Celebrating Our Staff

Tomcast: Faith & Film Introduction

Tom Watkins has prepared a most interesting summer film series for church folks to enjoy. In this podcast, Tom shares why he selected these particular films and what inspires him about bringing together faith, film, and conversation.

Partners in Mission — Refugee Hope Partners

Twenty years ago, a mother of five felt God calling her into ministry. A year later, that calling took an unexpected turn when refugees from Burma arrived at her church during a Sunday service, speaking no English and in need of a welcoming community. In this episode, Michele Suffridge will captivate you as she describes how God called her to tend to the "sojourner in her midst." Her journey eventually led her to oversee one of Saint Andrews' mission partners, Refugee Hope Partners. Joining the conversation is Linda Adkins, who has volunteered with Refugee Hope Partners for the past three years. Together, they share stories of faith, friendships and the life-changing impact of welcoming newcomers. You can learn more about Refugee Hope Partners and their mission at https://refugeehopepartners.org/ [https://refugeehopepartners.org/].

From Vision to Legacy: Trenna and Jerry's 50-Year Journey

It takes a lot of faith to join with a few other Presbyterians to start a new church. Trenna and Jerry Perkins were among that group of Presbyterians 50 years ago who saw the vision for a church start-up in North Raleigh…and they have actively kept developing it for 50 years now! They're still here every week for worship and fellowship activities. And they started many of the programs still going on at the church. Get a bit of their unique perspective as the church approaches the grand celebration of Saint Andrews' 50th anniversary in 2027 in the first of our conversations with our still-active charter members, Trenna and Jerry Perkins.

Partners in Mission — North Raleigh Ministries

Saint Andrews is a Matthew 25 church, taking seriously the guidance from the 25th chapter of Matthew, such as "When did we see you hungry?" One very efficient food project we support in a variety of ways is North Raleigh Ministries. The church collected a "pyramid" of food for several weeks, and then a dozen volunteers delivered it to NRM—where several church members regularly volunteer. Amy Brown is there every week, witnessing the gamut of those who come for their two bags of groceries, and noticing how some choose to attend weekly counseling to improve their financial situation. Hear how Amy lives out her faith while singing her favorite hymn, "I'm Gonna Live So God Can Use Me."

Celebrating Our Staff

This episode was recorded during Staff Appreciation Week, a time set aside to give thanks for the dedicated staff of Saint Andrews. Throughout the week, members shared meals, gifts, and heartfelt expressions of gratitude for a team that serves with faith, care, and excellence. Tune in as Bob Inskeep interviews Julie Cazin, who, after nearly 40 years of teaching middle school math, has joyfully served at Saint Andrews for the past 12 years. Her story reflects a staff that truly loves what they do—evidenced by decades of faithful service, including five staff members who have worked at SAPC for more than 20 years.