Summer 2026

Special Sports Edition!

News for SSPC friends and members

FAITH

Once school let out for the summer, one of the things I most looked forward to was our regular trips to the public library for its summer reading program. Each week, we would visit the downtown Roanoke Library, where I checked out books on just about every subject imaginable, especially biographies. I was limited to ten books a week, and I would devour them—curled up on the sofa or sitting beneath the shade of a large oak tree. I was particularly devoted to biographies, reading about people such as Babe Ruth, Amelia Earhart, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female doctor, Satchel Paige, Italo Marchiony, who created the ice cream cone, Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and many others. I often wondered what inspired these individuals to reach deep within themselves and become the very best they could be.

Those were halcyon days, to be sure.

Our Summer Enlighten Newsletter is a special edition featuring our own SSPC biographies - remarkable coaches from our congregation whose expertise and dedication have made indelible marks on the lives of young people over the years. Their stories are both inspiring and uplifting. Editor Brad Bumsted and I hope you will enjoy reading about these individuals, whose faith and commitment to others serve as beacons of light in our community.

Just a quick note for special summer programming: I will be leading a small spiritual direction group in a Lectio Divina reading of the Scriptures used in our Sunday services. The group will meet in the parlor on Sundays only, from July 12 through August 16, with sessions offered from 8:20–8:50 a.m. and again from 10:20–10:50 a.m. There is no need to sign up—simply bring your favorite Bible and join me! Lectio Divina is an intentional and contemplative reading of sacred texts, with periods of silence between readings followed by brief discussion. (Please note that there will be no session on August 2 unless participants choose to gather and lead it themselves.)

Another program that may be of interest is Self-Defense for Seniors, Women, and Children, which will be held on July 11. The registration link is provided below.

May you enjoy your own restful, halcyon days of summer, filled with sunshine, meaningful gatherings, and moments of inspiration and renewal. - Pastor Lisa

SSPC Spotlight

Josiah and Sierra Montgomery

Josiah Montgomery, a recent Dickinson Law School graduate has joined Silver Spring Presbyterian, where he and his wife have been attending for almost three years.



Josiah and Sierra are originally from Western Pennsylvania. They met each other and began dating while attending Grove City College, a Christian liberal arts school also located in Western PA. Josiah majored in both Political Science and History, and Sierra majored in Business Management. After graduating in 2023, Josiah and Sierra married in July and moved to Mechanicsburg in August so he could attend Penn State Dickinson Law in Carlisle to pursue his Juris Doctor degree.

Following three years of study, Josia graduated from law school earlier this month. He is currently studying for the Pennsylvania Bar Exam and will sit for the test in July. In September, he will begin working for McNees, Wallace, and Nurick LLC, a law firm based in Harrisburg. He is joining their Labor and Employment Practice group in the Harrisburg office as an Associate. 

Sierra has worked in human resources for the past two years for Select Medical, a healthcare company based in Mechanicsburg who partners and manages hospitals with healthcare networks such as Penn State Health and UPMC. She works at the Penn State Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Hummelstown. Sierra recently received a promotion to the position of Human Resources Manager, where she will join their leadership team and oversee the human resources operations for the entire hospital. 

Some of their hobbies include gardening, reading classic literature, and engaging in other creative hobbies such as model-building.

The Decline in Mainstream Church Attendance

How SSP Church Is Responding

By Robert Davis, MD, retired

Co-Chair of SSP Membership Committee

 Davis at A Glance:

Age: 76

Hometown: Wilkesbarre

Family History: Son, grandson and great-grandson of coal miners

Education: Wilkes University degree in chemistry; medical degree from Penn State College of Medicine

Professional experience: chief medical officer of the now-closed Harrisburg State Hospital for the mentally ill, & private psychiatric practice.

Personal: Married to Bonnie for 51 years; two sons and a grandson.

Church: SSPC Elder since 1992; currently co-chair of membership.

Recently, I streamed a service from the Presbyterian church in which I was raised and was struck by the number of empty pews and the small choir. When I attended as both a youth and college student, the congregation filled most of the pews, and the choir filled the chancel pews. 

What has caused the decline in my home church attendance and in other mainline denominations? What can we do to increase church attendance? Particularly, what will bring more young people back to the church? Why the decline?

Life in the 1950’s & 60’s.

For the baby boomer generation, church was not just a place of worship and Christian education, it was a place of fellowship and socialization. On Sundays, church activities had little other competition. TV channels had primarily religious programming, and there were no organized youth sports. Also, the ‘blue laws’ prohibited Sunday hours for most retailers. Consequently, distractions were minimal. Baby boomers for the most part enjoyed church, Sunday school, and youth fellowship; our friends were there. Thus, church provided a sense of belonging. Also, in the 50’s and 60’s, pop hits included religiously themed songs like “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” “I Believe” and “Oh Happy Day.” The words ‘under God’ were added to the pledge of allegiance in the 50’s. Pennsylvania law required the Bible to be read and the Lord’s prayer to be recited daily in public schools. Faith, prayer, and worship were the norms.

Times change.

