Weekly eNews for February 9, 2024 | | |
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Bach/Biber Project - 2/11
RSVP for the Pancake Supper - 2/13
Bring a Cajun Side to Shrove Tuesday - 2/13
Ash Wednesday - 2/14
Family Eucharist - 2/27
Grant Applications DUE 2/28
Chez Epiphany - 2/29
New Art Show in the Gallery for February
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Dear Epiphany Community,
Lent is a season of self-reflection, repentance, renewal, and also possibility. Lent leads us through Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem and the cross and points us towards the joy of resurrection and new life.
These forty days invite us to reflect on our relationship with God, on how we are living out the promises made in the baptismal covenant, and on how we continue to be transformed through God’s love. It is not a season for beating ourselves up or feeling shame for the ways we fall short, but for living into the grace that surrounds and upholds us and invites us into deeper connection with the God who created us and loves us deeply.
Some people like to give something up for Lent as a way of reminding themselves of the depth of God’s provision for us. I like to take up a practice for Lent - something that draws me closer to the God who is always longing to draw near to us. As one of your Lenten practices, you might consider joining the online Morning Prayer group at Epiphany that meets on Zoom each weekday at 9:00 a.m. You might take up the practice of weekly online intergenerational Compline that is meeting Thursdays from 7:00 to 7:15 p.m. on Zoom during Lent. Or you might take up Peter’s invitation in the sermon last week to find some space for silence during this season. You may also notice some longer pauses for silence during the service—after the sermon and after we bid the confession. The Bach/Biber Project contemplative music offering this Sunday would be a great entrance into creating more space for reflection in your life.
But first, we invite you to end the season of Epiphany next Tuesday with the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper and the Burning of the Palms liturgy, using last year’s palms to prepare the ashes for use on Ash Wednesday. And then join us for Ash Wednesday services February 14 at noon and 7:00 p.m..
Dear friends, I pray that especially during this season, you may listen to the movement of the Holy Spirit in your life and find moments to reflect on God’s grace and love and let that send you out into the world to live that love in a world so desperately in need of it. I hope to see you Sunday.
Amy+
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Vestry News
Paige Howell has let us know that she needs to resign from her role as a member of Vestry. She has been caring for her mother, parishioner Shirley Sugden, who is now receiving Hospice Care. Paige has done an amazing job as Vestry liaison for Children and Youth Formation the last two years, and we are so grateful for the time and service she has given to this parish. Please keep Paige and her mother Shirley in your prayers, and be sure to thank Paige for her service.
When there is a vacancy on the vestry, our by-laws state that the remaining vestry vote to approve someone to fill the remaining term. The vestry has nominated Emily Thompson and she has accepted! Emily is a long time member of Epiphany and serves in our children’s ministry. Her term will end in January 2025 when we elect a new class of vestry. We are thrilled that she will serve this coming year! You can read more about her below.
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Emily Thompson
Hi! My name is Emily Thompson and I’ve been coming to Epiphany since I was 9 years old! Many of you might remember me as the kid who wore running shorts every Sunday and some of you might know me as Dave and Stephanie's daughter. I am a Middle school Special Education Teacher in Gwinnett County and love what I do every single day. There are so many people here at Epiphany who have taught me, nurtured me, and watched me grow into the women I am today and I am so honored to accept this role on the Vestry for this year to help serve all of God’s creation.
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WORSHIP
Racial Justice Sunday
February 11 at 10:00 a.m. • nave
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Following the tradition of the Church of England, Epiphany will observe Racial Justice Sunday on the second Sunday in February. In the Episcopal Church, this Sunday falls closest to the feast of Absalom Jones, the first African-American man ordained as a priest in our tradition in 1802.
Please join us in worship as we reflect on the importance of racial justice, give thanks for the gifts and beauty of human diversity, and commit to the work of ending racism and acts of discrimination.
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Worship with us at 10:00 a.m. | |
- Children's Chapel takes place during the service.
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Sermon Recordings are posted on Mondays.
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Formation for All at 11:30 a.m. | |
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Adult Formation in the parish hall:
Throughout Christian history, Mary Magdalene has been depicted as a faithful apostle, a penitent sinner, a contemplative figure, a prostitute, a witness, a preacher, and a patron. Ann Fowler will lead an adult formation class centered around recent scholarly research on Mary Magdalene. The different ways Mary has been portrayed in art and culture over the years will also be explored.
A playlist of recent classes can be found on our YouTube Channel.
