Sarah Cottongim
Class of 2019
Treasurer

How long have you been a member at CSPC? Why did you join?  I honestly don’t remember the exact year, but I guess it’s been about 10 years. My childhood church was going through some changes and our pastor left. I was having a hard time with that and decided I needed a fresh start from a church perspective.

What is your favorite memory at CSPC?  Most of my favorite memories are from teaching Sunday School. The group of girls–Ashlynne, Delaney, Carys, and Haylee, I have had in Sunday School since they were two. With only a few exceptions, I have taught most every kid at CSPC Sunday School!

Do you have a favorite scripture, hymn, or praise song? What makes it your favorite?  Psalm 121. I’m not sure. I think I found it when I was going through a tough time and whenever I’m having a challenge, or sad, I remember it and recite it.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Hobbies, etc?  Spare time? What is that?? I discovered working out late in life and that is something I love to do, but only in a group setting. I do Crossfit when I’m home, Orange Theory when I’m on the road.

Is there something about you that would surprise people? Hidden talents, past lives, quirky interests?  I think most people are surprised when they hear the type of workouts that I do. On the outside, I don’t look that fit, but put me in workout clothes in the gym, and I don’t stop.

Tell me about a time or place when you felt close to God. I always felt close to God at Montreat. Of course, I went at a time before cell phones, the internet, etc., but being in nature without the demands of the world, makes it easier to focus on God. Also, on the Sea of Galilee. I love looking at the shore, imagining where Jesus was standing when the crowds gathered around him.

Other than Presbyterian, have you spent time in other faith traditions?  Not really. I have lots of exposure to Pentecostal as my grandfather was a Pentecostal evangelist, but my membership card has always read PCUSA.

Tell me about someone who mentored or inspired you in faith.  I was very fortunate to have two associate pastors at the church I attended in college that took me in and mentored me. They allowed me to help lead the youth groups and really kept me involved in church while I was away at school.

What does it mean to you to be an elder?  It means that the congregation and God have entrusted me to act on their behalf,  to be able to discern with my co-elders the will of God for this congregation and for the body of Christ in the PCUSA, for our community.  Sometimes you have to put your personal feelings aside to do what God is calling you to do (Remember Jonah?).

What is one thing CSPC is doing that you are excited about?  I love that while we are a small congregation, we find big ways to impact our community, like Food for Thought, and Helping Hands. We do not have the numbers or the finances to do “BIG” things, but we’re making a BIG impact to those we serve!

What is one hope you have for CSPC in the future?  My mother always says we are a small, but mighty congregation, full of the salt of the earth kind of people. My hope is that the things we are strong in continue–children and youth programming, that we add members who can help make our work lighter, but more expansive, and that we maintain our small, family feel.

What is one thing you wish people knew about serving as an elder?  It’s a lot easier than it used to be, so when the nominating committee asks you to serve, please consider it!