COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 30

This is the first Sunday after Christmas.  The church will observe the Christmas season until the Feast of Epiphany on January 6.  There will be no church school this week.
We are happy to announce that before Christmas we were able help provide  gifts for 3 local families and 19 students at the middle and high schools.
We had a wonderful Christmas Eve service with over 60 people in attendance!  There was beautiful music and the children provided us with great joy.  You can view some pictures from that night by clicking on the Facebook link on the right (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them.)
Coming up in January- we will have a parish bowling outing on Jan. 20.  Sign up at the church.  Annual Parish meeting will be on Jan. 27

COMING UP DECEMBER 24

Christmas Eve service is at 5pm.  There will be special music and the blessing of the creche.  No service on Christmas Day.

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 16

This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent and we will light the pink candle. To learn more about Advent, click on the tab at the top of this page.  Church school will meet.  Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
This Saturday, Dec. 15, we will have a church clean-up at 10:00.  We will dust and vacuum and get the church ready for Christmas. You can rake outside if dusting is not your thing. Come and help for an hour.  Children welcome, too!!!!
Parish luncheon is Monday, Dec. 17 at noon at the Richmond Country Club.
Christmas Eve service is at 5pm.
Save the date!!  Parish bowling at Alley Katz in Westerly on Sunday, Jan. 20 after church.
Annual Parish meeting will be on Sunday, Jan 27 after church.

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 9

This is the 2nd Sunday in Advent.  To learn more about this season, click on the tab at the top of this page.  Church school will meet this week.
At coffee hour after church, we will celebrate the 90th birthday of another parishioner!  We are fortunate to have some long lived member in our parish.
There is still time to sign up for the parish luncheon on Dec. 17.  And you can still sign up to purchase a book for our February book study- Unabashedly Episcopalian.
Looking ahead-Church clean up on Sat., Dec. 15 at 10:00 am.   Bishop's Committee meeting on Dec. 16 and the WARM meal will be prepared that day.
Christmas Eve service will be at 5:00 pm.  If you would like to donate a poinsettia for the Christmas season, you can drop it off at the church after Dec. 15.

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 2

This is the 1st Sunday of Advent.  To learn about the Season of Advent, click on the tab at the top of this page.
Church school will meet this week.  Following the service we will have an Advent wreath making workshop.  The church will provide the wreath forms and candles, you bring evergreen branches and glue guns.  There will also be Advent calendars and booklets for each family.
Tuesday Tutoring update!  The hours of the Tuesday Tutoring program have been extended!  The tutoring sessions will run from 2:30-4:30 every Tuesday that the school is in session.  Students in middle school and high school are encouraged to come.  You can get extra help, get enrichment, or just come and do your homework in a comfortable location.  Students need to fill out a permission slip which can be obtained from the school guidance counselor.
The 2013 schedule is beginning to take shape and the next few months will be busy.  A bowling outing will take place in January and in February we will have 2 discussion on the book, Unabashedly Episcopalian.  Sign up at the church to order a book.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 25

This is Christ the King Sunday.  It is the last Sunday before Advent begins and it is the day we celebrate Christ as the eternal king.  Church school will meet this week.
On Saturday, Nov. 24, the WARM shelter in Westerly (56 Spruce Street) will be distributing winter coats to those in need from 10am-noon.
Advent begins on Dec. 2.  There will be a family wreath-making workshop that day after church and Advent calendars will be available.
The church is ordering copies of a new book entitled, Unabashedly Episcopalian.  The cost is $10/book.  We will do a book study on this in February.  Sign up at the church.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 18

This is the 25th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28).  Sunday school will meet at 9am.  The WARM meal will be prepared after the service.
The Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service will be held at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley on Wed., Nov. 21 at 7pm.  All are welcome to attend.
Our Veterans' Day celebration last Sunday was a great success!  We had 7 veterans in the congregation, including 3 WW II vets.  You can view the pictures from the party by clicking on the Facebook link to the right (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them.)
The church was power washed this week.  Look at it sparkle when you drive by.
Our new bishop, the Very Rev. Nick Knisely will be ordained this Saturday at St George's in Middletown.  For more information, read the invitation on the left column.
As December nears, the church calendar begins to fill up.  On the first Sunday in Advent, we will have a special Advent-wreath making workshop following the service.  The church will provide the wreath forms and candles and participants are asked to bring greens and glue guns.
Parish Christmas luncheon will be held Mon., Dec. 17 at noon at the Richmond Country Club.

