Issuu

New Staff Updates

Advent Gift Market 2024

Organ Maintenance

Soup For Body & Soul

A Legacy of Faith

Richard Shaull Grant

Ash Wednesday

Season of Lent

Community Forum

All Church Read

Lent/Easter

From The Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet

n a book about the power of stories co-authored by a Presbyterian pastor and a Catholic theologian, an encounter between a mother and her young son at bedtime is used as an example. The three-year-old had just heard his mother read his favorite bedtime story for the third time that evening. After the final reading, his mother witnessed a strange phenomenon. The toddler took the book, opened it in the middle, set it on the ground, and gently put one foot and then the other on the open pages. He looked down at the book in wonderment and began to cry. The mother was puzzled by this display of emotion, but her eight-year-old daughter offered a simple interpretation. “He really likes the book,” she said, “and I think he wants to become part of the story.”

A three-year-old thinks very concretely, but each of us, in our own way, wants to become part of a larger story, to extend the reach of our own lives to something bigger than ourselves. The Bible is a collection of many forms of literary genres: narrative, poetry, song, code of law, history, prophecy, proverb, genealogy, letter, and more. But it’s the narratives that allow us to stand in the text and imagine ourselves as part of this bigger story, and the parables, in particular, as a form of story, call us to work a little harder to find our footing within them.

During the season of Lent, parables chosen from Luke’s gospel will be our companions on the journey. When Jesus was asked by his disciples why he spoke to the people in parables, he said that they contained the secrets of the kingdom of God. The stories Jesus tells invite us to stand in them, to walk around in them, to assume the role of various characters, to look for lost things and hidden things, and in so doing the purposes of God become revealed so that our lives may take the shape of the holy contours of God’s kingdom.

Many church friends contributed to the daily devotional guide we can use at home to observe a holy Lent. Sunday worship will include the corporate exploration of key parables Jesus tells. My hope is that our meditating on God’s word through these timeless stories Jesus tells will strengthen us for faith and discipleship, which is our Lenten calling.

Grace and Peace,

Welcome BMPC Staff Members

We are excited to welcome Kathy (Kat) La as one of the newest members of our staff team. Kat joined us full-time in December as the Youth Program Coordinator and Administrative Coordinator for Accounts Receivable and

We are delighted to welcome Michelle Pringle as BMPC’s new Director of Human Resources and Administration. Michelle joined in December, bringing valuable experience and a passion for building community.

Liz Ellis Director of Engagement

Kathy La

Youth Program Coordinator & Administrative Coordinator for Accounts Receivable & Stewardship

Stewardship.

While new to this role, Kat has been a familiar face at BMPC since fall 2023, serving in the nursery during Sunday worship, church events, and special services. Her warmth and nurturing spirit have already made a lasting impression, and we’re thrilled she’ll now be working with our middle and high school students.

A Philadelphia native, Kat graduated from Temple University with a theater degree. After a decade in entertainment, she transitioned to hospitality and e-commerce before seeking a people-centered, meaningful role.

Please join us in welcoming Kat to BMPC! Say hello when you see her around the church!

Michelle Pringle Director of Human Resources & Administration

Originally from Western Massachusetts, Michelle took a leap of faith by choosing Shippensburg University based solely on its website—and it was there she met her husband, Zane. She earned a Bachelor’s in Human Resources and Marketing and later an MBA. Michelle’s career has included roles in COVID testing, education, and healthcare staffing before finding

We are delighted to announce that Liz Ellis and her husband, Justin, welcomed their first child just before Christmas. Congratulations to the new parents on this joyous occasion!

Liz will return from maternity leave in March to take on an exciting new role as BMPC’s Director of Engagement. In this position, she will focus on building connections within our congregation,

her ideal fit at BMPC. She and Zane, who married in 2024, now live in Bryn Mawr. In her free time, Michelle enjoys yoga, reading, cooking, traveling, and visiting family in Northern Massachusetts.

We’re thrilled to have Michelle on our team—please join us in giving her a warm BMPC welcome!

encouraging participation in church activities, and fostering a sense of community. She will also oversee new member classes and ensure new members are welcomed and transition smoothly into BMPC’s life.

We look forward to Liz’s energy and vision in this role. Please join us in celebrating Liz and Justin’s growing family and welcoming Liz to her new position.