In 1963, a U.S. Supreme Court decision ruled the Pennsylvania law requiring Bible reading and the Lord’s Prayer in schools to be unconstitutional. As to the change in Sunday activities, the PA Supreme Court ruled that the majority of the restrictions included in the Blue Laws were unenforceable. Currently, Sunday restrictions in PA apply only to vehicle sales, alcohol sales (hours are restricted and bars, restaurants, and distributors must obtain a Sunday Sales Permit), and hunting. Now, given the growth of 24-hour television programming, the introduction of streaming services, smart phones, etc., and the addition of Sunday youth sports activities, Sundays now differ very little from any other weekday. The secular world has displaced aspects of the church community. Sitting in front of a screen, shopping, etc., have replaced sitting in a church pew or attending Sunday school and youth fellowship.

Addressing the decline.

No one can turn back time nor should SSPC try. Many aspects of the advancements in technology are beneficial, e.g., using social media or Facetime to keep in contact with friends and family, especially those living at a distance. SSPC needs to embrace many of them, so that they can be used to bring more people to appreciate Christian values and to understand the importance of glorifying God. SSPC has begun to do this. The Gathering offers contemporary music and audiovisual technology to provide the Christian message in an informal setting. For a number of years, SSPC talked about live streaming its church services; it took COVID to make it a reality. Studies have shown that streaming does not decrease church attendance but often increases it despite thoughts to the contrary. SSPC’s experience aligns with the studies.

Additionally, SSPC has focused on programs for children and invited the community to events like the Halloween “Trunk or Treat” and the Easter Egg Hunt. Current research shows that young people (Gen Z and Millennials) prefer a contemporary type service and increasingly prioritize active mission work and community service over any church attendance. With that in mind, SSPC began the Meal with a Mission program. Local agencies are contacted regarding their needs and what items are needed to meet those needs. Donation of those items is sought from the congregation and the community. Both the congregation and the surrounding community are invited to share a free meal; and then, the attendees sort and package the items so that the agency can distribute them to those in need. The success of this program shows the positive impact of combining meals, fellowship, and mission.

Most importantly, SSPC members’ accept individuals regardless of their theological, political, or social views; this acceptance of all individuals is crucial to maintaining and attracting new members. SSPC’s caring nature is and will continue to be key to the future of our church.

Annual Meeting of the 1734 Legacy Society of Silver Spring Presbyterian Church

On Wednesday, May 13th, members of the 1734 Legacy Society of Silver Spring gathered at the Annual Meeting of the Society to celebrate their collective achievements over the past year, to welcome new members and to pay their respects to members who have transitioned to the Kingdom of Heaven since the last meeting in May 2025.

The 1734 Legacy Society was established in 2018 to create a multimillion dollar endowment that will support the church’s ministry for future generations. Contributions are directed to one or more of three permanent endowment funds:

1. The Fund for the Living Word – Praising and Worshiping God

2. The Buildings and Grounds Fund – Managing and maintaining our historic

property

3. Heritage Fund – General operations (Mission, Christian Education, Fellowship,

Membership, etc.)

These funds are designed to ultimately generate income distributions to the church, supplementing regular annual personal giving, without depleting the principal of the

fund. People who contribute a minimum of $1,734 in cash or securities, or make a bequest in their will or trust giving to the 1734 Legacy Society or designate the 1734 Legacy Society as a whole or partial beneficiary of their life insurance policy or retirement account upon their passing are recognized as members of the 1734 Legacy Society and have a leaf with their name placed on the beautiful commemorative wooden tree on the ramp wall near the Gathering Place.

At the meeting, Commitment, Legacy and Endowment (CLE) Committee Co-Chair Jim Anderson reviewed the history of the three Legacy Society endowment funds and reported that we reached an important milestone with our funds wherein the total balance was overm$1million ($1,033,641) at the end of March 2026! CLE Co-Chair Bill Resser reviewed the committee’s long-term goals for the balance of

each of the three funds and provided some insight into the good being done in the world

today (locally, nationally and internationally) by the two foundations with which our funds are invested – The Foundation for Enhancing Communities in Harrisburg and The Presbyterian (PCUSA) Foundation.

Bill also introduced a video entitled “Building a Legacy – The Power of Collective Achievement.” CLE Committee member Jim Bogar reviewed the various options people have to enhance their financial support of the 1734 Legacy Society both today and after their passing. For more information about the 1734 Legacy Society, please contact Jim Anderson or Bill Resser. - contributed by Bill Resser, CLE Co-Chair

Associate SSPC Pastor Earns Black Belt

^{First move in street confrontation: It's not what you think}

^{Enlighten Editor Brad Bumsted interviewed Pastor Lisa Chase about her earning her black belt in Isshinryu Karate.}

^{Above: Pastor Lisa Chase with her 93-year}

^{old father, Dr. Thomas Strong, who was a sensei in}

^{Taekwondo in the 1970s}

^How long did it take you to become a Black Belt?

When our children were young, we started them at a wonderful karate school in Dover, DE in 2005. I began doing the adult karate classes at the same time. We all were promoted about the same time until I earned a brown belt in 2008. I stopped at that point, because their other extracurricular activities were time consuming, and I was also working fulltime. Our son Elliott went on to receive his junior black belt in 2010, and Olivia stopped at her third-degree brown belt about the same time. In 2016, I started up again, but I had to begin all over at the white belt level. The katas and the different forms came back quickly for me, and I re-earned my brown belt in 2018. So, in all, it took me about 12 years in total.