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV.11

This is the 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27).  We will have our annual Veterans' Day celebration.  All veterans are welcome to join us for worship at 9am followed by a reception with live music.  Sunday school will meet this week.
The Diocese is looking forward to the ordination of our new bishop that will take place on Sat., Nov. 17.  Read the invitation to the left for more information.  All are welcome.
Our All Saints' Sunday celebration last week included costumes, beautiful music and fun treats.  Check out a couple photos on our Facebook link on the right side of this page (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them.)
St. Thomas' is supporting the WARM Center in Westerly as it tries to finish the fundraising for their capital campaign project. They  have built a new building and now are raising money to renovate their existing building to make it more comfortable for shelter guests.  If you would like to find out more about WARM and its building project, visit their website at http://www.warmcenter.org/
Save the dates!!!  A few exciting things coming up.  There will be an Ecumenical Thanksgiving Eve service on Wed., Nov. 21 at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley at 7pm.
Sunday, Dec. 2, is the 1st Sunday of Advent.  After church there will be a  special family Advent wreath making workshop after church.  The wreaths and candles will be provided, you bring greens and glue guns.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 4

This is All Saints' Sunday!!  We will celebrate this major feast with great joy and music.  Church School will not meet.  All children, (and adults) are invited to wear their Halloween costumes to church.  We will learn how Halloween and All Saints' are connected. (You can also read about it by clicking on the tab at the top of this page).  Coffee hour reception will follow.
The Bishop's Committee will meet after church this week.
Next Sunday is another celebration- Veterans' Day!  Read the column to the left.  All veterans are welcome!
Looking ahead- on Wednesday, November 21, there will be an Ecumenical Thanksgiving Eve service at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley.  More details in November.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 28

This is the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25).  Church school will meet this week at 9 am.  Have you driven by the church this week?  Our new Episcopal Church Welcomes You sign is up and it looks great!  Thanks to everyone who donated to our sign fund. We also have a lawn sign advertising our Tuesday Tutoring program.  You can check out the signs by viewing our Facebook link on the lower right side of this page (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them).
We are looking forward to two exciting Sundays ahead.  On Nov. 4 we will celebrate All Saints' Sunday.  Everyone is invited to wear their Halloween costumes to church that day.  Come and learn how Halloween and All Saints' Day are connected. Or you can read a little about it on the tab at the top of this page.  Then on Nov. 11, we will have our annual Veterans' Day celebration.  Check the column to the left for more details.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 21

This will be the 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24), Sunday school will meet at 9am.
We had a fabulous parish luncheon on Monday at the Richmond Country Club.  There were 17 people there.  Check out the photos on our Facebook page by clicking on the column to the lower right (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them).
Looking ahead a few weeks- On November 4 we will celebrate All Saints' Sunday.  Baptisms will be celebrated that day (contact the vicar if you are interested).  Church school will not meet that day, but all children are invited to wear their Halloween costumes to church that day (brave adults can also wear a costume!)
We will have a Veterans' Day celebration on Nov. 11.  Read about it on left column.
And looking way ahead- save the date.  On Sunday, Dec. 4 (the 1st Sunday in Advent), we will have a family workshop to make Advent wreaths.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 14

This is the 20th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23).  Church school will meet.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church and also the WARM meal will be prepared.
A Parish Luncheon is scheduled for Mon,, Oct. 15 at the Richmond Country Club at 12 noon.  All are invited (everyone pays for his/her own lunch).
All Saints' Sunday is on Nov. 4 and baptisms will be celebrated that day.  If you are interested in baptism, contact the vicar.
Tuesday Tutoring continues to meet every Tuesday from 2:30-4pm when school is in session.  Students can take Bus 27 to the church (get a bus pass from your school guidance counselor).  You can read more about this under the Tuesday tutoring tab at the top of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 7

This will be the 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22).  Church school will meet at 9am for students age 3-13.
A Parish Luncheon is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 15 at the Richmond Country Club.  Sign up at the church.
Tuesday Tutoring and the After-school Club (Thursday) meet each week beginning at 2:30.  All middle school and high school students are welcome.
The Bishop's Committee will meet next Sunday, Oct. 14.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 30

This is the 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21).  Church school will meet and there will be coffee hour after the worship service.

On Saturday, Sept. 29, a Safe-Church Training workshop will meet at the church.  Read the post to the left for more information and registration details.

Tuesday Tutoring and the After School Club continue to meet during the week.  Thanks to the dedicated adults who serve the young people in our community.

We had a wonderful Fellowship Dinner last week with 16 people in attendance.  Our next social event will be a Parish Luncheon at the Richmond Country Club on Oct. 15.  Sign up at the church. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 23

This is the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20).  Church school will meet this Sunday at 9 am for students age 3-13.
We had a fabulous liturgy last Sunday for Welcome Back Sunday.  There were eight children under age 4 in attendance and the room was filled with lots of joy and energy.
Our Tuesday Tutoring program has begun!  Free tutors are available at the church  for middle and high school students from 2:30-4 every Tuesday.  Permission slips are required.  Students can get a permission slip at the church or at their guidance office.   The students can also get a bus pass at the guidance office.  Bus 27 will drop them off at the church.  The After School club continues to meet every Thursday from 2:30-4:30.  Join us for snacks, puzzles and games.
Looking ahead- we will have a Parish Luncheon on Monday, October 15. Sign up at the church.