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Next Sunday - During Lent we will engage with Bishop Wright’s five-part video series to help guide us in this season of sacrifice and self-examination. The theme of this year’s series is “Letting Go.” Members of the Epiphany community will help facilitate group reflection on the videos. | |
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Children & Youth Formation:
Please register your children for formation classes.
- Room 205 – Godly Play children (3 years old through 2nd grade)
- Room 206 – 3rd and 5th grade
- Lower-Level Classroom / Donut Den – Youth (6th to 12th grade)
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MUSIC
The Bach/Biber Project
Sunday, February 11 at 5:00 p.m. in the Nave
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Join us for the second in a series of 6 performances over the next three years of the Bach/Biber Project.
Violinist Judith Cox and organist Julie Ryder will present 2 of Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber’s Rosary Sonatas which are based around the Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary. Bach’s Violin Partita in B minor is also on the program.
This presentation will take place as part of our monthly Contemplative Practice. For more information, visit Bach/Biber Project or contact Julie Ryder.
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YOUTH MINISTRIES
Youth Group
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Tonight is the Youth Group Super Bowl Party. Drop your youth off at Epiphany at 6:30 p.m. to watch the first half of the game and the halftime show together. You can plan to pick them up right after the halftime show.
Please bring a snack to share!
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Art Ministry - Now Showing
Epiphany’s Art Ministry welcomes woodturner and engraver Mike “Doc” Davis for the month of February. He’s a skilled craftsman who uses artistic woods, many of which are found pieces and native to Georgia.
Remember, 25% of all sales benefit Epiphany.
Click here to learn more about the artist and the Art Ministry >>
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Write a Valentine
an ICM Partnership project
| 2/10—Please write a note in support of Georgia’s children. “Mail” it in the designated ICM “Have a Heart” Campaign mailbox in the gallery by February 10. Valentine (or other) cards are to be written to Georgia State legislators compelling them to prioritize all Georgia’s children. For more information about our new ICM Partnership, refer to the January 26 edition of the Friday eNews. | |
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PARISH LIFE & WORSHIP
Shrove Tuesday
Tuesday, February 13
On Shrove Tuesday, come to the parish hall at 5:30 p.m. to help decorate the Alleluia Banner. All ages welcome! Then join us at 6:00 p.m. for pancakes (cooked by our Youth) and/or potluck Cajun (you bring it). There will be King Cake for dessert. The Burning of the Palms Liturgy will follow in the Courtyard at 6:45 p.m.
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PARISH LIFE/ YOUTH MINISTRIES
Pancake Supper & Mardi Gras Potluck - February 13
Served from 6:00 to 6:45 p.m.
The Epiphany Youth will be preparing a pancake supper to celebrate Shrove Tuesday, and to raise money for their summer pilgrimage (destination TBD).
One serving is 3 pancakes (with toppings) and 2 pieces of bacon or 1 vegetarian sausage. There will be a gluten-free option available as well.
Please RSVP so that we know how much batter and bacon/veggie sausage to buy and cook. We also encourage you to bring a topping or a side—the theme is cajun food, for Mardi Gras!
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| ** PLEASE NOTE: If you plan to just enjoy the pancakes, you do NOT need to bring a dish to share. And you do not need to RSVP for pancakes if you are just planning to sample the Cajun fare. | | |
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Pancake Volunteers Needed
We need a minimum of 5 adult volunteers who can help with chaperoning, organizing, and cleaning.
Volunteers need to be at the church from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.
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WORSHIP
Ash Wednesday
February 14 at noon and 7:00 p.m.
2/14—We will observe the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday services at 12:00 & 7:00 p.m. in the nave and online.
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PARISH GROUPS
Young Adults
| 2/13—Instead of gathering on the second Sunday of this month, Epiphany's Young Adults Group is invited to attend and populate a table (or two!) at the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on February 13. If you can attend, please click on the sign up links up above. | |
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Speak out for Georgia's Children
an ICM advocacy program
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2/15—Georgia ranks 47th in education, directly correlating to 20–30% drop-out rates in underserved communities. Add your voice for children. Join our partner the Interfaith Children’s Movement for their Day at the Capital advocacy program on February 15.
For more information about our new ICM Partnership, refer to the January 26 edition of the Friday eNews.
