SEPTEMBER 2ND EDITION 2025 WEB

SEPTEMBER 2025

SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

2NDPRES.ORG

Twenty-Five years ago, in his book Bowling Alone, Robert Putnam discussed the ways in which Americans were disengaging from community involvement and social interaction. “The single most common finding from half a century’s research on life satisfaction,” he wrote, “is that happiness is best produced by the breadth and depth of one’s social connections.” The problem, Putnam pointed out in the year 2000, is Americans were becoming increasingly less involved in civic organizations, religious groups, labor unions, parentteacher associations, veterans’ organizations, fraternal organizations, and other groups where regular social interactions occur.

During the intervening years this trend has not gotten better. A recent article in The Atlantic by Ellen Cushing points out that it used to be commonplace for Americans to go out on a regular basis to a club, to church, or to somebody’s home where they’d see their friends.

Between 2003 and 2024, however, there was a 50 percent drop in time spent by Americans either attending or hosting a social event. Shockingly, about 1 in 8 Americans say they have no friends, and those that do say they rarely see them in person.

Cushing points out in her article that Party City has recently closed due to the lack of Americans having parties anymore. She thinks the prescription for better social health and happiness is to have more parties. She says that if every American hosted two parties a year, things would get better. Maybe. There is another way, though.

Small Groups. Human beings were made for meaningful relationships, significant relationships. We were created for connectedness. Connecting with other human beings in small groups where significant relationships can be created and built is not only a wonderful way to experience satisfaction and happiness in life, it’s THE way we experience God’s kingdom and grow as his disciples.

Jesus didn’t leave a Golden Curriculum. He called 12 people to live in community with him and with each other for 3 years and then said, “The kingdom of God is among you. (That’s a plural you – y’all!) Now, go into the world and do this.”

It is possible to grow as a disciple with many different curriculums and programs, or with no curriculum or program. But it is impossible to grow as a disciple without having significant relationships with others. For this reason, we are starting a small group ministry at 2nd Pres Knox. We are calling them Growth Groups, because the primary focus will be to grow in our relationship with God, grow in our relationships with one another, and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Maybe you already have a group of people you do life with regularly. If so, great! Keep it up! But if you are one of those Americans who is tired of “bowling alone”, if you are someone who has been craving real community and connection with others, if you are someone would like to invest in building significant relationships with some of your fellow church members and doing life together, then I’d like to invite you to join a Growth Group this fall.

There will be an information session on Wednesday, September 3rd, that will explain how Growth Groups will work, for those who would like to know more. Hope to see you there!

Grace and peace…

Table of Contents Worship Connect Grow Go Support Calendar

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Upcoming Sermon Texts and Topics This program year we are going to be following the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) on Sunday mornings. The RCL is a widely used three-year cycle of Bible readings for use in Christian worship, designed for use by various denominations. It provides a structured way to engage with Scripture throughout the liturgical year, encompassing major festivals and seasons, and provides a common set of readings from Scripture that Christians across the world hear together.

Each week the RCL provides 4 different Scripture passages: one each from the Hebrew Bible, Psalms, Gospels, and Epistles. Pastors Tim & Sarah will choose one of these passages to preach on each week. There are many RCL devotional resources online, if you would like to engage more deeply with the passages. (The passage for Sept. 7th is unavailable at the time of this printing as Sarah is scheduled to preach and has not yet returned from her sabbatical.)

September 7th

TBD

Sarah Morgan Preaching

September 14th

1 Timothy 1:12-17

The Main Thing

September 21st

1 Timothy 2:1-7

Praying for Our Enemies

September 28th

1 Timothy 6:6-9

Dangers of Wealth

A Celebration of Life for Ed May will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary.

The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.

Peace and Global Witness Offering The Peace and Global Witness offering will be received on Sunday, September 28th and October 5th. Our gifts to the Peace and Global Witness offering help to our neighbors in need; those who live in our area, and across the globe.

-25% of this Offering stays with our Congregation to support peacemaking and reconciliation in our own community.

-25% of this Offering goes to our Presbytery to join with other congregations to support peacemaking work in our region.

-25% of this Offering supports the work being done by Presbyterians across the globe.

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2nd Pres Family Game Day 2nd Pres Family Game Day is Saturday, September 6th from 10:30 am to 12:00. It will take place in the Gym at 2nd Pres, and Lunch will be provided.

Join us for family style relay games. Children are welcome to bring bikes/scooters (helmets are required), frisbees, or other fun games!

