Sage-ing Initiative
The Myers Park Baptist Church Sage-ing Initiative offers an array of opportunities for seniors to enrich personal and spiritual growth in the third stage of life.
The Initiative is planned and directed by the MPBC Sage-ing Committee chaired by Gary Hudson. Committee members include Martha Abernethy, Nancy Culp, Tina Fort, Jeanie Phillips, Ted Phillips, Linda Scott, Betsy Thigpen, and staff liaison, Valarie Kovolski.
The MPBC Sage-ing Initiatitive includes:
- Monthly Luncheons (first Tuesday of each month) with speakers on topics relevant to those in the third stage of life (See dates and upcoming speakers below)
- Small group Circles of Elders that meet on a regular basis
- Studies using books addressing issues around aging
- Annual Retreats
- Annual Sage-ing Sunday - Sage-ing members participate in worship
- Social and Travel Events
- Special Studies on topics related to aging
- A unique Congregational Care program for the church’s 500 seniors
- Participation in the church’s larger MOJO (Ministry of Justice and Outreach) Initiative
- Intergenerational Events
- Moving from Senior to Elder Wisdom Journey
2026 Lunch Schedule and Speakers
An Afternoon of Poetry with MPBC Voices
Date | April 7, 2026
Time | 12:00–1:30 pm
Location | Heaton Hall
Topic | Poetry Reading with MPBC Poets
Lunch Menu | chicken parmesan, spaghetti, broccoli, and brownies for dessert
Words have a way of holding memory, meaning, and wisdom—and at our April 7 Sage‑ing Lunch, we’ll gather to share them together. Join us for a special poetry reading featuring writers from within the Myers Park Baptist Church community.
The program will include Kate Green reading selected poems by Mary Kratt and Lew Powell sharing poems by Dannye Powell. We’ll also hear original poetry from Gene Kusterer, Alvin Phillips, Eddie Bell, and Sandy Hill, each offering reflections shaped by life, faith, and experience. Books by these poets will be available for those who wish to take a piece of the afternoon home.
Whether you come with a lunch reservation or bring your own meal, we invite you to take part in this relaxed and meaningful gathering. Please register through Realm or our weekly newsletter so we can prepare. We hope you’ll join us for an afternoon of poetry, connection, and shared wisdom.
Reservations are required.
Please remember to call the church office or go online through Realm to make your reservation.
The lunch costs $15 and will include a variety of options including vegetarian. Feel free to bring your own lunch, if you prefer.
NOTE - We need everyone to RSVP whether you are ordering lunch or bringing your own so that we can properly prepare for everyone.