Greetings again!
I spent more time on the POJ’s interstates today. My travel was just over an hour one way. I had an interesting conversation along the way with my GPS: It kept telling me I was going to “KESICK,” but I thought I was going to “KESWICK.” Just before worship, I polled the audience on the proper pronunciation and was kindly informed that you do indeed honor the letter “W”. Let us be mindful before fully trusting AI!
You can find South Plains Presbyterian Church in “KesWick,” Virginia, about eight minutes off I-64 West. It was founded in 1819, but their sanctuary was built sometime later according to their IT guy. The picture may not show a 207-year-old structure, but it is probably pretty close! As you can see from the photos, this sanctuary has that early-in-the-American-story feel to it with a great vibe.
South Plains has mastered the hybrid worship experience, with maybe two-thirds in person and a third online. This was my second time preaching there: once by Zoom (that last great ice storm, remember it?) and now in person. (Just to remind folks, I accept invitations on a first-come, first-accepted basis, so please reach out soon!)
South Plains has two structures on their property — the sanctuary of old, and a great two-story facility beside it. The lot slopes downward away from the sanctuary, so the first floor of the newer building is out of sight until you move around to that side. A group of wonderful large trees sits between the church and the road leading out of Keswick.
This particular Sunday, my main passage was Psalm 23. I am always a bit nervous preaching about this psalm, so I hope my message connected. The choir was very active throughout the service, from start to finish. The hunger offering was collected on this particular Sunday by two high school aged ushers, and later, their usual offering was collected. Looking out into the congregation, I could see a good blend of younger and older attendees with one very active infant who was truly paying attention to everything.
My impression of South Plains? They continue to demonstrate our template for congregations: welcoming, friendly, good at greeting people, engaging with each other, participating fully in worship. They have a fellowship time following worship, which I was invited to attend (I had already hoped to attend!). Folks gathered in smaller groups, chatting and sharing treats, some standing, some sitting. I could tell this is a very important part of the South Plains life, and I am thankful for it and for them.
My usual invitation remains: If you find yourself in Keswick, or “Kesick” for that matter, on a Sunday looking to find warmth and welcome and worship, South Plains will take care of that for you. Spend some time with them, for they will truly treasure your time tremendously!
Till my next road trip,
Kerry
