From Hope to Following the King

Michael GleasonAssociate Pastor
June 29, 2026

2 Minute Read

This past Sunday we were reminded of the foundation of our hope.

Our hope is not in our circumstances, our strength, or our ability to hold on. Our hope is in the risen Christ.

Because our hope is in Him, we anchor ourselves in God’s Word. His Word continually points us to Christ, shapes our hearts, and teaches us how to live faithfully in a changing world.

Pastor John reminded us that faithful followers of Jesus keep their eyes fixed on Christ, anchor themselves in God’s Word, and trust God with the results.

But that naturally leads to another question:

What does faithful living actually look like?

Faithfulness is more than believing the right things. It is learning to live every part of life under the reign of the right King.

That’s where we’re headed over the next three weeks.

Beginning this Sunday, we’ll start a new series called Seek First, following Jesus’ teaching from Matthew 6, Matthew 13, and Matthew 7.

Together we’ll discover what it means to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom.

Week 1 — Seek the Right Kingdom

Matthew 6:19–34

What do you treasure?

How do you see the world?

Where does your allegiance truly lie?

Week 2 — Be the Right Soil

Matthew 13:1–23

Jesus teaches that the condition of our hearts determines how we receive His Word and whether our lives bear fruit for His Kingdom.

Week 3 — Build on the Right Foundation

Matthew 7:13–27

Every life is built on something. Jesus calls us not merely to hear His words, but to put them into practice by building our lives on Him.

As you prepare your heart this week, spend a few moments reflecting on these questions:

  • What do I value most?
  • How do I see the world?
  • Where does my allegiance truly lie?

My prayer is that throughout this series God would continue shaping us—not simply into people who know about His Kingdom, but into people who joyfully live under the loving rule and reign of King Jesus.

We’d love for you to join us this Sunday as we begin Seek First.

