Midweek News Sept 25, 2024

Sept 25, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, September 29, 2024-Worship, 11:00 a.m. Please remember your donations for Daily Change and Food for People and Pets and join us for coffee and cookies, in the fellowship hall, following worship.

Our Soup and Chili Potluck following worship last Sunday was delicious. Thank you to Gayle Culbreath and Cheryl Lewis for all the work that went into organizing and setting up the luncheon. Another big thank you to the fellowship committee and all those who helped with the set-up and clean-up. We also thank all who brought the fabulous food to share. We had a great meal and wonderful fellowship.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The next Bible study will begin next Wednesday, October 2, 3-4:30 p.m., and continue on October 9, 16, 23, and 30. Pastor Kathy will dive deep into the Gospel of Mark, the earliest gospel, looking at the history, culture, and politics of the times and how God continues to speak to us through this ancient gospel in our day and time. Please let Pastor Kathy know if you plan on attending even if you need to miss some of the sessions: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Our September Mission Project is growing the principal for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor started the endowment with $150,000, which is being invested along with the donations that have already come in. We hope to provide an annual grant that will pay for an extra tutor for disadvantaged children at Crossnore Elementary School. Donations can be made to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designated for CPC Children’s Fund. P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. The first grant will be awarded to the school this fall.

Devon Wilkinson gave a wonderful program in the fellowship hall last night on her experience teaching Muslim children in the West Bank and Jewish children in Israel. She had time to meet many local people and listen to the stories about their lives and the war raging around them. She left feeling that the people she met have more in common than they realize, that their families and communities are at the heart of their lives, and that all children need to be taught acceptance, not hate, for those who are different from them. Devon plans to go back and teach the children in Israel near Gaza over Christmas break. Thanks to everyone who attended last night’s program.

The Finance Committee wants us to know that we have met our church’s monthly budget for August. Thanks to our regular donors and to the special contributions we received for making this possible! Let’s continue to work towards meeting our September budget. Remember, it takes $18,000 per month to pay our salaries and bills.

The next Mission Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

The next Session meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 3 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

The CPC Women’s Gathering will meet at Barbara Stuart’s home in Land Harbor on Thursday, October 17, 4-6 p.m. Please bring your choice of beverage and something salty or sweet to share.

Feeding Avery Families is asking for volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

Prayer for Autumn Days by Joyce Rupp:

God of the seasons, there is a time for everything: there is a time for dying and a time for rising. We need courage to enter into the transformation process.
God of autumn, the trees are saying goodbye to their green, letting go of what has been. We, too, have our moments of surrender, with all their insecurity and risk. Help us to let go when we need to do so.
God of fallen leaves lying in colored patterns on the ground, our lives have their own patterns. As we see the patterns of our own growth, may we learn from them.
God of misty days and harvest moon nights, there is always the dimension of mystery and wonder in our lives. We always need to recognize your power-filled presence. May we gain strength from this.
God of harvest wagons and fields of ripened grain, many gifts of growth lie within the season of our surrender. We must wait for harvest in faith and hope. Grant us patience when we do not see the blessings.
God of geese going south for another season, your wisdom enables us to know what needs to be left behind and what needs to be carried into the future. We yearn for insight and vision.
God of flowers touched with frost and windows wearing white designs, may your love keep our hearts from growing cold in the empty seasons.
God of life, you believe in us, you enrich us, you entrust us with the freedom to choose life. For all this, we are grateful.

 

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Midweek News Sept 18, 2024

Sept 18, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, September 22, 2024 - Worship 11:00 a.m.. The September Potluck Luncheon will be held following worship. The menu is chili and soup as well as vegetables, cornbread, and dessert. Please bring a dish to share and let Gayle Culbreath know if you can bring chili or soup: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The CPC Women’s Gathering scheduled for this Thursday, September 19, 4-5:30 p.m., at the Point in Land Harbor HAS BEEN CANCELED.

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

Our September Mission Project is growing the principal for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor started the endowment with $150,000, which is being invested along with the donations that have already come in. We hope to provide an annual grant that will pay for an extra tutor for disadvantaged children at Crossnore Elementary School. Donations can be made to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designated for CPC Children’s Fund. P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. The first grant will be awarded to the school this fall.

A Special Program will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 7-8:30 pm, in the church fellowship hall. Devon Wilkinson, a middle school teacher at Avery Middle School, spent the past two summers teaching underprivileged children. In 2023, she taught at a Muslim school just outside of the West Bank and in 2024, she taught at a Jewish school just outside of Haifa. Her story is inspiring and worth sharing in a time when the Middle East is so divided. These teaching opportunities are provided by TALMA, the Israel Program for Excellence in English, which is both an English-immersion program for low-income Israeli elementary schoolchildren and a Fellowship for international teacher-leaders in the movement for educational equity. Check out their website: https://www.talmaisrael.com/.

Last night’s Shelby Rae Moore Band Concert was fantastic- a great way to wind up our Summer Series of Speakers and Music. They played music from James Taylor, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, the Temptations, Fisk Jubilee Singers and more with the audience singing along. What a great way to end the summer! Thanks to everyone who attended the Summer Series- more people attended this season than ever before. Because of the generous donations for every program we had no funds taken out of our church’s budget. And now planning begins for the Summer of 2025.

The Finance Committee wants you to know that we met our church’s monthly budget for the month of August. Thanks to our regular donors and to the special contributions we received for making this possible! Let’s continue to work towards meeting our September budget- remember that it takes $18,000 per month to pay our salaries and bills.

A Big Thank You to our Wednesday Bible Study Leaders for this summer. Rev. Maggie Lauterer led a six-week series on The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings and Barbara Stuart led a five-week series on Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today. Both Bible studies were well attended, and the participants truly appreciated the fellowship, lessons, discussions, and the new knowledge they took with them.

The next Bible study will begin on Wednesday, October 2, and will continue on October 9, 16, 23, and 30. Pastor Kathy will be doing a deep dive into the Gospel of Mark, the earliest gospel, looking at the history, culture, and politics of the times and how God continues to speak to us through this ancient gospel in our day and time. Please let Pastor Kathy know if you plan on attending even if you need to miss some of the sessions: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details.

Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-7335095.

 

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Midweek News Sept 11, 2024

Sept 11, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

Sunday, September 15, 2024, Worship at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will not meet outside because there is rain predicted as the remains of Hurricane Francine pass through our area. Please join us in the fellowship hall, following worship, for cookies and coffee fellowship.

