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Churchwide
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The Table: Wednesdays at 5:30 pm in Finlator Hall
Join us at The Table! During this midweek gathering, we connect as a community over a meal -- sharing the joys and concerns of our lives, having fun, and engaging in lively conversation. We begin with dinner from 5:30--6:15 pm. Then, we share celebrations, prayers, and community announcements before beginning the topic or activity for the evening. Pullen children’s and youth activities are also offered during this time.
If you haven't joined us for dinner in a while, come taste the difference! Thanks to your feedback, we have a new caterer. Now, we serve larger portions with meat, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Dinner is $8 for adults and youth (grades 6-12), $4 for children (grades K-5), and free for preschoolers.
See what’s happening each week at pullen.org/thetable.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Wednesday Lectionary Lunch: Each Wednesday from 12-1 pm in the Pullen Library
The idea for the Lectionary Lunch began years ago with our former pastor, Mahan Siler. Every Wednesday at noon, Mahan would meet in the library with anyone who wanted to discuss the lectionary passage for the upcoming Sunday. People were invited to bring a bag lunch and join the conversation. Pastor Nancy has continued the tradition, except for a pause during the pandemic.
During this Wednesday hour, participants will read the text together. Then, Pastor Nancy will provide any background information on the text, share her thoughts on the text, and open the floor for discussion.
The Lectionary Lunch is not a weekly commitment. You can come every week, or just whenever your schedule allows. Please join this gathering to share knowledge, experience, resources, and insights!
Contact: Nancy E. Petty
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Do Justice: Each Thursday from 12:15-12:55 pm on Zoom
Since the November 5 election, the most frequent question our ministerial team has been asked is: What are we going to do? In search of an answer -- or, perhaps, the start of an answer -- we have returned to scripture, particularly the prophetic demands of Micah 6:8. Above all, our community will continue to do justice.
Join Rev. Ian for weekly Zoom calls during the lunch hour. We will gather to center ourselves and lift up opportunities for justice work in our community. Grab your lunch, log in, and be inspired and equipped for our collective pursuit of justice love.
Please email Ian McPherson for the Zoom link.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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Nicaragua Trip Interest Meeting: March 2 from 12:15-1:15 pm in Room 203
Pullenites who are interested in traveling to Nicaragua this fall are invited to join David Anderson for this meeting. David will discuss the history of our international partnership with AMOS Health and Hope and details about an upcoming trip. The group will decide whether Oct 24-Nov 2 or Nov 7-16 will work best for travel. If you plan to attend this meeting, please RSVP to David. If you cannot attend this meeting, email David that you're interested, so he can follow up with you as soon as possible.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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Spaghetti Sunday: Celebrating Pullen’s Outreach through Building Use: March 23 from 12:15-2:15 pm in Finlator Hall
Every week, multiple nonprofits and other community groups use Pullen’s space for their meetings and events. To celebrate how we contribute to our community through the use of our building, the Stewardship Committee will host a luncheon.
During the lunch, we will provide a list of the groups that recently used or are currently using our facilities. You will be able to see who they are and what they offer our community. In addition, representatives from some of the groups will be on hand to discuss their organizations and why our generosity is important.
The menu will be baked spaghetti, salad, bread, and dessert (including gluten-free options). There is no charge for the meal and no “ask” of those who attend. Reservations are not required.
This gathering highlights a lesser known aspect of Pullen’s stewardship. Please join us!
-Stewardship Committee
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Caring Connections Interest Meeting: March 23 from 1:15-2:45 pm in Room 203
Pullen has been an important, meaningful part of the lives of its members and participants. But when a person can no longer attend service, how do we sustain this important connection to the church community? We do it by meeting that person where they are! If you are interested in visiting some of our home-based members, please join this meeting. Hear more about how you can help expand the care that we provide to our church family. Light refreshments will be served.
If you plan to attend, please email Chalice Overy.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Two Cans Every Sunday
When you grocery shop, buy two extra cans of food and bring them to church on Sunday as your expression of gratitude for having enough to eat. Place the cans in the grocery cart at the back door, and then the Pullen Mission Women will take them to Urban Ministries where they will provide groceries to families in need. If enough of us make this a habit, we can have a significant impact in reducing the hunger in our midst. Thank you in advance for your generosity!
Contact: Deb Norton
Sunday Groups
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Foundations for Faith: January 5-May 11 (except Easter Sunday) from 9:30-10:30 am in Room 307 and on Zoom
Foundations for Faith is primarily a Bible study class led by a rotating team of teachers who will focus on various themes -- Books of the Bible or other faith-based topics, such as Baptist history. The class format will consist of some lecture and lots of open discussion.
