On this episode of Sunspots, we meet is Tammy Stepka. Tammy is known by the folks at Grace Presbytery as the Office & Ministry Coordinator. In the Synod of the Sun we are getting to know Tammy as our new Interim Administrative Assistant. Tammy has served on the staff of Grace Presbytery since 2017 and joined our staff in January of this year. Tammy has a B.A. in Organizational Leadership and is a member of First Presbyterian Church in Garland.

Tammy talks about how her role at Grace Presbytery, how so much of her Synod job is virtual when her Presbytery is in-person, and what first brought her to the Presbytery and what brought her to the Synod.

In a conversation with guest host Kristy Rodgers, medical student Allison Mundy shares how a 2019 border encounter trip organized by the Synod of the Sun profoundly shaped her views on immigration. Motivated by Lyon College’s focus on service, the 12-hour journey from Arkansas to the border exposed her to the real-life struggles of migrants, highlighting the importance of empathy, dignity, and systemic advocacy. The experience continues to influence her work in medicine and her commitment to social justice, reinforcing the value of firsthand engagement in fostering deeper understanding and lasting impact.

On this episode of Sunspots, we talk with Elizabeth Brinegar, Teaching Elder from the Presbytery of Arkansas and the returning Director of Operations for Solar Under the Sun.
Elizabeth is a familiar face in the Synod, having served six years as a Commissioner, was elected Moderator for 2019, was the Coordinating Team Chair, and served on the Search Committee for the Synod Leader.

Elizabeth discusses the mission and ministry of Solar Under the Sun, which is dedicated to providing clean, sustainable, and transformative energy to communities facing energy poverty. She reflects on her return to the role of Director of Operations, sharing the reasons behind her decision to come back. Elizabeth also addresses the evolving relationship between Solar Under the Sun and the Synod, particularly after the organization transitioned from being a Synod Network to establishing itself as an independent 501(c)(3).

To find out more about Solar Under the Sun and how you can get on board as a volunteer or bring your church to a Solar School:
https://www.solarunderthesun.org/