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FAMILIES & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Young Family Service Projects
2nd & 4th Tuesdays during choir rehearsal
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2/27—In coordination with Children & Youth Ministries and Community Engagement, service project activities for children, youth, and families take place on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m.
worship | Family Eucharist Service—fourth Tuesdays of the month
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WORSHIP
Family Eucharist Service
4th Tuesdays of the month
| 2/27—The Tuesday Family Eucharist Service takes place on 4th Tuesdays after choir practice at 6:15 p.m. in the parish hall. Arrive by 6:00 p.m. if you’d like to eat pizza together, or come at 5:00 p.m. to take part in the Family Service Project. RSVP for the pizza to Emily Elder. | |
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NOTICE
Endowment Fund Grants Available
Application Deadline is Wednesday, February 28, 2024
| 2/28—Endowment Fund Grant Applications are available online from the homepage and in the gallery tract rack. Grants may be for capital improvements; scholarships or grants to members; or community outreach projects. Application deadline is February 28, 2024. | |
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PARISH GROUPS
Chez Epiphany Cooking Class
Thursday, February 29 • kitchen & parish hall
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2/29—The next cooking class with our chef-in-residence Joel Fowler will be form 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The topic for this session is hands-on Puff Pastry! We'll make a basic rough puff pastry together and then put it to use. No pastry skill or experience needed. The cost is $25 per person, which includes the class and the meal we have together from what we cook.
Endowment Fund Grant Applications are available online from the homepage and in the gallery tract rack. Grants may be for capital improvements; scholarships or grants to members; or community outreach projects. Application deadline is February 28, 2024.
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Feeding Ministry
Meals served 2nd Fridays of the Month
| 3/6-8—Volunteers cook in the Epiphany kitchen and then serve the meal at Gateway Shelter on 2nd Fridays. Sign up to help shop, prepare, cook or serve the meal this month. | |
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Holy Comforter Quarterly Wednesday Dinner
| 3/13—Holy Comforter is a unique worshipping community in the heart of Atlanta. About 60% of this congregation lives with mental illness. We will prepare a meal during the afternoon and take the meal to the church, leaving at 6:00 p.m., prepare to serve after the 6:30 p.m. service. After serving, the volunteers join the parishioners for dinner. Contact Jeanette Hanson for more information. | |
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BUILDING & GROUNDS
Parish Workday
Saturday, March 23 • from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
| 3/23—Please save the date for a work day that we will have on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. We hope you will be able to join your fellow Creation Caregivers of the Earth Guild and the Buildings & Grounds Committee as we spruce up our lovely grounds and interior spaces before Holy Week. All ages and all skill levels are welcome! | |
We will provide snacks and beverages, but you will want to bring your reusable water bottle so we can avoid single-use plastics. If you have them, bring your work gloves, pruning shears, loppers, spades, clippers, and garden shovels. | |
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CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES
Vacation Bible School
Registration is open
| 6/10-14—Save the date and register for this year's VBS, which will take place from June 10 to June 14. We will once again host VBS with St Bart's and Holy Trinity Parish. | |
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PRAYER
Compline
from 7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Zoom
| BEGINS 2/15: During Lent this year, we invite the whole parish--and especially our younger families—to consider praying Compline once a week (or however often makes sense for your schedule). A short, family-friendly Compline prayer session will be held every Thursday evening during Lent, from 7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. over Zoom. Please click on the meeting link on our homepage to join. | |
ADULT FORMATION
Bishop Wright's Video Series - Letting Go
| BEGINS 2/18: During Lent we will engage with Bishop Wright’s five-part video series to help guide us in this season of sacrifice and self-examination. The theme of this year’s series is “Letting Go.” Members of the Epiphany community will help facilitate group reflection on the videos. | |
GIVING
United Thank Offering (UTO)
make a practice of thank offerings during Lent
| In 1889, two Episcopal women envisioned a way to collect small thank offerings in homes as a personal expression of gratitude. Today, UTO contributions from Episcopalian around the world support more than 5,300 Episcopal missions and ministries. UTO boxes/envelopes are in the Gallery. Make checks out to The Episcopal Church Women, noting UTO in the memo. Ingathering will be Sunday, April 7. | |
DEVOTIONALS
A Booklet from Living Compass
free in the gallery, limited supply
| If you are looking for a Lenten devotional to read as a spiritual practice during Lent, pick up one of the Living Compass booklets in the gallery: Living Well Through Lent 2024: Practicing Forgiveness with All Your Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind. Prefer a digital practice? A free PDF version is also available at livingcompass.org. You can also sign up to receive a daily email of each reflection for free. | |
MEDITATIONS
Free Online Offering from ERD
| You’re invited to subscribe to ERD’s Lenten Meditations! Visit episcopalrelief.org/church-in-action/lent/ to sign up for daily meditation emails, written by Miguel Escobar, on living an authentic life as followers of Christ. | | | |
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The Rite of Reconciliation is available during the season of Lent.