Today’s Bible Study Wednesday, September 11, 3- 4:30 p.m., completes the study led by Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher. Barbara has been using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. Plans are in the works for the next Bible study. More information will be provided soon

Our Final Event for the 2024 Summer Series will be Tuesday, September 17, 7 p.m., in the Church Sanctuary. The Shelby Rae Moore Band features Shelby Rae Moore along with her uncles Brent and Chet Palmer on guitars; Devon Burch plays drums. Having grown up in a musical family, Shelby has the uncommon ability to move effortlessly between genres including blues, soul, and Americana. She has an undeniable connection with every song she performs. Brent Palmer creates most of the harmonic texture with his acoustic guitar arrangements while Chet colors the ensemble with tasteful fills and brilliant lead guitar playing. Devon drives the rhythm on drums and always plays with just the right feel for each style of music. The concert is free, donations will be accepted.

The next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held Thursday, September 19, 4-5:30 p.m., at the Point in Land Harbor (where we have our church’s annual picnic). Please bring your beverage of choice and something salty or sweet to share.

Our September Potluck Luncheon will be on September 22 following worship. The menu is chili and soup as well as vegetables, cornbread, and dessert. Please let Gayle Culbreath know if you can bring chili or soup. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Our September Mission Project is growing the principal for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment Fund.  An anonymous donor started the endowment with $150,000, which is being invested along with the donations that have already come in. We hope to provide an annual grant that will pay for an extra tutor for disadvantaged children at Crossnore Elementary School.  Donations can be made to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designated for CPC Children’s Fund. P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. The first grant will be awarded to the school this fall.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

A Special Program will be held on Tuesday, September 27, 7-8:30 pm, in the church fellowship hall. Devon Wilkinson, a middle school teacher at Avery Middle School, spent the past two summers teaching underprivileged children. In 2023, she taught at a Muslim school just outside of the West Bank and in 2024, she taught at a Jewish school just outside of Haifa. Her story is inspiring and worth sharing in a time when the Middle East is so divided. These teaching opportunities are provided by TALMA, the Israel Program for Excellence in English, an English immersion program for low-income Israeli elementary schoolchildren and a Fellowship for international teacher-leaders in the movement for educational equity. Check out their website: https://www.talmaisrael.com/

Charlotte Davila no longer has a landline home phone. She is using her cell phone exclusively. That number is not in the church directory. If you need her cell number, you can call the church at 828-733-1919.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details.

Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

 

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Midweek News Sept 4, 2024

Sept 4, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, September 8, 2024. Worship – 11:00 a.m. Please join us for coffee and cookies, following worship, in the fellowship hall.

We had planned to worship outside this Sunday, September 8, but due to the weather prediction of a very cold morning we will be meeting in the sanctuary. If the weather is good, we will worship outside on Sunday, September 15.

Our September Mission Project is growing the principal for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor started the endowment with $150,000, which is being invested along with the donations that have already come in. We hope to provide an annual grant that will pay for an extra tutor for disadvantaged children at Crossnore Elementary School. Donations can be made to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designated for CPC Children’s Fund. P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. The first grant will be awarded to the school this fall.  

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

CPC Bible Study continues this Wednesday, September 4, from 3 - 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, is leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. Everyone is invited to attend.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be this Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church with Dinner at 5:30 p.m., a Business Meeting at 6:30 p.m., and the Program at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Vasco Kachipapa will be speaking. He has served as the Head of the CCAP Synod in Malawi for many years. This is the 20th anniversary of our presbytery’s partnership with a Presbyterian hospital and school in Malawi. The CCAP Synod was established in the 19th century by Scottish missionaries and includes 1.8 million members in 800 local congregations.

The Session will meet on Tuesday, September 10, 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall.

Our September Potluck Luncheon will be on September 22 following worship. We will enjoy chili and soup as well as side dishes and dessert. Please let Gayle Culbreath know if you can bring chili or soup. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

June Bagby, one of our long-time members, celebrated her 100^th birthday on Tuesday, September 3. Happy Birthday, June!

Our August CPC Mission Project, UnDue Medical Debt, was a great success. With the anonymous donation of $10,000, $1,000 from our mission committee, and your contributions of $5,235, our new total comes to $16,235. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The UnDue Medical Debt Non-Profit is also adding our mission project onto their national website. They are including a 4th county, Burke, and raising the goal to $20,000, which will raise the amount covered of unmet medical debt to over 4 million dollars. Anyone can contribute to our mission until the end of December. If you would still like to make a donation towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. We will find out when the recipients have received a letter that their medical debt has been paid and let you know.

Our Final Event for the 2024 Summer Series will be Tuesday, September 17, 7 p.m., in the Church Sanctuary. The Shelby Rae Moore Band features Shelby Rae Moore along with her uncles Brent and Chet Palmer on guitars; Devon Burch plays drums. Having grown up in a musical family, Shelby has the uncommon ability to move effortlessly between genres including blues, soul, and Americana. She has an undeniable connection with every song she performs. Brent Palmer creates most of the harmonic texture with his acoustic guitar arrangements while Chet colors the ensemble with tasteful fills and brilliant lead guitar playing. Devon drives the rhythm on drums and always plays with just the right feel for each style of music. The concert is free, donations will be accepted.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

Midweek News Aug 28, 2024

Aug 28, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Our September Mission Project is growing our endowment for the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor started the endowment with $150,000, which is being invested. We hope to provide an annual grant that will pay for an extra tutor for disadvantaged children at Crossnore Elementary School. Donations can be made to Crossnore Presbyterian Church and designated for CPC Children’s Fund. P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616. A brochure is attached.

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

CPC Bible Study continues today, Wednesday, August 28, 3- 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall. Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, is leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. Everyone is invited to attend.  

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!  

Our August CPC Mission Project has surpassed our target of $4,000 for UnDue Medical Debt! We have raised $5,235! With the August Mission Project donations, the $10,000 from an anonymous donor, a $1,000 from our Session, we have surpassed the $15,000 target set by the Session. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties.

A big thank you to Dr. Karl Campbell for his difficult but important presentation and discussion on the 2024 presidential election. Over 180 people attended. This was his third and final lecture for the summer.