In what style of karate do you hold the Black Belt?

I study the style Isshinryu Karate, which is a newer form that originated in Japan in 1957. The founder was Tatsuo Shimabuku, who developed the style from two forms: Shorin-ryu and Goju-Ryu, two styles he studied before he developed Isshinryu. Isshinryu takes the best of those two styles – strong stances, swift and powerful kicks and punches, etc. His son-in-law, Master Angi Uezu, began to teach with him. Master Uezu taught three of my teachers over the years. In 1957, US Marines began taking Isshinryu while stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and then they brought the style to the United States.

What lessons do you draw from the study and practice of martial arts that will help you lead a better life?

Isshinryu has eight codes, which are foundational to the mind and heart sets – about being present, aware and flexible. Respect and honor of others are huge in karate.

I have learned self-control, discipline, to be aware of everything around me, to keep my ears and eyes open, and lead with my heart, but balanced with my intellect. Karate masters and students have been taught to be highly respectful of all of life, kind, gentle, except when you need to defend yourself or others, or when you are sparring. But when you are sparring in competition, you are supposed to play fair and follow tournament rules. I have gotten hurt in sparring competitions and in regular class training – black eyes, mild concussions, broken toes and fingers.

Why did you want to practice Karate?

Growing up, my dad, Thomas Strong, trained in Taekwondo and earned his black belt, and began teaching the style at our church. He taught my brothers and some of my guy friends. Being a gymnast, dancer and equestrian, I wasn't into karate then, but Dad made sure I knew some self defense moves when I began dating and driving the car.

I first got into karate when our children began at the Dover, DE dojo. I thought, well, “let’s make this a family project.” (Her husband) Randall’s schedule was very busy covering the news, so he could not make a commitment. Randall would pick up the children after their classes, and I would stay for the adult class. The children and I practiced at home, I would watch their classes carefully and we would even compete together! Randall also has training in Shorin Ryu and I think he has his orange or green belt in that style, which he earned years ago.

I hated having to leave the practice in 2008, but I needed to be free to run carpool for other activities my children were involved and help out other parents whose children were the same age. So, when I saw my karate instructors at an event in 2016, they encouraged me to begin again. It has taken me longer to earn my black belt than I wanted it to, but COVID interrupted the training. I was so blessed to find a karate school here in Central PA, where I could continue. I train under Senseis Rich King and Jim Kaiser, who are under our head sensei - 9th degree Sensei John Cassatt, who is a retired Ranger in the United States Army.

 If a man the size of a Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle at 6’6’’ and 290 pounds attacked you, would you be able to defend yourself?

Ooph – that is a hard question – I would like to think I could. We are taught to not invite trouble in the first place – I am careful where I walk, when I walk or run, where I park my car, etc. I have a piercing scream which helps, and I hope if someone is planning to attack me, I would anticipate the attack and try to get away first.

What do you say to those who would see a conflict between someone who preaches turning the other cheek, peace and love, while being the master of a martial art that can be violent and deadly?

That is a great question. If I sense I might be attacked, I try to get away, or say “I don’t want any trouble.” If I ever had to defend myself or someone else, the defensive moves would be to get the person on the ground, and then get away. If they keep coming at me, then I have to increase my self defense techniques, such as kicking “where it hurts,” poke the eyes, squeeze certain pressure points on the body, even bite a hand or arm, etc. I just hope no one ever messes with me – because I am feisty and strong. That also comes from having two older brothers who took karate from our father when we were younger!

What is the first thing you tell Karate students?

Be in karate for the long game. Be patient. Pay attention to the teachers and to themselves, and how their own bodies work. Be focused and disciplined. Be humble and learn. As a Karate student, you never stop learning. As a black belt, my education has just begun, really, now that I can help teach classes. I am a stickler for correct form, and even when I have taught 4-year-olds, I make sure they are holding their hands, arms and legs in the correct positions when they kick and punch, and learn kata.

Is breaking thick pieces of wood or slabs of concrete with the edge of your hand, as people may have seen on TV, real or fake and does it have a purpose?

It is real. I have broken 1 1/2" pieces of wood, and that is hard. But if you position your hands properly, any person can do it. I don’t break boards anymore, but if I had to for self-defense or to help someone else, I could do it.

Did you learn weapons such as swords, nunchaku, and staff?

The swords are called sais, and the staff is called a bo. I did have some exposure to nunchaku, and tonfa, but I like to stick with sais and bos. I know several forms, which use the sais and bos.

 If someone attacked you, are you capable of subduing your attacker without severe bodily injury until police arrive? I sure hope so, but as I mentioned before, I try never to invite trouble. Our senseis at Swatara Karate Academy teach self-defense at police academies, and out in different communities, so they teach us many of the same techniques they have taught police officers.

.

Sensei Lisa Chase and her teacher, Sensei Rich King will offer free Self-defense classes to members of SSPC the following date in July:

Seniors - Saturday, July 11th 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Women and Girls, Saturday, July 11 3:30 - p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Rooms 202-203

Please sign up through REALM here: 
Click here For Seniors and click here for Women and Girls

Senseis Chase and King practice self-defense moves during a recent training session.

