It has been a tremendous privilege to journey with all of you through Palm Sunday into Good Friday and then onto our Easter celebrations, at sunrise in the parking lot and at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. The outstanding music, the attentive and receptive worshipers, the children who were fascinated by a candle that came back to life, and the good news of Jesus rising from the tomb blessed our Holy Week with hope, meaning, and joy.
It was one year ago, on Palm Sunday, April 13, when I preached in your morning worship service, enjoyed a delicious meal and friendly conversation afterward, and then met with the session about the possibility of serving as your transitional minister. On June 1, I began serving in that position, with a one-year contract. We have come a long way together! Last summer, we enjoyed four evening meals and engaging conversations about the process of pastoral transitions. In October, the Pastor Nominating Committee was elected. Last month, the PNC posted their Ministry Discernment Profile with the denomination which launched the nationwide search for interested pastors to apply to serve as your next installed pastor. PLPC has made tremendous strides in doing the key transitional work which will pave the way for a long and healthy relationship with your next pastor. It has been a blessing to serve as your transitional pastor!
When my current contract expires at the end of May, I will conclude my part-time ministry as your transitional pastor but I will continue to serve as the session moderator, with the presbytery’s consent, until your new pastor is called. I will be happy to preach and lead worship on the Sunday when session meets (usually the second Sunday of each month). As needed, I will also be available for pastoral care. I join you all in praying for God to guide and inspire the members of the Pastor Nominating Committee as they seek and discern the person who will soon be called as your new pastor!
It was one year ago, on Palm Sunday, April 13, when I preached in your morning worship service, enjoyed a delicious meal and friendly conversation afterward, and then met with the session about the possibility of serving as your transitional minister. On June 1, I began serving in that position, with a one-year contract. We have come a long way together! Last summer, we enjoyed four evening meals and engaging conversations about the process of pastoral transitions. In October, the Pastor Nominating Committee was elected. Last month, the PNC posted their Ministry Discernment Profile with the denomination which launched the nationwide search for interested pastors to apply to serve as your next installed pastor. PLPC has made tremendous strides in doing the key transitional work which will pave the way for a long and healthy relationship with your next pastor. It has been a blessing to serve as your transitional pastor!
When my current contract expires at the end of May, I will conclude my part-time ministry as your transitional pastor but I will continue to serve as the session moderator, with the presbytery’s consent, until your new pastor is called. I will be happy to preach and lead worship on the Sunday when session meets (usually the second Sunday of each month). As needed, I will also be available for pastoral care. I join you all in praying for God to guide and inspire the members of the Pastor Nominating Committee as they seek and discern the person who will soon be called as your new pastor!
It's the second Sunday - its food for thought sunday!
This Sunday (April 12) is Food for Thought Sunday. Please bring non-perishable items for our Blessing Box. You may deposit your items in the blue bin in the narthex. Thank you for your caring and unselfish generosity.
Suggested items for the blessing box include: Peanut Butter, Crackers, Boxed Mac & Cheese, Canned Veggies, Instant Oatmeal, Canned Soups, Spaghetti Sauce, Spaghetti Noodles, Canned Fruit Canned Meats, Bottled Water. Pop top cans are preferred since they do not require a can opener.
Suggested items for the blessing box include: Peanut Butter, Crackers, Boxed Mac & Cheese, Canned Veggies, Instant Oatmeal, Canned Soups, Spaghetti Sauce, Spaghetti Noodles, Canned Fruit Canned Meats, Bottled Water. Pop top cans are preferred since they do not require a can opener.
The Larger Church, Part Four
from Dave Nock
We have gone through the Presbyterian structures from our church (PLPC) and the session and the Presbytery. I mentioned earlier that we have four levels of government. I am now going to offer a short explanation of the Synod.
Our Presbytery (Presbytery of Middle Tennessee) reports to the Synod of Living Waters.
It is one of 16 regional synods in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and includes presbyteries across Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and parts of Arkansas. The Synod provides mid-level council oversight. The Synod of the living Waters is made up of 12 Presbyteries. The PC(USA) list of presbyteries places Middle Tennessee squarely within that synod’s structure.
The leadership is made up of Commissioners from each presbytery. It provides resources, grants, and judicial review. In addition, the synod can coordinate large-scale mission, education and supports presbyteries in conflict or transition.
You can think of it as the “state government” level—less involved day-to-day, but important for oversight and support.
Our Presbytery (Presbytery of Middle Tennessee) reports to the Synod of Living Waters.
It is one of 16 regional synods in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and includes presbyteries across Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and parts of Arkansas. The Synod provides mid-level council oversight. The Synod of the living Waters is made up of 12 Presbyteries. The PC(USA) list of presbyteries places Middle Tennessee squarely within that synod’s structure.
The leadership is made up of Commissioners from each presbytery. It provides resources, grants, and judicial review. In addition, the synod can coordinate large-scale mission, education and supports presbyteries in conflict or transition.
You can think of it as the “state government” level—less involved day-to-day, but important for oversight and support.
A Note from Percy
“Oh my whiskers, what a sight it was! I watched Chelsea Jennette bring that Easter cross to life, tucking each flower in just so while Bobby Binns looked on with the proudest grin. He’s cared for that cross for years, and seeing him cheer her on felt like watching a blessing being passed forward.
And let me tell you — it looked fantastic on the livestream. One of my cousins down in Murfreesboro texted me afterward saying, ‘Percy, that cross was glowing!’
But the best part was watching everyone who walked into the sanctuary stop for a moment and smile as they took it in. You could feel the joy in the room. And me? I loved every second of it.”
And let me tell you — it looked fantastic on the livestream. One of my cousins down in Murfreesboro texted me afterward saying, ‘Percy, that cross was glowing!’
But the best part was watching everyone who walked into the sanctuary stop for a moment and smile as they took it in. You could feel the joy in the room. And me? I loved every second of it.”
April 14, 2026
MENU
Creamy Chicken Breast & Armor Dried Beef Casserole
Served with Rice, Texas Toast, Green Salad, Dessert & Drinks
There’s a seat for everyone —
come hungry, leave full, and feel the love around the table.
Creamy Chicken Breast & Armor Dried Beef Casserole
Served with Rice, Texas Toast, Green Salad, Dessert & Drinks
There’s a seat for everyone —
come hungry, leave full, and feel the love around the table.
April 15, 2026
The Ladies’ Bible Study meets on the first and third Wednesdays. We gather at 5:15 for conversation and settle into confidential prayer requests at 5:30, followed by discussion of our current book. You’re welcome to join us anytime — even if you haven’t read the book. We close with group prayer at 6:45.
Theo of Golden
On April 15 we plan to have Phyllis Grubs lead us in a discussion about Theo of Golden. A gentle story about seeing and being seen — where one man’s quiet kindness begins to change an entire town.
5th Wednesday Fellowship dinner
April 29 is a 5th Wednesday, and that means it’s time for the Ladies to enjoy an evening out together! Plans are underway for a relaxed dinner and good conversation — a perfect midweek treat.
Nashville Choral Project in Worship — April 26
Mark your calendar for Sunday, April 26, when the Nashville Choral Project returns to lead us in worship. They were absolutely fantastic when they visited before, and we were truly blessed by their beautiful, spirit‑filled singing. You won’t want to miss this special morning of music and praise.
SAVE THE DATE