Please RSVP Holly at (865) 243-6353 to register.

In September we will be reading In The Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson and Charlotte will lead our discussion.

We will meet at the Buckingham facility on September 17th at 11:30 am.

Please bring a light lunch if you wish to eat, and your thoughts on the book.

If you have any questions, please call Margaret Sullivan at (865) 363-3967.

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN INTRODUCES 2025-2026 BIBLE STUDY YEAR Presbyterian Women will begin their new Bible study on Tuesday, September 9, from 10:15-11:30 in the Fellowship Hall. As always , people of all ages, both visitors and members of the church are welcome to attend these open monthly meetings.

We live in a rapidly changing world—one filled with conflict and confusion. The program year uses the New Testament with emphasis on specific people who also struggled with change and challenges. We will learn how these individuals dwelt with adversity, stress, tragedy with resilience and even joy and how we can deal with these difficulties as well.

Speaking of joy, hymn singing will again be a part of our monthly programs. The Hendrix family has donated a beautiful piano for use in the Fellowship Hall and Pastor Tim has volunteered to lead and play some of the old hymns that are so loved by so many Christians since childhood.

Join us for study and fellowship. We need each other as we search for understanding and acceptance of God’s will in our lives.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! IF WE INADVERTENTLY MISSED SOMEONE...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! PLEASE HELP US UPDATE OUR RECORDS SO WE'LL HAVE YOUR SPECIAL DAY ON FILE.

9/2 Bill Broome 9/3 Nan Sweitzer 9/6 Clara Hardin 9/7 Jimmy Cheek 9/7 Donna Downen 9/11 Drew Wall 9/11 Scott Farris 9/12 Nancy Smythe 9/14 Henry Casey

9/23 9/24 9/24 9/26 9/26 9/26 9/27 9/29 9/30

Donna Matlock Elsie Dodson Lisa Henley Robert Morgan Pam Turner Brent Beals Kathy Tallent Brayden Beets Linda Sue Byrd

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Preschool Graduation On July 31, 2025, the Preschool celebrated fifteen graduates. Ten of the fifteen children have been a part of the 2nd Presbyterian Preschool program from Infants until graduation. Children who are a part of our program from infancy to pre K have the advantage of learning skills throughout each classroom that prepares them to be ready learners for kindergarten. Your preschool also provides a faith based curriculum that allows us to meet our program mission statement of providing the best environment whereby each child can grow in the fullness of his or her potential as a child of God. The Preschool recognizes that this wouldn’t be possible without the support of the church, and we once again thank you for your continued support.

UKirk Strategic Planning UKirk at UTK is going to be engaging in a strategic planning process over the next 6-8 months. Pastor Tim has been asked to serve on the UKirk Strategic Planning Committee.

If you have any thoughts/ideas about UKirk and its future ministry, particularly our partnership with them, please contact Pastor Tim to share what’s on your mind.

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Fall Bible Study Our Tuesday morning Bible study will resume on Tuesday, September 23rd at 10:30 a.m. in the Barbour Room.

School Coupon Books for West View School Once again Books are on sale with proceeds going to benefit the many needs of West View School.

Please help by buying a book or two, if able. Coupons in these books are from merchants selling groceries, food (restaurants), tires, oil, computer cartridges, etc. You’ll easily recoup monies spent … if used.

1. Cost: $20.00.

2. The book is also available by digital download.

3. West View keeps 75% ($15.00 of each book sold) 4. You might consider donating the equivalent of purchasing (West View would keep 100%).

SALE DATES: September 4 – September 24 (Place your order for delivery) Before church in Atrium or After church at Fellowship Time Contact: Sandra Butler at sandyb446@comcast.net or (865) 659-4416 cell

GROWTH GROUP INFROMATION SESSION

This fall we are starting a new small group ministry we are calling Growth Groups. On Wednesday, September 3rd at 6:00 p.m. we will have an informational session in the Fellowship Hall designed to give you detailed information about our Growth Group Ministry and an opportunity to ask questions about how they will work. If you think you might be interested in being part of a Growth Group, we hope that you will attend the meeting. If you cannot attend, a FAQ sheet will be available on our website following the meeting.

Training for Growth Group Hosts/Facilitators On Monday, September 8th at 6:00 p.m., Pastor Tim will hold a training session for Growth Group facilitators and hosts. Anyone who would like to be a host or facilitator for one of our Growth Groups, even if you can’t do it this fall but would like to in the future, is invited to attend this class.