Left: Sensei Thomas Strong, a retired physician in Roanoke, Va., and Pastor Lisa Chase's father, was a karate Sensei for many years, training youngsters in their hometown of Roanoke. He is her inspiration for her karate practice.

SSPC Star Athletes and Coaches

I press on toward the goal, toward the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14, NRSVUE)

Scattered throughout the SSPC congregation are people who have paved the way for youth to excel in life by teaching them to win on the court, in the pool, on the mat and on the links. Enlighten took a deep dive to report on coaches and athletes in the congregation who use their God-given talents to help kids and young people rise to the top and enrich their lives throughout adulthood. An inspiration, for example, is Gary Karkuff who at age 72 is competing for an international Olympic Weightlifting title. Another is retired Cumberland Valley Soccer and Wrestling Coach Jim Smith who has a pile of awards and plaques and doesn't want to talk about them because he says they were really won by his student athletes.

Youth Basketball Coach Pours Hours into Coaching Others

Scott Pepperman, Elder, and CE Chairman says his love of sports began at eight years old, playing baseball with cousins and neighborhood friends. That same year, he joined Little League, adding that he was not especially talented at first, but patient coaches and supportive adults invested their time in helping him improve. Their encouragement shaped not only his athletic abilities, but also his character. By age twelve, Scott had become an All-Star first baseman before shifting his focus to basketball, the sport that would become his lifelong passion.

“In high school, my focus shifted more toward band and student government while continuing intramural sports,” he said. “After graduation, I joined the Air Force and served for eight years. During that time, I continued competing in football, softball, basketball, tennis, and golf.”

Scott said his experiences in sports strongly influenced his adult life and parenting. In 1988, one of his daughters joined T-ball, introducing him to youth coaching. That same year, he became an assistant soccer coach, beginning a coaching career that lasted through 2001. Over the years, Scott coached youth and high school girls’ soccer teams, served as a board member, referee trainer, and tournament organizer, and helped establish HMMS Soccer, now known as Eagle FC, a major youth soccer organization in the Cumberland Valley School District.

Then in 1990, Scott’s passion for youth basketball was fueled when the Cumberland Valley Youth Basketball Association (CVYBA) was formed for elementary school students, and this opportunity began a second coaching journey that would last decades. Scott later became an age group coordinator and, in 1994, President of the league, serving for ten years while helping expand the organization. What began with around 200 players grew into a program serving more than 1,300 players and coaches from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Teams competed across Pennsylvania and participated in events at West Point, Annapolis, and Philadelphia 76ers halftime games. More importantly, CVYBA focused on teaching sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and service. Through referee training programs, scholarships, and charitable fundraising, the organization donated more than $100,000 to causes including the American Heart Association, pancreatic cancer research, and pediatric cancer support.

“Over 35 years, I coached players from kindergarten through high school while mentoring young coaches,” he said. “One of the greatest rewards has been seeing former players return years later with their own children, continuing the tradition of service and community involvement. CVYBA estimates that I contributed more than 15,000 hours of volunteer service.”

“The reason for my dedication goes back to the adults who invested in me as a child. Their patience, guidance, and generosity shaped who I became. Coaching and volunteering have been my way of saying “thank you” and passing those lessons on to future generations.” Scott added that if his efforts have helped even one child grow into a better person and inspired them to serve others, then every hour has been worthwhile. “As long as my health and passion allow, I plan to continue teaching and mentoring young people,” he said. “Faith, family, freedom, and sports have shaped my life, and I feel truly blessed for the opportunity to give back.”

CV Director of Bands Is Also District Golf Coach 

Scott Ainscough is best known for his musical acumen. He is director of bands at Cumberland Valley School District. He also plays trumpet professionally in the region and electric guitar in SSPC’s Gathering Praise Band. Fewer folks know that Ainscough has another love: golf, playing and coaching. He is now in his sixth year as golf coach at Cumberland Valley.



Ainscough came to golf late in life.

He didn’t play in high school or college and he “thought golf was pretty boring and only old guys played it.” Once he was introduced to it in his early 20’s, he fell in love and fell hard. It helped that Ainscough was athletic.

“I was pretty good at it early, having played rotational-movement sports like baseball and hockey. But, as in many aspects of my life, the more I played, the better I got, then the more I wanted to learn and practice, and the improvement grew,” Ainscough said.

Here is the challenge and the attraction. “I really love the internal battle golf provides,” Ainscough said, “Trying to control your mind and emotions, settling yourself down before each shot, trying to stay present in the moment rather than being upset by your last shot or worrying about the next one. I love trying to quiet your mind so you aren't stressing about what your score will be at the end of the round or what others are thinking about how you play.”

Ainscough loves “just about everything” in golf. “I love being out in nature, away from devices and noise. Being able to still compete as I'm getting older. Being able to compete with any one of any level. But I also love not needing to compete- just simply to play and learn from play. I love playing a solo round, but I also love playing with groups of friends,” he said.

Without a resume of golf successes, how did Ainscough land the position of golf coach at CV? Right place, right time. “ I played a really good round many years ago with the athletic director at Cumberland Valley,” Ainscough said. “When the position opened up he remembered and asked if I'd be interested.”