Spotlight on Ariel Gonzalez A Pillar of BMPC’s Youth Ministry and Outreach

For 13 years, Ariel Gonzalez has been a beloved member of the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church community. You’ve likely seen him in the gym on Sundays with confirmands at Youth Gathering or at youth events like Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag, Rainbow Reindeer Games, or the annual trip to Hersheypark. Ariel is also a familiar face at Vacation Bible Camp and Outreach Council meetings, where his passion for community service shines.

welcome wagon,” he says. “She introduced me to people, and I really appreciated that.” Ariel quickly learned there were various opportunities for deeper engagement and joined the Outreach Council.

Ariel’s involvement with the Outreach Council was a natural fit. “I like that BMPC made a commitment to the local community and also to Philadelphia,” he explains. The words of former Pastor David Watermulder deeply resonated with him: Without the city, there is no suburb. “Here is a coalition of people within the congregation who not only want to study the teachings of Christ but practice them. Whether addressing economic insecurity, supporting education, or promoting evangelism, the council’s work is a great opportunity to collaborate with nonprofits and give back.”

Ariel’s journey to BMPC began when he moved to the area from North Jersey. New to the community and seeking connection, he spent time “church shopping” before discovering BMPC. “I didn’t know anyone in the area and wanted a community, a home away from home,” he recalls. Spirituality and religion were important in his family, and he was eager to reignite that passion. BMPC’s progressive stance on social issues, particularly LGBTQ+ inclusion, drew him in, as did the diverse programming, ministries, and inspiring music.

Initially, Ariel found the 10 a.m. service both beautiful and overwhelming, but a warm welcome from Donna Barrickman helped him feel at home. “Donna was my

His connection to the youth ministry is equally heartfelt. Inspired by former Youth Pastor Leigh DeVries’s energy and enthusiasm, Ariel saw an opportunity to make a difference. “Pastor Leigh reminded me of a teacher who got me interested in science,” he shares. “If she could bring that same passion to children and church, I wanted to be part of it.” Ariel’s involvement also reflects his longstanding desire to teach and deepen his understanding of the Bible. “Confirmation is like a crash course in faith,” he notes.

Through his work with the Outreach Council and Youth Ministry, Ariel embodies BMPC’s mission of looking beyond its borders to help others. His story is a testament to the power of community, connection, and faith in action. Whether mentoring confirmands or partnering with non-profits, Ariel’s contributions enrich the lives of those around him, making BMPC a true “home away from home” for so many.

Welcoming Our Newest Members

On November 17, 2024, we joyfully welcomed 18 new members into the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church family through Letter of Transfer, Reaffirmation of Faith, and Profession of Faith. These individuals attended membership classes to learn more about BMPC’s mission, values, and opportunities for connection and service.

The celebration began with a welcome breakfast before the 10 a.m. worship service, providing a chance for fellowship and community. During the service, Clerk of Session Dottie Bowen officially accepted our new members into the congregation.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to our newest members and celebrating the growth of our church family!

We welcome our newest members. Front row: Jordan Black and Pierce Jaswinski; Grace and John Madziyre and their children, Lily and Trudy; Nancy Walsh and her children, Cali and Benjamin, who join Jim Walsh; Steven Wilson pictured with his wife Bridget Amy; Daniel Stockel, who joins his wife Katie and their children, Annie and Maggie (not pictured.) Back row: Robert Young; Erick and Kasey Prato and their children, Lucas, Clara, and Emma; Rachel and Jesse Kiefer and their children, Cooper and Harry (not pictured); Jackie Nunn pictured with Samantha Freeman and Dennis Cusack. We also welcome Tiffany Meyer and her children, Sophia and Isabel who were unable to attend the service.

Advent

$4,600

West Philadelphia Alliance for Children (WePAC)

Sponsored by the Adult Education Council

$4,195

The Common Place

BMPC’s Iconic Organ Celebrates 20 Years with Extensive Maintenance Project

This spring marks a significant milestone for Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church’s beloved organ, celebrating its 20th anniversary. To honor this occasion and ensure the instrument’s continued excellence, the church undertook a significant maintenance project—the most extensive since its installation.

The organ has been central to worship for two decades, inspiring the congregation and enriching the church’s music ministry. However, years of continuous use had taken their toll, necessitating a comprehensive restoration to maintain its extraordinary quality.

