By Maggie Beamguard
Insider Editor
Every now and then a revival needs a revival. People of faith have historically turned to seasons of concentrated worship and prayer for renewal and heightened spiritual vigor.
Jackson Springs Presbyterian Church will resurrect the revival this Sept. 14-16 with a renewal event focused on deepening community connections.
“I remember attending revivals every year, either at JSPC or a neighboring church when I was young in the ‘50s and ’60s,” said Judy Burroughs, who serves as the church’s clerk of session.
“There would always be a night designated as ‘youth night’ when the message addressed young people. I can still remember the impact those nights had for those of us who were young in our faith. Then times began to change. The last revival I can remember at JSPC was in May 1985.”
While currently searching for its next pastor, the faithful members of JSPC are
working diligently to keep the church active and thriving.
“We are organizing a renewal, or revival service, for those who recall the tradition of
annual revival gatherings, and we invite our friends and neighbors to join us in
celebrating our faith.” said Burroughs.
The theme of the revival is “Life is Better Together,” and it reflects JSPC’s deep and long roots in the community of Jackson Springs.
“We aim to strengthen this bond between church and community because we believe
that life is better together,” said Burroughs.
The mineral springs in Moore County, known as Jackson Springs, were discovered around 1813. The Presbyterian Church in Jackson Springs was established shortly thereafter, around 1817. Initially, the church was not housed in a dedicated building but in a stand constructed near the location of the current sanctuary.
The Rev. John McIntyre occasionally preached at this stand for two years when passing
through from Cellars to Bethesda.
The first building was erected in 1820 near the site of the current church building.
The majority of the early settlers of Jackson Springs immigrated from Scotland, searching for a place where they could freely practice reformed worship.
While JSPC has experienced physical changes over the years, it has kept some of its original features intact. It remains a small, country church. The church and community share a special bond that has lasted for 218 years through good times and bad.
“Having lived all my life in the little community of Jackson Springs, I have always appreciated the connection between the church and community. There is a very rich history here that binds us together and has been fundamental in keeping this church alive during the time we have been without a pastor,” said Burroughs.
“I am excited that we are planning a four session revival/renewal service, as God is calling us to remember that life is better together.”
Guest Pastor Chris Thore will lead the renewal services at 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 14 and 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 15 and Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Thore, who currently lives in Seven Lakes with his wife, Rebecca, has served in ministry for four decades. A native to North Carolina, Thore is the founder of SummerShine Resort Staffing Ministry and is a co-founder of CLUB Ministries. Along with CLUB Ministries and SummerShine, Chris assists various churches with leadership encouragement, revivals, and speaking.
The services will also feature special music with a combination of good, old-fashioned hymn singing and some more modern praise music. An offering will be received at all services and will support those in need.
A nursery for ages three and under will be available for all services. Children can also enjoy a special ministry program for both Sunday services.
Light finger foods will be offered following the Sunday evening service to foster fellowship among those who attend.
Jackson Springs Presbyterian Church is located at 6244 N.C. 73, Jackson Springs. They have regular worship services at 11 a.m. every Sunday.
“All are welcome!” said Burroughs, “We hope to see you there.”
Contact Maggie Beamguard at maggie@thepilot.com.
