October 14, 2026

            Often when I am shopping, especially groceries, the packaging of an item catches my eye. Next my usual step is to read about the item, what ingredients are in it, how is it used, where it is from (origin); that kind of stuff. I even do this when I am shopping online (which is a rare occurrence). My current fascination is with heirloom beans. The company I most often use is out of California, I love their very identifiable retro graphic art- Rancho Gordo. One of the first things their website does is explain their “why.” Now I know y’all want to go look up the RG website.

            I was meeting with my “coach” through New Church Ministries this week. I was yapping with him about some of what we are doing here at PVCC and that led us to a conversation about how we gather intentionally to get to know each other and chat about what is going on in our lives. Out of that conversation, we came up with some “repackaging” of some existing gatherings opportunities at PVCC. Soooo, drumroll…..

            On Sunday mornings we will have COFFEE TALK from 9:45 to 10:15. The doors here are usually open by 9:30 and a pot of coffee brewing. COFFEE TALK will be a time to grab a cuppa from The Perk, coffee and tea available, and come into the Great Hall and look for someone to chat with, and be intentional about visiting with several folks. Some Sundays we may have a sweet treat available, but always a cup of choice.

            Then after worship, we often gather in the Grace Room for continued conversations about life in general, politics, or ministry at PVCC, we will host LINGER LONGER from 11:15 to 11:45 (or as long as folks hang out). This will be intentional on Sundays that do not have the monthly business meeting. Refill your cup from the Perk, or you can get a beverage in the Grace Room kitchen.

            You can choose to do one or both. The idea for updating our branding is so that everyone feels welcome, especially guests who may not be familiar with our Sunday morning flow. Both of these opportunities will encourage engagement with each other and strengthening our identity, as we matter to one another.

            What is that saying? “Everything old is new again.”