Middle School Mission Lock-In
Our Middle School Mission Lock-In was a powerful and unforgettable experience! Five middle school students, alongside a high school leader and three adult leaders, spent the night at Sammamish Presbyterian Church (SPC) and dedicated their time to serving our community. Together, they partnered with The Sophia Way, a women’s homeless shelter in Bellevue, where they sorted donations, hung clothing, packed snacks, organized supplies, and carried totes filled with essential items. The following day, they helped deep-clean the shelter—scrubbing bathrooms, sweeping and mopping floors, cleaning windows and vents, and organizing a pantry to better serve the women.
Their efforts did not go unnoticed. A volunteer coordinator shared heartfelt gratitude, noting how the staff were amazed by the abundance of snacks and the beautifully cleaned space. Throughout the weekend, students truly reflected the hands and feet of Jesus, demonstrating humility, compassion, and a willingness to learn.
Of course, the lock-in also included moments of fun and fellowship—complete with a late-night McDonald’s run, movies, visits to local youth services, laser tag, free ice cream, and a special talk from guest speaker Chris Scott on living as compassionate humanitarians.
We are beyond proud of these middle schoolers for serving with open hearts and joyful spirits!
Mission Lock-In: For All Middle School Students
April 12, 2026 – April 15, 2026
Join us for a 3-night Mission Lock-In where our middle schoolers will get a hands-on look at the incredible mission work at The Sophia Way, a women shelter. Students will learn about mission work, serving together, and discover how God can use them to make a difference—right now, right where they are.
Sabbath (Sermon)
In the sermon “Sabbath,” Rev. Jake Medcalf used a power outage and phone-battery anxiety to illustrate how modern life drains the soul and how, without intentional recharging, many people live in the “red” through burnout, hurry, distraction, and emotional numbness. Drawing on John Tyson’s battery metaphor, research on exhaustion, and insights from John Mark Comer’s The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, the message contrasted being busy with being hurried and described common symptoms of hurry. Rev. Jake Medcalf set Jesus’ invitation to the weary in its historical context and emphasized Jesus’ “yoke” as adopting his lifestyle, including Sabbath as a weekly practice. Sabbath was defined as “stop and delight,” involving ceasing work and enjoying God’s gifts through rest, worship, feasting, play, and renewal, with an invitation to begin practicing—starting small—and to light a candle as a commitment.
In the sermon “Sabbath,” Rev. Jake Medcalf used a power outage and phone-battery anxiety to illustrate how modern life drains the soul and how, without intentional recharging, many people live in the “red” through burnout, hurry, distraction, and emotional numbness. Drawing on John Tyson’s battery metaphor, research on exhaustion, and insights from John Mark Comer’s The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, the message contrasted being busy with being hurried and described common symptoms of hurry. Rev. Jake Medcalf set Jesus’ invitation to the weary in its historical context and emphasized Jesus’ “yoke” as adopting his lifestyle, including Sabbath as a weekly practice. Sabbath was defined as “stop and delight,” involving ceasing work and enjoying God’s gifts through rest, worship, feasting, play, and renewal, with an invitation to begin practicing—starting small—and to light a candle as a commitment.
Fasting (Sermon)
In the third week of the Lent: The Rhythm of Eremos series, Rev. Kelly Hostetler taught on fasting as a “new but old” practice connected to Jesus’ time in the wilderness. She described physical and psychological benefits associated with fasting and connected the practice to Isaiah 58 and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6, emphasizing that Jesus assumed his disciples would fast and that God rewards what is done in secret. She distinguished fasting from Lenten abstinence, defined fasting as not eating food, and noted its central place in Jewish practice, the early church, and church history. A testimony from Matt Schmidt described weekly fasting as part of a rule of life. Rev. Hostetler offered three reasons to fast: it is good for body and soul, it helps relate to God through bodily “hunger,” and it is spiritually powerful, including standing in solidarity with the poor and seeking God amid injustice.
