We EQUIP people for discipleship through Christian education and NURTURE and love each other
through fellowship as a family of faith.
Membership
- Membership Brochure
- 2022-2023 Christian Formation Brochure
- Inquirers Gathering: This is offered several times throughout the year as well as other activities specifically designed to encourage seekers or newcomers to be able to assimilate into this congregation and family of faith.
- New Member Information Form
Sunday School (9:45 am)
Adult Fellowship (Room 320): composed of mostly 30-40 year olds exploring what the Bible teaches about faith, marriage, and parenting. We value biblical knowledge, lively discussion, fellowship with one another, and other outreach ministries.
Bible Explorers: (Chapel and Zoom): composed of all ages of adults studying both the Old and New Testament through lectures and other teaching methods to encourage understanding and application of the Scripture.
Faith Practices (Room 322): This Bible-based adult class studies how faith is applied in daily life. The format intentionally varies throughout the year between video presentations and discussion, interviews of guests about faith practices important to their journeys, and studies devoted to specific topics of interest. All ages are welcome.
New for 2023:
20-Somethings (Room 232): geared toward young adults (20-early 30’s) seeking community and growth in faith, whether one is sure or skeptical. Led by Pastor Jay, this class focuses on tough questions facing faith and a Christian worldview.
Faith Gatherings (Reception Room): composed mostly of adults in their 40s through 60-something, but all are welcome! Led by Pastor Mark, the class will study and discuss a range of topics and Christian articles with the intent to inform and transform. A time of fellowship will precede a time to learn and grow.
Click HERE for Children’s Ministries | Click HERE for Youth Ministries

LUNCH ON THE LAWN
SUNDAY, MAY 21
12pm | RSVP by May 17
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SHPC is passionate about getting people in healthy small groups!
“So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Purpose
Small groups are key to building significant Christian relationships and growing closer to God. Two important aspects of our L.I.F.E. groups are Fellowship and Discipleship. We believe these values will help develop strong disciples of Jesus, and the main goal of every group is to help people become disciples who make disciples.
Overview
Jesus modeled His ministry through creating a small group of twelve disciples who were relationally connected (Fellowship), and structured on His teaching (Discipleship). We seek to follow this model in how we do L.I.F.E. groups.
Every group is Relationship Centered. We expect participants to develop meaningful, authentic, gospel-focused groups where members feel known and needed.
Every group is Scripturally Structured. The level and type of study from the Bible will vary from group to group but must be central to every L.I.F.E. group.
Spring Sessions
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP (CO-ED)
This group is for anyone who is grieving the death of a loved one – whether that loss happened recently or some time ago. Each week includes a topic on grief in a video put together by experts in the field. Acknowledging that God is the Healer of all wounds, all materials are Christ-centered and Biblically-based.
When: Mondays from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. (February 6)
Where: Fowler Conference Room
Leader(s): Eleanor Barron, Sandy Gillespie, Klair Kimmey, Karen Lampley, and Sheila White
MONDAY MEN’S GROUP
Acts | An in-depth knowledge of the Bible is not required to benefit and enjoy participation in the group. Reading just a Bible chapter or two each day, you will discover life-altering stories that invite you to follow Christ as a true disciple. The cost for the study book is $15
When: Mondays from 12:00-1:00 pm (January 9) | Where: Spitzer Building, The Loft
Leader(s): Peter Blackwell
MONDAY CO-ED GROUP
NEW! Various Studies beginning with Sabbath |This group will read and discuss various subjects relating to the Old Testament, especially as they apply today. It’s open to all ages and perfect for middle agers. Includes a time of supportive prayer and fellowship.
When: Mondays 6:00-7:00pm (begins January 9) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 322
Leader(s): Louise Lindsay
WEDNESDAY CO-ED GROUPS
Topical Bible Study | A year-round lecture-based group goes deep into Scripture and includes a time of fellowship and prayer.
When: Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 am | Where: Fowler Conference Room and via Zoom
Leader(s): Fran Dotterweich
NEW! Knitting & Cross-Stitching | All are welcome, seasoned cross-stitchers and knitters, and newbies without experience. Equipment will be provided. We will be cross-stitching a gift for the newly baptized and knitting prayer shawls to encourage those who are sick, sad, or grieving. During our time, we will enjoy life together, share stories and concerns of the church, and pray for those needing support.