Our final event for the 2024 Summer Series will be Tuesday, September 17, 7 p.m., in the Church Sanctuary. The Shelby Rae Moore Band features Shelby Rae Moore along with her uncles Brent and Chet Palmer on guitars; Devon Burch plays drums. Having grown up in a musical family, Shelby has the uncommon ability to move effortlessly between genres including blues, soul, and Americana. She has an undeniable connection with every song she performs. Brent Palmer creates most of the harmonic texture with his acoustic guitar arrangements while Chet colors the ensemble with tasteful fills and brilliant lead guitar playing. Devon drives the rhythm on drums and always plays with just the right feel for each style of music. The concert is free, donations will be accepted.

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church?   Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. Contact Jason DeWitt if you would like more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.    

The Finance Committee wants to thank everyone who contributes to the church’s General Fund with regular and special offerings. It takes $18,000 each month to cover our church’s bills and salaries. In July, our offerings for the General Fund came to $17,328. We are close and hopefully, we will meet the budget goal for August.  

The Men’s Breakfast Group will meet at Kaye’s by the River on Friday, September 6 at 8:30 a.m.

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church with Dinner at 5:30 p.m., a Business Meeting at 6:30 p.m., and the Program at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Vasco Kachipapa will be speaking. He has served as the Head of the CCAP Synod in Malawi for many years.    

Dick Larson, the Executive Director for Feeding Avery Families passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024. His memorial service will be held at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church on Saturday, September 7, at 11:00 a.m. Many in our congregation knew him. He was much loved and respected for his dedication, work and care for our community through his work for Feeding Avery Families.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

Midweek News August 21, 2024

August 21, 2024

Announcements and Items of Interest

Coming this Tuesday, August 27, at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary: Dr. Karl Campbell, Professor of History at ASU, will present “Policy, Politics, and Patriotism: The Election of 2024 in Historical Perspective.” In recent elections, sensational media coverage of scandals, gaffs, personalities, and the constant focus on political polling has tended to obscure significant policy debates. While some elections offered little real difference between the platforms of the major parties, the election of 2024 presents stark contrasts in approaches to issues such as the economy, U.S. foreign policy, environmental regulation, civil rights and liberties, the role and structure of government, religious freedom, and the meaning of democracy. Dr. Karl Campbell will offer a nonpartisan review of these policy debates from a historical perspective. The goal of the program is not to suggest how citizens should vote but to help delineate and understand the choices we face this November.

Sunday, August 25th, Ulysses Long will be returning to share in a Worship Service of Word and Music with Pastor Kathy. This is always a special treat for our congregation to have such a professional singer and pianist come and share his gift of music in our worship service. Ulysses has performed across NC and the South for decades in concerts, dinner clubs, schools, retirement communities and was a runner-up in the semi-finals for America’s Got Talent.

This Sunday we will also be collecting Food for People and Pets as well as for Daily Change. Join us following worship for cookies and coffee in the fellowship hall.  Come talk with Ulysses!

We are working on policies regarding our cemetery. Are you interested in Green Burials? Sara Williams plans to attend services here this Sunday August 25. She will be available to speak with anyone interested after the service of 25 August. She has served on the Board of Directors of the National Home Funeral Alliance from 2014-2017, as President of the Funeral Consumers Alliance North Carolina from 2020-2024, and is currently President of Funeral Consumers Alliance (National).

CPC Wednesday Bible Study continues this Wednesday, August 28, 3- 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall.  Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, will be leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. Everyone is invited to attend.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 am every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be on Sunday, September 8, 2024, with Dinner at 5:30 p.m. a Business Meeting at 6:30 p.m. and the Program at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Vasco Kachipapa will be speaking. He has served as the Head of the CCAP Synod in Malawi for many years.

Do everything in love. ~ Corinthians 16:14:

Our August CPC Mission Project is UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $2,000. We have an anonymous donor who is giving
$10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have $2,000 left to raise in the month of August. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties. If you would like to make a donation towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. Contact Jason DeWitt if you would like more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Finance Committee wants to thank everyone who contributes to the church’s General Fund with regular and special offerings. It takes $18,000 each month to cover our church’s bills and salaries.

Next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held in Linville Land Harbor hosted by Candy Butner this Thursday, August 22, 4-6 p.m. Please bring a beverage of your choice and cheese and crackers, or something salty or sweet to share. It will be held at the Landing in LLH. Directions: Turn into Linville Land Harbor from Hwy. 221 and then turn Right. Go to the first turn on the Left (after the train). There will be a large parking lot between the Pool and the Special Police Office. Park in that parking lot. Head to the grassy area behind the Special Police Office. There is a large, covered deck with tables and chairs. If it is raining, the event will be rescheduled.

Would you like to become an Active Member or an Affiliate Member of Crossnore Presbyterian Church? Pastor Kathy will be offering New Member Classes this Sunday, August 25, and the following Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. She will be discussing Presbyterian history, beliefs, and government. If you are interested in full-time or part-time membership, please contact Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 828-260-2512. She can meet with you separately if you are not able to make the classes.

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in for the General Fund came to $17,328. We are close and hopefully we will meet the budget goal for August. Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details.

Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

 

Midweek News Aug 14, 2024

Aug 14, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, August 18, 2024. Worship is at 11:00 am. Followed by a potluck luncheon in the fellowship hall. More information is below. Please come and join us.

Our August Potluck Luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall following worship this Sunday, August 18. Fried Chicken and Iced Tea will be provided. Please bring a side dish- veggies, salad, or dessert to share. Folks are needed to help clean up afterward. Just ask Gayle Culbreath or Cheryl Lewis how you can help.

Gayle Culbreath would like to send a special thank you out to her Fellowship Committee team for all their support and hard work: - Cheryl Lewis, Jo Riddle, Mary Louise Aldridge, Beth Gacek, Melanie Dunn, Gaye Meade, Diane Kehoe, Daryl Storm, Linda Drivas, Janis Kenyon, Lynn O’Meara, Bill Hassett, John Kehoe, Dwight Butner. 

Next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held in Linville Land Harbor hosted by Candy Butner on Thursday, August 22, 4-6 p.m. Please bring a beverage of your choice and cheese and crackers, or something salty or sweet to share. It will be held at the Landing in LLH. Directions: Turn into Linville Land Harbor from Hwy. 221 and then turn Right. Go to the first turn on the Left (after the train). There will be a large parking lot between the Pool and the Special Police Office. Park in that parking lot. Head to the grassy area behind the Special Police Office. There is a large covered deck with tables and chairs. If it is raining, the event will be rescheduled.

Would you like to become an Active Member or an Affiliate Member of Crossnore Presbyterian Church? Pastor Kathy will offer a New Member Classes on Sunday, August 25, and Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. She will be discussing Presbyterian history, beliefs, and government. If you are interested in full-time or part-time membership, please contact Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 828-260-2512. She can meet with you separately if you are not able to make the classes.  