In the third week of the Lent: The Rhythm of Eremos series, Rev. Kelly Hostetler taught on fasting as a “new but old” practice connected to Jesus’ time in the wilderness. She described physical and psychological benefits associated with fasting and connected the practice to Isaiah 58 and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6, emphasizing that Jesus assumed his disciples would fast and that God rewards what is done in secret. She distinguished fasting from Lenten abstinence, defined fasting as not eating food, and noted its central place in Jewish practice, the early church, and church history. A testimony from Matt Schmidt described weekly fasting as part of a rule of life. Rev. Hostetler offered three reasons to fast: it is good for body and soul, it helps relate to God through bodily “hunger,” and it is spiritually powerful, including standing in solidarity with the poor and seeking God amid injustice.
Silence (Sermon)
In his latest sermon, 'Silence', Rev. Jake Medcalf referenced Mark Lambertson’s The Dangerous Act of Worship and his practice of reading global mission updates, then led a pastoral prayer for peacemaking and an end to violence affecting families and children worldwide. He taught that people are made for deep intimacy with God but often fill their hunger with noise, busyness, and distraction, and he invited the church to practice solitude and silence in the “eremos” as Jesus did. Citing Augustine, Ruth Haley Barton, Søren Kierkegaard, C.S. Lewis, Andrew Sullivan, and John Mark Comer, he described silence as a place where illusions die, faith can be renewed, and God’s voice can be heard, while noting fear and uncertainty as barriers. A testimony from Louise described growing into extended silence and finding peace and freedom. The sermon concluded with communion, prayer, and invitations to a cohort and retreat to practice these disciplines.
In his latest sermon, 'Silence', Rev. Jake Medcalf referenced Mark Lambertson’s The Dangerous Act of Worship and his practice of reading global mission updates, then led a pastoral prayer for peacemaking and an end to violence affecting families and children worldwide. He taught that people are made for deep intimacy with God but often fill their hunger with noise, busyness, and distraction, and he invited the church to practice solitude and silence in the “eremos” as Jesus did. Citing Augustine, Ruth Haley Barton, Søren Kierkegaard, C.S. Lewis, Andrew Sullivan, and John Mark Comer, he described silence as a place where illusions die, faith can be renewed, and God’s voice can be heard, while noting fear and uncertainty as barriers. A testimony from Louise described growing into extended silence and finding peace and freedom. The sermon concluded with communion, prayer, and invitations to a cohort and retreat to practice these disciplines.
Solitude (Sermon)
This past Sunday, Rev. Jake Medcalf taught on “Solitude” in the Lent series “Lent: The Rhythm of Eremos,” inviting listeners into the biblical “Eremos” (wilderness/lonely or solitary place) as a regular practice where God’s transforming presence could be experienced. He explained that Jesus often withdrew to the Eremos (Luke 5) and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Luke 4), showing solitude as essential for hearing God, being fueled for ministry and daily life, and becoming more loving, honest, and grace-filled. Using Ruth Haley Barton’s “Invitation to Solitude and Silence” and the metaphor of river water settling in a jar, he described how solitude and silence exposed inner busyness and brought clarity, spiritual battle, and freedom. He emphasized that solitude was not escapism but running to God and returning to love and serve, calling the congregation to schedule small, practical times of solitude and consider resources like a Friday growth group, the SCC Institute practicum class, and a spiritual retreat during Lent.
This past Sunday, Rev. Jake Medcalf taught on “Solitude” in the Lent series “Lent: The Rhythm of Eremos,” inviting listeners into the biblical “Eremos” (wilderness/lonely or solitary place) as a regular practice where God’s transforming presence could be experienced. He explained that Jesus often withdrew to the Eremos (Luke 5) and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Luke 4), showing solitude as essential for hearing God, being fueled for ministry and daily life, and becoming more loving, honest, and grace-filled. Using Ruth Haley Barton’s “Invitation to Solitude and Silence” and the metaphor of river water settling in a jar, he described how solitude and silence exposed inner busyness and brought clarity, spiritual battle, and freedom. He emphasized that solitude was not escapism but running to God and returning to love and serve, calling the congregation to schedule small, practical times of solitude and consider resources like a Friday growth group, the SCC Institute practicum class, and a spiritual retreat during Lent.