Sunday School: 9:30 AM
Worship Gathering: 10:45 AM

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33

-Pastor Michael

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June 29, 20262 Minute Read
From Hope to Following the King
This past Sunday we were reminded of the foundation of our hope. Our hope is not in our circumstances, our strength, or our ability to hold on. Our hope is in the risen Christ. Because our hope is in Him, we anchor ourselves in God’s Word. His Word continually points us to Christ, shapes our hearts, and teaches us how to live faithfully in a changing world. Pastor John reminded us that faithful followers of Jesus keep their eyes fixed on Christ, anchor themselves in God’s Word, and trust God with the results. But that naturally leads to another question: What does faithful living actually look like? Faithfulness is more than believing the right things. It is learning to live every part of life under the reign of the right King. That’s where we’re headed over the next three weeks. Beginning this Sunday, we’ll start a new series called Seek First, following Jesus’ teaching from Matthew 6, Matthew 13, and Matthew 7. Together we’ll discover what it means to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom. Week 1 — Seek the Right Kingdom Matthew 6:19–34 What do you treasure? How do you see the world? Where does your allegiance truly lie? Week 2 — Be the Right Soil Matthew 13:1–23 Jesus teaches that the condition of our hearts determines how we receive His Word and whether our lives bear fruit for His Kingdom. Week 3 — Build on the Right Foundation Matthew 7:13–27 Every life is built on something. Jesus calls us not merely to hear His words, but to put them into practice by building our lives on Him. As you prepare your heart this week, spend a few moments reflecting on these questions: What do I value most? How do I see the world? Where does my allegiance truly lie? My prayer is that throughout this series God would continue shaping us—not simply into people who know about His Kingdom, but into people who joyfully live under the loving rule and reign of King Jesus. We’d love for you to join us this Sunday as we begin Seek First. Sunday School: 9:30 AM Worship Gathering: 10:45 AM “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 -Pastor Michael
June 29, 20261 Minute Read
🎮 Game Night- July 1!
Who’s ready for a night of games, food, and hanging out? This Wednesday, we’re turning the Youth House into game central with board games, card games, video games, and plenty of friendly competition. Whether you’re the strategic type, the Uno champion, or just coming to laugh with friends, there’s something for everyone. 🕕 When & Where Wednesday, July 1 6:00–8:00 PM Youth House Cost: Free 🎲 What to Expect 🃏 Card Games 🎲 Board Games 🎮 Video Games 🍕 Food 😄 Lots of fun with friends 🎒 What to Bring Bring your favorite card game to share with everyone! (Just make sure it’s appropriate for the group.) 👥 Bring a Friend! Everything is more fun with friends! If you know someone who doesn’t normally come to youth group, invite them to join you. It’s a great night to connect, have fun, and get to know our Student Ministry. We can’t wait to see you Wednesday night. Come ready to play, laugh, and spend time together!
June 29, 20262 Minute Read
Parent Update | Student Ministry This Week of June 29-July 5
We’re looking forward to another great week together in Student Ministry! This Wednesday will be a relaxed evening of games, food, and fellowship as students spend time building friendships and enjoying the summer together. We hope your student will join us—and invite a friend! This Week: Game Night Date: Wednesday, July 1 Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Youth House Cost: Free What to Expect We’ll have a variety of: 🎲 Board Games 🃏 Card Games 🎮 Video Games 🍕 Food and snacks 😊 Plenty of fun and fellowship! What to Bring Students are encouraged to bring their favorite card game to share with the group (please make sure it’s appropriate for everyone). Why It Matters Summer is a great time to strengthen friendships and encourage one another in Christ. Nights like these provide opportunities for students to connect, welcome new friends, and continue growing together as a church family in a fun and relaxed environment. Looking Ahead 🎯 Wednesday, July 8 – Mini Golf Night Next week we’ll head out for an evening of mini golf and fellowship! Meet: 5:30 PM at the Youth House Destination: Wallace Mini Golf Return: Approximately 8:30 PM We’ll travel together from the Youth House and return around 8:30 PM. It’s sure to be a fun night of friendly competition and time together. 📅 Wednesday, July 15 – No Youth Group There will be no Student Ministry gathering on July 15. We encourage everyone to enjoy the evening with family, and we’ll look forward to seeing everyone the following week. 🎡 Wednesday, July 22 – Shippensburg Fair Instead of meeting for youth group, we’ll be enjoying the Shippensburg Fair! If you’re at the fair that evening, be sure to find me and say hello! I’d love to connect with our students and families while you’re there. Thank you for partnering with us as we seek to help students know Christ, grow in their faith, and build lasting friendships. We look forward to seeing everyone this Wednesday!
June 23, 20262 Minute Read
Student Ministry Parent Update- Week of June 21-28
Summer is in full swing, and we wanted to send a quick reminder about what’s happening this week and next in Student Ministry. Vacation Bible School This Week Vacation Bible School is taking place Monday through Thursday this week, and many of our students are serving throughout the week in a variety of roles. We are grateful for the students who are investing their time to serve younger children, build relationships, and help share the love of Christ during VBS. Please pray that God would use our students and volunteers to make a lasting impact in the lives of the children attending VBS. We also encourage students and their families to join us for our Church Picnic on Sunday as we celebrate all that God has done through VBS this week and gather together as a church family. No Regular Youth Gathering This Wednesday Because of VBS activities, there will be no regular Wednesday night Student Ministry gathering this week. We encourage our students who are serving at VBS to give their best as they serve and represent Christ throughout the week. Join Us for the Church Picnic This Sunday We would love for your family to join us this Sunday, June 28, for our annual Church Picnic at Shippensburg Township Park on Britton Road. This special day is an opportunity for our church family to worship together, enjoy great food, build relationships, and celebrate what God is doing in our church community—including the impact of Vacation Bible School. Church Picnic Schedule 10:00 AM – Donuts & Coffee 10:45 AM – Worship Service 12:00 PM – Catered Meal 1:00 PM – Scheduled Fun & Activities 2:00 PM – Dessert Whether you’ve been part of Prince Street Church for years or are still getting connected, we’d love to see you there. Don’t forget to bring lawn chairs or blankets for your family. Game Night Next Wednesday Student Ministry returns next Wednesday with our Summer Game Night! 