On Sunday, August 25, 11 a.m., Church Sanctuary Ulysses Long returns to lead our congregation along with Pastor Kathy in a Service of Word & Music. Ulysses is a professional singer and pianist and has performed for decades across North Carolina and the South. He made it to the quarter finals of “America’s Got Talent” and continues to share his gift of music at various venues. He loves sacred music and is looking forward to returning to our church!

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

This past Tuesday, Lynn Church and his son, Eli Church with Walker Boone stepping in for Ethan Church who was ill, returned to CPC to share with us an evening of mountain music and storytelling. As always it was a fantastic concert with 150 people in attendance.

The new CPC Wednesday Bible Study began this Wednesday, August 14, 3- 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall and will continue on August 21, August 28, and September 4. It is not to late to join in! Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, will lead this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, by Adam Hamilton. This book is for those who love the Bible and find meaning and purpose in it for their lives and it is also a study for people who are willing to wrestle with portions of the Bible about which they have questions. Books are $10 each. Bring your Bible with you.

Our August CPC Mission Project is UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $2,000. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have $2,000 left to raise in August. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties. If you would like to donate towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.  

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. Contact Jason DeWitt if you would like more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.    

The Finance Committee wants to thank everyone who contributes to the church’s General Fund with regular and special offerings. It takes $18,000 each month to cover our church’s bills and salaries. In July, our offerings for the General Fund came to $17,328. We are close and hopefully we will meet the budget goal for August.    

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays– Look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095

 

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Midweek News Aug 7, 2024

Aug 7, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Midweek News; August 7, 2024

Sunday, August 11, 2024. Worship at 11:00 a.m. Please join us in the fellowship hall for cookies and coffee following worship.

Lynn Church and his sons, Eli and Ethan Church, are returning for “An Evening of Appalachian Music and Stories.” as our next Summer Series program on Tuesday, August 13, 7p.m. in the church sanctuary. Join us for an evening of mountain music and storytelling performed by the Church family. Lynn grew up listening to the music his uncles and family members played and sang many tunes were created right here in Avery County. Lynn is the owner of Three Nails Hardware and he and his sons perform concerts across the High Country. They share their music to praise and honor God.

Would you like to become an Active Member or an Affiliate Member of Crossnore Presbyterian Church? Pastor Kathy will be offering New Member Classes on Sunday, August 25, and Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. She will be discussing Presbyterian history, beliefs, and government. If you are interested in full-time or part-time membership, please contact Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 828-260-2512. She can meet with you separately if you are not able to make the classes.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group is canceled this week, Wednesday, August 7, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Rev. Maggie Lauterer is finishing a seven week study on John Philip Newell book, The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings.

Our August Potluck Luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall following worship on Sunday, August 18. Fried Chicken and Iced Tea will be provided. Please bring a side dish; veggies, salad, or dessert to share.

Next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held in Land Harbor hosted by Candy Butner on Thursday, August 22, 4-5:30 p.m. More information to come.

The New CPC Wednesday Bible Study begins August 14, 3-4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall and will be leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. This book is for those who love the Bible and find meaning and purpose in it for their lives and it is also a study for people who are willing to wrestle with portions of the Bible about which they have questions.
The book is divided into two parts. The first part addresses some foundational questions: What is the Bible exactly? In what sense is the Bible God’s word and in what sense is it human reflections on God? What do we mean when we say “inspired?” The second section digs into troubling questions and issues, such as historical accuracy, violence, and end times. The book concludes by looking at various ways to read the Bible with the aim being to listen for God’s voice through its pages and find its words to be life changing and life giving. If you would like to participate in this Bible Study, please email Pastor Kathy:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; books are $10 each. For those participating, think ahead about one thing in the Bible that has perplexed, troubled or confused you.

If you are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. Contact Jason DeWitt if you would like more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Update on the CPC Mission Project: UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $845. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have less than $3,155 left to raise before the end of 2024. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties. If you would like to make a donation towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays. Look at their website https://feedingaveryfamilies.org/ for details.

Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday-Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries.

 

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Midweek News July 31, 2024

July 31, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Communion Sunday, August 4, 2024. Worship at 11:00 p.m. Please join us for following worship for Birthday cake and coffee to celebrate August Birthdays.

Our July Mission Project was to collect People and Pet Food donations that will be delivered to the Minneapolis Food Pantry and hygiene products and toiletries that will go to Feeding Avery Families. A big thank you to Carroll and Linda Berkely for delivering the supplies this week. Thank you to everyone who donated to our July Mission Project. Over 80 bags filled the front of the sanctuary last Sunday!! Considering that each bag contained at least 5 items and most items were $2.00 or more, we contributed well over $1,000 to help those in need in our county. Thanks to all who participated!

Lynn Church and his sons, Eli and Ethan Church, are returning for “An Evening of Appalachian Music and Stories.” as our next Summer Series program on Tuesday, August 13, 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Join us for an evening of mountain music and storytelling performed by the Church family. Lynn grew up listening to the music his uncles and family members played and sang—many tunes were created right here in Avery County. Lynn is the owner of Three Nails Hardware and he and his sons perform concerts across the High Country. They share their music to praise and honor God.

This past Tuesday’s Summer Series program “Divided America: History, Stories, and Music of the 1960s” presented by Dr. Karl Campbell, Professor of History, ASU, and Jackie Rullman, 2023 ASU Graduate, was absolutely fantastic! Dr. Karl Campbell shared an overview of the 60s with great stories and historical interpretations. Jackie Rullman sang some of the iconic songs from the 60s and accompanied herself on the electric guitar. There were over 150 people in attendance. Thank you, Karl and Jackie!

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

New CPC Wednesday Bible Study begins August 14, 3- 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall and continues on August 21, August 28, and September 4. Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, will be leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. This book is for those who love the Bible and find meaning and purpose in it for their lives and it is also a study for people who are willing to wrestle with portions of the Bible about which they have questions. The book is divided into two parts. The first part addresses some foundational questions: What is the Bible exactly? In what sense is the Bible God’s word and in what sense is it human reflections on God? What do we mean when we say “inspired?” The second section digs into troubling questions and issues, such as historical accuracy, violence, and end times. The book concludes by looking at various ways to read the Bible with the aim being to listen for God’s voice through its pages and find its words to be life changing and life giving. If you would like to participate in this Bible Study, please email Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Books are $10 each. For those participating, think ahead about one thing in the Bible that has perplexed, troubled or confused you.