COMING UP SUNDAY-SEPT 16

This is the 16th Sunday after Pentecost (proper 19).  It is Welcome Back Sunday at St. Thomas'.  It is the first day of Sunday school. We have a new program for students beginning with age 3.  If you have been away for the summer, or you are a new church goer- come join us!  We are a family friendly parish.
There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church and the WARM meal will be prepared.
Our After School Club began last Thursday and our Tuesday Tutoring program begins on September 18.  Read the tab at the top of the page for more information.
There is a Fellowship Dinner scheduled for Sept.22.  Sign up at the church.
On Sept. 29, St, Thomas' will host a Diocesan Safe Church Training Workshop from 9-4.  This program is designed for all adults who work with children in a church.  The program is free, but registration is required.  To sign up, call Ruthie at the Diocesan Office 274-4500 x221.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 9

This is the 15th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18).  We are thrilled that we have some new steps that lead into the parish hall.  The old concrete steps were crumbling.  Thanks to the donations of many parishioners, we were able to replace them with some new, easy to climb stairs.  The railing will be installed soon, too. Things are gearing up at St. Thomas' for a busy fall.  On Sunday, Sept 16, it is WELCOME BACK SUNDAY!  We will welcome back families who have been away in the summer and invite visitors and newcomers to join us.  Church school will start that day.  We have a new curriculum for a 1-room classroom to incorporate all of the students.
On Tuesday, Sept, 18, we will begin a new program called TUESDAY TUTORING.  This will run every Tuesday from 2:30-4:30 at the church.  Local educators will be available to help middle school and high school students with their homework.  Parent permission is required for this program. For more information, call 749-2679.
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the diocese will sponsor a Safe Church Training session at St. Thomas.  Read the column to the left for more information.  

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 2

This is the 14th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17).  This Sunday after church we will have a few items from 1000 Jobs Haiti for sale.  Friday, Aug. 31, will be the last day we will sell these items at the Farmers' Market in Charlestown.  Everyone is invited to have a last look at these hand made crafts before we return them to 1000 Jobs Haiti.
The clergy of the Narragansett Deanery will have their monthly meeting at St. Thomas' on Thursday, Sept. 6 at noon.  Later that day, the After School Club will resume  from 2:30-4:30.
Our school supply distribution was a big success.  We gave away filled backpacks to 120 students.  Last year we only gave away 56 backpacks, so this huge increase was a surprise to us.  In 2011, Bishop Wolf had given us some money to use for local needs and we were waiting for an opportunity to use it.  Thanks to that generous gift, we were able to purchase all these school supplies and backpacks
.On Sunday, Sept 16, it is WELCOME BACK SUNDAY!  We will welcome back families who have been away in the summer and invite visitors and newcomers to join us.  Church school will start that day.  We have a new curriculum for a 1-room classroom to incorporate all of the students.
On Tuesday, Sept, 18, we will begin a new program called TUESDAY TUTORING.  This will run every Tuesday from 2:30-4:30 at the church.  Local educators will be available to help middle school and high school students with their homework.  Parent permission is required for this program. For more information, call 749-2679.
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the diocese will sponsor a Safe Church Training session at St. Thomas from 9-4. This program is designed for adults working with children at the church. 

COMING UP THIS WEEK- AUG. 26

This is the 13th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16).  
There are only 2 Fridays left for our table at the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  Be sure to stop over and get your handmade goods from  1000Jobs Haiti.  See the column to the left for more information.
Our fall school supplies distribution was a big success.  We gave out items to nearly 100 students!  Thanks to everyone who donated money, supplies and time for this important project.
 September will be a big month for us.  On Sunday, Sept 16, it is WELCOME BACK SUNDAY!  We will welcome back families who have been away in the summer and invite visitors and newcomers to join us.  Church school will start that day.  We have a new curriculum for a 1-room classroom to incorporate all of the students.
Our AFTER SCHOOL CLUB meets on Thursdays from 2:30-4:30 when school is in session.  This is a social time for students.  Snacks are provided and there are games, puzzles and activities.  All ages are welcome.
On Tuesday, Sept, 18, we will begin a new program called TUESDAY TUTORING.  This will run every Tuesday from 2:30-4:30 at the church.  Local educators will be available to help middle school and high school students with their homework.  Parent permission is required for this program. For more information, call 749-2679.
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the diocese will sponsor a Safe Church Training session at St. Thomas from 9-4. This program is designed for adults working with children at the 