A skilled team from Rieger, the renowned Austrian company that built and installed the organ, carried out the project in January. Daniel Orth and Max Sandhaeger, two experts who travel the world restoring distinguished organs, led the effort. Both completed Rieger’s rigorous 3.5-year apprenticeship, mastering all aspects of organ building—from technical planning and drawing to assembly and voicing. Daniel even advanced his studies for two more years, culminating in the creation of an organ for his final exam.

The maintenance process was meticulous and multifaceted. First, Daniel and Max removed 20 years of accumulated dust and debris from the organ’s intricate components. Even in the Sanctuary’s controlled environment, grime inevitably

collects, and thorough cleaning was essential to restoring the instrument’s clarity and sound quality.

Next, thousands of mechanical connections—comprising levers, wires, and other components—were precisely adjusted to ensure every note responds flawlessly to our organists’ touch. This delicate task required both technical expertise and artistic sensitivity.

The keyboards were then regulated to maintain consistent responsiveness, ensuring each key offers a uniform and expressive playing experience.

Another critical aspect involved replacing the metal toes of some of the largest pipes, which are vital for stability and tuning. Over time, wear and tear can compromise functionality, so replacing these components ensures the pipes remain stable and produce their intended tones.

Finally, after completing the mechanical and structural work, Daniel and Max tuned the pipes to achieve perfect pitch and harmonious sound.

This labor of love reflects BMPC’s deep commitment to preserving its musical heritage. With the restoration now complete, the organ sounds as magnificent as it did when it was first installed, ready to inspire and uplift for many years to come—a true testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable instrument.

Care EXPLORING PLANNING

Saturday, March 8, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., BMPC’s Congregational Hall

SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M., BMPC’S CONGREGATIONAL HALL

Learn about long-term care, palliative/hospice care, how long-term insurance interfaces with di erent options, and how to have discussions now to enable you and your family to make thoughtful decisions in the future. This symposium will complement previous o erings on Getting Your A airs in Order. However, prior attendance is not necessary. Presenters will be The Rev. Barbara Emery (former hospital chaplain), Julia Schott, MSS, MLSP, LCSW (palliative care social worker), and Marilyn Mitchell, JD (Partner at Herr Potts & Potts Law Firm). WHERE WILL YOU TURN FOR

Prepared?

Learn about long-term care, palliative/hospice care, how longterm insurance interfaces with different options, and how to have discussions now to enable you and your family to make thoughtful decisions in the future. This symposium will complement previous offerings on Getting Your Affairs in Order. However, prior attendance is not necessary. Presenters will be The Rev. Barbara Emery (founder and manager of Paoli Hospital’s Spiritual Care Department), Julia Schott, MSS, MLSP, LCSW (palliative care social worker), and Marilyn Mitchell, JD (Partner at Herr Potts & Potts Law Firm.)

Email KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org to register for this free event.

Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

To register, please contact Kiki McKendrick: KikiMcKendrick@bmpc.org or call 610-525-2821

Nourishment for the Body, Comfort for the Soul

For much of 2024, I was ill. When I came home from the hospital, I was very thin, uninterested in food, and had little stamina for cooking. When church Social Worker Kathryn West or Senior Adult Pastor Kirby Lawrence Hill visited, or a deacon brought Sunday flowers and a bulletin, they often brought soup, too. It was at first embarrassing to me to accept this gift as I felt it should go to someone “really sick” (i.e., someone other than me). However, that soup was nourishing physically (a filling meal or two) and emotionally or spiritually (someone cares and supports me). As soon as I was able, I started making soup,

feeling like I should replace what I had consumed and continue supporting people who need a boost nutritionally or spiritually. There is simply nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup.

The church freezer needs refilling, and the need is continuous. When you make soup or stew for your family, fill a container for the church or go all out and make a whole potful for the BMPC freezer. Those filled containers hold much more than you may have realized. Plastic containers, lids, and labels are available next to the freezer in the church basement.

-Susan Mease

Frozen soup from BMPC

A Legacy of Faith: Why We Chose to Support BMPC Through Our Estate Plan

When my wife Janney and I decided to include the BMPC Foundation in our estate planning, the choice was an easy one. It wasn’t driven by obligation but by the deep emotional and spiritual connection BMPC has provided our family over the years. The phrase “Honoring the Past; Preparing for the Future” particularly resonated with us.