Would you like to become an Active Member or an Affiliate Member of Crossnore Presbyterian Church? Pastor Kathy will be offering New Member Classes on Sunday, August 25, and Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. She will be discussing Presbyterian history, beliefs, and government. If you are interested in full-time or part-time membership, please contact Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 828-260-2512. She can meet with you separately if you are not able to make the classes.

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. If you are interested, Jason DeWitt contact Jason DeWitt at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828-413-2482,

Update on the CPC Mission Project: UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $845. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have less than $3,155 left to raise before the end of 2024. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties. If you would like to make a donation towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095.

 

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Midweek News July 24, 2024

July 24, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, July 28, 2024. Worship at 11:00 a.m. Please join us for coffee and cookies in the fellowship hall following worship.

Please remember your Food for People and Pets Food Donations for the Minneapolis Food Pantry and hygiene products and toiletries for Feeding Avery Families. This has been our July Mission project. We set the goal to fill the front of the church with bags of food and products. Remember to bring your donations to church on Sunday. You can always drop them off by the end of July at the church during the week. It is best to call first.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and join in!

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group continues this Wednesday, July 24, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Rev. Maggie Lauterer is leading a six-week study on John Philip Newell’s book, The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings.

CPC Women’s Gathering will meet at Kaye’s by the River (formerly Kaye’s Kitchen) this Thursday, July 25, at 11:30 a.m. Please carpool, if possible.

The church picnic was a wonderful gathering. Delicious food and great fellowship! We thank everyone who participated in making it such a success. A special thank you to Gayle Culbreath for all her work, to the fellowship committee for all their efforts and to Bill Hassett for his excellent grill work. The burgers and hotdogs were great even though the grills weren’t cooperating.

Would you like to become an Active Member or an Affiliate Member of Crossnore Presbyterian Church? Pastor Kathy will be offering New Member Classes on Sunday, August 25, and Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. She will be discussing Presbyterian history, beliefs, and government. If you are interested in full-time or part-time membership, please contact Pastor Kathy: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 828-260-2512. She can meet with you separately if you are not able to make the classes.

Our next Summer Series program will be held this Tuesday, July 30, 7 p.m., in the church sanctuary, Dr. Karl Campbell, Professor of History, ASU, and Jackie Rullman, 2023 ASU Graduate, will present “Divided America: History, Stories, and Music of the 1960s.” Few decades evoke stronger emotions, and opinions, than the 1960s. It was a time during which many Americans feared that the traditional American consensus was breaking apart. Civil rights, Vietnam, feminism, student protests, assassinations, riots, and a counterculture of “drugs, sex, and rock and roll” all contributed to divisions in our politics, our churches, and our families. Dr. Karl Campbell will provide an overview of the 60s and share some stories and historical interpretations. Jackie Rullman will sing and analyze some of the iconic songs from this troubled decade. Together they will suggest ways in which the 1960s continues to impact American society today.

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. If you are interested in attending an introductory meeting, please text or call Jason DeWitt, 828-413-2482.

New CPC Wednesday Bible Study begins August 14, 3- 4:30 p.m., in the fellowship hall and continues on August 21, August 28, and September 4. Barbara Stuart, a seasoned Bible study teacher, will be leading this study using the book, Making Sense of the Bible: Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today, written by Adam Hamilton. This book is for those who love the Bible and find meaning and purpose in it for their lives, and it is also a study for people who are willing to wrestle with portions of the Bible about which they have questions. The book is divided into two parts. The first part addresses some foundational questions: What is the Bible exactly? In what sense is the Bible God’s word and in what sense is it human reflections on God? What do we mean when we say “inspired?” The second section digs into troubling questions and issues, such as historical accuracy, violence, and end times. The book concludes by looking at various ways to read the Bible with the aim being to listen for God’s voice through its pages and find its words to be life changing and life giving. If you would like to participate in this Bible Study, please email Pastor Kathy: at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Books are $10 each. Barbara asks that as the bible study approaches to think ahead about one thing in the Bible that has perplexed, troubled or confused you.

Update on the CPC Mission Project: UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $820. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have less than $3,180 left to raise before the end of 2024. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt for those who qualify in all three counties. If you would like to donate towards this mission project, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers on Wednesdays and Fridays- look at their Facebook page for details. Ram’s Rack needs volunteers Monday- Friday to help in the thrift store or pack groceries. Their phone number is 828-733-5095

 

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Midweek News July 17, 2024

July 17, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, July 21, 2024. Worship, 11:00 a.m. We will gather, rain or shine, at 1 p.m. following worship for our annual church picnic. The picnic will be at the pavilion at the Point in Linville Land Harbor. The church will be providing hot dogs, hamburgers and buns, cheese, condiments, and chips. Please bring your favorite side or dessert and a lawn chair. If you are interested in helping on the grill team, please contact John Kehoe This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Crossnore Presbyterian Church Children’s Fund was announced this past Sunday, July 14, 2024. This endowment has been created to benefit the students of Crossnore Elementary School. An anonymous donor contributed an initial gift of $150,000, which has been invested, to establish the endowment in honor of his mother who taught in the public schools for 40 years. An annual grant will be given to Crossnore Elementary School from the earned interest. This grant will help children facing economic and cultural barriers to education by providing a tutor and may also be used to help students afford educational field trips. This endowment honors the legacy of Dr. Eustace and Dr. Mary Martin Sloop who provided needed education for many mountain children through the Crossnore School. Donations to the CPC Children’s Fund will grow the principal and increase the amount of the annual grant. Prayerfully consider contributing. Checks can be made out to Crossnore Presbyterian Church, designated for CPC Children’s Fund, and mailed to P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and enjoy some great fellowship and make winter hats and scarves for the homeless in our area. You can also bring any craft to work on. Contact Janis Kenyon for more information. (828) 898-3339.

The World Class Jazz Concert this past Tuesday evening was spectacular! Bobby Taylor and his jazz musician friends including vocalist, Maggie Lauterer, returned to our Summer Series to play from the Great American Songbook honoring the legacy of Hoagy Carmichael. 150 people attended and gave the band a standing ovation to show their appreciation for such a grand performance. The musicians came from Rock Hill, Hickory, Elizabethton, Hilton Head, and Boone to be a part of such a special evening. A big thank you to Bobby Taylor who makes this happen every year!