COMING UP THIS WEEK- AUG. 19

This is the 12th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15).  After church this week we will distribute filled backpacks to local students in our region.
Our parish picnic was a grand success- there were 32 people there.  There are some pictures posted to the right.  Just click on our Facebook link to see them.
Just a few more weeks of selling items for 1000Jobs Haiti.  We are appreciative of the fact that so many different parishioners have volunteered to help out with this project.
September will be a big month for us.  On Sunday, Sept 16, it is WELCOME BACK SUNDAY!  We will welcome back families who have been away in the summer and invite visitors and newcomers to join us.  Church school will start that day.  We have a new curriculum for a 1-room classroom to incorporate all of the students.
Our AFTER SCHOOL CLUB meets on Thursdays from 2:30-4:30 when school is in session.  This is a social time for students.  Snacks are provided and there are games, puzzles and activities.  All ages are welcome.
On Tuesday, Sept, 18, we will begin a new program called TUESDAY TUTORING.  This will run every Tuesday from 2:30-4:30 at the church.  Local educators will be available to help middle school and high school students with their homework.  Parent permission is required for this program. For more information, call 749-2679.
On Saturday, Sept. 29, the diocese will sponsor a Safe Church Training session at St. Thomas from 9-4. This program is designed for adults working with children at the church.

GO HAVE A TASTE!

Our neighboring churches are holding food events this week!!  Stop by and support them and tell them you are from St. Thomas'!!

St. Elizabeth's has a concession stand at the Washington County Fair.  The fair runs from Aug 15-19 (Wed-Sun).  Parking is free.  Adult tickets $10, Youth under 10 are  free.  St. Elizabeth's will be selling drinks and salt potatoes. 

 

Church of the Holy Spirit is holding a  Chowdah Cook-Off.  It will be held Friday, Aug 17, from 11-1 at the church (4150 Old Post Road in Charlestown). For $5, you can sample the different chowders and vote for your favorite.  For an additional $3, you can buy a brownie and ice cream.   This event runs concurrent with the Farmer's Market, so stop by the St. Thomas' table and view the items from 1000Jobs Haiti

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUGUST 12

This is the 11th Sunday after Pentecost- Proper 14
School supplies are on sale. What we especially need are: 1 subject notebooks, Large pink erasers, Folders with pockets, 2 inch binders. School supplies will be distributed on Aug. 19 and Aug. 26.
WARM meal food items needed! We have a new menu this month and there still are a lot of items that need to be donated for Aug. 19. Sign up at church.
Bishop's Committee meeting on Aug. 12.
Only a few more weeks left for the Charlestown Farmer's Market. This week we sent another check to 1000 Jobs Haiti for $185.
This Friday at the Charlestown Farmer's Market, you can drop off your electronic waste items for free from 9-noon! Things such as computers, cell phones, microwaves, televisions, etc. The only thing there is a charge for ($10) is the disposal of fridges, air conditioners and dehumidifiers. It is held at Church of the Holy Spirit, 4150 Old Post Road.
This week we received a check from the Feinstein Foundation for $250.73. This is our share of the $1 Million Food Challenge that was held in March and April. We will send this money to the food locker at Wood River Health Services.
FYI-On Saturday, Sept. 29, the diocese will sponsor a Safe Church Training session at St. Thomas from 9-4. This program is designed for adults working with children at the church.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUGUST 5

This is the 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13). There will be coffee hour after church this week.
There are only a few weeks left at the Charlestown Farmer's Market. Come support our table as we sell things for 1000Jobs Haiti (see column to the left).
This weekend is the Charlestown Seafood Fest. Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown will be selling homemade brownies and ice cream. Visit their booth and support our neighboring Episcopalians.
Parish Picnic is Sat., Aug 11. Sign up at the church.
There will be a short Bishop's Committee meeting on Aug. 12
School supply distribution is set for Aug. 19 and 26 from 10am-2pm

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 29

This is the 9th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12). There will be coffee hour after church.
The parish hall is filling up with school supplies. We will be distributing these to local students on Aug. 19 and 26. All donations are welcome.
Our Fridays at the Charlestown Farmer's Market have been very successful as we have been selling items for 1000Jobs Haiti. It is a fabulous market with many diverse vendors. Read the column to the left for more information.
Our bishop-elect, Nick Knisely, will be at the Episcopal Conference Center in Pascoag this weekend to meet the camp staff. This camp is a great asset to our diocese. We have had 3 of our young people go this summer. And one of them loves it so much, he is going for 3 weeks!

COMING UP SUNDAY-JULY 22

This is the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11). We will have coffee hour after church. Last Sunday we enjoyed some international treats during coffee hour. You can see the photos on the Facebook post in the right column.
Our Friday mornings at the Charlestown Farmer's Market have been very successful. This week we sent a check to 1000Jobs Haiti for $250. Come visit us our booth at the Farmers' Market (see more info in the left column.)
We are starting to collect school supplies for our backpack distribution. The filled backpacks will be given out on 2 Sundays, Aug. 19 and 26.
We will soon be getting a new set of steps leading into our parish hall. Thanks to all who donated to make this possible
Did you know that the sanctuary and parish hall of St. Thomas' are AIR CONDITIONED. Come join us on Sunday morning and cool off!!!!