📅 Wednesday, July 1 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM 📍 Prince Street Church Students can expect an evening of games, snacks, laughter, and time together as we continue building Christ-centered friendships throughout the summer. Thank you for partnering with us as we help students know Jesus, grow in their faith, and serve others. Michael Gleason Pastor of Student Ministries
June 22, 20262 Minute Read
Missionary Update: Ruth Riviera in Thailand
This past Sunday, we had the opportunity to hear from Ruth Rivera, a UB Global missionary currently serving in Thailand. Thank you for taking time to learn about her ministry and the work God is doing through her preparation for future Gospel outreach. Ruth, who is from Honduras, is currently living in Bangkok for a year of intensive language and culture study. Her desire is to serve among the nearly 18 million Isaan Buddhists of Northeast Thailand, many of whom have little or no access to the Gospel. If you missed Sunday’s update—or would like to watch it again—we encourage you to view the video below and continue praying for Ruth and the people she hopes to reach with the hope of Christ. Watch Ruth’s UpdateWatch Here About Ruth’s Ministry This season of language and culture learning is an important step in preparing for long-term ministry in Thailand. As Ruth studies, builds relationships, and gains a deeper understanding of the people she hopes to serve, she is laying a foundation for future Gospel conversations and discipleship. Please pray that God would use this season to prepare both Ruth and the people she will serve in the years ahead. How You Can Pray Pray for wisdom, endurance, and encouragement as Ruth continues her language and cultural studies. Pray for steady progress in learning Thai and for opportunities to practice what she is learning. Pray for meaningful friendships and relationships that open doors for Gospel conversations. Pray for spiritual growth and faithfulness during this season of preparation. Pray for the Isaan people of Northeast Thailand, that many would hear and respond to the Gospel. Pray that God would provide opportunities for future ministry and discipleship among those who have little access to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Scripture “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” — Romans 10:15 Join Us in Prayer One of the ways we participate in God’s global mission is through faithful prayer. Thank you for partnering with Ruth as she prepares for long-term ministry in Thailand. Please continue praying that God would strengthen her, provide for her needs, and use her life and ministry to make Christ known among the Isaan people. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.
June 15, 20263 Minute Read
Student Ministry Parent Update | June 17 VBS Preparation Night
Summer is underway in Student Ministry, and we are excited about the opportunities our students have to grow in their faith, build Christ-centered friendships, and serve others throughout the coming weeks. One of our goals is to help students move beyond simply attending events and begin actively participating in God’s work. This week’s Student Ministry gathering is a great example of that. This Week: VBS Preparation Night Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Prince Street Church Vacation Bible School is one of the largest outreach ministries of the year at Prince Street Church, and our students play an important role in helping make it happen. This Wednesday, students will help decorate the church and prepare classrooms as we get ready to welcome children and families from our community. Students will also spend part of the evening distributing VBS invitations throughout the neighborhood, helping us personally invite families to join us for this important outreach ministry. While these may seem like simple tasks, they are opportunities for students to serve others, support the ministry of the church, and participate in sharing the love of Christ with our community. We encourage all students entering grades 6–12 to join us as we prepare for VBS together. Why This Matters At Prince Street Church, we believe discipleship happens through both learning God’s Word and putting our faith into action. Serving helps students: Develop a heart for ministry. Learn responsibility and teamwork. Build relationships with other students. Discover how God can use their gifts. Experience the joy of serving others in Jesus’ name. As students help prepare for VBS and invite families from our community, they are participating in a ministry that creates opportunities for children to hear the Gospel and experience the love of Christ. Looking Ahead June 22–25 Vacation Bible School Many of our students will be serving throughout VBS week. Please pray that God would use them to share His love with the children who attend and that many young hearts would hear the Gospel. July 1 Student Ministry Game Night A fun evening of games, snacks, fellowship, and friendly competition. July 8 Mini Golf at Wallace Golf Students will enjoy an evening of fellowship and mini golf together. More details for upcoming events will be shared as they approach. How You Can Pray As parents, one of the most important ways you can support Student Ministry is through prayer. Please pray: For students as they serve and invite others to VBS. For families in our community who receive invitations. For the children and families who will attend VBS. For meaningful Gospel conversations throughout VBS week. For students to continue growing in their relationship with Christ this summer. Thank You, Parents Thank you for partnering with us in the discipleship of your students. We count it a privilege to invest in the next generation and are excited to see how God works in and through our students this summer. If you have any questions about Student Ministry or upcoming events, please contact Pastor Michael. Prince Street Church Student Ministry Helping students know Jesus, grow in faith, and live on mission. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.