This class will be taught by Cathy Tamsberg, David Walley, Jim Jarrard, and Allen Page. These four offer a rich mix of life experiences in theological study, teaching, parish leadership, and social justice activism, which promises a rewarding and stimulating class experience. There are no prerequisites for this class, and no Bible study experience is necessary. All ages are welcome to join us.
Contact: Steve Smith
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Pullen 101: Sundays, January 5--March 2 at 9:30-10:30 am in Room 309
Are you thinking about joining Pullen? Pullen 101 is for those who are new to the community, thinking about joining, or just want to get a better sense of who we are. During this intimate, eight-week class, you will hear from Pullen staff and members about our history, values, and the ways we put our faith into action. You can ask questions and get to know other people at the church.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Exploring the Gospels: Sundays in February from 9:30-10:30 am in Room 310
This four-week series will cover the major themes of the canonical gospels. Each week, a specific gospel will be explored from both the theological and spirituality perspectives. All are welcome to join.
February 2 — The Gospel of Matthew, facilitator Nancy Petty
February 9 — The Gospel of Luke, facilitator Heidi Biermann (see Heidi’s bio below)
February 16 — The Gospel of John, facilitator Karla Oakley
February 23 — The Gospel of Mark, facilitator Ian McPherson
Heidi Biermann is a ThD candidate in New Testament at Duke Divinity School and an ordained minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Her doctoral dissertation focuses on age in Luke’s Gospel and Acts, and it argues that age diversity is part of how Luke’s narratives frame the inclusive kingdom of God.
Heidi holds a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. Currently, she works as Pastor for Community Teaching in the Presbytery of New Hope, supporting rural congregations.
Contact: Nancy E. Petty
Kids
Here's al!l that's happening in our Kids Ministry!
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Children's Choir/Pullen Kids Sunday Groups: Sundays at 9:30 am, starting in the Chapel
The Music Friends group (kindergarten-grade 2) provides a welcoming space for young children to enjoy music-making and explore Sunday Group themes. The Children’s Choir (grades 3-5) explores themes through a multisensory approach – helping kids to grow as musicians, and offering music for worship.
Beginning in January, Learning To Be an Anti-racist Kid will be the study focus for Kids Sunday Groups. We will offer one class for kindergarten-grade 3, and another for grades 4-5. Both groups will use children’s literature as a basis for discussions and activities. The Preschool Sunday Group offers age-appropriate activities -- stories, music, art, and games.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Preschool Care: Sundays at 9:30 am in Room 117 (infant / toddler); Room 120 (two years and up)
While adults engage in our impactful Sunday Groups, we provide dedicated childcare for preschoolers. During worship services, preschoolers are lovingly cared for in our nursery. All paid and volunteer staff who come in contact with children have gone through Pullen’s “Safe Congregation” training and have been background-checked.
If you are interested in volunteering in the nursery, please contact Tommy Cook.
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Children's Worship: Sundays at 11 am in Room 126 (excluding First Sundays)
Kids (grades 1-3) are invited to "follow the light" to Children's Worship partway through the service. In Children's Worship, kids have the opportunity to "come close to God" in a setting designed to accommodate more wiggles and giggles. Pullen uses the Godly Play Curriculum, which incorporates the Montessori method of teaching. Parents are welcome to accompany their children if they'd like.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Pullen PALs Storytime: Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30 am in Room 125
Parents of babies and toddlers are invited to join us on Wednesday mornings for Pullen PALs (Parents and Littles) Storytime. We will have a story and songs in the kids library, followed by free play in newly-renovated Room 120. All are welcome to join this community event, as space allows. For more information, contact Shelby Forrest.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Kids Quest: Wednesdays at 6:15 pm in Room 122 (Preschool), Room 120 (K-5th grade)
Kids Quest is back on Wednesday nights! After our community dinner, preschoolers can enjoy free play in Room 122. Older children can choose from a variety of activities -- Storytime in the children's library, Craft Time in Room 120, Game Time in Room 116, or free time on the playground. Join us for a fun and engaging evening!
