dr, Tim Silver, professor emeritus of history at Appalachian State, will talk about his recent book Death in Briar Bottom: The True Story of Hippies, Mountain Lawmen, and the Search for Justice in the Early 1970s.   With a mix of true crime, southern history, and personal storytelling, Dr. Silver will explore the real story behind the killing of Stanley Altland in Yancey County in 1971.

Bobby Taylor and the Jazz Kings played as part of our Summer Series Program of Speakers and Music yesterday evening. There were around 100 in attendance and Bobby and the Kings and Maggie Lauterer were at their best. Thank you Bobby for Making this happen every year.

Last Saturday evening, June 21, our church hosted the Rolling Academy Symposium in our fellowship hall. Students from Avery High School who are part of Mountain Alliance were on a leadership trip in Canada. They gave a wonderful community presentation on their trip experience. We covered the cost of their passports. They wanted us to see the difference our donation has made in making this life-changing trip possible.

Our Sanctuary Roof Project is moving forward. Most of the exterior scaffolding has gone up and soon the old roof cement tiles will be coming down. We are now raising the final $100,000 for the roof project; the cost of supplies has greatly increased due to Hurricane Helene. To date, we have received donations/pledges in the amount of $44,000! We only need $56,000 to meet our goal. Every gift, big or small, helps. If you did not receive a capital campaign letter, please call the church office (828-733-1939) and we will send you a copy.

The CPC Hurricane Relief and Recovery Fund total income = $146,730.62; total expenses = $134,620.23; Balance = $12,110.30. (We will be receiving around $35,000 from Covenant Presbyterian Church to cover 50% of our hurricane fund expenses over the past few months- these funds will go back into our CPC hurricane fund). Covenant Presbyterian Church is also extending Bobbie Willard’s position as the CPC hurricane relief/recovery projects coordinator for three more months. What an amazing gift! Thanks to everyone who has contributed in funds and volunteer support. It has been eight months since Hurricane Helene devastated our mountain communities- much has been accomplished with more yet to do. A report on the current projects we have funded will be shared soon.

The Watauga-Avery-Mitchell-Yancy (WAMY) Community Action Program is sponsoring a BINGO fundraiser at the Land Harbor Recreation Center this Saturday, June 28^th . Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for hotdogs and socializing, games begin at 7:00 p.m.. Bingo cards are 3 for $10 and there are some excellent prizes donated by generous community businesses. There will also be raffle and 50/50 drawings and snacks and drinks for purchase. Bring family and friends to support this agency whose mission is to partner with communities and families to provide disadvantaged families the support and tools they need to become self-sufficient.

Midweek News June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, June 25, 2025, Sunday School - 10:00 a.m., Worship - 11:00 a.m., Fellowship following worship with cookies and coffee.

Sunday School has returned on Sundays at 10 a.m.! Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class in the conference room in the fellowship hall. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. The class with be reading and discussing the fruit of the Spirit:  Love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is okay to miss a class or two, since each chapter is its own lesson. A great time to learn about how the Spirit is working within you and in our world!

Our Summer Bible study continues this Wednesday, June 11, 3-4 p.m. We will be sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. This process allows for a deeper understanding of scripture and how it relates to our lives today. This study will go through July 9. Everyone is invited to participate.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.

The Church Choir meets for practice on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

This Saturday, June 21, 4-6 p.m., in our church fellowship hall, we will be hosting the Rolling Academy Symposium. Students from Avery High School who are part of Mountain Alliance are on a leadership trip in Canada. They will be giving a community presentation on their trip experience at our church. We covered the cost of their passports. They want us to see the difference our donation has made in making this life-changing trip possible. Refreshments will be provided. Please plan to attend and support these amazing students.

Our next Summer Series Program will be held on Tuesday, June 24. Bobby Taylor and the Jazz Kings invite you to an evening jam session. They will be performing standards from the Great American SongBook and requests from the audience will also be taken. Joining these world class musicians will be special guest Maggie
Lauterer from Crossnore, who will add vocals to the session. Donations will be accepted.

Thursday, June 26, 4-6 p.m., Women’s Gathering at Jane Sowder’s home, Thistledown Farm, 815 Old Montezuma Road, Montezuma, NC. Please carpool and bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share. Jane is sharing her home and gardens when the daylilies are in full bloom.

Sunday, June 29, 11 a.m., Celebrating God’s Creation Outdoor Service - Nina Fischesser and her student staff from the May Wildlife Center, Lees-McRae College, will be returning with their animal ambassadors to worship with us in God’s natural cathedral under the canopy of trees in the upper church parking lot area. Please bring your own lawn chair. You can come early and meet the staff and animal ambassadors around 10:15 a.m.

Our Sanctuary Roof Project is moving forward. The exterior scaffolding is going up and soon the old roof cement tiles will be coming down. We are now raising the final $100,000 for the roof project; the cost of supplies has greatly increased due to Hurricane Helene. To date, we have received donations/pledges in the amount of $41,500! We only need $58,400 to meet our goal. Every gift, big or small, helps. If you did not receive a capital campaign letter, please call the church office (828-733-1939) and we will send you a copy.