Facilitators organize and administer the groups, as well as facilitate the weekly meetings. Facilitators should have the spiritual gift of organization, leadership, or administration.

We will offer a light dinner prior to the meeting at 5:30 p.m., as well as childcare for those who need it.

Please RSVP by August 31st by using the QR code on this page, in the worship bulletin, or on the home page of our website if you plan on eating dinner or need childcare. We will not be able to guarantee you a meal if you do not RSVP.

Hosts host the meeting in their home or organizes the location of the meeting if the group rotates meetings or meets at the church. Hosts also ensure the presence of a welcoming and comfortable environment, as well as coordinating any food for the meetings. The spiritual gift of hospitality is helpful for hosts to have.

Fall Growth Group signups will be September 4th-14th.

You can signup through Realm, on the Church website, or by calling the church office. A signup table will also be available during Fellowship Time on September 7th and 14th. Groups will begin meeting the week of September 21st and meet for 9 weeks, concluding prior to Thanksgiving on the week of November 16th.

If you cannot attend the training but are interested in serving in one of these roles, please contact Pastor Tim.

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WEST VIEW ELEMENTARY WORK DAY

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GO Team Report – August 2025 The GO Team is responsible for extending the ministry of 2nd Presbyterian beyond the church both locally and globally through financial donations and volunteer activities. They rely on the generosity of the congregation to fund their efforts and welcome recommendations for donations and volunteer opportunities.

The team meets on the first Thursday of each month at 1pm in the Barbour Room.

Next meeting September 4.

June Disbursements: Presbytery of East Tennessee - $1,150. This will be the monthly disbursement for the year for a total of $13,800.

Compassion Coalition - $1,000. Table sponsorship at the Seedling Level for the annual Compassion Coalition fundraising luncheon. https://compassioncoalition.org/ Living Waters for the World - $4,000. Living Waters for the World trains volunteers to establish and lead water mission teams that partner with communities to implement and operate sustainable water purification systems and health education programs. https://www.livingwatersfortheworld.org/ Love Kitchen - $1,000. The Love Kitchen provides meals and emergency food packages to homebound, homeless and unemployed people of all races and faiths. https://thelovekitchen.org/ Volunteer activities in August: August 2 – 25+ Volunteers from Second Pres worked to prepare the school grounds and helped teachers prepare their classroom for the beginning of the school year. This is the 17th year that Second Pres has led this activity. Volunteers from Westminster Pres and Clear Defense Pest Control also assisted with the total number of volunteers approaching 50.

August 24 – 31 Family Promise - Volunteers will help prepare the house at SDA Church for incoming homeless families. Volunteers will also prepare and serve a meal during the week and assist with closing the house at the end of the week.

August 29 – Volunteers will provide and serve breakfast to participants in the Resource Center at Volunteer ministry Center.

West View Supplies Collection Box This box located in the atrium has a current list of supplies needed. Please check the current needs listed at the collection box as they will be updated from time to time.

GOing and Serving in 2025 – Watch for upcoming volunteer opportunities at VMC, KARM, Compassion Coalition, Love Kitchen, West View, and others in upcoming weekly newsletters..

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June 2025 Session Highlights Received Treasurer’s report.

Angela Jones was elected Clerk of Session.

Reverend Reynolds gave a report on Celebrations and Concerns and Administrative Issues and Activities.

Clara Hardin reported back from the Presbytery meeting on Aug 9th at Farragut Presbyterian Church.

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JULY

YTD 2025

BUDGET 2025

TOTAL GIFTS

$56,351.03

$716,862.91

$918,901.00

TOTAL EXPENSES

$60,640.52

$477,056.85

$920,375.00

EXCESS (SHORTAGE)

($4,289.49)

$239,806.06

($1,474.00)

CHURCH CLOSED Labor Day 3:00 pm Budget and Finance Team (Zoom)

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9:45am Staff meeting (SM Conference Room) 10:30 am: PET Committee on Preparation (Barbour) 5:00 p.m. Young Adult Ladies Life Group

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9:15 a.m. Choir Practice 9:15 a.m. Faith, Science and Future Sunday School (Barbour Room) 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Children’s Church

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5:00 p.m. Young Adult 9:15 a.m. Choir Practice 9:15 a.m. Faith, Science and Ladies Life Group (Youth) Future Sunday School (Barbour Room) 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Children’s Church

