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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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Lectionary Lunch: Wednesdays, starting January 8 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: Thursdays, starting January 2 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.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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Listening Sessions on the Sanctuary Art Project: January 12 at 12:15 pm in Room 203
To follow up on the November 10 Congregational Meeting, Pullen will hold three listening sessions about the sanctuary balcony art project. To learn more about Catherine Kapikian's artwork, watch this video. If you have any questions, please contact the Worship Council.
Learn more about the artist Catherine Kapikian.
Contact: Nancy Jones
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Conscious Aging Series: You Just Have To Deal With It! on January 29 from 11:30 am--1:30 pm in Finator Hall
We’re all aging and experiencing the changes that come with it. But in a youth-obsessed culture, there are marked differences between aging into one’s so-called “prime” and aging beyond it. This series is an opportunity to challenge the cultural conventions around “the prime of life,” get real about what aging looks like in the last decades of our lives, and make some conscious decisions about how we will live. We will exchange ideas through facilitated conversation and offer resources as we better understand our collective needs.
Lucy Daniels shares her reflections on turning 90, followed by a panel discussion about the challenges and possibilities that come with aging. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to 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
Advent
Sing a New World Into Being
This year's Advent theme borrows from the title of a hymn by Mary Louise Bringle that exhorts the church to dream big about what the world can be. Each Sunday in Advent, we will revisit the hope, peace, love and joy of the season through the lens of the Magnificat, or Mary's Song in the Gospel of Luke. As we listen to Mary's declaration of good news in the midst of uncertainty, may it expand our imagination for all that is possible with God, and inspire us to "sing a new world into being".
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Christmas Breakfast, Featuring the Children's Play: December 15 at 9am in Finlator Hall
Join us for our annual Christmas breakfast, a jolly old time of Christmas fun! We will share a potluck breakfast, as we enjoy the Children's Christmas Play and a highly interactive rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” For this tradition, we will have a section designated for each of the 12 days of Christmas, which we act out as we sing. Some acts are carefully planned and rehearsed; other acts are created spontaneously. Either way, participating is lots of fun and hilarious to watch!
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Caroling Christmas Service: December 15 from 11 am-12 pm in the Sanctuary
Pullen's second Caroling Christmas Service will take place after the annual Christmas Breakfast. This joyful, interactive service will celebrate the meaning of Christmas through song — combining the Caroling Christmas Choir, Pullen Orchestra, Children's Choir, and Music Friends.
Contact: Larry Schultz
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Lovefeast: December 18 at 5:30 pm in Finlator Hall
Join our annual Pullen version of the historic Moravian Lovefeast. This tradition reminds us that it’s often the simple things that make the season bright and meaningful -- singing carols, sharing a simple meal of sweet rolls and chocolate milk, and acknowledging God’s presence with us. Dinner will be served in Finlator at 5:30 pm, and we’ll transition to the Sanctuary at 6:30 pm for the Lovefeast.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: December 24 at 5 pm in the Sanctuary
Together, we will celebrate the Light coming into the world as we welcome the birth of the Christ child. There is not a more profound message to be proclaimed throughout history than the one we proclaim on the eve of Jesus’ birth: “Emmanuel, God with us!” Our world desperately needs the continual birth of Love, Light, Peace, and Hope. The Christmas story is a story of a radical love for all people. It is a story that we need to proclaim every day. Come join us to sound the message: “For unto us is born a child, the Christ child. Emmanuel, God with us!”
To families with children at the Christmas Eve service:
The Pullen Christmas Eve service is filled with music, stories, and light. During this year's service, all families with children are invited to share goodies and conversation with Tommy Cook. If you plan to visit, please RSVP so we are prepared to celebrate with you!
Contact: Larry Schultz
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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The Word Made Flesh: Poetry as Spiritual Practice: January 5 – February 9 from 9:30-10:30am in Room 203
In this six-week course, we will explore poetry as a form of spiritual resilience and political resistance. We will commune with poets both ancient and modern, celebrated and obscure, and even have opportunities to share our own work. Come ready to hear from voices that will center, challenge, embolden, and enliven us.
Contact: Ian McPherson
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Pullen 101: Sundays, January 12--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.
If you are interested in attending the class, please email Chalice Overy by December 30.
Contact: Chalice Overy
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Columbia University’s Black Theology Papers Project: Sundays in January from 9:30-10:30 am in Room 310
In November 2019, in honor of Dr. James H. Cone’s publication of the groundbreaking work, Black Theology and Black Power -- and to commemorate 400 years since the enslavement of Africans in the Americas -- Columbia University launched the Black Theology Papers Project. This project features papers presented by the Black Theology Unit of the American Academy of Religion. The journal publishes an annual issue of the papers presented each year.
This Sunday Group will read and discuss the three articles presented at the 2023 annual meeting. (The 2024 journal will not be published until midyear 2025.) Participants are asked to read the article to be discussed prior to each Sunday. The articles are listed below. They will be discussed in the order shown. The discussion will be facilitated by Pastor Nancy and Anti-racism Committee members.
Contact: Nancy Petty
Kids
Here's al!l that's happening in our Kids Ministry!