Our July Mission Project includes People and Pet Food donations to the Minneapolis Food Pantry and hygiene products and toiletries to Feeding Avery Families. Last summer, we filled the front of the sanctuary with bags of food, and hygiene and toiletry products. Let’s see if we can do it again! You can bring your bags to church until the end of July.

Gayle Culbreath is asking for donations of cookies for our “cookie jar”. We need cookies for Sunday morning coffee fellowship as well as Bible study and the various gatherings during the week. Oreos and Chips Ahoy are favorites or just bring your favorites! Drop them off in the kitchen.

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group will meet Wednesday, July 24, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Rev. Maggie Lauterer is leading a six-week study on John Philip Newell’s book, The Rebirthing of God; Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings. In the midst of dramatic changes in Western Christianity, John Philip Newell offers the hope of a fresh stirring of the Spirit among us. He invites us to be part of a new holy birth of sacred living.

CPC Women’s Gathering will meet at Kaye’s by the River (formerly Kaye’s Kitchen) on Thursday, July 25, 11:30 a.m. Please carpool, if possible.

Are you interested in becoming a church docent to showcase the unique history, architecture, and design of our church? Becoming a docent can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the church with others. Training will be offered for those wanting to be a church docent for 2 hours per month or more. If you want to attend an introductory meeting, please text or call Jason DeWitt, 828-413-2482.

Thank you from Jan Akelewicz, How bright the day became when the vase of flowers arrived from my friends at Crossnore Church. My days are so happy watching the blooms open bigger and prettier. It was a wonderful surprise and I thank all of you so very much. Cheers, Jan

Lees-McRae Summer Theater presents From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story with 7 p.m. shows on July 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 2 p.m. shows on July 20, 21, 23. It is directed by Janet Barton Speer. What did Banner Elk, North Carolina, look like in the 1890s? With the vision of Edgar Tufts, a young seminary student, one tiny town gained a church, college, orphanage, and hospital. Using traditional mountain music mixed with a lyrical style, audiences will be moved and inspired by this great man. You will not want to miss From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story.

 

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Midweek News July 10, 2024

July 10, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Sunday, July 14, 2024, Worship at 11:00 a.m. Please join us for cookies and coffee in the fellowship hall following worship!

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and enjoy some great fellowship and make winter hats and scarves for the homeless in our area. . Contact Janis Kenyon for more information. (828) 898-3339.

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group continues today, Wednesday, July 10, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Rev. Maggie Lauterer is leading a 4-week study on John Philip Newell’s book, The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings.

A very big thank you to Yvonne Matlosz, Cheryl Lewis, and Jo Riddle for making the children’s worship bags! The Crossnore cottage children really enjoyed using them this past Sunday.

The next program in our Summer Series will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 7 p.m., in the sanctuary. Bobby Taylor and The Jazz Kings will be performing selections from The Great American Songbook. This group of world-class musicians will honor the legacy of composer Hoagy Carmichael, by performing several of his timeless compositions. Also included will be the performance of a number of other jazz standards! The band, with members hailing from Hilton Head and Rock Hill, SC, to Hickory and Boone to Elizabethton, TN, will come together to combine their individual and unique talents for this concert! They will also be joined by Crossnore native Maggie Lauterer, vocalist! Donations will be accepted.

Our July Mission Project includes People and Pet Food donations that will go to the Minneapolis Food Pantry and hygiene products and toiletries that will go to Feeding Avery Families. Last summer, we filled the sanctuary with bags of food and hygienic products. Let’s see if we can do it again! The food pantries need more groceries, and the hygiene products and toiletries are important because folks cannot use food stamps for these items. You can bring your bags to church until the end of July.

Gayle Culbreath is asking for donations of cookies for our “cookie jar”. We need cookies for Sunday morning cookies and coffee fellowship as well as Bible study and the various gatherings during the week. Oreos and Chips Ahoy are favorites or just bring your favorites! Drop them off in the kitchen.

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be held next Sunday, July 14, at Fletcher Presbyterian Church, 1578 Cow Camp Road, Newland, NC. This is CP Roger Wise’s congregation. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed by a business meeting. At 7 p.m., Dave Cohn, the Director of Holston Center and Camp will give an update on Holston Center programs and events. Everyone is invited!

The July potluck is our annual picnic at the Pavilion at the Point in Linville Land Harbor on Sunday, July 21. We will gather at 1 p.m. following worship. The church will be providing hot dogs, hamburgers and buns, cheese, condiments, and chips. Please bring your favorite side or dessert. We need three volunteers to bring an ice chest with ice and a case of bottled water. Please contact Gayle Culbreath if you can help: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you are interested in helping on the grill team, please contact John Kehoe: kehoe - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The next CPC Women’s Gathering will be a luncheon at Kaye’s by the River (formerly Kaye's Kitchen) in Newland on Thursday, July 25, at 11:30 a.m. Carpool if possible! Parking is limited.

Update on the CPC Mission Project: UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $720. This amazing non-profit called “Undue Medical Debt” helps wipe out medical debt in the United States. In fact, this non-profit has wiped out 12 billion dollars of medical debt for over 70 million people in all 50 states in the past decade. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties. The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. With $11,000, we can wipe out over 2 million dollars of medical debt in the three counties and completely cover the unpaid medical debt in Avery County. The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have less than $4,000 left to raise before the end of 2024. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt in all three counties. To qualify for this program, people’s income must be below the poverty line or meet a ratio of their debt to their income. If you would like to make a donation to UnDue Medical Debt, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Lees-McRae Summer Theater presents From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story with 7 p.m. Shows on July 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 2 p.m. Shows on July 20, 21, 23. It is directed by Janet Barton Speer. What did Banner Elk, North Carolina, look like in the 1890s? With the vision of Edgar Tufts, a young seminary student, one tiny town gained a church, college, orphanage, and hospital. This original musical by the team who brought you The Denim King: The Moses Cone Story, America's Artist: The Norman Rockwell Story, and The [W]right Sister is presented after thoughtful research among the families who have lived here for generations. Using traditional mountain music mixed with a lyrical style, audiences will be moved and inspired by this great man. You will not want to miss From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story.

 

 

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Midweek News July 3, 2024

July 3, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

Communion Sunday. July 7, 2024. Worship at 11:00 a.m. Please join us following worship in the fellowship hall to celebrate July birthdays with birthday cake!

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall this Wednesday from 1- 3 p.m. Come and enjoy some great fellowship and make winter hats and scarves for the homeless in our area. You can also bring any craft to work on. Contact Janis Kenyon for more information. (828) 898-3339.