This rite, also known as confession, invites the confession of sin to God in the presence of a priest, followed by the assurance of pardon and the grace of absolution. Contact the Rev. Amy Dills-Wright or the Rev. Carmie McDonald if you would like to schedule a time for this sacramental rite.
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In 2023, eleven people officially joined the church by way of transfer. And so far in 2024, we already have three more! If you are relatively new to the parish, or have been attending for some time and would like to officially join, just fill out this form. | | | |
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Welcome Page Love & Steve Smith
joined on October 23, 2023
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Page Love and Steve Smith live in Decatur and started attending Epiphany in June of 2021. Page Love is retired from the marine industry where she sailed yachts for private owners. She traded the sea for the forest and keeps herself busy tending to her extended family and friends. Steve works as a research chemist focused on malaria prevention at Centers for Disease Control. His hobbies include backyard birding and photography. | |
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A faith community is an important component of their spiritual life and they look forward to continuing their search for the divine at Epiphany. In 2024, Page Love will be serving as co-chair for the Art Ministry, and also on the Membership committee. | |
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Welcome Nick Theyerl
joined on November 28, 2023
Nick Theyerl moved to Atlanta to pursue a Master's in Development Practice at Emory in June of 2021 and began attending Epiphany shortly thereafter. He had previously been working overseas for 4 years. He graduated in May. He likes cooking, riding his bike around town, and playing board games with friends. Nick sings in the choir and participates in the Young Adults Ministry
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Ongoing Meetings & Other News | |
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
DEAM Pantry Drive - Final Tally
Jelly - 53 jars
Yellow Rice - 51 bags
Tuna Packets - 206
Thanks to all who donated. Our second drive for the year will take place the month of June.
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COMMUNITy ENGAGEMENT
Earth Guild Meeting
Thursday, February 19 • Room 202
| 2/19—Earth Guild will be meeting February 19 at 6:00 p.m. You may be interested in helping with on-going projects: the composter, watering in the Courtyard, helping with workdays—but not coming to meetings. Contact Carol Bartlett if you would like to join us or just help with projects. | |
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PARISH GROUPS
Epiphany Book Group
2nd Mondays at 7:00 p.m. - location varies
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All are welcome to join the Epiphany Book Group on the second Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Check the schedule for meeting locations each month. Contact Linda Ryder-Wolf for the meeting link. All are welcome!
Book selections for 2024
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March: The Accidental Saints, by Nadia Bolz-Weber at Epiphany
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April: Ordinary Grace, by William Kent-Krueger at Epiphany
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May: TBD - at Epiphany
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June: Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt at Epiphany
- July & August: No Meetings
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September: The Unanswered Letter: One Holocaust Family’s Plea for Help, by Faris Cassel at Epiphany
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October: Democracy Awakening, by Heather Cox Richardson at Epiphany
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November: Still Fooling ‘Em, by Billy Crystal on Zoom
- December: Appetizers & Dessert at 5:30 p.m. and pick books for 2025 at Epiphany
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PASTORAL CARE
Community of Hope's Circle of Care
Last Mondays at 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. • parish hall
| Members gather to pray, learn, and provide each other with mutual support as they reflect on their emotional and spiritual responses to pastoral encounters. If you or a loved one would like to receive a pastoral visit or home communion by one of the trained caregivers, please contact Ann Fowler. | |
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PARISH GROUP
Men's Breakfast Group
Tuesdays following the 7:00 a.m. service
| The Men’s Breakfast Group gathers for breakfast and discussion afterward the Tuesday morning service and are typically on their way by 8:00 a.m. For more information contact John Yntema. | |
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PARISH GROUP
Episcopal Church Women (ECW)
2nd Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. in the parish hall
| The ECW meets on 2nd Tuesdays in the parish hall at 10:30 a.m. Afterwards, they will adjourn to Melton’s App & Tap for lunch. All women of Epiphany are invited to attend. For more information, contact Robin Hairston. | |
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Children & Youth—Tuesdays in the Music Suite upstairs
Please register your children for Children's Choir
- Choristers (pre-K-2nd grade) meet Tuesday evenings from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m.
- Junior Choir (3rd grade-unchanged voices) will not meet this week due to the Pancake Supper and Shrove Tuesday Liturgy.
Adults & Youth—Wednesdays
- The Epiphany Ringers and the Epiphany Choir will not rehearse this week due to the Ash Wednesday Service at 7:00 p.m.