 Would Scotty rather have been a golf pro or a trumpet player in the NY Philharmonic?

“This is a tough one,” Ainscough said. “ Both come with such immense pressure. I'm not sure I'd be very good at the circus that follows the PGA, the celebrity, and the travel. I think as a trumpeter in the back of the orchestra you can stay a bit anonymous. I'd probably choose the horn.”

Jim Smith, Hall of Fame Soccer Coach

Jim Smith is a humble guy. 

He’s one of the most heralded soccer and wrestling coaches in the region but he’s retired and doesn’t like talking about himself. When asked, he didn’t want to talk about specific awards. His wife Jean convinced him he should do so. Turns out he was elected to three Hall of Fames, one by the Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association and another by the Cumberland Valley Wrestling Hall of Fame before retiring in 2005.

In 2025, the South Central Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame named Smith to its ranks.

That’s really big. The Southeast Chapter includes former Major Leaguer Tom Brookens of Chambersburg, and John Greene, who played on the undefeated Penn State championship 1986 football team and later served as 1988 team captain. The statewide group includes Steelers founding owner Art Rooney, Connie Mack, the legendary owner of the Philadelphia Athletics and former MLB All-Stars Roberto Clemente and Stan Musial.

“I am blessed to have had the opportunity to have worked with so many great young men , and a few young women, in both soccer and wrestling. Although I have had the privilege to receive a number of awards,” Smith said, “These awards were earned through the abilities and performances of my athletes. I only accept them in the honor of my players and wrestlers who made them possible. My greatest award is the realization that these young men became successes, leaders , and just plain good people.

During his tenure, CV’s soccer team qualified for District playoffs 20 years in a row. CV won five District titles.

Smith founded the CV soccer program in 1972. “The 1997 CV soccer team was District III Champions and made it to the State Semi-Finals, that team was 26-1, however over the years, we have had four other teams who only had one loss; unfortunately it was a play-off loss, last game of the season,” Smith said, “Over my tenure, 83 players had earned All-star recognition for two or three all-Star classifications. Some of them multiple times over a couple of years. Many won All-State player team recognition, several were NSCCA regional All-Americans or Umbro All-Americans, three were NSCCA All-Americans and one made Parade Magazine All-American.”

“I began coaching wrestling at CV in 1972 for a total of 22 years. the last six years as the Head coach."

In 1992-93, his last year, the team won the District III team title and the Individual District III meet title and were undefeated in dual meet competition.

Seven young men from that team went on to compete in States with two placing and earning the team a 5th place finish in AAA team placement. 

 “My fondest memory of wrestling was to attend the CV High School graduation of one of my wrestlers. He was struggling and ready to quit school when I told him I would be at his graduation. He worked hard to pass, and did. I honored my promise. It was the first graduation ceremony that I attended while at CV.

“My fondest memory of Soccer was the first time we won the District III Championship. I was standing by myself on the middle of the field just staring into space. Everyone else was jumping and screaming, all excited, Then my assistant coach came over and asked what was wrong. I answered, "Nothing Coach, it just took so long to get here, I am soaking it all in!"



Smith wrestled and played soccer at Sun Valley High School in Delaware County where he was captain of the wrestling team his junior and senior year and captain of the soccer team his senior year. But he also played trumpet in marching and dance bands in which the players memorized all of their music.

Northern Coach Shaped by Experience at Annapolis

A Naval Academy graduate who was captain of the academy’s water polo team, Bill Resser is the longtime swimming coach at Northern High School, a retired IBM sales executive and an elder at Silver Spring Presbyterian helping to lead the drive for the church’s financial legacy and endowment.

“I truly enjoy and appreciate being in a leadership position at Silver Spring. It's a responsibility I take very seriously,” Resser said. “I feel God has called me, both with coaching and through being an elder, to utilize my gifts in a way that positively impacts the lives of others.” Bill and his wife Eleanor joined the church in 1987.

At Annapolis, midshipmen had to live by an “honor concept” that says midshipmen should not lie, cheat or steal and actively stand for what is right. It’s no wonder then that Resser says, “I've always felt strongly that the most important aspect of coaching is teaching and modeling strong character, including the power and importance of honesty, dependability, commitment, self-discipline, compassion, courage, respectfulness, loyalty, hard work, team work (and), servant leadership.”

“One of the best compliments I ever received was an email from a former swimmer when he was in college that read, "Hi Coach Resser. I wanted you to know that last night I found myself in a situation where I had to make a tough decision. I thought of you...and I think I made the right one."  It doesn't get any better than that.

“At our end of the season banquet each year, we allow the graduating seniors to make remarks,” he said. “Very often, most of them comment about how many ‘life lessons’ they learned as part of our program.”

Resser began at the academy training as a member of the Navy swim team. He was recruited as a Navy swimmer. He said he found the voluminous laps left him too tired to stay awake for studying and classes. He switched to water polo, which is rigorous, but hardly monotonous. Resser graduated from the academy in 1979 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a commission as an Ensign. He worked as a Naval recruiter but was unable to become a Navy pilot due to a severe back condition.

In 1981 he went to work for IBM in engineering and then sales. His was the last all-male class at the academy.