Bingo Night (Recap)
What a night! We welcomed over 100 people to our Bingo Night on February 22, and it was an absolute blast. We enjoyed pizza, lots of laughs and a little friendly competition. It was wonderful to see friends, families, and neighbors come together for such a joyful community event. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the night so memorable!
What a night! We welcomed over 100 people to our Bingo Night on February 22, and it was an absolute blast. We enjoyed pizza, lots of laughs and a little friendly competition. It was wonderful to see friends, families, and neighbors come together for such a joyful community event. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the night so memorable!
Bingo Night
February 22, 2026
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
You are invited to a pizza dinner and bingo night at Sammamish Presbyterian Church!
Registration is free. Please sign up online so we can be sure to have enough food for everyone.
Feel free to invite your friends, family and neighbors - everyone is welcome at this fun community event!
Questions? Please contact Ashley Cole, acole@spconline.org.
SPC WyldLife: Valentine’s Club
35 middle schoolers has been our biggest number yet. It was pretty packed, so we’re definitely grateful for our high school leaders!
SPC WyldLife: Valentine’s Club 💘
What a night! 35 middle schoolers has been our biggest number yet. It was pretty packed, so we’re definitely grateful for our high school leaders! We packed the house with middle schoolers for our biggest Valentine’s Club yet — full of games, laughs, and tons of energy. So grateful for our high school leaders who made it all happen.
Valentine’s Club = loud, sweet, and one for the books 💗🎉
SPC YoungLife: Valentine’s Club
We had our biggest club yet with 35 middle schoolers packed in the room! It was loud, full, and so much fun. Huge shoutout to our amazing high school leaders for showing up and serving so well.
SPC YoungLife: Valentine’s Club ❤️
It was loud, full, and so much fun. Huge shoutout to our amazing high school leaders for showing up and serving so well.
Valentine’s Club was one for the books — and yes, Justin rocked the bleached hair 😂🔥
SPC Men’s Ministry Axe Throwing Tournament
On February 9, SPC Men gathered for a night of axes, pizza, and friendly competition. From first-time throwers to natural sharpshooters, everyone jumped in ready to learn, laugh, and cheer each other on. No experience was needed — just a willingness to have fun and maybe talk a little friendly smack.
Between throws, we grabbed slices, shared stories, and built stronger connections. In the end, bragging rights were earned, but the real win was the camaraderie.
Already looking forward to the next one! 🪓🍕
On February 9, our SPC Men’s Ministry gathered for a night of axes, pizza, and friendly competition. From first-time throwers to natural sharpshooters, everyone jumped in ready to learn, laugh, and cheer each other on.
Between throws, we grabbed slices, shared stories, and built stronger connections. In the end, bragging rights were earned, but the real win was the camaraderie.
Already looking forward to the next one! 🪓🍕
Repentance and Covenant (Sermon)
In his latest sermon titled 'Repentance and Covenant', Pastor Tyler Easley continued the series from the Old Testament book of Nehemiah. He provided an overview for those new to the series or the church, describing the historical context of the Jewish return from Babylonian captivity and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Tyler emphasized the significance of rediscovering and reading God's Law, which led the people to realize their shortcomings and prompted a renewed commitment to confession and worship. Through anecdotes and scripture, the sermon highlighted the importance of repentance and aligning one's life with God's teachings.
In his latest sermon titled 'Repentance and Covenant', Pastor Tyler Easley continued the series from the Old Testament book of Nehemiah. He provided an overview for those new to the series or the church, describing the historical context of the Jewish return from Babylonian captivity and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Tyler emphasized the significance of rediscovering and reading God's Law, which led the people to realize their shortcomings and prompted a renewed commitment to confession and worship. Through anecdotes and scripture, the sermon highlighted the importance of repentance and aligning one's life with God's teachings.