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Pullen Kids Parent's Night Out: February 21 from 5:30-9 pm (Drop off in Finlator Hall)
Parents, you can check in your children at the church and have a night out. Children will enjoy a movie and fun with their friends. We'll have pizza, but you can pack a snack if you have a picky eater.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Pullen PALs (Parents and Littles) -- Family Dinner: February 22 from 5-7 pm at Transfer Co. Food Hall (500 E. Davie St., Raleigh)
Are you the parent or grandparent of a baby, toddler, or preschooler and want to connect with other parents at Pullen? Join the Pullen PALs for this family dining experience! Siblings and caregivers are also welcome. To learn more, please contact Maggie Zeillmann at 919-757-3658.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Pullen Kids Overnight Retreat (Grades 2-5): March 1-2 at Camp New Hope (4805 NC Highway 86, Chapel Hill)
At this overnight retreat, children will share fun experiences, make new friends, and explore "branching out" in life.
In addition to the Pullen Kids ministers, this event will be facilitated by children's ministers from Emmaus Way, Greystone Baptist Church, Raleigh Mennonite Church, Refuge Home Church, Watts Street Baptist Church
The cost of the camp is $75 per person.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Pullen Kids: Conversation about Generosity - April 27 from 9:30-10:30 am in Finlator Hall
The Pullen Stewardship Committee will lead this discussion -- asking questions and exploring ways to teach our children about generosity.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Camp Pullen, Summer 2025: July 14-18 from 9 am-5 pm (9 am-noon on July 18) in Finlator Hall
Camp Pullen returns this summer for children who have completed kindergarten-5th grade. The theme for this week-long, children's day camp is "Changing the World with Loving Kindness." The curriculum will focus on cultivating compassion for each other, ourselves, and the world. Please share the details about the camp with friends and neighbors!
Camp Schedule
Monday-Thursday, 9 am-5 pm; Friday, 9 am-noon
Drop-offs begin: 8:30 am
Pickup by: 5:20 pm
Note: Families may opt to pick up children at noon, if this works best for their schedules.
Contact: Tommy Cook
Youth
Here's al!l that's happening in our Youth Ministry!
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Youth Sunday Groups: 9:30 am in 130-H
Join us on Sunday mornings as we engage scripture and the church calendar to learn about our faith, how it helps us confront the issues of our time, and what it means for how we show up in our everyday lives. We begin by checking in with each other, and usually find a fun way to get into the topic of the day. We strive for honest dialogue that is accessible no matter where you are on the spectrum of faith.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Youth Group: 6:30 pm in Room 130-H
On Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 pm, students are invited to gather to explore our faith in the context of our everyday lives and what’s happening in the world around us. Students are also invited to join for dinner in Finlator Hall before Youth Group at 5:30 pm.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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Youth Day Trip to Greensboro Civil Rights Museum: March 29 at 9:45 am-5 pm, meeting in Finlator Hall
Mark your calendars for an inspiring day trip. We'll meet at the church before heading to Greensboro for a guided tour of the Civil Rights Museum, and a delicious lunch downtown. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore history and enjoy some great food together. Don't forget to bring money for lunch. Join us for this memorable experience!
Contact: Allie Pruden
Young Adults
Here's al!l that's happening in our Young Adults Ministry!
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Young-ish Adults Group: Tuesdays at 6:30 pm in Finlator Hall
The Young-ish adults will meet each Tuesday at 6:30 pm in Finlator Hall. Join us as we share the stories of our lives and discuss topics that matter to us.
Contact: Nancy Petty
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Young-ish Adults Sunday Lunch: Every 4th Sunday at 12:15 pm at The Players Retreat (105 Oberlin Rd., Raleigh)
Join us for this casual time to connect after church. We will gather at the front steps of the church and walk over together.
Contact: Philip Taff
LGBTQIA+
Here's al!l that's happening in our LGBTQIA+ Ministry!
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The Jack McKinney LGBTQ and Straight Allies Support Group: 7:00 – 8:30 pm on the third Monday in the Chapel
This support group is open to all LGBTQ friends, families, and straight allies who wish to share and be heard in a safe nonjudgmental atmosphere. The group offers a supportive, caring, and confidential space for sharing joys and frustrations.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Brave Space: 6:00 pm on First and Third Thursdays in 111-B
On the first and third Thursday evenings of each month throughout the school year, LGBTQIA+ college students are invited to gather for Brave Space in Pullen's Chapel. This ministry gives queer-identified students space to connect and reflect together on matters of faith and current events. Light snacks are provided. Brave Space is a joint venture between Pullen's Young Adult Ministry and the Raleigh Episcopal Campus Ministry at the Cheshire House.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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LGBTQ+ Listening Session: March 9 from 12:15-1:45 pm in Finlator Hall
Due to the pandemic and lay leadership changes in the past few years, some of the offerings that we once had for the LGBTQ+ community -- like monthly fellowships and holiday gatherings -- have not been taking place. As we consider future programs, we want to hear from Pullen’s LGBTQ+ members and supporters to understand their needs and desires.