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group is meeting on Wednesday, July 3, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall for the second week of Rev. Maggie Lauterer’s 4-week study on John Philip Newell’s book, The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings.

Last Sunday’s God’s Creation worship service was a beautiful celebration with May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center ani-mal ambassadors and staff sharing in the service. We were able to be outside under the canopy of trees on our church grounds as we recognized God’s blessings and our responsibilities in caring for all creation. Thank you to the volunteers who came to set up and take down this past Sunday’s outdoor worship service and also to those who saw a need and just jumped in to help!

CPC Men’s Breakfast Group will meet at Kaye’s Down by the River (formerly Kaye’s Kitchen) this Friday, July 6, at 8:30 a.m.

The next Session meeting is on Tuesday, July 9 at 3:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall.

As part of our Summer Series of Speakers and Music Concerts, on Tuesday, July 16, 7p.m., in the Crossnore Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, 200 Chapel Drive, Bobby Taylor and The Jazz Kings will perform selections from The Great American Songbook. This group of world-class musicians will honor the legacy of composer Hoagy Carmichael, by performing several of his timeless compositions. Also included will be the performance of several other jazz standards! The band, with members hailing from Hilton Head and Rock Hill, SC, to Hickory, Boone, and Elizabethton, TN joined by Crossnore native Maggie Lauterer, vocalist! The concert is free, donations will be accepted.

Do everything in love. ~ Corinthians 16:14

Our July potluck will be our annual picnic at the Pavilion at the Point in Linville Land Harbor on Sunday, July 21. We will gather at 1 p.m. following worship. The church will be providing Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Buns, Cheese, Condiments, and bags of chips. Please bring your favorite side or dessert. We need 3 volunteers to bring an ice chest with ice and a case of bottled water, please contact Gayle to let her know if you wish to volunteer to bring water. You can reach Gayle. If you are interested in helping on the grill team, please contact John Kehoe.

Thanks to Jane Sowder for hosting a wonderful Women’s Gathering this past Thursday at her home and her beautiful daylily fields

Update on the CPC Roof Replacement and Sanctuary Repairs: Time to do a “Happy Dance.” The Roof Committee received approval from the National Historic Preservation Fund for the color of our roof tile! The roof tile was ordered last week, and we are on our way to beginning construction in the Spring of 2025. Thanks to everyone who has contributed funds, time, expertise, and prayers for this long journey that will continue through next summer. Our roof funds are still earning over 5%. Our construction manager, Mike Gragg, is working on getting bids for all the different construction pieces.

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be held on Sunday, July 14, at Fletcher Presbyterian Church, 1578 Cow Camp Road, Newland, NC. This is CP Roger Wise’s congregation. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed by a business meeting. At 7 p.m., Dave Cohn, the Director of Holston Center and Camp will give an update on Holston Center programs and events. Everyone is invited!

Update from WAMY- one of our partners in mission: “Thank you for helping the World Changers Project with your donation of $1,000. We have received all the funding needed to offer 14 home repairs during the week of July 8th. In Service, Allison Jennings, WAMY Director of Development.”

Feeding Avery Families needs volunteers to help distribute food on Wednesdays. Please check out their volunteer page: www.feedingaveryfamilies.org. Volunteers are also needed at Reaching Avery Ministry (Ram’s Rack) next to the Dollar General in Newland. They need help from volunteers to assist in the thrift store. You can show up and they will put you to work! Mon-Fri: 9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m.- 3 p.m

 

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Midweek News June 26, 2024

June 26, 2024

 

Announcements and Items of Interest

 

This Sunday, June 30, is our annual “Celebration of God’s Creation” Worship Service in the church’s upper parking lot. The animal ambassadors, along with the staff from May Wildlife Rehab Center at Lees-McRae College, will be joining us for outdoor worship. You can come at 10:30 a.m. and meet the owls, hawks, eagles, birds, and squirrels before 11 a.m. worship. Please bring a chair and something cool to drink and your donations for Food for People and Pets and Daily Change.

The Church Choir meets at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday in the sanctuary for practice before worship. All are welcome to join!

The Knitting and Crocheting Group meets in the fellowship hall on Wednesdays from 1- 3 p.m. Come and enjoy some great fellowship and make winter hats and scarves for the homeless in our area. You can also bring any craft to work on. Contact Janis Kenyon for more information. (828) 898-3339.

Our Wednesday Bible Study Group will resume next Wednesday, June 26, at 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Rev. Maggie Lauterer will be leading a 4-week study on John Philip Newell’s book, The Rebirthing of God: Christianity’s Struggle for New Beginnings. The walls of Western Christianity are collapsing. In many parts of the West, that collapse can only be described as seismic. There are three main responses or reactions to this collapse. The first is to deny that it is happening. The second is to frantically try to shore up the foundations of the old thing. The third, which I invite us into, is to ask what is trying to be born that requires a radical reorientation of our vision. What is the new thing that is trying to emerge from deep within us and from deep within the collective soul of Christianity?" In the midst of dramatic changes in Western Christianity, internationally respected spiritual leader, peacemaker and scholar John Philip Newell offers the hope of a fresh stirring of the Spirit among us. He invites us to be part of a new holy birth of sacred living. To reserve a book, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The next CPC Women’s Gathering will be held this Thursday, June 27, 4-6 p.m., at Jane Sowder’s home. The daylilies will be in full bloom to stroll through and enjoy! Please bring something salty or sweet to share and your beverage of choice.

Next Summer Series Program: This Tuesday, July 2 , 7 p.m., Church Sanctuary Dr. Jim Goff, a scholar of American religious history at Appalachian State University, will present “Elvis and Religion.” Dr. Goff will discuss Elvis Presley’s complicated and contradictory relationship with his Christian faith. Elvis was raised as a member of the Assemblies of God Church and was enamored by the rhythms and the message of gospel music. His earliest musical heroes were gospel singers, both Black and White. As his musical career took off, Elvis was both influenced and haunted by the decidedly evangelical and Pentecostal strictures of his youth. Despite his hedonistic lifestyle, he never completely abandoned his Christian beliefs. On the day of his untimely death in 1977, Elvis was reading a book titled A Scientific Search for the Face of Jesus and listening to a Christian album by the Stamps Quartet titled “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.”