Conviction & Joy (Sermon)
In his latest sermon titled 'Conviction & Joy,' Rev. Jake Medcalf delved into the book of Nehemiah, focusing on Nehemiah Chapter 8. He began with a lighthearted announcement about wearing football jerseys for the upcoming Super Bowl Sunday, then transitioned into a profound exploration of the historical and spiritual significance of Nehemiah and Ezra's lead in rebuilding the community. The sermon highlighted the importance of conviction, not as a form of guilt or condemnation, but as a path to growth, grace, and ultimately joy. Rev. Medcalf emphasized that God's joy in His people provides the strength and resolve needed for transformation and understanding the Word of God. The message concluded with a call to celebrate and embrace God's work in our lives, affirming that the joy of the Lord is our strength.
In his latest sermon titled 'Conviction & Joy,' Rev. Jake Medcalf delved into the book of Nehemiah, focusing on Nehemiah Chapter 8. He began with a lighthearted announcement about wearing football jerseys for the upcoming Super Bowl Sunday, then transitioned into a profound exploration of the historical and spiritual significance of Nehemiah and Ezra's lead in rebuilding the community. The sermon highlighted the importance of conviction, not as a form of guilt or condemnation, but as a path to growth, grace, and ultimately joy. Rev. Medcalf emphasized that God's joy in His people provides the strength and resolve needed for transformation and understanding the Word of God. The message concluded with a call to celebrate and embrace God's work in our lives, affirming that the joy of the Lord is our strength.
Overcoming Opposition (Sermon)
In this past Sunday's sermon, Rev. Kelly Hostetler addressed the congregation on the challenges faced by Nehemiah and the Israelites as they began rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem amidst massive opposition. Drawing parallels to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s experiences and emphasizing the importance of prayer and action, she highlighted how overcoming adversity can lead to growth and transformation. The sermon concluded with an invitation for the congregation to engage in collective prayer and reflect on their own responses to opposition.
In this past Sunday's sermon, Rev. Kelly Hostetler addressed the congregation on the challenges faced by Nehemiah and the Israelites as they began rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem amidst massive opposition. Drawing parallels to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s experiences and emphasizing the importance of prayer and action, she highlighted how overcoming adversity can lead to growth and transformation. The sermon concluded with an invitation for the congregation to engage in collective prayer and reflect on their own responses to opposition.
Knitting Group
Join SPC women as we knit for World Vision and our own personal projects. We also welcome those who like to crochet! Please bring your own supplies. We meet in Sanctuary Hall at SPC.
Proverbs 31:13 (amp)
She looks for wool and flax and works willingly with her hands in delight.
Join SPC women as we knit for World Vision and our own personal projects. We also welcome those who like to crochet! Please bring your own supplies. We meet in Sanctuary Hall at SPC.
Proverbs 31:13 (amp)
She looks for wool and flax and works willingly with her hands in delight.
Building and Grounds
SPC men, join us on Thursday mornings at 9:00 as we work on the SPC campus to make it beautiful and functional. We do odd jobs including everything from replacing light bulbs to painting parking strips to watering flowers. After we're done, we hang around for coffee and friendship from 10:30-11:00.
SPC men, join us on Thursday mornings at 9:00 as we work on the SPC campus to make it beautiful and functional. We do odd jobs including everything from replacing light bulbs to painting parking strips to watering flowers. After we're done, we hang around for coffee and friendship from 10:30-11:00.
SPC Christmas Favorite Things Gathering
On December 4th, Fifty-three incredible women came together for SPC’s Christmas Favorite Things event — an evening filled with laughter, warmth, and community. The Sanctuary Hall sparkled with festive décor and joyful conversations as old friends reconnected and new friendships began. From cozy sweaters to twinkling lights, the Christmas spirit was truly alive!
The highlight of the evening was the Favorite Things exchange — a fun and heartfelt tradition where each guest brought a wrapped gift representing something she loves. From specialty chocolates and books to must-have kitchen gadgets, every item had a story behind it. As each gift was opened, women shared why it was their favorite, spreading inspiration, laughter, and a few happy “steals” along the way!
No party is complete without delicious food! Guests arrived with sweet and savory snacks to share, while SPC provided festive mocktails and drinks. Between bites, there was plenty of laughter, photos, and encouragement — the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season together. The night wrapped up with full hearts, new friendships, and plenty of ideas for next year’s favorites!