Over the 50+ years we’ve been members of this Church, we have celebrated many significant milestones—our wedding, the baptisms of our three children, the wedding of our daughter, and the baptism of one of our grandchildren. Janney and I have also served in various roles, including on the Pastor Nominating Committees, as Deacons and Trustees, and in the General Services, Church Catering, Stewardship, and Development Committees. Our children and grandchildren have also been active, enjoying Sunday School, youth trips, new friendships, and young adult opportunities. These experiences have kept us deeply connected to BMPC and engaged in its community.

More than just involvement, our lives have been rooted in the spiritual journey that BMPC has nurtured in us. Attending weekly services, we are blessed by the peace and spiritual enrichment brought by the music, the light shining through the stained-glass windows, the fellowship with other members, and the lessons preached from the pulpit. In this often crazy and unpredictable world, our time at BMPC provides a sense of stability, comfort, and fulfillment.

Of course, making an estate gift is a personal decision, one that must align with your situation, timing, and priorities. The decision was easy for us because our pledge is a future gift from our estate rather than a current cash contribution. This decision has the full support of our three adult children and their spouses, and we hope it will inspire them to include BMPC in their own future estate plans.

We encourage all BMPC members to consider joining us in making an estate gift to the Foundation. We are deeply grateful to the generations of BMPC leaders who laid the foundation for what we now enjoy and have the privilege to preserve. Let’s embrace that vision and help ensure the continued work of our remarkable church.

Warmly shared,

Janney and Steve Ryan

For more information about the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Foundation, contact Sarah Miciek, Director of Finance, at SarahMiciek@bmpc.org.

The Richard Shaull Grant for Mission – 2025 Recipients

The Richard Shaull Mission Grant, established in 2004 and sustained by a fund in the BMPC Foundation, celebrates the life and work of Rev. Dr. Richard Shaull, a theologian and mission worker committed to social and personal transformation. Each year, the Worldwide Ministries Committee awards this substantial grant to partner organizations advancing justice and societal transformation.

Okra Abbey, New Orleans - $37,000

Okra Abbey, a 1001 New Worshiping Community of the Presbyterian Church (USA), blends faith, food justice, and community empowerment in New Orleans’ Pigeontown neighborhood. It tackles food insecurity and systemic inequities through initiatives like weekly Grace and Greens meals, Peas and Love porch deliveries, and Community Wellness Days, offering fresh food, connection, and education.

In 2024, Okra Abbey hired DeAndre Collins, a local resident, as a Neighbor Employee, creating a model for economic stability and leadership. This will expand in 2025 with two more hires. Monthly Wellness Days, with workshops on gardening and nutrition, help neighbors address food insecurity sustainably. The Abbey’s commitment to community involvement is reflected in having Pigeontown residents on its board.

Beyond meeting immediate needs, Okra Abbey fosters unity across divides, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds. Rooted in Reformed theology, it embodies the Presbyterian call to justice, building hope and resilience. Through partnerships, it continues to fight food insecurity while empowering the Pigeontown community.

The Association for a More Just Society, Honduras - $50,000

Founded in 1998, the Asociación para una Sociedad más Justa (ASJ) seeks systemic change through justice, transparency, and accountability. It focuses on strengthening public institutions like schools, hospitals, and judicial systems to serve vulnerable populations.

In 2023, ASJ launched the Democracy Observatory, led by Juan Carlos Aguilar, to safeguard democracy and ensure fair elections in 2025. This initiative unites over 20 organizations, including religious, academic, and civil society leaders, to monitor threats like government overreach and conflicts of interest. By sharing findings through media and offering advocacy tools, the Observatory empowers citizens and coalitions to uphold democratic principles. The initiative creates a safe platform for diverse groups, including women’s rights advocates, Indigenous leaders, LGBTQ+ communities, and church leaders, fostering unity in the fight for democracy. Its success is measured by adherence to election laws, fraud prevention, and increased advocacy efforts, benefiting all 10 million Hondurans. ASJ’s work represents a holistic approach to democracy, combining advocacy and community empowerment to ensure longterm transformation.

