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Showing posts from October, 2025

VIEW FROM THE MANSE 2.0

            On September 10, Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University. Charlie Kirk was the founder of Turning Point USA, a political activist, and a vocal Christian. Charlie was most well-known for his online engagement and his podcast. According to some reports, His memorial service on Sunday (9/21) was viewed by 100 million people. I personally had very little exposure to Charlie Kirk prior to his death. I have never listened to his podcast and I have only watched a handful of his video clips.           Argyle Presbyterian Church is not an outpost for any political party, be it Republican, Democrat or any other. I am not a political pundit. There are certainly people who can talk more knowledgeably and capably about politics than I can. My work as your pastor is in Word, sacrament, and prayer. So, what does the Word have to say to God ’s people in the wake of such a public and impactful deat...

SESSION NOTES

As we enter October, the Session is focused on both the spiritual and practical rhythms of church life. Our September meeting included preparations for the upcoming Presbytery gathering, where our leaders and congregation will engage with regional churches and hear ministry updates from across the Presbytery. We are grateful to our congregation and the volunteers who are preparing our facility and serving during this event. We continue to look ahead to fall worship, Sunday School, Bible studies, and ongoing support for missions and congregational care. These ministries reflect the heart of our church — offering presence, prayer, and service in meaningful ways. In facilities news, the Session approved a transition to AllPro Janitorial Service beginning October 6. We’re grateful for the years of service from our outgoing team and for the Trustees’ continued care of our shared spaces. In light of Pastor Bryan’s reflection this month, we’re reminded that the Church’s witness is not m...

DEACONS CORNER

  I always look forward to penning the October installment of this column. The gradual but insistent seasonal change from lush to bare, balmy to chilly, bright to cloudy is a cyclical transition that I find fascinating.   But this environmental change is also a metaphor for and a spiritual heads up that our lives may also experience seasons of change...just not as predictable nor as relatively benign as the climate version. Rather, we as humans may experience changes to our otherwise orderly lives that can present difficulty, challenge, disorder and stress. It is during these times that we, as Christians, need to remain acutely aware that God is controlling and orchestrating these changes and expects us to trust that he has a plan and a purpose for every aspect of our lives. Remaining faithful, and aware of His divine providence, will allow us to let go of the old and embrace new opportunities and growth.      “Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes w...

TRUSTEE TALK

  With appreciation – Thank you to all of the folks who helped out at the POTE workday. We completed all the work we planned and then some.  It was definitely an all hands on deck effort. Scott Lufkin completed a very clever repair on the Barkley and Main stone post. Heating Zones conservation – during the winter months we use environmental controls and isolation to manage our heating systems for the best comfort and economy. Please keep the following doors closed while the building is not in use: McLean Hall divider, downstairs and upstairs classrooms main doors, the office door, the multipurpose room door, and the sanctuary doors. Each area is tempered differently and not following the signs and procedures can be costly. Trustee work event – Saturday November 1st at 8 a.m. The trustees will sponsor the fall work day to help get the church ready for winter. Lou Hoffis for the Trustees