June 11, 20262 Minute Read
Key Policy Update
New Key Policy & Building Rekeying As part of our ongoing commitment to being good stewards of the facilities God has entrusted to us, Prince Street Church will be rekeying the main church building in the near future. In preparation for this transition, the Local Board of Administration has adopted a new Key Policy designed to help maintain the safety, security, and responsible use of our church buildings. Why This Matters Our church facilities are an important resource for ministry, discipleship, and serving our community. Establishing clear guidelines for building access helps us care well for these spaces while ensuring a safe environment for everyone who uses them. We encourage all members and regular building users to take a few moments to review the new policy. How to Review the Policy Copies of the Key Policy are available: At the back of the sanctuary Read the Update Key Policy on the Church Website Questions? If you have any questions about the new policy or the upcoming rekeying process, please contact Pastor John. Thank you for helping us care for and steward the ministry resources God has provided. We appreciate your partnership as we work together to support the mission of Prince Street Church: Praise God, Serve Others, and Cultivate Disciples.
June 8, 20262 Minute Read
Laurel Mission Trip
For nearly 90 years, Laurel Mission has been sharing the hope of Jesus Christ in the Appalachian Mountains of southeastern Kentucky. Their mission is simple and powerful: to help men, women, and children come to know Christ and grow into His likeness through the proclamation of the Gospel and practical acts of love. This August, a team from Prince Street Church will have the opportunity to serve alongside Laurel Mission in Big Laurel, Kentucky. Through a variety of ministries—including construction projects, community outreach, youth ministry, food distribution, and local church partnerships—mission teams help meet practical needs while pointing people to the hope found in Christ. Mission trips are not simply about the work that gets accomplished. They are opportunities to serve, grow, and witness firsthand how God is at work in the lives of people and communities. As we step out in faith, God often uses these experiences to deepen our dependence on Him and expand our vision for His Kingdom. Mission Trip Details 📅 August 8–15, 2026 📍 Big Laurel, Kentucky 🚐 Departing Saturday, August 8 🏠 Returning Saturday, August 15 We are currently gathering those who are interested in being part of the team. Whether you have construction experience, enjoy working with children, or simply have a willing heart to serve, we encourage you to prayerfully consider joining us. How You Can Help Even if you are unable to go, you can still be part of the mission: Pray for the team as preparations begin. Pray for the families and communities served by Laurel Mission. Encourage those who are considering participating. Support the ministry through partnership and generosity. As Jesus reminds us: "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." — Matthew 9:37 Would you prayerfully consider whether God might be calling you to serve?Let us know you're interested!
June 8, 20261 Minute Read
Join us for Men's Breakfast on June 27
Life was never meant to be lived alone. As men, we need brothers who will encourage us, challenge us, pray for us, and walk alongside us as we follow Christ. That's why we invite you to join us for our next Prince Street Church Men's Breakfast on Saturday, June 27, from 8:00–9:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. This is a relaxed morning filled with good food, meaningful conversation, laughter, and encouragement from God's Word. Whether you've attended before or this would be your first time, you'll find a welcoming group of men seeking to grow in their faith and support one another. The breakfast is free, and all men are welcome. Bring a friend, a son, a neighbor, or a coworker and join us for a great morning together. Men's Breakfast 📅 Saturday, June 27 🕗 8:00–9:30 AM 📍 Prince Street Church Fellowship Hall 💲 Free RSVP To help us prepare enough food, please let us know you're coming. RSVP or contact the church office at (717) 532-8404.RSVP HERE Questions? Contact Dod Kiama or Dan Watkins.
June 8, 20262 Minute Read
Church Picnic - June 28
There is something special about gathering around a table, sharing a meal, and spending time together outside the normal rhythms of Sunday morning. That's exactly what our Church Picnic is all about. On Sunday, June 28, we'll gather at Shippensburg Township Park on Britton Road for a morning of worship, fellowship, food, and fun. Whether you've been attending Prince Street Church for years or have only recently connected with us, we'd love for you to join us. We'll begin the morning with Donuts & Coffee at 10:00 AM, followed by our Worship Service at 10:45 AM. After worship, we'll enjoy a catered meal together at noon, followed by games, activities, and plenty of opportunities to relax and spend time with one another. At Prince Street Church, we believe church is more than attending a service—it's being part of a family. Events like our Church Picnic give us the opportunity to strengthen relationships, welcome new faces, and celebrate what God is doing in our church community. Church Picnic Schedule 10:00 AM – Donuts & Coffee 10:45 AM – Worship Service 12:00 PM – Catered Meal 1:00 PM – Scheduled Fun & Activities 2:00 PM – Dessert RSVP To help us prepare for the meal, please RSVP by Sunday, June 21. You can sign up using your Connection Card and indicate the number attending, including the ages of any children who will be joining you.Sign Up Here We hope you'll make plans to join us for a great day of worship, fellowship, laughter, and community. Bring your family, invite a friend, and come enjoy a wonderful day together as the Prince Street Church family. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.
June 8, 20264 Minute Read
Student Ministry Summer Schedule 2026