From Palms to Ashes: A Journey of Transformation for Lent

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. Small and sometimes not-so-small crosses are marked on hands and foreheads with a mixture of oil and ash as part of the service. The ashes have a story all their own. They are made from last year’s palm fronds. The same palm fronds used to punctuate our “Hosannas” on Palm Sunday and twisted to form crosses to remind us of Jesus’ passion spend a year drying out and waiting. We burn these “leftover” palms and grind them into a fine powder. It is

a messy process. The ash gets under your nails, and no matter how long you grind away, there always seems to be a few sticks and fibers left. We give this task to our students, who do an incredible job transforming what was left over into a sign of something new. Our ash is far from perfect, but it is made with an incredible amount of care. To be transparent, we supplement our ashes with some purchased ash— still made from palm fronds and still carefully ground, just not by 1st and 2nd-grade hands.

1 2 3 4 5

When you come on Ash Wednesday, and a cross is made on your forehead or hand, remember that just a year before, they were bright green waving in the air, welcoming Christ into Holy Week. Transformed, may they now guide us as our Lenten journey begins.

Ash Wednesday

March 5, 2025

5:30 p.m. Family Service with Imposition of Ashes. Chapel.

The Rev. Rachel Pedersen preaching.

7:00 p.m. Service with Imposition of Ashes. Sanctuary & Livestreamed.

The Rev. Dr. Kirby Lawrence Hill preaching.

Labyrinth Schedule

The Lenten Chapel Labyrinth

will be open daily for walk and reflection from Ash Wednesday, March 5 through Wednesday, April 16, at the following times:

Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

The Chartres Canvas Labyrinth

will be open daily for walk and reflection during Holy Week in the Gymnasium at the following times:

Maundy Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Candlelit from 3:00 p.m.

Good Friday: 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The stations of the cross will be set up on the labyrinth for Holy Week.

Season Of Lent 2025

The Parables of Jesus

The Season of Lent is a time dedicated to intentional faith practices that aim to bring us, individually and as a community, closer to God while deepening our understanding of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. During this season, we are called to fast, setting aside distractions; to meditate on God’s word, grounding ourselves in the traditions and texts that have guided countless believers before us; and to

engage in prayer, giving priority to expressing our gratitude, petitions, and hopes for ourselves and the world.

This season of Lent, we will focus on seven parables from the Gospel of Luke as a guiding theme. We begin on Ash Wednesday with the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, we orient ourselves towards faithful practices of prayer and devotion. In the parable, Jesus points out

BMPC Lenten

Devotional 2025

the shallow, self-aggrandizing, and showy devotion of a Pharisee who gives thanks for all the people who he is glad not to be in this world and compares it to the faithful, confessional, and heartfelt prayers of a nearby tax collector. May we learn the lesson of this story at the start of the Lenten season, offering ourselves in faithfulness and simplicity as we walk towards Holy Week alongside our Redeemer.

Each year, members and staff reflect on scripture and their own lives of faith to help guide our community through the Season of Lent. This year’s devotional, centered on the Parables of Jesus, explores how these stories reveal the heart of his teachings, illustrate the depth of his pastoral care, and challenge us to embrace the justice and grace of God’s kingdom. Through these vivid narratives, we see how Jesus communicated profound truths, inspired faithfulness, and confronted the assumptions of the religious leaders of his time. You are invited to use this year’s Lenten Devotional to mark each day of this holy season so that you might also spend the days of Lent in study and prayer, looking towards the hope and promise of resurrection and renewed life that we celebrate at Easter. Devotionals are available in printed form in information racks and the Narthex of the Sanctuary and Chapel. A downloadable copy of the Devotional can be found on our website.

Digging Deeper Bible Study

Sundays, Mar. 2 through Apr. 6, 8:45 a.m., Witherspoon Parlor

The Rev. Dick Wohlschlaeger will lead this six-week study on Parables. As a congregation, we will move through parables from the Gospel of Luke to shape our worship life in the Season of Lent. Each week, this class will focus on one of those parables, offering the opportunity to dive more deeply into the meaning and scholarship of the story. To reserve a copy of the readings, visit bit.ly/BMPCBookpickup, or contact JenniferMcArthur@bmpc.org

Prodigal Christ: An Exploration of the Parable of the Prodigal Son

Sunday, Mar. 16 & 23, 11:15 a.m., Fullerton Room

Join Dr. Kendall Cox in an engaging exploration of the parable of the prodigal son through the lens of her book, Prodigal Christ. This class will delve into the parable as a profound narrative of salvation, atonement, and election, uncovering its rich Christological insights. Drawing on Julian of Norwich and Karl Barth, we will discover how this timeless story reveals Christ’s intimate identification with humanity. Cox is the Director of Academic Affairs in the Templeton Honors College and an Assistant Professor of Liberal Studies & Ethics at Eastern University.