Please join us for this gathering. Light refreshments will be provided. If you cannot attend, please email Chalice Overy with your input ahead of this listening session.
Contact: Chalice Overy
Music
Here's all that's happening in our Music Ministry!
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Worship Choir: Sunday Rehearsals at 10:15 am in the Chapel
This choir gathers each Sunday morning to enliven congregational singing and offer accessible music for that day’s worship. There are no other prerequisites or prior rehearsals. All youth and adults are welcome on any Sunday!
Contact: Larry Schultz
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Youth Festival Choir (Grades 6-12): Wednesday Rehearsals in January/February and March 5 at 6 pm in the Chapel
Youth (grades 6-12) are invited to register for this choir that prepares music for the Youth Choir Festival by the Sea in Myrtle Beach, SC on March 7-9. Pullen partners with other regional churches to provide this experience of choral music-making. It is a large festival choir led by nationally renowned conductors.
Participants who are unable to attend the Myrtle Beach event are still invited to sing in this choir, as the festival repertoire is used in Pullen worship.
For more information on the festival: festivalbythesea.org.
Contact: Larry Schultz
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Resonance Choir: Wednesday Rehearsals, March 12-April 23 from 7:30-8:30 pm in the Chapel
All youth and adults are invited to register for this choir that prepares to offer a service of music on Sunday, May 4, 2025. The Resonance Choir will lead an experience celebrating a specific area of Pullen’s diverse life and ministries.
Contact: Larry Schutz
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Pullen Orchestra -- Sunday Rehearsals in the Sanctuary: February 23 and March 23 from 9:30-10:15 am; April 20 from 9:45-10:30 am
Youth and adults who play wind, string, or percussion instruments at an intermediate level or beyond are invited to play in this group that accompanies congregational singing and provides music for worship.
Contact: Larry Schultz
Adults
Here's what's happening in our adult ministries!
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Pullen Women’s Group: February 24 at 6 pm at Waraji Japanese (5910-147 Duraleigh Rd.)
We invite all who identify as female to join us for the next Pullen Women’s Group event. We get together to visit and catch up, with no special agenda. Newcomers are welcome, and this is a great way to get to meet other Pullenites! If you plan to attend, please contact Rita Rakestraw at 919-360-0975.
Contact: Rita Rakestraw
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Men's Group: Wednesdays at 6:30 pm in Room 203
Join us for a thoughtful discussion on the book, Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most. Whether or not you have read the book, you are welcome to participate. Our conversations often touch on topics that everyone can relate to from their own life experiences. This group is open to all who identify as masculine.
Contact: Kevin Neiley or Andrew Kasper
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Earth Ministry: Caring for God’s Creation -- First Mondays at 7:00 pm on Zoom
Earth Ministry is a dedicated group of people seeking ways to live a life that cares for Creation as part of our Christian Spiritual practices. This ministry creates opportunities to educate the congregation on ways that we can individually, and collectively, live a sustainable relationship with our planet. Email Karen Delahunty for the Zoom link.
Contact: Karen Delahunty
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Pullen Mission Women: Monthly from 10 -11:30 am in Room 203 and on Zoom
Reaching out to each other and the world is the focus of Pullen Mission Women. In our monthly circle, women meet for fellowship, support, devotions, and informative, inspirational programs. We respond to local and international needs through financial assistance and in-kind gifts (ongoing food drive for Urban Ministries, annual clothing and toiletry drive for Episcopal Farmworker Ministries, participation with the AMOS baby layette project).
We will meet on the second Tuesday of each month at the church in Room 203. A Zoom option is available for those who cannot attend in person. Please contact Deb Norton for information and Zoom links.
Contact: Deb Norton
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The Resettlement and Sanctuary Mission Group: Quarterly on Zoom
This group provides sanctuary for immigrants in danger of deportation. There are opportunities for volunteers who would like to contribute time and resources towards this important work. They meet quarterly on Zoom.
Contact: Serena Buckner
Volunteer Opportunities
Learn more about getting connected through volunteering!
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Volunteers Needed As Nursery Workers!