Resser also volunteered as a soccer coach in Dillsburg. He coached girls soccer with the Dillsburg Area Soccer Club from 1990 until he began coaching swimming and diving at Northern in 2002.

Rick Pierce, new CV Tackle Coach

A graduate of Cumberland Valley High School, Rick Pierce was a multi-sport athlete whose early success set the tone for a distinguished athletic career. In basketball, Pierce' s primary sport through his senior year, he was a key member of the 1981 Capital Area Conference Championship team. On the football field, Pierce contributed to one of the most significant achievements in school history as a member of the 1982 Cumberland Valley team that captured the program’s first-ever District III Championship.

As a tight end and defensive end, Pierce demonstrated versatility, discipline, and leadership.

Above: Coach Rick Pierce (left) photographed

with two of his coaching colleagues.

"Following high school, I continued my athletic career at Washington and Lee University as a wide receiver, " he said. "I had the great opportunity to be part of the 1985 Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championship team, which concluded the season ranked #20 nationally - a wonderful accomplishment for our team."

After his playing career, Pierce transitioned into coaching, where his influence would become even more profound. Beginning at Cumberland Valley High School as a junior varsity coach in 1987 and 1988, he laid the foundation for what would become a decades-long commitment to mentoring young athletes.

"I’ve always believed that as a coach, you must connect with your players," Pierce said. "Coach Smith from our church was one of the first I met in my life who embodied that principle. Many of my youth, high school and college coaches used this principle as a starting point.  That connection sometimes means involvement not just with the sport, but their lives. This is continual as well since I often hear from (and work with) former players years after they move on from high school football. We try to instill values such as internal and external discipline, work ethic, resiliency, and teach life lessons within a controlled, safe environment of a sport."

From 1991 to 1997, Rick served as Varsity Defensive Ends Coach at Bishop McDevitt High School. During this period, the program achieved remarkable success, winning three consecutive District III Championships and capturing the 1995 PIAA State Championship. His coaching excellence helped develop four players who earned All-State honors.

In 1999, Rick continued his coaching career at Harrisburg High School as Varsity Defensive Ends Coach, further expanding his impact across the region.

From 2001 to 2025, Rick served as Varsity Defensive Line Coach at Susquehanna Township High School. Over this 24-year tenure, the team secured four division championships and finished as district runner-up three times. His mentorship led to the development of five All-State players, including two who advanced to play at West Virginia University and went on to professional careers with the New York Jets.

In 2026, Rick returned to his alma mater, Cumberland Valley High School, as Varsity Defensive Tackles Coach, continuing his commitment to shaping student-athletes both on and off the field.

Coaching others will always be a part of Pierce's life, because how much he cares about his athletes and their overall growth. "Only when my players internalize how much I care about them does it matter how much I know to teach them," he said. "I will borrow a more eloquent quote from others, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”  

Gary Karkuff pushes for title in Athens

By age 72, many folks are content to play pickle ball, sit in a hammock, cast a fishing line, or just watch TV.

Not Gary Karkuff.

A member of Silver Spring Presbyterian, Karkuff is training for the Masters World title in Olympic Weightlifting. Karkuff and a lifter he coaches will travel to Athens, Greece for the meet in September. Karkuff already holds national records in the Masters, the organization for over-35 weight lifters governed by USA Masters.

He was named this year to the Masters Hall of Fame for his age group. The Masters competition is divided into five-year age brackets. Karkuff now competes in the 70-74 age group in the two lifts - the snatch-and-clean-and-jerk -- that make up Olympic Weightlifting. 

“I like to compete and always wanted to compete internationally and my wife enjoys traveling so lifting in Masters competitions has allowed me to do that,” Karkuff said.

Karkuff begins his mornings in normal fashion -- with a walk. But three to four times a week, for approximately 2 hours, he does the Olympic-style lifts and numerous other weight training exercises.

A South Jersey native, Karkuff is a former Gettysburg College wrestler who decided to stay in Central Pennsylvania. He began lifting at 15 to get stronger for wrestling. He and his wife, Karen, who sings in the SSPC choir, raised three kids -- now adults. His vocation was as a physical therapist. He’s retired as a therapist save for some consulting work, He trains and coaches in a barn he set up as a training facility on his property.



“I coach because I enjoy helping others and it keeps me involved in a competitive environment,” said Karkuff. He has been a USA weightlifting national level coach since 2017. Earlier in his career, Karkuff won three Pennsylvania State Championships. Since 2013, he has won six Master national championships and four Pan American championships.

Former CV Swimmer and Longtime Coach Heads CV Acquatic Club (CVAC)

James “Gus” Schnell sees coaching kids as his mission. “It’s kind of like being a teacher,” he said. Schnell sometimes sees himself as akin to the GPS in a car, providing kids with the road map to make good decisions.

He coaches the highly successful CV Aquatic Club (CVAC.) The latest figures from USA Swimming, the Colorado Springs-based governing organization -- with oversight from local swim clubs to selecting the U.S. Olympic Team -- show the CVAC team ranked 330th of 2,800 such clubs across the nation, according to Schnell.

“Swimming is a metaphor for life,” Schnell said. “What you do isn’t as important as how you do it. Competitive swimming is a sport that teaches delayed gratification in a day and age where kids want immediate results. So learning to go through a long process helps develop skills that will translate to becoming their best selves.”