When: Wednesdays 4:00-5:00pm (begins January 18) | Where: Fowler Conference Room
Leader(s): Anna Dale
WEDNESDAY WOMEN’S GROUPS
Risen Motherhood by Emily Jenson & Laura Wifler | “Motherhood is hard. One second, we think we’re doing a good enough job; the next, we feel like the worst mom on the planet. Which is why we need the refreshing truth of the gospel to be repeated over and over again, giving us hope in the everyday moments.” We hope you’ll join us this Spring as we read and enjoy *Risen Motherhood*! Invite a friend! Please RSVP to Frances Howell at (901) 410-7440 with your name and number of children needing childcare, including their names and ages, by 1/27 or register online on the previous page.
When: Wednesdays 9:20-10:20 am (begins February 1) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 302
Leader(s): Frances Howell
TBD | More information coming soon. Free childcare provided upon RSVP by 1/25.
When: Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 am (begins February 1) | Where: Zeanah’s Home
Leader(s): Caitlin Zeanah
Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now by Walter Brueggemann | Researched by a renowned scholar, this book discussion is based on applying the teachings of both the Old Testament and Jesus. It presents a practical way of living that will challenge how we honor Sabbath to keep it holy, and is a great way to prepare for our upcoming sermon series “Experiencing God through Sabbath” during Lent.
When: Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 pm (beginning January 11) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 302
Leader(s): Christine Gale and Klair Kimmey
Topical Bible Studies | A lecture-based group goes deep into Scripture and includes a time of fellowship and prayer.
When: Wednesdays 6:00-7:00 pm (beginning January 11) | Where: Via Zoom
Leader(s): Fran Dotterweich
Sarah Young’s Leading a Joy-Filled Life | If you are looking for a casual, kid-friendly group, then this is the one for you!
When: Wednesdays 7:00-8:00 pm (beginning January 11) | Where: Saunders’ Home
Leader(s): Erin Saunders
THURSDAY CO-ED GROUP
Paul for Everyone: The Prison Letters: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon by N.T. Wright | This group, formerly for couples, is now open to all. Come and find out more about the words of encouragement and instruction written by the imprisoned Apostle Paul to communities throughout the Roman Empire. Light food offered.
When: Thursdays from 6:00-7:00 pm (beginning January 12 ) | Where: Smiths’ Home
Leader(s): Kenan and Lisa Smith
MEN’S THURSDAY BIBLE STUDY GROUP
Subjects include various Bible and topical studies. This is a hybrid group, so you can attend in person or online via zoom using the weekly emailed link.
When: Thursdays from 8:00-9:00 am
Where: Hybrid (Chick-fil-A, Bearden / Zoom)
Leader(s): participants rotate
MEN’S FRIDAY BIBLE STUDY GROUP
When: Fridays from 7:00-8:00 am
Where: Chick-fil-A, Bearden
Leader(s): participants rotate
WOMEN WALKING IN THE WORD
Small groups of four to six women meet weekly for a Bible Study and a short or long walk. The fellowship is awesome!
When and Where: Days, times, and lcoations vary
Coordinator: Julieanne Foy
SOUL TREKKERS Co-Ed HIKING CLUB
We will offer hikes of varying lengths and difficulty each month. Mostly will be kid-friendly and some will even be pet-friendly. CLICK HERE for more information.
When and Where: Days, times, and locations will vary.
Coordinator: Mark Lampley, mlampley@sequoyahchurch.org
CLICK HERE for brief video
FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions about L.I.F.E. Groups. If you have further question, contact our L.I.F.E. Groups Coordinator Klair Kimmey at kkimmey@earthlink.net.
WHAT IS A L.I.F.E GROUP?
A L.I.F.E. Group is typically made up of 8-15 people who meet weekly to share, study, and support one another. A trained leader will host each group. An average meeting lasts an hour.
WHEN AND WHERE DO THEY MEET?
Groups meet on various days and nights of the week at the church (some meet off site). Meeting times vary depending on the needs of the group.
HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?
Each L.I.F.E. Group session lasts 8 to 12 weeks. We have Fall, Winter & Spring sessions. At the end of each session, you will have the choice of staying in the same group, trying a new group, leading a group, or even taking a break. Most Small Groups do not meet July through August.
WHAT IS THE REQUIRED COMMITMENT?
