Connect with Us
We would love for you to take a closer look at Swarthmore Presbyterian Church! Below are answers to some “frequently asked questions” that we hope will help you feel more at home on your visit to SPC. Additional answers to common questions can be found on the Plan Your Visit page.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do you offer Christian education for children and adults?
Yes, we do! Every Sunday from September to June, adults, youth, and children are invited to join us at 9:00 AM for education classes that we hope will be both faithful and engaging.
Am I allowed to take communion?
Yes! We invite all those who place their faith in Jesus Christ and seek his strength to share in communion with us. You don’t have to be a member of SPC or even a Presbyterian. Communion is served on the first Sunday of each month.
Do I have to give an offering?
No. The offering provides a way for our members to support the life and ministry of the church. If you feel led to contribute, you certainly may, but please don’t feel like you must. You are our guest. You bless us with your presence.
How do I become a member?
We would be thrilled to welcome you into our church family! Speak to a pastor or contact Dorrie McGrath, Parish Administrator, to get information about our upcoming Inquirer Gatherings.
There are three ways to become a member:
- Profession of Faith is the first and most significant step a person takes in his or her faith journey. At this time the individual receives Jesus Christ into his or her life and professes that reception before the worshiping congregation. Baptism is administered if the person has not already been baptized as an infant or child.
- Transfer of Membership occurs when a person has been active in another church and simply requests a Letter of Transfer or of good standing from that church.
- Reaffirmation of Faith is for those who have made a Profession of Faith and were once involved in a church but have not been active for some time. If they have been deleted from their former church’s roll of membership, we accept their original Profession of Faith.
What about baptism?
As Presbyterians, we baptize people of all ages, from infants to adults. If you have never been baptized, or if you would like your child baptized, talk to one of our pastors. She or he will discuss the meaning of baptism with you and talk about why you desire baptism. If you have already been baptized, we do not believe that you need to be baptized again, although we can help you reaffirm the promises made in your baptism to mark a spiritual awakening in your life.
At what age do youth normally get confirmed at SPC?
We begin with Pre-Confirmation for 6th–8th graders to set the stage. In 9th grade, we begin the formal “confirmation” process.
Contact Us! We Would Love to Hear From You
Week-at-a-Glance
- April 16, 2025
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April 16, 202510:15 am - 11:30 am
Bell Choir rehearsal (Loeffler Chapel)
Our Bell Choir rings for worship about once a month. The ensemble always welcomes short- and long-term substitutes who enjoy ringing for rehearsals and worship.
Directed by Meghan Meloy Ness, Minister of Music
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- April 17, 2025
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April 17, 20256:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Maundy Thursday Potluck Supper (Fellowship Hall)
On this holy evening, we will gather in Fellowship Hall as a church family for food and fellowship. All are invited to bring a dish for the buffet and to gather around tables for a shared meal. Please click here to RSVP so that we may plan well.
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April 17, 20257:15 pm - 7:45 pm
Maundy Thursday Communion (Fellowship Hall)
From our time of fellowship, we will shift to a brief service of communion, recalling the last Passover meal Jesus shared with his disciples and observing the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at our dinner tables. Following Communion, those attending the Service of Tenebrae will process to the Sanctuary in silence.
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- April 18, 2025
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April 18, 20251:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Labyrinth Walk (begin at Garden entrance/Loeffler Chapel in case of rain)
On Good Friday we are pleased to offer a labyrinth walk led by a trained labyrinth facilitator. The session will begin with a brief introduction to this meditative practice for those who are new to praying in this way, and will be offered rain or shine, thanks to the canvas labyrinth that we are able to set up indoors.
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- April 20, 2025
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April 20, 20257:00 am - 8:00 am
Easter Worship in the Garden (Memorial Garden & Labyrinth)
This is a joyful early morning celebration of the resurrection held in the Memorial Garden. We come with the women to the tomb and peer in. Among the new day light, the trees, and the early morning birds, we raise our alleluias!
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April 20, 20257:45 am - 8:30 am
Easter Breakfast (Fellowship Hall)
Christ is Risen! Shout Hosanna! Celebrate this day of days over a cup of coffee or tea and a light breakfast that features communion bread pudding.
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