CVA has 185 team members ranging from age 6-22 and competing year-round in local regional and national meets. Looking at the past year, “our Women's Team placed 2^nd in the Sectional Championship in St. Marys City, MD (Highest Meet in the Northeastern USA Region),” Schnell said. "The only Team better was Germantown Academy (from Philadelphia) by 3 points. And we finished in 5^th place Combined (Men/Women.)”

“This year one girl won the High School State Title for CV in 100 Fly. Another girl is ranked 5^th in the Country among 15-16 year olds,” Schnell said.

“We are currently 81-0 in Head-to-Head Meets,” he said, “and have been Central PA Aquatic League and Capital Area Swim League Champions for the past 9 years.”

The team’s most accomplished swimmer is CV freshman Ava Buhrman. She is in the top 100 all-time in USA Swimming and has her mind set on making finals at July’s national championship in Irvine California.

 Schnell himself is a former CV swimmer. He’s the first to tell you he was “a decent one, not spectacular.” He “swam at CV from 1983-1988 with moderate success --. was a Captain. And then at Bethany College from 1988-1992…. Broke Bethany College records in 100 and 200 backstroke.”

Schnell and his wife Corinne attend SSPC. They have two children, Austin who will be starting at Penn State and Reagan who is finishing her Professional Development at CLI Dance Conservatory in Amherst, Mass.

The Schnells have a family insurance company, Cumberland Valley Insurance Agency, which was founded by Gus’s father Jerry Schnell in 1980. Schnell has served as a church trustee and was a member of the pastor nominating committee that brought The Reverend Doctor Don Wahlig to SSPC.

“The importance of being a coach,” Schnell said, is “helping make a difference in the lives of kids going through periods of their lives when they are figuring out who they are.”

Our Church Community

June 14th Church-wide Picnic

Silver Spring Presbyterian Church's fellowship opportunities are some of the best in the area! June 14th was the annual "kick-off" for summer all-church-wide picnic, complete with fried chicken, potato salad, hot dogs, cake, and games! It was also Flag Day, where the congregation sang "God Bless America," with the Intergenerational Choir during Sunday Worship.

Photos Clock-wise: Mary Cheers and Shannon Leary are all smiles as they wait patiently in the food line. The congregation surprised Pastor Lisa Chase with a cake celebrating her recent graduation from Moravian University with a graduate certificate in Spiritual Direction. Zoe McCarthy shows off her unicorn design, and Crew Dierich practices his corn hole skills!

Cumberland County Chapter of Young Engineers enjoy Summer Camp at SSPC

For the last year, the Cumberland County Chapter of Young Engineers has held weekly activities for young people at SSPC. This summer, the organization held a summer camp for the future's budding engineers, with classes on coding and building "dancing" robots with Legos.

The younger "young engineers" built boats, with design and building materials. The young man on the left told Pastor Lisa that his is the fastest boat ever built!

This particular dancing robot, was designed on a computer tablet and its awesome dance moves were created by computer program coding. The dancing robots could "bust some serious moves!"

Women's Tea benefitting Pink Hands of Hope great success (and beautiful!)

On a beautiful Saturday, May 2nd, around 70 lovely women came together at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church and enjoyed friendship and fellowship, while savoring delicious teas and tea foods, such as scones, finger sandwiches, cupcakes and fruit. Keynote presentation delivered by Debra Donadee, the passionate executive director of Pink Hands of Hope. Her heartfelt words illuminated the incredible work this organization does for cancer patients within our community, reminding us of the strength and hope that can flourish even in difficult times. Notably, Pink Hands of Hope thrives on the generosity of those who support their mission by purchasing gently used beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories that have been donated.

Hostesses gather with Pastor Lisa Chase and Linda Adams, Tea Coordinator

Tables beautifully decorated by the hostesses, in the theme of pink.

Karek Karkuff's table featured beautiful china with a green leafy pattern,with deep pink flowers displayed.

Meal with a Mission: Caitlin Smiles

Making "bags of smiles" for youngsters

SSPC members make items for "bags of smiles."

Membership co-Chair, Shannon Leary, gives the large gathering of volunteers directions.

Members decorate greeting cards to be inserted into the bags.

Benefitting Caitlin Smiles, a Harrisburg-based organization that supplies arts and crafts kits - "Bags of Smiles," and toys to children dealing with chronic or life-threatening illnesses, our April Meal with a Mission was a great success! Fifty-five people including members of the Cumberland Valley High School Key Club attended. Church members and people from the community enjoyed friendship, fellowship and excellent soups, sandwiches, salad, and cookies prepared by Scott and Melanie Pepperman and their crew of volunteers. The volunteers gathered at various stations and made kits for 217 key chains, 73 bracelets, and 55 neon buddy bands. In addition, the crew donated Play Doh, coloring books, reading books, and stamps. Plus, extra supplies from making the kits were donated to Caitlin’s Smiles. Attendees also decorated white paper bags and made greeting cards. We wish to thank all those who donated and participated!

A special thank you to Dale Darkes, a longtime member of SSPC's Fellowship Committee, for 25 years of exemplary volunteer service and brownie baking for Fellowship's many church gatherings. Dale retired from the Fellowship Committee recently, and he was honored with a beautiful certificate of gratitude. Thank you Dale!