Joining a L.I.F.E. Group requires a 8 to 12 week commitment to attend weekly meetings and do the homework (if applicable) ahead of time. Obviously, allowances are made for sickness, vacation, work conflicts and other special events. This commitment is the key to a strong L.I.F.E. Group.
WHAT ABOUT CHILDCARE?
The church provides childcare for some groups. This will be listed under the group description.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A GROUP?
When selecting a group, we strongly recommend you choose a group based on its leader, the day and time of the meeting, and the type of group that will best help you grow in your current season in life. Most groups do best when members share a common interest with their leaders and other group members.
Retreats
SAVE THE DATE: March 2 – 3, 2024 at DreamMore Resort in the Smokies
More info coming soon!
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Camping
When? – October 27-29, 2023
Where?– Big South Fork Bandy Creek Campground, E-1 Loop
Cost? – $60 per family covers your campsite, firewood, and four meals
Want more information? Email David Petersen | Brochure and registration will be available in late summer.
Join our Hiking Club!
Everyone is welcome on all hikes. There is also a club component to challenge us spiritually, similar to how a hike can challenge us physically.
Membership requirements and qualifications: Go on one club “sponsored” hike. Sponsored hikes = 1 mile or more | Memorize a new-to-you Psalm (or any 1 chapter of the Bible)
Click HERE for more information and list of scheduled hikes. To sign up for a hike, email Pastor Mark at mlampley@sequoyahchurch.org
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Adult Ministries
HONORING THE SABBATH: The following are a few resources that can help us better understand about how “to honor the Sabbath and keep it holy” from the Ten Commandments (Exodus chapter 20). Mark invites Sabbath discussion with anyone who is interested before, during, or after his summer Sabbatical (May 22- August 3).
- Alan Fadling’s Unhurried Life,
- MaryAnn Dana’s Sabbath in the Suburbs,
- Walter Brueggemann’s Sabbath as Resistance,
- Marjorie Thompson’s SoulFeast (especially chapter Reclaiming Sabbath Time: A Sacred Art of Ceasing)
- Wayne Muller’s Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in our Busy Lives
Getting Spiritually Fit:
- Prayer to Welcome the Sabbath
- Sabbath Scriptures
- Reflections on Sabbath
- Sabbath Books and Resources for Further Study
- Celebrate Baptism
- Keeping the Sabbath (Part 1 of 2)
- Keeping the Sabbath (Part 2 of 2)
- BEING Still
- SPIRITUAL FITNESS- Find a Deserted Place
JOY Fellowship (Adults 55+): The committee meets on the second Monday of every other month at 12:30 p.m. in Room 232 to plan events to make sure that all our members are busy and connected.
- The Church & Community Fellowship Luncheon is on the second Thursday of every month (Sept-June) at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. The luncheon features a health issues speaker every other month.
- Monthly Outings provide great opportunity for fellowship.
- The Monday Movie Matinee is the fourth Monday of every month (except for holidays) at 3:00 p.m. in the Multi-Media Room of the Spitzer Education Building. All adults are welcome! Light refreshments will be served.
- Blood Pressure Screenings are taken by our Parish Nurse on the second Sunday of every month at 9:30 a.m. and Noon in the Reception Room. Members and neighbors are welcome to call Laurette Beekman in the church office (522-9804) to set up an appointment to have their blood pressure taken during the week.
SHPC Young Adult Ministries includes those in college, graduate school, young professionals, and families with young children. College-age adults are welcome to join us in worship and Sunday school.
- The Presbyterian Center at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UKirk – U for Universty; Kirk is Scottish for Church) is part of a national network of campus ministries of the PC(USA). Just a few miles from SHPC, it offers weekday collegiate Bible studies, services, events, and much more! Click HERE for more information.
- SHPC believes strongly in the need for young adults to connect with one another regularly in fellowship and faith. Young adults gather weekly in worship, Sunday school, Bible study, fellowship, and service. Events include swim parties, supper clubs, sporting events, and picnics. Service is age-oriented and includes Operation Backyard each spring and inter-generational outreach such as food and housing service. Some ministry opportunities are designed for couples, while others are more child-friendly so there is something for everyone.
- Young Adult Volunteers: If you are under 30 and would like to serve for a year, either nationally orinternationally, click HERE for more information.