COMING UP SUNDAY-JULY 15

This is the seventh Sunday after Pentecost. After church this week we will have a special international coffee hour with treats from France, Germany and Switzerland.
We continue to sell things items from Haiti every Friday at the Farmer's Market in Charlestown. See the column to the left for more information.
The General Convention of the Episcopal Church met in Indianapolis from July 5-12. They convene every 3 years in different cities across the US. This is the legislative body of our church. Bishop Wolf, Bishop Joslin and 8 delegates from Rhode Island were in attendance along with an assortment of other visitors and volunteers from our Diocese. The two most noteworthy pieces of news from The Convention are that the convention approved the election of our Bishop-elect, Nick Knisely. This step is required for all bishops-elect before they can be ordained. The other news item that has been in the public media has to do with the approval of a blessing for same-gender unions. This means that priests can conduct services blessing the union of homosexual couples- as long as the diocesan bishop consents. This service is not considered a marriage. According to a national Church spokesperson, this blessing is a "theological response to a monogamous, committed relationship."

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 24

This is the 4th Sunday after Pentecost.  This past Monday we had our summer parish luncheon at the Pavilion Restaurant in Ashaway.  There were 25 people there ranging in age from 11 to 90.  It was a great celebration!  We will have another one in the Fall- don't miss it!
Last Sunday we enjoyed some music from 2 teenage singers- it was lovely!  Check at the photo on our Facebook page to the right.
This Friday begins the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  It will meet every Friday from 9-noon in the parking lot of Church of the Holy Spirit. We will be selling items from 1000jobs Haiti.  All of the revenue from the sales goes directly to this organization. You can learn more about this organization at their website-  http://www.1000jobshaiti.org/
A couple of our parishioners are going to Haiti next month on a mission trip.  This is the last Sunday to bring in donations (see the list on the tab above.)

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 17

This is the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost.  And it is Father's Day!
We will have some special choral music this week at our 9 am service.
On Monday, June 18, there is a parish luncheon at the Pavilion Restaurant in Ashaway.  Come join us!  It begins at 12 noon.  Everyone will be asked to pay for their own lunch- except those celebrating a special birthday or anniversary.
Our neighboring Episcopal Church,Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown,  will host the weekly Farmer's Market in their parking lot every Friday from 9-noon beginning June 22.
A couple of our parishioners are going to Haiti next month with a mission team from New Hope Chapel in Richmond.  They are collecting some items to take with them.  You can see the list at the top of this page under the tab- Haiti donations.  They can be dropped off at the church anytime during the month of June.
Have you checked out the church garden?  Lots of perennials are  filling in.  We are lucky to have a master gardener in our parish.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 10

This is the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost.  We have now entered the "Green Season" or the weeks of "Ordinary Time" in the church.  Our hangings and vestments will be green until Advent begins.
There is a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
On Monday, June 18, there is a parish luncheon at the Pavilion Restaurant in Ashaway.  Everyone is invited.  Each person will pay for his/her own lunch, but if you have a special birthday or anniversary, come as our guest.  Sign up in the parish hall.
We have a couple of new photos on our Facebook page.  Click on the link to the right to view them.
Plans are underway for the Tuesday Tutoring program that will begin in September.  Thanks to a grant from our diocesan Commission on Congregational Development, we are able to sponsor a weekly tutoring program for students in the Charlestown, Richmond and Hopkinton area.  Local educators will be available every Tuesday afternoon to help students with homework and prepare for tests.  Stay tuned for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 3

This is Trinity Sunday.  It is always the Sunday after the Feast of Pentecost and it is the day that commemorates not an event, but a doctrine.  The doctrine of the Trinity acknowledges that God is one in essence, but three in "persons" - usually called Father, Son and Holy Spirit.   This week is also Preschool Sunday.  All preschoolers are invited to join in for a story and activity during the first portion of the worship service.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 27 PENTECOST

This is the Feast of Pentecost.  Wear something red to church as a symbol of the tongues of fire that rested on the disciples when the Holy Spirit blew in (read the Book of Acts 2:1-21).
After church today, our delegate who will vote in the election for a new bishop will meet with anyone who would like to chat about it.  The election is next Saturday, June 2.
Looking ahead-next Sunday (June 3) there will be a liturgy committee meeting and it is Preschool Sunday.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting on June 10.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 20

This is the 7th Sunday of Easter.  This past Thursday was Ascension Day and we had over 20 people gather to celebrate.  Check out the photos on the right in the Facebook column (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view them).  We tied prayers to the red balloons (environmentally friendly ones) and let them ascend heaven-ward.
This Sunday we are participating in a pulpit exchange with Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown.  The Rev. Dr. Michael Tessman will be at St. Thomas' and our vicar will be there.  This is part of our goal to work more cooperatively with other small Episcopal churches in our region.
There is no church school this week.  The Bishop's Committee will meet and the WARM meal will be prepared after church.