More than just gifts and goodies, this event was a celebration of gratitude and generosity. Each wrapped present symbolized something loved — and shared — reminding us that joy multiplies when we give. Whether it was a favorite kitchen tool, a cozy candle, or a beloved book, every item reflected the unique personalities and stories of the women who brought them. It was a beautiful reminder that we’re better together when we give from the heart.
As the evening came to a close, smiles and hugs filled the room — and many were already talking about next year’s event! The Favorite Things gathering wasn’t just a fun night out; it was a moment to pause, connect, and reflect on the blessings of community during the holiday season. With hearts full and spirits lifted, everyone left inspired to carry that joy into the rest of December — and beyond.
Rahab/Hope
In this sermon, Rev. Kelly Hostetler delves into the story of Rahab, a determined woman who exemplifies deep faith and trust in God. Despite her challenging circumstances in ancient Jericho, Rahab's belief in the God of Israel leads to an incredible tale of salvation and faith. Through her story and the story of modern-day faith, believers are encouraged to trust God in both small and significant moments. The sermon forms part of the 'Advent: Mothers of Jesus' series and offers a powerful message of hope and redemption.
In this sermon, Rev. Kelly Hostetler delves into the story of Rahab, a determined woman who exemplifies deep faith and trust in God. Despite her challenging circumstances in ancient Jericho, Rahab's belief in the God of Israel leads to an incredible tale of salvation and faith. Through her story and the story of modern-day faith, believers are encouraged to trust God in both small and significant moments. The sermon forms part of the 'Advent: Mothers of Jesus' series and offers a powerful message of hope and redemption.
Worship at SPC | November 30, 2025
This Sunday worship service has themes of welcome, hope, and honesty shine during a worship service, emphasizing inclusivity and community. Personal experiences highlight the need for transparency in life's challenges, especially regarding mental health and the foster care system. The stories of Rahab and Benoni illustrate faith and redemption, showcasing God's grace and the transformative power of trust. The message encourages embracing faith and sharing hope during the holiday season.
Sermon: Gratitude
In this sermon on gratitude, Rev. Jake Medcalf explored the nature of gift-giving around the Christmas season, contrasting it with the ultimate gift from God—Jesus Christ. He discussed the importance of recognizing our own flaws and sinfulness and accepting that, despite our imperfections, we are profoundly loved and accepted by God. Through personal anecdotes and references to the Apostle Paul's writings to the Corinthians, Rev. Medcalf emphasized the humbling, surprising, and invaluable nature of God's gift to humanity. The sermon encouraged heartfelt gratitude and introspection, urging the congregation to acknowledge their shortcomings and embrace the transformative power of God's love.
In this sermon on gratitude, Rev. Jake Medcalf explored the nature of gift-giving around the Christmas season, contrasting it with the ultimate gift from God—Jesus Christ. He discussed the importance of recognizing our own flaws and sinfulness and accepting that, despite our imperfections, we are profoundly loved and accepted by God. Through personal anecdotes and references to the Apostle Paul's writings to the Corinthians, Rev. Medcalf emphasized the humbling, surprising, and invaluable nature of God's gift to humanity. The sermon encouraged heartfelt gratitude and introspection, urging the congregation to acknowledge their shortcomings and embrace the transformative power of God's love.
Worship at SPC | November 23, 2025
This Sunday worship service has themes of gratitude, worship, and community engagement are explored, emphasizing the importance of gathering and recognizing God's presence. Participation in worship and community activities is encouraged, especially with the upcoming Thanksgiving celebration. The narrative also highlights self-awareness and humility, contrasting a self-righteous Pharisee with a humble tax collector, and underscores the need for grace and acceptance of one's flaws through God's unconditional love.
This Sunday worship service has themes of gratitude, worship, and community engagement are explored, emphasizing the importance of gathering and recognizing God's presence. Participation in worship and community activities is encouraged, especially with the upcoming Thanksgiving celebration. The narrative also highlights self-awareness and humility, contrasting a self-righteous Pharisee with a humble tax collector, and underscores the need for grace and acceptance of one's flaws through God's unconditional love.