20th Century British Choral Masterpieces Concert

Sun., Mar. 16 at 4:00 p.m.

BMPC Sanctuary

Fully orchestrated arrangements of anthems and concert works will be featured in this program, combining the efforts of BMPC’s Sanctuary Choir and The Redeemer Choir from Church of The Redeemer, Bryn Mawr. Enjoy the lush harmonies of Bainton and the dramatic sounds of Bairstow and Parry, all paving the way to Howells’ immense “English Mass.” Following the concert, attendees are invited to a reception in the gallery showcasing Barbara Berry’s new exhibit, “Rhythm and Light.” Be sure to explore this exciting new collection!

“Rhythm and Light”

by Barbara Berry

Gallery Opening and Artist Talk

Sunday, Mar. 9, 11:15 a.m., Gallery

Barbara Berry’s latest exhibit delves into the rhythms and light patterns inherent in nature, art, and design. Barbara will be present in the gallery to discuss her work and answer questions.

Reception for Barbara Berry’s “Rhythm and Light” Gallery

Sunday, Mar. 16, 5:15 p.m., Gallery

Join us for a special reception celebrating Barbara Berry’s “Rhythm and Light” exhibition. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the artist, engage with fellow art enthusiasts, and immerse yourself in the captivating works on display. The reception will immediately follow the 20th Century Choral Masterpieces concert, offering the perfect conclusion to an inspiring evening of art and music.

Lenten Organ Series

Tuesdays at Noon, Mar. 11 – Apr. 15, Chapel

Join us during the season of Lent as noontime recitals are presented on BMPC’s recently renovated Chapel organ. Full of orchestral colors (oboe, clarinet, tuba), a wide range of scintillating string combinations, and the grandeur of “all the stops,” the Chapel organ adapts to varied repertoire. This series is a wonderful midday escape from the hustle and bustle of our lives.

March 11 - Edward Landin Senn

March 18 - Isabella Isza Wu

March 25 - Sarah Palmer

April 1 - Daniel Colaner

April 8 - Jeffrey Brillhart

April 15 - Kathleen Scheide

Letting Go in Lent Class

Tuesdays, Mar. 11, 18, 25, and Apr. 1 at 7:00 p.m., Zoom

How do we journey through Lent? What do we take with us along the journey? Are we being weighed down by too much stuff?

Join the Caring Ministries Team and a therapist from the Middleton Counseling Center as we explore downsizing, letting go, and de-cluttering through the season of Lent. We will look at historic trends, the Konmari Method, and Swedish Death Cleaning as we explore our relationship with our belongings and how we can let go during this season of Lent. Practical support and resources will also be provided. To register, contact kikimckendrick@bmpc.org

Good Friday Services

Friday, Apr. 18, 12:00 p.m., Chapel

BMPC’s Youth Ministry will lead the Good Friday worship service at noon. This service will offer a chance to participate in embodied spiritual practices and emphasize the emotionality of this solemn and somber day.

Friday, Apr. 18, 7:30 p.m., Chapel

The Bryn Mawr Chamber Singers will lead the congregation in a service that is rich in liturgy and music. The musical repertoire includes Francis Poulenc’s sublime “Four Lenten Motets,” Maurice Duruflé’s “Kyrie” (heard at the start of last year’s All Saints Sunday service), Pablo Casals “O Vos Omnes” and more. Please join us in the beauty of the Mary Catherine Pew Memorial Chapel for a service that will fill your heart and prepare you for the Resurrection of Christ.

Piano Recital & Gallery Opening with Barbara Lister-Sink

Sunday, May 4, 2:00 p.m., Gallery

Barbara Lister-Sink, an internationally acclaimed pianist and acknowledged global leader in injury-preventive keyboard technique, is equally passionate about art. That passion influenced her decision to study and work as a watercolorist in Amsterdam and Italy for almost a decade. In 2001, after a 20-year absence, Lister-Sink returned to visual art. Her mother, Annie Lee Fitzgerald Sink, had given her a set of Grumbacher pastels in 1980; Lister-Sink finally put them to use, creating abstract pastel drawings of the landscapes, seascapes, and irises of her native state of North Carolina. Her media of choice are pastel and ink because of their easy access to color and line, coincidentally her favorite aspects of musical performance.