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PASTORAL CARE
The Grief Pastoral Care Group
1st Thursdays at noon on Zoom
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The group meets each month for a healing and faith-based conversation around grief and loss, led by parishioners Megan Fraijo-Paul and Nancy Thompson, both trained psychotherapists. Please contact Megan, or Nancy before attending the first time. | |
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GIVING
Altar Arrangements & Sanctuary Light Sign Up
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The Arrangements at the Altar and the Sanctuary Light are given to the Glory of God
Altar Arrangements & the Sanctuary Light can be given in honor of an anniversary, birthday, or in memory of a loved one. Visit epiphany.org/rsvp to reserve dates that have meaning for you.
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Diocesan & Community News | |
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MARY & MARTHA'S PLACE
Celtic Insights for Living These Times
Saturday, February 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
| Internationally renowned vocal artists Virginia Schenck and Ruth Cunningham will facilitate a half-day, interactive workshop that draws on Celtic wisdom through poetry, songs and sound. In this workshop we will sing prayers and chants together, drawing on the ancient wisdom of our Celtic ancestors that have held civilizations for centuries, as well as drawing forth from our bellies the new wisdoms and sounds waiting to be born. Cost $30. | |
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HOLY CROSS, DECATUR
Feast of Absalom Jones Service
Saturday, February 10 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
| 2/10—The Union of Black Episcopalians in Atlanta invites all to participate in a service commemorating the life and witness of Absalom Jones on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Rt. Rev. Robert C. Wright, speaking. For more information and to join others attending, contact Katharine Hilliard-Yntema. | |
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CAMP MIKELL
Spring 2024 Allan Folk School Registration is Open!
| Registration is now open for the Spring 2024 session of The Allan Folk School at Mikell. Please join us from Friday, March 8 to Sunday, March 10, 2024 for a fantastic weekend of arts, crafts and fellowship. Download the registration form for a full list of available classes. | |
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For members who are bidding our prayers: Wayne Urban • Rob Godsall • Ellen Mintzmyer • Kim Boswell • Brett Boatright • Laura, John & Sarah Keys • Robin Hairston • Audrey Banfield • Beth Towers • Mary McCall Cash • Wende Crowe • Judy Jarady • Sally Brockington
For friends and family: Larry Holland, friend of Lisa Carlson • Susan Habib, mother of Peter Habib • Anda Tomel, friend of Susan Scott • Sherri Sharp, cousin of Terri Lawrence & Julie Ryder • Jeff Smith, family member of George & Liefy Smith • Nick Brown, son of Colleen Morich • Fran Block, mother of Erin Braden • Mike Thesing, friend of Lisa Gray • Gary Davis, father of Jeremy Davis • Diana Lawrence, niece of Terri Lawrence & Julie Ryder • Dave Tipton, brother of Pam Tipton • Isabel, granddaughter of Mike & Beth Towers
For members who desire our continuing prayers: Jewel Allen • Alma Fuller • Rod MacLeod • Sally McClintock • Chris Miller & Ron Hutcheson • Tom Mundy • Floyd Parker • Pat Spivey • Ann Rowles • Shirley Sugden • Wayne & Judy Urban • Larry Wilcox • Kathy Walmsley • Colleen
For those who have died: Father Henry Gracz, friend of Ann & Joel Fowler • Tom Larsen, friend of Julie Ryder • Mary Wimpenny, friend of Diane and Jackie Tate and Julie Walton • Tom Foster, friend of Sara Cushing
For those in the armed forces: Stewart Mundy
For those celebrating anniversaries for the week of 2/11-17: Cliff Edge & Les Howell
For those celebrating birthdays for the week of 2/11-17: Dan Mundy • Jeanette Hanson • Terry Howell • Alix Janke • Lindsey Mitchell • Caitlyn Trautwein • Chris DiBello • Kelli Gantt • Amy Shipp • Eleanor Gaffney Stone • Sharyn Dowd • Bruce Maclachlan • Cookie Gold • Anne Kerner • Matt Cook
For members awaiting the adoption of a child: Jessica, Duane & Abram Burns
For racial justice: We give thanks for the life and work of Absalom Jones and ask God’s help to follow his example of faith, resilience of spirit, and commitment to the causes of freedom, justice, and self-determination.
For our endangered world: For the pileated woodpecker who is in danger due to logging and loss of habitat.
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Did we miss your anniversary or birthday? Send the full date of your anniversary and/or your date of birth to the parish office so that we can update our records. | | |
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The weekly parish notices are published Friday mornings at 7 a.m.
The submission deadline is Wednesdays at NOON.
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