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5:00 p.m. Young Adult 9:15 a.m. Choir Practice 9:15 a.m. Faith, Science and Ladies Life Group (Youth) Future Sunday School (Barbour Room) 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Children’s Church 5:00 pm: Ice Cream Social (Gym)

12:00 p.m. Preschool Board Meeting (Zoom) 5:00 pm Young Adult Ladies Life Group

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9:15 a.m. Choir Practice 9:15 a.m. Faith, Science and Future Sunday School (Barbour Room) 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Children’s Church

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Sep 1

Aug 31

9:15 a.m. Choir Practice 9:15 a.m. Faith, Science and Future Sunday School (Barbour Room) 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship 10:45 a.m. Children’s Church

7:00 pm: Scouts 9:00 p.m.Ukirk Basketball (Gym)

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9:00 a.m. FISH Pantry (Fellowship Hall) 7:00 pm: Scouts 9:00 p.m.Ukirk Basketball (Gym)

6:00 pm: Session Meeting (Barbour Room) 7:00 pm: Scouts 9:00 p.m.Ukirk Basketball (Gym)

Oct 1

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11:30am 2nd Readers Book Club (Buckingham Clubhouse)

10:00 am: Arts and Crafts (Room 227) 1:00 pm: Go Team Meeting (Barbour Room)

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12:30 pm: CCR&R (FH)

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10 6:30 pm: CoS Session Meeting (Barbour Room)

10:00 am: Arts and Crafts (Room 227) 1:00 pm: Go Team Meeting (Barbour Room)

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THURSDAY

5:30 pm Growth Groups Informational Meeting (Fellowship Hall)

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WEDNESDAY

10:00 am Presbyterian Women (FH) 4:00 pm: Ryan Fogg Recital (Sanctuary) 6:00 pm: Worship Team (Barbour Room) 7:00 pm: Boy Scouts 9:00 p.m. Ukirk Basketball

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11:45 am: Staff Lunch (Mary Chambers) 4:30 p.m. Connect Team (Barbour Room) 5:00 pm: Facilities Team (Zoom) 7:00 pm: Scouts 9:00 p.m.Ukirk Basketball

TUESDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

September 2025

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FRIDAY

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for 2 Edition 20 Deadline Articles

12:00 pm: Nichole Duran Birthday Party (Gym)

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10:00 am: Ed May Funeral (Sanctuary) 10:30 a.m.: 2nd Pres. Family Event (Gym) 11:00 am: Ed May Funeral Reception (Fellowship Hall)

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SATURDAY

THE SECOND EDITION

2ND PRES KNOX

WELCOMING + FAITHFUL + HOPEFUL

SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2829 KINGSTON PIKE KNOXVILLE, TN 37919

CLERGY STAFF Pastor Tim Reynolds Pastor/Head of Staff treynolds@2ndpres.org Pastor Sarah Morgan Transitional Associate Pastor for Congregational Life & Mission smorgan@2ndpres.org PROGRAM STAFF Matthew Mimbs Director of Music & Arts mmimbs@2ndpres.org Holly Grimm Children & Youth Ministry Coordinator hgrimm@2ndpres.org Sarah Warner Organist swarner@bellarmine.edu SUPPORT STAFF Jack Rosamond Church Administrator jrosamond@2ndpres.org

Responding in gratitude to God's love and grace, we are a welcoming, faithful, and hopeful community, following Jesus and serving him in the world.

ELDERS

PRESCHOOL STAFF Linda Sue Byrd Director lsbyrd@2ndpres.org Holly Grimm Assistant Director hgrimm@2ndpres.org --------------------------------------------------CONTACT US: Second Presbyterian Church 2829 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 Ph. 865.523.2189 Fax 865.637.2617 www.2ndpres.org

CLASS OF 2026 Leonard Bailey Doug Barbour Monica Casey Clara Hardin CLASS OF 2027 Betsy Foster John Gill William Owen Cheryl Ragsdale CLASS OF 2028 Geoffrey Kennedy Kathy Duggan Lauren Dodson Cleston Jones

MINISTRY TEAMS & MODERATORS WORSHIP Betsy Foster John Gill CONNECT Geoffrey Kennedy Cheryl Ragsdale GROW Monica Casey Kathy Duggan GO Leonard Bailey Clara Hardin Lauren Dodson SUPPORT Doug Barbour William Owen PRESCHOOL Cleston Jones