The CPC Hurricane Relief and Recovery Fund total income = $146,730.62; total expenses = $134,620.23; Balance = $12,110.30. (We will be receiving around $35,000 from Covenant Presbyterian Church to cover 50% of our hurricane fund expenses over the past few months- these funds will go back into our CPC hurricane fund). Covenant Presbyterian Church is also extending Bobbie Willard’s position as the CPC hurricane relief/recovery projects coordinator for three more months. What an amazing gift! Thanks to everyone who has contributed in funds and volunteer support. It has been eight months since Hurricane Helene devastated our mountain communities- much has been accomplished with more yet to do. A report on the current projects we have funded will be shared soon.

The Watauga-Avery-Mitchell-Yancy (WAMY) Community Action Program is sponsoring a BINGO fundraiser at the Land Harbor Recreation Center on Saturday, June 28 th . Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for hotdogs and socializing, games begin at 7:00 p.m.. Bingo cards are 3 for $10 and there are some excellent prizes donated by generous community businesses. There will also be raffle and 50/50 drawings and snacks and drinks for purchase. Bring family and friends to support this agency whose mission is to partner with communities and families to provide disadvantaged families the support and tools they need to become self-sufficient.

Midweek News June 11, 2025

June 11, 2025

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, June 15, 2025. Sunday school, 10:00 a.m., Worship, 11:00 a.m.

Our June Potluck Luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall this Sunday, June 15, following worship. Please bring an Italian main dish, veggie, salad, or dessert to share. Cheryl Lewis can always use volunteers to come early and set up or to stay after and help with clean up. You can email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mary Noble is leading our Sunday School class which began last Sunday morning in the conference room in the fellowship hall. The class starts with fellowship time from 10 – 10:15 a.m. and begins the lesson at 10:15 a.m., so choir members can participate. Mary is using the book, Growing in the Fruit of the Spirit: Tending the Wild Garden by Eugenia Anne Gamble. The class with be reading and discussing the fruits of the Spirit:  Love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is okay to miss a class or two, since each chapter is its own lesson. A great time to learn about how the Spirit is working within you and in our world! Everyone is invited!

Our Summer Bible study will begin today Wednesday, June 11, 3-4 p.m. We will be sharing in the practice of Lectio Divina, an ancient way of immersing ourselves in the biblical stories and passages. This process allows for a deeper understanding of scripture and how it relates to our lives today. This study will go through July 2. Everyone is invited to participate.

The Session will meet on Tuesday, June 17, at 3 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

The Craft Group welcomes all who want to work on a craft or just share in fellowship to join in on Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., in the fellowship hall. They are creating new Chrismons for our Chrismon Tree.  Everyone is invited to participate.

The Church Choir meets for practice on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. If you enjoy singing, please consider being part of the choir.

On Saturday, June 21, from 4-6 p.m., in our church fellowship hall, we will host the Rolling Academy Symposium. Students from Avery High School who are part of Mountain Alliance are on a leadership trip in Canada. They will be giving a presentation on their trip experience at our church because we covered the cost of their passports. They want us to see the difference our donation has made in making this life changing trip possible. Refreshments will be provided. Please plan to attend and support these amazing students.

Tuesday, June 24, 7 p.m.- our church sanctuary: Bobby Taylor and the Jazz Kings invite you to an evening jam session. They will be performing standards from the Great American SongBook and requests from the audience will also be taken.  Joining these world class musicians will be special guest Maggie Lauterer from Crossnore, who will add vocals to the session. This event is open to the public and donations will be accepted.

Thursday, June 26, 4-6 p.m., Women’s Gathering at Jane Sowder’s home, Thistledown Farm, 815 Old Montezuma Road, Montezuma, NC. Please carpool and bring your own beverage and something sweet or salty to share. Jane is sharing her home and gardens when the daylilies are in full bloom.

Sunday, June 29, 11 a.m., Celebrating God’s Creation Outdoor Service Nina Fischesser and her student staff from the May Wildlife Center, Lees-McRae College, will be returning with their animal ambassadors to worship with us in God’s natural cathedral under the canopy of trees in the upper church parking lot area. Please bring your own lawn chair. You can come early and meet the staff and animal ambassadors around 10:15 a.m.

Our Sanctuary Roof Project is moving forward. George Riggsbee has created a display of the beautiful new roof tiles in the upper parking lot near the back door entrance. We are now raising the final $100,000 for the roof project; the cost of supplies has greatly increased due to Hurricane Helene. To date, we have received donations/pledges in the amount of $40,500! We only need $59,500 to meet our goal. Every gift, big or small, helps. If you did not receive a capital campaign letter, please call the church office (828-733-1939) and we will send you a copy.

The CPC Hurricane Relief and Recovery Fund total income = $146,730.62; total expenses = $134,620.23; Balance = $12,110.30. (We will be receiving around $35,000 from Covenant Presbyterian Church to cover 50% of our hurricane fund expenses over the past few months - these funds will go back into our CPC hurricane fund). Covenant Presbyterian Church is also extending Bobbie Willard’s position as the CPC hurricane relief/recovery projects coordinator for three more months. What an amazing gift! Thanks to everyone who has contributed in funds and volunteer support. It has been eight months since Hurricane Helene devastated our mountain communities- much has been accomplished with more yet to do.