ASCENSION DAY

Thursday, May 17 is Ascension Day.  This is a major feast day in the Episcopal Church. We will have a short service at 6pm followed by a potluck, hotdog dinner.  We will provide the hotdogs, you bring a dish to share and a chair for our outside picnic.  We will release red, environmentally friendly, balloons into the air as a symbol of Jesus' ascension into heaven 40 days after Easter. This is a great time for families and children and you will be home by 7:15 Read the story of the Ascension in the Gospel according to Mark 16:9-20

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 13

This is the 6th Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet.  Please sign up on the list in the parish hall to bring in food items for the WARM meal that will be prepared on May 20.
Last Sunday we had another great party at church.  Check out the photos on our Facebook link to the right (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view the photos).
Registration forms for summer camp at ECC in Pascoag have arrived.  If you would like to attend, speak to the vicar. The brochures are at the church, or visit their website at eccri.org.
This Saturday is the Walkabout.  People (375 to be exact) from all over the Diocese will meet at St. Andrew's School in Barrington to meet the 5 nominees for our new bishop.  On May 27 after church, you will have an opportunity to talk to  our delegate and express your thoughts to her.  The election is June 2.
Looking ahead- Thursday, May 17 is Ascension Day.  There will be a 6pm service followed by a potluck hotdog dinner.  Hotdogs will be provided, but bring a dish to share.  A great evening for families and children and you will be home by 7:15.
On May 20, there will be a pulpit exchange with Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown.  The Rev. Michael Tessman will be the guest preacher and celebrant at St. Thomas' while our vicar goes to Charlestown.
Bishop's Committee meeting on May 20.
Baptisms will be held on Sunday, May 27- the feast of Pentecost.  Contact the Vicar if you are interested
Check out the tab at the top of this page for a full list of activities we have planned for Spring 2012

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 6

This is the 5th Sunday of Easter.  It is Preschool Sunday and church school will meet.  There will be a meeting for all parents of babies and preschoolers following the service.
The audit committee will meet this week (postponed from last week).
This is a special Sunday in that we are welcoming back one of our beloved parishioners who has been absent for 6 months due to illness.  We will have honor her with a celebratory reception during coffee hour.
Next Saturday, May 12, the diocese is holding the Walkabout.  This is an opportunity to meet the 5 nominees for bishop.  Everyone in the diocese is welcome to attend, but preregistration is required.  Speak to the Vicar if you want more information, or visit the link in the column to the left about the search for a new bishop.
Ascension Day is Thursday, May 17.  We will have a short service at 6pm followed by a hot-dog dinner.  Sign up to bring a side dish.  A great evening for children and families.  You will be home by 7:15.
Baptisms will be held on Sunday, May 27- the feast of Pentecost.  Contact the Vicar if you are interested
Check out the tab at the top of this page for a full list of activities we have planned for Spring 2012

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 29

This is the 4th Sunday of Easter.    This Sunday we will welcome a guest preacher from an organization called The Blessing Way.  This is a faith-based agency in Providence that provides spiritual and social support to people who have been released from prison or drug treatment facilities.  The Blessing Way receives money from Episcopal Charities.  St. Thomas' will be collecting donations or pledges for Episcopal Charities through the end of April.
This is the last week to bring in food for the Feinstein Foundation Challenge (read post to the left).  Please be generous.
Last Saturday 4 parishioners were confirmed at Emmanuel Church in Newport.  On Sunday we had a great reception.  Check out the photos on Facebook posted in the right column (you do not have to be a member of Facebook to view the photos).
Last Sunday we had a special guest at St. Thomas'.  The Rev. Buck Close (a deacon in our diocese) spoke to us about his work in Haiti.  His organization, 1000 Jobs Haiti, tries to fight poverty in Haiti by creating sustainable jobs.  This agency sells handmade sewn items which can be purchased on the internet.  To learn more about his group and to donate or make a purchase, visit their website at http://www.1000jobshaiti.org/
On Tuesday, May 1, the Narragansett Deanery will meet at Church of the Ascension in Wakefield at 7pm.  At this meeting we will elect a new dean and discuss the 5 nominees for the upcoming election for a new bishop.  All Episcopalians in our Deanery are welcome.  It is a great opportunity to meet other Episcopalians in our region.
There are many exciting things happening at St.Thomas' this Spring.  For a full list, click on the tab at the top of this page.  Next Sunday is Preschool Sunday and there will be a meeting for parents of babies and toddlers following the service.  We have some new ideas to help parents and children at St. Thomas'.  Childcare will be provided.

COMING UP SUNDAY-APRIL 22

Alleluia! This is the 3rd Sunday of Easter.

This Saturday, Apr. 21, there are 4 of our parishioners who will be confirmed at Emmanuel Church in Newport at 10am. All are welcome. On Sunday, we will have a special coffee hour to congratulate them.