Christian Education

The Christian Education Committee supports the worship life of our congregation by helping Silver Spring members and friends address our inherent hunger to know and love God with our minds as well as our hearts. We extend Christian Education to our community as well, seeking to spread the Word of Jesus Christ to all.

July Picnic! - July 19th

Christian Education is working on a special event for young families for our church and our community as we continue our outreach and events for our young families. We will feature a “carnival” like atmosphere, with a petting zoo, bouncy house, face painting, and lawn games. We will serve hot dogs and chips, soda and juice boxes, and lot of cookies. Our date is Sunday, July 19^th, 4 pm to 7 pm, rain or shine! This will be one of 20 young family events CE is hosting this year.

Sunday School/Youth Church for 2026-2027

The Committee is also busy concluding our Sunday School year and thinking ahead to September with the possibility of starting a middle school Sunday School and expanding our Dwell curriculum to our preschool class. We are also looking forward to Rally Day in September and the Advent Season with many more outreach events and church events as well.  Speaking of Sunday School, CE began a Men’s Bible Study Class on Monday evenings, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, in Room 204. This is our fourth Bible Study Class as we seek to serve more of our Adults.

Contributor, Scott Pepperman, Elder and CE Chairman

Trusting God with God's plan for each of us

Recently Rev. Dr. Don Wahlig preached an inspirational sermon about Abram trusting God, when God called him and Sarai to move from Haran to the land of Canaan. Abram could not see what God had in store for him and his wife, but they were both obedient, trusing God's call on their lives. During the Time for Children on this particular Sunday, Austin Shoop, youth director, had the children partner up and one person - the leader, take another person forward, while that person kept their eyes closed. Here in this photograph, big brother Luca McCarthy, leads little sister Zoe to the "Promise Land," where treats awaited them!

Please click on the image above to listen to our theme song for this year's VBS!

SSPC VBS - YES!

“I've been washed in the water, washed in the blood, I'm as good as new, oh hallelujah!” This is the first line of the song, “Washed” by the contemporary Christian group, Elevation Worship. Contemporary Christian music is the theme of our Vacation Bible School (VBS) 2026 at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church. We are excited to be able to bring stories, crafts, and even characters to life, based on music.

 VBS will be held this year, from Monday, August 3^rd to Friday, August 7^th, from 9 am to noon, each day. We will include our stories, crafts, snacks and games each day. Currently there is a waiting list for registrations. Please contact Pastor Lisa Chase at lisa@silverspring.org, to put your child(ren) on the waiting list. 

 This year promises to be the best yet, but we could use your help! We still need teachers, assistants, cooks, and activity leaders. If you can help in any way, please let Pastor Lisa Chase or Scott Pepperman know as soon as possible. When working with children we are always cautious to make sure all adults have their Child Abuse clearances. If you have one, that's great, we will need proof for our file, if not contact us and we can guide you on how to complete your Child Abuse forms and get certified in just a few days.



Thank you for your support and prayers as we prepare for VBS. Any donations would be welcome as well, donations of craft materials, food and ideas are always welcome. Blessings.

CORE YOUTH

Youth Sunday

Youth Sunday, featuring an original play by CORE youth and Austin Shoop titled “The Summer I turned Christian,” was poignantly realistic and moving, capturing teenage angst and hope. The overall key theme-truth is that Jesus is our friend, and promises to always love and guide us, through the power of the holy spirit, regardless of how low or high the peaks and valleys of our lives, and the many questions we may have of our faith.

Youth partners and elders watch the CORE group lead Worship with love and pride.(front to back): Kris Carpinello, Susan Neville and Scott Pepperman.

(Left to right): Morgan Crompton, RJ Holt and Kate Hall, perform in "The Summer I turned Christian."

Lilly Taylor provides worship leadership, while narrator Brayden Pierce looks on.

Hold THESE Dates!

Silver Spring Presbyterian Church is planning for its own Mini-Packing Event for Feed My Starving Children, beginning Friday evening, August 7, through Saturday, August 8th, here at the church. Members and friends don't want to miss this opportunity to "have the most fun you will ever have in a hair net," preparing meals for hungry children and families in the world. Right now, there will be one shift Friday evening and two shifts on Saturday. About three workstations will be setup depending on the number of volunteers. Members from local churches will be invited to participate. For more information, please contact Fred Shatto, and look out for sign-up information beginning sometime in July.

Save the Date for Many Voices, ONE SONG!

Sunday, August 30, 2026, 4:00 PM

• Guest Preacher: Rev. Cecelia "Cece" Armstrong, Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly
• Outstanding Music: Unity vocal choir, Unity Bell Choir, Unity Youth Choir, Hallelujah Chorus Sing-Along
• Food and Fellowship before and after Worship, special gatherings for children & youth

Hosted by Second Presbyterian Church, 528 Garland Drive, Carlisle. Planned by the Presbytery of Carlisle for our 7000+ members and 40+ congregations.

The Deadline for the Fall Enlighten Newsletter is September 20, 2026. Please send all articles to Editor Brad Bumsted by that date. His email is bradebumsted@gmail.com. The fall newsletter will be distributed by mid-October. Thank you!

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