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 Grunseich, Parish 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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August 3, 2026

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

August 4, 2026

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

August 5, 2026

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

August 6, 2026

  • August 6, 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.

    Contact: Scott Richardson (484)238-4135

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

August 7, 2026

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

August 8, 2026

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.

  • August 1, 2026 - August 8, 2026

    Montreat Youth Conference (Montreat, NC)

    This year youth who are currently in 7th grade through 12th grade are welcome to register.

    Montreat Youth Conference affirms youth in their calling to be and to shape the church of Jesus Christ. Our desire is to help youth come to know and believe that they are the beloved of God and to be a place where authenticity, community, connection, and God’s truth thrive. We seek to be an inclusive space where each voice can be heard and where each heart can be molded; where change is invited, challenge is expected, and where all are embraced.

    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.  Drawing from the biblical text and our chosen theme Light My Path, this summer we will build an accepting community of unconditional love where every story matters. Through engaging worship, lively music, and practices of gratitude and fun, we will offer youth different opportunities to cultivate their spiritual faith journeys and practice sabbath. We will provide a secure space that is brave, loving, holy, and authentic so that we may glorify God in all that we do, inspiring and equipping a lifetime of faith.

    Youth leave Montreat knowing that:

    • Their faith matters.
    • They are loved as they are.
    • They are part of a community of faith.
    • They are empowered to act for change in the world.

    Learn more here.