Wekiva Presbyterian Church
by Susan Shalhoub
Wekiva Presbyterian Church, known for its friendly membership and active groups, continues to evolve to meet the needs of its congregants. Founded in 1977, the church has become a cornerstone of the community.
“I’ve been part of Wekiva Presbyterian for about 24 years, and my kids have grown up in the church,” says Kim Harshman, a member of the communications committee. “We’ve loved it here and found the people to be wonderful. Changes along the way have made it even better.”
In 2000, the church began webcasting its services, long before many other churches made that a standard practice. A new pastor, Oscar Clavel, came on board in August 2021. He succeeded Dr. John A. Dalles, who served as pastor from 1997 to 2019.
Pastor Clavel, the church’s fifth leader since its founding, says Wekiva Presbyterian was already a strong institution. Since his arrival, he has collaborated with church elders and deacons and launched new outreach efforts and long-range planning initiatives.
“I found a church that was excited to look to the future,” says Pastor Clavel. “Services have now gone from 120 attendees to about 175. We tell our 354 members, including many young families, to make the church their home.”
Wekiva Presbyterian is a place where families can grow and thrive. The church started its Christian Child Center preschool in 1984, which is still going strong.
There are ample opportunities for members of all ages to worship through music. For example, the church has two children’s choirs – the Kids Club Choir and Cherub Choir. For adults, Wekiva Presbyterian offers the Chancel Choir and a handbell choir.
There are also many other ways to get involved in the church’s ministries.
Presbyterian Women (PW) is always welcoming new members. Ladies Of Faith Together (LOFT) is a Bible study group offering daycare, and it doesn’t require church membership, says Pastor Clavel.
Annual events include a yard sale, a Friendsgiving meal around Thanksgiving, a Trunk or Treat event for Halloween, and a live nativity during Christmas.
As for the future, says Pastor Clavel, building maintenance, remodeling projects, and creating discipleship opportunities for all ages will help keep Wekiva Presbyterian strong for many years to come.