This Sunday we will also have a guest preacher. The Rev. Buck Close, a deacon in our diocese, will visit us. He is president and founder of 1000jobs Haiti and he will talk to us about his work there. You can visit their website at
http://www.1000jobshaiti.org/

St. Thomas' has a very busy spring planned. For a list of all the special events and celebrations, click on the tab at the top labelled SPRING 2012

COMING UP SUNDAY-APRIL 15

Alleluia! This is the 2nd Sunday of Easter. Look to the right for the photos on our Facebook page to see some of our Easter celebration (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view the photos).
There is a Bishop's Committee meeting this Sunday and the WARM meal will be prepared. We are still collecting food for the Feinstein Foundation Food challenge (read post to the left).
There are many things coming up in the weeks ahead. Next Saturday, Apr. 21, we will have 4 of our parishioners confirmed at Emmanuel Church in Newport. There will be a reception for them at St. Thomas' on Apr. 22. Also on the 22nd, we will welcome The Rev. Buck Close who will be our guest preacher. He will talk to us about his ministry in Haiti.

All of our spring events are posted on the top tab listed SPRING 2012

EASTER

Alleluia! Christ is Risen!! Join us for our 9am service. The choir will sing and we will celebrate the Eucharist. Following the service there will be an Easter egg hunt for the children. All are welcome.

HOLY WEEK

This is Holy Week. It is the week in the church year between Palm Sunday and Easter. At St. Thomas', we will have services on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening at 7pm. The Easter morning service will be at 9am. For more details and for other worship opportunities, click the Holy Week tab at the top of this page.
Here are some simple ways to observe Holy Week at home:

1. Do a good deed for someone each day in Holy Week.


2. Light a candle to burn for a whole day as you wait for the light of Christ.


3. Jesus was betrayed for just a few coins. Collect all the coins in your house and put them in your mite box.


4. Christ cleanses us. Prepare for Easter by cleaning your room or house.


5. Sacrifice something you enjoy each day and think about what Jesus gave up.


6. Make (or buy) Hot Cross Buns. Jesus is the bread of life.


7. A donkey is a sign of peace. Go for a peaceful walk during the week.


8. Go to a Holy Week service at church and bring a friend.

COMING UP SUNDAY-APRIL 1

This is Palm Sunday. The liturgy begins outside with the procession of the palms. The schedule for the rest of Holy Week is posted on the tab above.

There is no church school or preschool Sunday this week.

Donations are needed for Easter flowers. You can drop them off at the church any time during Holy Week.

Church clean-up is Saturday, Apr. 7, beginning at 10 am. The more people who attend, the faster it will go.

The Feinstein Food challenge continues through the month of April. See the column to the left for more information.

It is Episcopal Charities time! You can make your pledge/donation at church this week.

COMING UP SUNDAY-MARCH 25

This is the 5th Sunday in Lent. Church school will meet and the choir will rehearse at be a 10:15 am. Last Sunday we enjoyed a visit to St. James' Episcopal Church in New London, CT followed by lunch at the vicar's house. Check out the photos on Facebook in the column to the right (you don't have to be a member of Facebook to view the photos).

Next Sunday is Palm Sunday. The Holy Week and Easter Schedule is posted on the tab at the top of this page.

Please remember to be generous in your food donations during the month of March and April as we are participating in the Feinstein Food Challenge (read about it in the column to the left).

COMING UP SUNDAY-MARCH 18

This is the 4th Sunday in Lent- also known as Mid-Lent Sunday (see column to the left). Choir will rehearse at 8:15 and church school will meet. The last meeting of the Lenten program will take place this Wednesday beginning at 6pm.

This Sunday, after church, we will take a field trip to St. James Episcopal Church in New London, CT to visit the grave of Samuel Seabury. Seabury was the 1st Episcopal bishop in the United States.

Speaking of bishops, visit the diocesan website to learn about the 5 people who have been chosen to be candidates for bishop in RI. Their profiles are on the website episcopalrisearch.org and there are also hard copies at the church. The election in on June 2. On Tuesday, May 1, the Narragansett Deanery will hold an informational session to learn about the candidates. Stay tuned for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY-MARCH 11

This is the 3rd Sunday in Lent. Remember that Daylight Savings begins this weekend, so turn your clocks ahead 1 hour on Saturday night.

Church school will meet this Sunday and it is Preschool Sunday. There is a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.

Our Lenten program continues with meetings from 6-8 on Mar. 7, 14 and 21. See the tab at the top of this page for more information.

See important news about the Bishop Search process in the column to the left.

Choir meets at 8:15 on Sunday morning in preparation for the Easter morning anthem.

March and April are months for the Feinstein food collection. Read more about this in the left column.

COMING UP SUNDAY-MARCH 4

This is the 2nd Sunday in Lent. The church school class will watch a movie and the confirmation class will meet after church. The Preschool Class will meet next week, March 11.

This Saturday, March 3, we will have a Lenten retreat at the church from 9:00-3:30. Walk-ins are welcome. Click on the tab at the top of this page for more information. There is also information about our Wednesday evening Lenten programs.

During the months of March and April, St. Thomas' participates in the annual Feinstein Food Challenge. See the post to the left to learn more about it.