In this exhibition, Lister-Sink combines her love of art and music in a piano performance correspondent with an exhibition of her works. This exhibit and recital are a celebration of color—in the glorious, rich, velvety, pastel, shimmering, or iridescent colors of both the piano and the paintings.

Our Fragile Moment: Lunch & Learn

Sunday, May 4, 11:30 a.m. Gloucester Room

Join members of the Environmental Justice Committee for a discussion of Our Fragile Moment, the book by Spring Community Forum speaker Michael Mann. Purchase a copy of the book from the church for $10. bit.ly/BMPCBookpickup.

Attend Michael Mann’s talk on Monday, April 7. Join fellow church members on May 4 to discuss the political barriers to addressing climate change. A light lunch will be provided.

Dr. Micha el Mann

Monday, Apr. 7, 7:00 p.m. Sanctuary

Community Forum: Climate Change and the Path Forward

Join us for a timely and insightful Community Forum with Dr. Michael Mann, the Presidential Distinguished Professor of Earth and Environmental Science at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of the Penn Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media. Dr. Mann will address the pressing issue of humancaused climate change, which is one of the greatest threats to civilization.

For decades, denial and attacks on climate science have hindered meaningful progress. Today, polluting interests continue to use new tactics to divert attention, sow division, and promote false solutions that maintain the status quo of

fossil fuel use. These strategies include shifting the focus from systemic change to individual actions, using doomist narratives to create a sense of powerlessness, and advocating for solutions that don’t tackle the root of the crisis.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Mann will offer hope and practical pathways forward. While the need for action is urgent, we still have the power to make a meaningful difference—if we act now and boldly.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the leading experts in the field and engage in a conversation about how to drive real change for a sustainable future.

We encourage everyone in the congregation to purchase for this meaningful gathering. As part of our commitment Philadelphia locations that still bear the echoes of slavery. purchase your copy of the book for $10. Your participation

Vacation Bible Camp 2025

Exploring Creation & Community Vacation Bible Camp Registration

is Open!

God looked out over creation— the leaping and creeping creatures, the tall pines reaching towards heaven, the lichens growing over rocks, the stars shining overhead, and the waves crashing into beaches—God looked out over all of creation and declared it “very good.” But what does it mean to be part of this “very good” creation?

June 23-27, over 150 children from BMPC and our community will seek to answer that question by exploring

God’s good earth and our place in it at this year’s Vacation Bible Camp.

While most campers will attend “Big Camp,” rotating through stations that explore scripture, art, the environment, games, and more, our 4th and 5th-grade campers will work off-site with local mission partners. They will share their gifts and learn what it means to be part of a larger community.

Registration is Open. You can register online at bit.ly/VBCRegistration2025

You can also sign up to be a volunteer at bit.ly/VBCVolunteer2025.

Volunteers can help in the following ways:

• Leading and helping with a particular station or activity

• Working with a small group of students

• Helping behind the scenes

• Helping one day during the week

FYI: Did you know one week of VBC includes more than 15 “contact hours.” That is more than three months of weekly Sunday school! As Vacation Bible Camp continues to grow in new ways, we are thankful that the congregation’s generous support through the annual stewardship campaign allows us to offer camp for $50 per camper.

BMPC Weekday School:

Enrollment for Next Year’s Classes is Open!

For over 60 years, the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Weekday School has provided a nurturing and enriching environment for young children in our community. Grounded in a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum, the Weekday School fosters growth in every aspect of a child’s development—social, emotional, academic, and physical.

We offer a range of classes tailored to different age groups:

• Seedlings (Mon., Tues., Thurs.): Age 2 years, 7 months by the first day of school

• Sprouts (Mon. - Fri.): Age 3 by Sept. 1

• Sunflowers (Mon. - Fri.): Age 3 by Sept. 1

• Pre-K (Mon. - Fri.): Age 4 by Sept. 1

Enrollment for the upcoming school year is now open! To learn more about our program, schedule a tour, or begin the application process, visit our website at bmpcweekdayschool.org, or call us at 610-520-8840.

