10/04/2026
World Communion Sunday(also known as World Communion Day) is an annual Christian observance celebrated on the first Sunday of October that promotes global Christian unity through the shared sacrament of Holy Communion.
The celebration emphasizes that Christians are interconnected across different cultures, languages, and denominations. The tradition began in 1933 at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, created by the Reverend Dr. Hugh Thompson Kerr.
Our Shady Grove Family met on this crisp, Fall morning with Pastor Tanner Hendricks leading our Worship Service. It was nice to see many that were missing last Sunday due to illnesses. Rhonda Hollie was our Musician, Allyson Pruitt, our Acolyte, our Choir shared a beautiful message, Garrison Hollie and Andy Loftis were our Ushers, Rachael Ribelin was our Psalmist, and Andy Loftis assisted with Communion.
Pastor Tanner blessed us with another meaningful message taken from Acts 4:5-20. In this, Peter and John stand before the Sanhedrin, not afraid to share their beliefs in Jesus. Through Pastor Tanner’s message he encouraged us to also not be afraid to share our beliefs, use the talents Jesus has given us, and understand even though some talents may change, we can always be part of the Lord’s family.
Pastor Tanner’s messages improve each week(they really are all filled with the Holy Spirit!)
We concluded our service with Thanksgiving and Communion. This is always a very meaningful invitation to the Lord’s table. The chorus of our final song said it best:
“One bread, one body, one Lord of all,
one cup of blessing which we bless.
And we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.”
Our Announcements show we are involved in many activities this month. You are welcome to be part of our Christmas cantata. We begin practicing this week. Join us for Homecoming and Lunch afterwards. Pastor Tanner will share a message. If you know of someone that would like to receive an uplifting card, please let us know. Our Card Club will send one to them. Join us for a safe place to go Trick or Treating. Trunks will be lined up and decorated in front of our church. Our Food Pantry is always the second Monday. Finally, one of our special young adults, Allyson Pruitt, will celebrate her Volleyball Senior Night at Bartlett Yancey on Tuesday night. Try to be there by 5:15 to show love and support. Our Shady Grove Family is so proud of her!
Please pray for those on our Prayer List and let us know if someone or situation needs to be included.
Sunday School met at 10:45, with Andy Loftis leading our discussions. “Their Witness Speaks to Us, Part 1”, was taken from Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-22. The purpose was to discern what sustains our faith when times are tough. The following are a few questions for you to consider: “In what ways have you experienced the fulfillment of God’s promises? What helps you remain faithful through hardships and challenges?” There was a quote Judy Shelton shared that she had read:”I can’t, but God can”. One statement from the lesson:”We experience the fulfillment of God’s promises of hope, healing, mercy, forgiveness , and presence, among others, as we live in a faithful relationship with the Lord here on earth.” Thank you, Andy.
I close with this beautiful prayer:
“Faithful God, help us to always be faithful to you. When times are tough, help us remember that you are always with us and will provide everything we need. Open our eyes to see the needs of others. Guide us that we may speak your encouragement and grace to others; in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen”