Baptisms will be held at the Easter Vigil, Saturday, April 7. Contact the Vicar is you would like more information.

COMING UP SUN- FEB. 27

This is the 1st Sunday in Lent. At the church we have a variety of Lenten devotional books as well as Mite boxes for special Lenten offerings or alms giving.

Church school will meet this week and there will be a liturgy meeting after church.

There are still some places available in the Lenten program being held at the church. For more information, click the tab at the top of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 19

This is the last Sunday of the Epiphany season. It is the last Sunday we will have flowers on the altar and the last Sunday that we will say Alleluia until the Easter Vigil.
Church school will not meet this week due to school vacation.
Ash Wednesday services are on Feb. 22 at 11 am and 7pm.
St. Thomas' will host a Lenten program this year led by Donna Tornatore- a retreat leader in our diocese. To learn more, click on the tab at the top of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 12

We were thrilled to welcome Boy Scouts from Rhode Island and Connecticut last week. And we were thrilled to collect $95 for Souper Bowl Sunday which will be given to the food pantry at Wood River Health Services.
This Sunday there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
Ash Wednesday is February 22. We will have 2 services- 11 am and 7 pm.
St. Thomas' will host a Lenten program beginning on Mar. 3. Look at the tab at the top of this page to register.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 5

This is Boy Scout Sunday!! We welcome all cub scouts and boy scouts to join us for worship at our 9 am service followed by a special coffee hour reception. Wear your uniforms!! This is also Souper Bowl Sunday. Read the column to the right to learn about it. Did you know that 42. 6 million Americans are considered very poor and live below the poverty level. Another 97 million are just above that level. That means that 48% of Americans are considered poor (taken from the latest census statistics).
Also, this week it Preschool Sunday- all preschoolers are welcome into the parish hall for a story and activity during the first part of the worship service. Church school will meet. After church, the Confirmation class will meet. There will also be an altar guild meeting after church.
The WARM meal will be prepared on Feb. 12- note the change in date this month.
Looking ahead: St. Thomas' will sponsor a Lenten program. Read the tab at the top of this page for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY-JAN. 29

This is the 4th Sunday after Epiphany. Church school will meet. After church, we will show the movie, "Carolina, Smallest of the Small." This was produced by RI PBS and tells the history of the village of Carolina. We will watch the first portion of the movie after church. Parishioners are welcome to borrow ithe DVD and finish watching it at home.
Next Sunday is Boy Scout Sunday. All boy scouts and cub scouts are welcome to join us for our 9 am service followed by a special coffee hour. Next Sunday is also Souper Bowl Sunday. Read the column to the right to learn about it. Remember to bring your $1 bill to church!

COMING UP SUNDAY-JAN. 22

This is the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany. This week we will have our Annual Parish Meeting. We will talk about our 2012 goals and vote on the 2012 budget. Everyone is welcome and encourged to attned. We will have a potluck brunch right after church before the meeting starts. Bring a dish to share.
After church next Sunday, Jan 29., we wil watch the RI PBS movie, Carolina, the Smallest of the Small. The movie is over 2hours long, so we will just watch the first 45 minutes. Parishioners can borrow our DVD and watch the rest of it at home.
Feb 5 is Boy Scout Sunday. All cub scouts and boy scouts are welcome to attend our 9 am service. Come in uniform! We will have a special coffee hour reception to honor all of the scouts.
Feb 5 is also the Souper Bowl of Caring. Read the column to the right to learn more about this project.

COMING UP SUNDAY-JAN. 15

This is the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany. Church school will meet. There is a liturgy meeting after church. Anyone is welcome to come and help pick out hymns for the upcoming weeks. There is also a meeting for Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors after church.
The Annual Meeting and Potluck brunch will be held next Sunday, Jan. 22. Sign up on the sheet in the parish hall. We will vote on our 2012 budget and discuss our parish goals.
On Jan 29, we will watch part of the PBS movie, "Carolina, Smallest of the Small."
On Feb. 5 there will be an altar guild meeting.

COMING UP SUNDAY-JAN. 8

Friday, January 6, is the Feast of the Epiphany. This marks the day that the 3 magi arrived in Bethlehem to visit the baby Jesus as told in the Gospel according to Matthew. There is no service at St. Thomas' that day. Sunday, Jan. 8 is the Sunday after Epiphany on which we commemorate the Baptism of Jesus. It is customary to celebrate baptisms this day in the Episcopal Church.
No baptisms at St. Thomas' this week, but there are many other things happening!
Church school will meet and it is Preschool Sunday. The Confirmation class will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting, also.
Looking ahead
Jan. 15 Meeting for lectors and Eucharistic ministers
Jan. 22 Annual Parish Meeting and Potluck Brunch
Jan. 29 We will show the movie "Carolina, the Smallest of the Small" produced by RI PBS
Feb. 5 Boy Scout Sunday and Souper Bowl Sunday