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Children's Choir and Pullen Kids Sunday Groups: Sundays at 9:30 am in 123 and 128-B (Choir); 9:50 am in Room 120 and 122 (Sunday Groups)
Join us on Sunday mornings for our Children's Choir and Pullen Kids Sunday Groups! At 9:30 am, our Music Friends group (Kindergarten-Grade 2) gathers in Room 123, providing a welcoming space for young children to enjoy music-making and explore Sunday Group themes. The Children’s Choir (Grades 3-5) meets in Room 128-B to explore themes through a multisensory approach, grow as musicians, offer music for worship, and participate in the Raise a Song! Festival. At 9:50 am, Kids Sunday Groups begin. For 2 to 5-year-olds, the Preschool Sunday Group offers age-appropriate activities, including stories, music, art, and games in Room 120. Kindergarten to fifth graders explore Bible stories through engaging workshops in Room 122. Learn more at pullen.org/kids.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Children's Worship: Room 126 at 11:00 am on most Sundays (excluding first Sundays)
1st-3rd graders 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, continuing January 8 from 10:30-11:30 am in Room 125
Parents of babies and toddlers are invited to join us 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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Pullen PALs (Parents and Littles): December 14 at 10 am at Shelley Lake Park (1400 W. Millbrook Rd., 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 an autumn stroll around Shelley Lake. Siblings and caregivers are also welcome. We will meet at the Sertoma Arts Center to begin our walk.
For more information, please contact Maggie Zeillmann at 919-757-3658.
Contact: Tommy Cook
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Kid's Quest: Wednesday Nights at 6:15 pm in Room 122 (Preschool), Room 120 (K-5th Grade)
Kid's Quest is back on Wednesday nights for Pullen children! After our Community Dinner, Preschoolers can enjoy free play in Room 122, while older children have a variety of activities to choose from, including Story Time in the Kid's Library, Craft Time in Room 120, and Game Time in Room 116 or on the playground. Join us for a fun and engaging evening!
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Preschool Care: Sundays at 9:30 am in Rooms 117 (infant / toddler) and 120 (2 years and up)
While adults engage in our impactful Sunday Groups, we provide dedicated childcare for preschoolers. Additionally, during worship services, preschoolers are lovingly cared for in our nursery. All paid and volunteer staff who come into 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.
Youth
Here's al!l that's happening in our Youth Ministry!
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Youth Lock-In: January 10-11 at Pullen
Calling all youth and their friends! Don't miss our annual lock-in -- packed with exciting activities like Sardines, movies, snacks, and more! We'll provide dinner, snacks, and breakfast the next morning. Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of fun and fellowship!
Event Details
Drop-off: 6pm on Friday, January 10
Pick-up: 8am on Saturday, January 11
Contact: Allie Pruden
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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
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 Adults 4th Sunday Lunch: 4th Sundays at 12:15 pm at 105 Oberlin Rd
Join us for this casual time to connect at The Player's Retreat (105 Oberlin Rd) 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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Carolina Aging Alliance: 4th Mondays in Room 130-H at 10:00 am
The Carolina Aging Alliance is a social and mutual support group for senior lesbian women. This group meets on the 4th Monday in Room 130-H at 10:00 am.
Contact: Pat Long
Music
Here's al!l that's happening in our Music Ministry!
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Worship Choir: Sundays, starting September 15 (excluding December 15 and 29)
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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Caroling Christmas Choir: 7:30 pm in 128-B on November 6, 13, 20; December 4 and 11
Youth and adults are invited to register for this choir that prepares music for Pullen’s second Caroling Christmas service, after the traditional Christmas Breakfast on Sunday, December 15. This joyful, interactive service combines the Caroling Christmas Choir with the Pullen Orchestra and congregation for festive carols of the season. This choir will also join the Pullen Orchestra in presenting music for a vespers service at Glenaire Retirement Community on Sunday, December 8 at 4 pm.
Contact: Larry Schultz
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Adult Festival Choir: Sunday "Sack Lunch Rehearsal": January 5 from 12:30-1:30 pm; Wednesday Rehearsals: January 8, 15, and 22 from 7:30-8:30 pm; All sessions in Room 128-B
All adults are invited to register for this choir that prepares music for the Adult Choir Festival by the Sea in Charleston, SC on January 24-26, 2025. Pullen partners with other regional churches to provide this choral music-making experience. It will be a large festival choir led by nationally renowned conductors.
Participants who are unable to attend the Charleston 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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Youth Festival Choir (Grades 6-12): Wednesday Rehearsals in January/February and March 5, 2025 at 6 pm in Room 128-B
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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Pullen Orchestra: Not Meeting over the Summer
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. Rehearsals take place on scheduled Sunday mornings from 9:00-10:00 am.
Contact: Larry Schultz
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Resonance Choir: Wednesdays at 7:30 pm in 128-B in March and April
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. Rehearsals will be on Wednesday nights in March and April from 7:30-8:30 pm in Room 128-B.
Contact: Larry Schutz
Adults
Here's what's happening in our adult ministries!
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Pullen Women’s Group: November 18 at 6 pm at Relish Craft Kitchen (5625 Creedmoor Rd., Raleigh)
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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Wednesday Night Men's Group: Wednesdays at 6:30 pm in Room 203, starting October 16
Join us for a thoughtful discussion on the book, The Seeker's Guide. 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 for Nursery Workers!
There is an immediate need for children and families during Sunday groups and worship at Pullen. Nursery Caregivers work as a team, will need on the job training AND get to hold babies!!! Please check the form below to get more details and sign up. Workers select dates they are available. Thanks!
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
Join Handy Corps! This group meets Wednesday mornings from 8:30-11:30 am. The primary purpose of this group is to perform minor repairs to Pullen; the secondary purpose is solving the problems of the world. The first hour is spent in fellowship around the latter. The balance of the time is spent fixing things, but skills are not required!
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