Summer is one of our favorite seasons in Student Ministry at Prince Street Church. While school may be out, our mission remains the same: helping students know Jesus, grow in their faith, build Christ-centered friendships, and discover how God can use them to impact the world around them. Throughout the summer, we'll spend time serving others, having fun together, building relationships, and continuing to grow as disciples of Jesus. Whether you're a longtime part of our ministry or looking for a place to connect for the first time, we'd love for you to join us. Student Ministry is open to all students in grades 6–12, and every event is designed to help students take another step in their walk with Christ while creating memories that will last long after summer ends. Our Summer Focus This summer, we want to encourage students to: Grow in their knowledge of God's Word. Build strong Christ-centered friendships. Serve others with humility and joy. Develop a faith that is their own. Have fun in a Christ-centered community. We believe discipleship happens both through studying Scripture and through sharing life together. That's why our summer calendar includes opportunities to serve, connect, grow, and enjoy fellowship with one another. Summer Schedule June 11 🎢 Hershey Park Trip We're kicking off the summer with a full day of fun at Hersheypark! Students will enjoy rides, fellowship, and making memories together as we spend the day at one of Pennsylvania's favorite destinations. June 18 🎨 VBS Preparation Night- Vacation Bible School is one of the biggest outreach opportunities of the year, and our students play an important role in helping make it happen. Join us as we prepare classrooms, decorations, and materials while serving the church and getting ready to welcome children from our community. June 22–25 🌟 Vacation Bible School Many of our students will spend the week serving at VBS, helping lead activities, build relationships with children, and share the love of Jesus. We are excited to see students use their gifts and talents to make a difference in the lives of others. July 1 🎲 Student Ministry Game Night Bring a friend and join us for an evening of games, laughter, snacks, and friendly competition. Whether you're highly competitive or just looking for a fun night with friends, Game Night is a great opportunity to connect and build relationships. July 8 ⛳ Mini Golf at Wallace Golf We'll head to Wallace Golf for an evening of mini golf and fellowship. Cost: $10 per student Come ready for some friendly competition, lots of laughs, and a great evening together. July 15 ☀️ Summer Break – No Student Ministry There will be no Student Ministry gathering this week. We encourage students and families to enjoy the evening together, rest, and continue seeking Christ throughout the summer. July 22 🎡 Fair Week – No Student Ministry Gathering During Fair Week, we will not hold our regular Student Ministry meeting. Many members of our church family will be enjoying and participating in activities throughout the community. If you see members of Prince Street Church at the fair, be sure to stop and say hello. Find us at the Fair! July 29 🏖️ Annual Lake Trip One of our favorite summer traditions returns as we head to Raystown Lake (Tatman Run Area) for a day at the lake. Students can enjoy swimming, games, fellowship, food, and plenty of summer fun while spending time together in God's creation. More details regarding times, transportation, and what to bring will be shared as the event approaches. Why Student Ministry Matters Student Ministry is about more than events and activities. Our desire is to see students become lifelong followers of Jesus Christ. We want students to know God's Word, own their faith, build meaningful relationships, and discover that God has a purpose for their lives right now—not someday in the future. Every game, trip, service opportunity, and Bible study is intended to help students take another step toward Christ. Join Us This Summer Student Ministry is open to all students in grades 6–12. If you're looking for a place to belong, grow, and connect with others this summer, we'd love to have you join us. As we look ahead to the coming months, we're praying that God would use this summer to deepen faith, strengthen friendships, and help students discover more of who He has called them to be. We can't wait to see what God will do this summer! ☀️✝️🎉 Prince Street Church Student Ministry Helping students know Jesus, grow in faith, and live on mission.
June 4, 20263 Minute Read
Serve at VBS
Vacation Bible School is one of the biggest outreach opportunities of the year at Prince Street Church. Hundreds of conversations, countless moments of encouragement, and opportunities to share the love of Jesus happen throughout the week. And one of the most important parts of VBS is our students. As Student Ministry leaders, one of our goals is not simply to help students know about Jesus—we want to help them follow Jesus. One of the ways we do that is through serving. Serving helps students move from being spectators to participants in God’s mission. It teaches responsibility, builds confidence, develops leadership, and gives students the opportunity to use their gifts to make a difference in the lives of others. Many of the children who attend VBS will look up to our students. A simple conversation, helping with a game, leading motions during worship, or sitting with a child who feels nervous can have a lasting impact. The truth is, you don’t have to be an adult to make a difference. Throughout Scripture, God uses young people in powerful ways. He used David, Esther, Josiah, Mary, Timothy, and many others to accomplish His purposes. God is not waiting for students to grow up before He can use them. He wants to use them now. If you are a student, we want to encourage you to consider serving at VBS. You don’t have to know all the answers. You don’t have to be a Bible expert. You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room. You simply need a willing heart. Serving at VBS is an opportunity to: Show the love of Jesus to children. Build relationships with younger students. Grow in your own faith. Learn what it means to serve others. Be part of something bigger than yourself. Help create an environment where children can hear the Gospel. We believe that students are not just the future of the church—they are an important part of the church today. God has gifted them, called them, and can use them right now to impact others for His Kingdom. So if you’re a student who is wondering whether you should serve, our answer is simple:Jump in. Get involved. Make a difference. You never know how God might use your willingness to serve to change someone’s life—including your own. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10