For additional questions, contact the Weekday School at weekdayschool@bmpc.org.

Why Montreat Is Worth Every Mile

Montreat’s gate came into view after a nine-and-ahalf-hour bus ride, and it certainly lived up to the hype that previous campers had promised. “The bus was quite nice,” Jamie Thornburg shared, “but everyone was ready to get up and stretch their legs.” While a Chick-fil-A stop provided food and a quick break, it wasn’t enough to match the excitement of finally arriving at the Assembly Inn, a large, all-stone building overlooking the picturesque Lake Susan.

The setting was stunning. “The location is very scenic, with breathtaking mountains and greenery, especially in the morning,” Jamie noted. The first day was spent settling in and exploring, while the second day offered a challenging yet rewarding hike up Lookout Mountain. “I won’t lie; I was really slow,” Jamie admitted, “but the view was worth it, even if I felt like death warmed over.”

The Montreat Summer Youth Conference provided a rich tapestry of experiences for everyone. Mornings and evenings were filled with group gatherings—small groups for discussion and large ones for worship. Our Interim Associate Pastor for Youth, Rev. Andy Greenhow, shared, “The programs were theologically rigorous, engaging, and genuinely fun.” Students received wristbands with assignments for these groups, which helped mix things up and foster new connections.

One highlight was the Conference Center’s energetic morning gatherings, featuring videos that “got everyone hyped up.” Evening services, led by an engaging and humorous preacher, were well-received, although the late hour tested the attention spans of some attendees.

The schedule balanced structured programming with much-needed free time. “Our overprogrammed youth had

a chance to breathe, go on hikes, marvel at the mountains, and get to know God and themselves better,” Pastor Andy observed. That unstructured time also led to some memorable moments, like kids splashing in the creek, sledding down muddy embankments on garbage bags, and simply being silly.

A midweek excursion to Black Mountain added a festive twist. Students shopped for a Secret Santa event, an annual Montreat tradition, and shared a meal at a taco restaurant. While the food was a hit for most, a few unfortunate stomachaches served as a reminder to tread carefully with beef tacos.

For many attendees, the beauty of Montreat was unmatched. “The air was fresh, the creek was fun to play in, and the mosquitoes didn’t even bother me that much,” Jamie remarked. As the trip concluded, mist rolled over the mountains, shrouding Montreat in a surreal, otherworldly beauty.

“Trips to Montreat have indeed been transformative experiences for young people for decades,” Pastor Andy reflected. “I can

see why, and I’m looking forward to another week with the youth of BMPC this summer.”

BMPC will return to the Montreat Summer Youth Conference from July 26 to August 2, 2025. The trip is open to rising 7th graders through graduating seniors. Registration is $650, and scholarships are available. Sign up by Friday, March 14, 2025, at

For those who’ve been before and for those who haven’t, Montreat continues to be worth every mile.

The Messenger

Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church

625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

610-525-2821

The Messenger (USPS #341840) Volume #127, Issue #1, is published quarterly by the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Periodical postage paid at Southeastern, Pennsylvania and additional offices.

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Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church 625 Montgomery Avenue Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

Holy Week Services

Palm Sunday April 13

8:00 a.m. Worship with Communion, Chapel

9:45 a.m. Children ages

2 - Kindergarten meet in classrooms and children grades 1-5 meet in Chapel for Palm Sunday Procession

10:00 a.m. Worship with Children’s Palm Procession, Sanctuary & Livestreamed

Maundy Thursday April 17

8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Labyrinth Walk, Gymnasium

5:30 p.m. Family Service with Communion, Chapel

5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Simple Supper, Congregational Hall

Free-will offering

7:00 p.m. Worship with Communion, Sanctuary & Livestreamed. The Rev. Rebecca Kirkpatrick preaching

Good Friday April 18

8:00 a.m. - noon. Labyrinth Walk, Gymnasium

12:00 p.m. Worship led by BMPC Youth, Chapel

7:30 p.m. Worship featuring the Bryn Mawr Chamber Singers

Easter Sunday April 20

6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service, Front Lawn. The Rev. Rachel Pedersen preaching.

7:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast, Education Building 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Worship with Choir and Easter Brass, Sanctuary. 9:00 a.m. Service Livestreamed. The Rev. Dr. Agnes W. Norfleet preaching