Update on the CPC Mission Project: UnDue Medical Debt: So far, our donations for the final $4,000 have come to $600. This amazing non-profit called “Undue Medical Debt” helps wipe out medical debt in the United States. In fact, this non-profit has wiped out 12 billion dollars of medical debt for over 70 million people in all 50 states in the past decade. We have an anonymous donor who is giving $10,000 to help pay personal medical debt in Avery, Mitchell, and McDowell Counties.  The Session has approved giving $1,000 which will come from monies already collected in the mission fund. With $11,000, we can wipe out over 2 million dollars of medical debt in the three counties and completely cover the unpaid medical debt in Avery County.  The Session has set the goal at $15,000, which means we only have $4,000 left to raise before the end of 2024. This will wipe out over 3 million dollars of medical debt and may completely cover the unpaid medical debt in all three counties. To qualify for this program, people’s income must be below the poverty line or meet a ratio of their debt to their income.  If you would like to make a donation to UnDue Medical Debt, please make your check out to “Crossnore Presbyterian Church” and designate for UnDue Medical Debt. The church’s mailing address is P.O. Box 386, Crossnore, NC 28616.

Update on the CPC Roof Replacement and Sanctuary Repairs: Time to do a “Happy Dance.” The Roof Committee received approval from the National Historic Preservation Fund for the color of our roof tile! The roof tile will be ordered this week and we are on our way to beginning construction in the Spring of 2025. The photo shows the color of our roof tile. Thanks to everyone who has contributed funds, time, expertise, and prayers for this long journey that will continue through next summer. Our roof funds are still earning over 5%. Our construction manager, Mike Gragg, is working on getting bids for all the different construction pieces.

The next Mayland Fellowship Gathering will be held on Sunday, July 14, at Fletcher Presbyterian Church, 1578 Cow Camp Road, Newland, NC. This is CP Roger Wise’s congregation. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed by a business meeting. At 7 p.m., Dave Cohn, the Director of Holston Center and Camp will give an update on Holston Center programs and events. Everyone is invited!

Update from WAMY- one of our non-profit partners in mission: “Thank you for the World Changers Project with your donation of $1,000. We have received all the funding needed to offer 14 home repairs during the week of July 8^th. In Service, Allison Jennings, WAMY Director of Development.”

The Congregational Fellowship Committee needs volunteers to host Coffee Hour after worship on the first and second Sundays of the month this summer. If you would like to help, you can choose a date or two or serve once a month. Please contact Gayle Culbreath at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Feeding Avery Families really needs volunteers to help distribute food on Wednesdays. Please check out their volunteer page: www. feedingaveryfamilies.org. Volunteers are also needed at Reaching Avery Ministry (Ram’s Rack) next to the Dollar General in Newland. They need help from volunteers to assist in the thrift store. You can show up and they will put you to work! Mon-Fri: 9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Midweek News September 6, 2023

We honored June Bagby and celebrated her 99th birthday during worship this past Sunday. She has been an active member of this congregation for decades, as was her late husband, Bill.

Robert and Melanie Dunn joined the church last Sunday. Please help to welcome them as new members! 

The September Women’s Gathering will be held this coming Tuesday, September 12, from 4-6 p.m., at Gingercake Acres Club House. Please bring something sweet or salty to share and your own beverage. Call the church office for more information. 828-733-1939.

Our new Bible Study begins on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 3-4:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall and runs through October. A note from Pastor Jim Taylor, who will be leading this study: “I invite you to join me on a journey of discovery using a series called ‘A New Family, Throwing Open the Doors of the Sanctuary’ featuring the late Rachel Held Evans. Please let Pastor Kathy know if you would like to take part in this study and if you need a book. She has ordered plenty of books at $10 each.

Sunday, September 17, at 11 a.m., church sanctuary, we will be sharing in a Worship Service of Word and Music.  Woodie and the String Pullers are returning to be our guest musicians and lead the congregation in special music and hymns. Pastor Kathy will share scripture and reflections that weave together sacred music and bible passages. Please join us for this special worship experience!

From Gayle Culbreath and the fellowship committee. Our next potluck will be on Sunday, September 17 following worship. It is going to be casseroles! Our congregation is so creative, and I am looking forward to seeing what you will bring. It takes a team effort, and I am deeply grateful. We have been embracing our scripture verses guidance.

 “Matthew 20 - For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” We are always in need of help so if you are interested in helping with any of our gatherings, please contact me.

Sunday, September 17, 2023, will also be Choir Appreciation Day.

Tuesday, September 19, 7 p.m., church sanctuary “The Civil War in Appalachia: History, Stories, and Song.  The residents of the Southern Appalachian Mountains were deeply divided during the Civil War. Loyalties to the Union and the Confederacy tore apart communities and even families. Some historians describe the conflicts here in the mountains as a civil war within the Civil War. This lecture will touch on military history, but it will focus on the social history of the war. Dr. Karl Campbell, a Professor of History, at ASU, will share a few popular stories from the period, and Jackie Rullman, an ASU History major, will sing and discuss several mountain ballads. These stories and songs helped people make sense of the tragic times in which they lived, and they can help us understand the full history of the Civil War in Appalachia.

Community Opportunities:

Experience Taizé’: A Service of Prayer, Song, and Contemplation by Candlelight, the first Sunday of each month, beginning this Sunday, September 3, at 6 p.m., at Sloop Chapel on the campus of Crossnore Communities for Caring. Contact Rev. Brent Nidiffer For more information: 423-707-4514.

The fifth annual Warriors Heart Foundation Dance and Fundraiser will be held at Land Harbor Recreation Center on Saturday, September 9, 7-11 p.m. Warriors Heart® provides private treatment to active military, veterans, and firefighters, police, and EMTs, 18 and older who are seeking inpatient treatment for chemical dependency, alcohol abuse, and co-occurring psychological disorders relating to PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder ) or the psychological effects of MTBI (mild traumatic brain injury). Warriors Heart is a privately funded treatment center located in San Antonio, Texas, and Virginia (coming soon). Tom Spooner, Gayle Spooner's son, is the Co-Founder. If you want to make a reservation ($15) or have items for the silent auction email Gail Spooner: at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. If you have any questions, call Addie Bobbitt, who is a member of our church family.

Banner Elk Presbyterian Church has invited us to join them for a seminar: “I Wish I Had Known: A Survivor’s Guide to End-of-Life” on Sunday, September 17, from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Banner Elk Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. This panel discussion will provide guidance for end-of-life concerns. This seminar will offer helpful information concerning which documents and directives you need to share with loved ones before death. Questions? Please contact the church office at 828-898-5406.