Newcomers Gatherings

Would you like an opportunity to learn more about Swarthmore Presbyterian Church and what it means to be Presbyterian? Once a month at 9:00 am on Sunday, Pastor Joyce Shin or Associate Pastor Sarah Cooper Searight leads a gathering of those who are considering joining us as members. Together, newcomers, Rev. Shin or Searight and a representative of the Membership Committee spend some time getting to know one another, talking about what it means to be Presbyterian, and discussing how we can serve one another and our neighbors through all that happens here. This informal gathering is the perfect place to ask questions, and get some insight into what membership at SPC really means. Those who decide to join are then received and welcomed officially on a Sunday morning later in the month.

If you would like to join us for one of our Newcomers Gatherings, please contact the church office (610-543-4712 or spcparish@swarthmorepres.org) or simply drop by.

Membership

We joyfully welcome all who join us in worshiping Jesus Christ to share in his love and grace by becoming members of Swarthmore Presbyterian Church. No child of God will ever be turned away. At SPC, we encourage our members to participate fully in every area of the life of the congregation and to share the love of Christ with one another. Responding to the hospitality of Jesus Christ, we seek to be a warm and welcoming community.

What it Means to Be Presbyterian 

Interested in exploring some of the beliefs and practices of Presbyterians? Or the history of this Reformed Protestant tradition? Swarthmore Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA). There is good information about these things on the denomination’s website, available by clicking here.

Welcoming You Personally

You are welcome to talk with members of the church to find out more about us, ask questions, get a tour of the church, or just have someone to sit with on your first visit! A good place to start is by submitting the “Contact Form” below. You may also contact Rev. Michelle GrunseichParish Associate for Engagement and Belonging at michelle.grunseich@swarthmorepres.org. 

Contact Us! We Would Love to Hear From You

Week-at-a-Glance

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May 14, 2026
  • May 14, 20267:30 pm - 9:00 pm

    Chancel Choir Rehearsal (Loeffler Chapel)

    Weekly rehearsal to prepare for music for offering in worship Sunday mornings.  New singers always welcome! 
    Led by Minister of Music, Meghan Meloy Ness.

  • May 14, 20268:00 pm - 9:30 pm

    AA (McCahan Hall)

    Swarthmore Presbyterian Church welcomes AA participants to weekly meetings in McCahan Hall. Entrance is via a door on the west end of the parking lot (across from the ABC House) under a covered walkway there.

May 16, 2026
  • May 16, 20268:30 am - 11:00 am

    Fall Fair Dropoff (Parking Lot)

    Contributions to our annual Fall Fair are at the heart of this community event!  We will be welcoming donations for the following Fair offerings in the church parking lot all morning: Collectibles, Fashion Boutique, Jewelry & Accessories.  
    Please note that we are unable to accept Children's Toys & Games at this time.  
    For details , see our website: Fall Fair Spring Dropoff 2026

  • May 16, 20262:00 pm - 3:00 pm

    Memorial Service (Sanctuary)

    A Service of Witness to the Resurrection and Thanksgiving for the life of Guy Smith.   Guests are invited to a reception in Fellowship Hall following the service.

  • May 16, 20263:00 pm - 4:00 pm

    Memorial Reception(Fellowship Hall)

    Guests attending the memorial service for Guy Smith are invited to greet the family, share remembrances, and enjoy some refreshments at a reception in Fellowship Hall.

May 17, 2026
  • May 17, 20268:00 am - 9:00 am

    Early Worship(Loeffler Chapel)

    This 45-minute service allows worshippers to engage with scripture through guided discussion in lieu of a sermon. Communion is served on the 1st Sunday of each month.

  • May 17, 20269:30 am - 10:00 am

    Choir rehearsal (Sanctuary)

    Sunday morning preparation for worship.

  • May 17, 202610:15 am - 11:15 am

    Lord's Day Worship (Sanctuary and Livestream)

    SPC's Lord’s Day services embody a classic reformed worship tradition. The Word is proclaimed through liturgy, song, and preaching. Scriptures are generally read by lay liturgists. Music leadership is anchored by our choir. Our pastors share leadership and preaching responsibilities from week to week. Communion is offered on the 1st Sunday of each month.

    Services are livestreamed via YouTube beginning at 10:15 a.m. Sunday morning.

  • May 17, 202610:40 am - 11:20 am

    Godly Play (Godly Play room)

    Following "Time with Children" (which happens just before the Sermon) children age 3 through 5th grade are invited to attend Godly Play, a Montessori-based method that engages children through their innate meaning-making language: Play.

  • May 17, 202611:15 am - 12:15 pm

    Fellowship Hour (Courtyard and Fellowship Hall)

    Sunday morning worshipers are invited to greet one another in Fellowship Hall, learn about various upcoming opportunities, and enjoy hot coffee and light refreshments in the Courtyard.

  • May 17, 20264:30 pm - 7:30 pm

    Confirmation Class (Study)

  • May 17, 20264:30 pm - 7:30 pm

    Confirmation Class (Study)