There is an immediate need for children and families during Sunday groups and worship at Pullen. Nursery caregivers work as a team, receive on-the-job training, and get to hold babies!!! Please check the form below to get more details and sign up. Workers select the dates they are available.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Audio/Visual Team
Pullen is in need of some Audio/Visual Team Volunteers! Experience is great, but we are also willing to train. The commitment for being on the Audio/Visual team is serving one Sunday a month from 9:30-12:00 pm and potentially special events. This is a great service opportunity for students!
Contact: Kate Amesbury
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Kids Ministry
It is vital that we have people in place to support Pullen's children. We currently need volunteers to offer childcare, teach, lead workshops, lead worship, and greet families as they arrive. Click here to learn more about the specific opportunities in our Children’s Ministry or express interest.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Handy Corps
Do you enjoy fixing things and discussing important issues? Want to help keep our church building in great shape, while engaging in meaningful conversations? Join the Pullen Handy Corps! Every Wednesday at 9:30 am, the Handy Corps team checks in and coordinates the work orders for building maintenance and repairs.
By volunteering your time and talents, you’ll help save the church money, while building community and making a tangible difference. All skill levels are welcome – from the experienced handyperson to those eager to learn.
Contact: Vicky Bass
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Hosts
Do you enjoy making people feel welcome? We’re looking for people who can assist in extending our welcome to visitors after worship on Sundays. This could include collecting visitor cards, handing out printed information about Pullen based on a visitor’s interest, and just engaging in conversation for a few minutes. The commitment is one Sunday per month.
Contact Chalice Overy
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Office Volunteers
We’re looking for office volunteers to answer the phones and buzz people into the building. The hours needed are early to late afternoon.
Contact: Vicky Bass
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Sanctuary & Resettlement
Volunteers provide wrap-around support for immigrants in need of welcome in our community by offering rides, hosting outings in the community, helping with English conversation, and helping navigate the challenges of being a stranger in a new land.
Contact: Serena Buckner
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Security
Security-The Security Team walks the church during worship securing entrances, counting participants and providing general vigilance. The commitment is 1 Sunday every 6 weeks from approximately 11:00 am - 12:00 pm.
Contact Steve Gurganus
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Ushers
We need ushers to greet worshipers, hand out worship guides as people enter the sanctuary, and collect the offering. The commitment is one Sunday every six weeks, from 10:15 am-12:30 pm.
Contact: Dave Laboy
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Servers
Each week at The Table we need 3 servers and 1 person to collect the money for dinner. The commitment is one Wednesday per month from 5:15 - 6:15 pm.
Contact Chalice Overy
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Round Table Fellowship
Round Table offers people experiencing homelessness or housing and food insecurity to be the guest of Pullen on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. On these days, from 1-2 pm, we provide snack lunches and hospitality. Pullen supports this work through food donations, monetary gifts, and volunteer energy. This ministry provides around 50 guests that come to our door with food, an attentive ear, and a kind word as we find meaningful ways to build community. Volunteers are always welcome. To get involved, please contact Jan Crouch (Tuesday Round Table) or Ginny Going (Thursday Round Table).
The number of people coming to Round Table Ministry on Tuesdays and Thursdays is increasing. As a result, we will need to pack more lunches more frequently. Needed for our next packing are cans of Vienna sausages, cereal/granola bars, and 6-pack crackers. Please leave any items you can donate in the blue wagon outside the Church office.
Contact: Jan Crouch or Ginny Going
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Pullen Meals Ministry
The Pullen Meals Ministry provides meals to homes for members who may need them on a short-term basis, usually 1-3 meals. Typically, we are asked to help when members are dealing with health problems, recovery, or a death in the family, and that support cannot be provided within that member's network of family or friends. We have a good number of volunteers who have helped with this mission. However, there is a current need for more volunteers who can work together to ensure coverage. If you can put your name on the list to provide occasional support for this mission, please contact Chalice Overy.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Pullen-Wiley Partnership Tutoring Opportunity
Pullen and Wiley Elementary School have enjoyed a long partnership (since 2001) that has provided Wed. after-school tutoring to support students who needed an extra academic boost. The pandemic interrupted the program abruptly when the schools turned to virtual learning in early 2020. This fall, volunteers are again being welcomed in schools, so we have an opportunity to consider restarting the tutoring program at Pullen on Wednesdays.
WCPSS is partnering with the YMCA to provide the HELPS tutor training program, targeted to improve reading fluency. This is the area that has been determined to be the greatest area of need to help students recover from the learning losses they have experienced. The YMCA has agreed to include our volunteers in the training which will take place in October.
Contact: Judy Williams or Nancy Jones