COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 27

This is the 1st Sunday after Christmas.  There will be no church school this week.
Thanks to all the people who donated money, gifts and socks for our Christmas projects.  A local family was supplied with over 35 gifts and gift cards so that they could provide presents and a meal for their children. A bag with over 60 pairs of socks was delivered to the WARM Center last week. It is an amazing demonstration of love and generosity.
Reminder that the WARM Center will have its 10th annual Penguin Plunge on Friday, Jan. 1 at 12noon at Misquamicut Beach.  Register here to take the plunge, or support a plunger.

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 20

This is the 4th Sunday in Advent.  There will be no church school this week.  The WARM meal will be prepared.  The church clean-up is scheduled for this Saturday at 10am.  Come and help for an hour to get the church ready for our Christmas services.
If you would like to donate a poinsettia for the decorations, it can be dropped off at the church on Saturday or Sunday morning.
The Christmas Eve service will be held at 5pm.  All are  welcome.
The WARM Center will have its annual Penguin Plunge on Friday, January 1.  Registration is at 10:30 am and the Plunge is at 12noon.  This is a fundraiser for WARM.  For more information, follow this link.http://warmcenter.org/?p=961

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC.13

This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent.  This week is also known as Gaudete Sunday.  The word Gaudete is Latin and it means rejoice.  The 2nd lesson for this Sunday is taken from Philippians 4:4 and it begins, "Rejoice in the Lord always."  On this Sunday, we light the pink candle on the Advent wreath.  To learn more about Advent, go to the tab at the top of this page.
Church school will meet this week and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
This is the Sunday that Christmas gifts will be collected for a local family in need.
After church this week, there will be some items for sale from 1000 Jobs Haiti.  These hand made items make wonderful Christmas presents.  Follow the link to view some of their goods.

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 5

This is the 2nd Sunday of Advent.  Church school will meet.  The new blue paraments and chasuble adorn the sanctuary this Advent season.  Check out the church Facebook page to view some photos (look to the lower right of this post).
Next Sunday, Dec. 13, there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting.  This is also the day that the Christmas gifts for a local family are due at the church.  They can be wrapped or unwrapped.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 29

This is the 1st Sunday of Advent.  It is the beginning of the new church year and it marks the beginning of the new lectionary cycle.  This is Year C.  Most of the Gospel readings during this year will come from Luke's Gospel.  To learn more about Advent, click on the page "What is Advent?"
Church school will meet this week.
St. Thomas' recently acquired new blue hangings and a blue chasuble.  They are beautiful!
Our collection for new socks for the WARM residents has begun.  This year we are also collecting gifts for a local family in need.
Lots of events happening in December.  Check the page, "In the coming weeks" for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV. 22

This is the Last Sunday after Pentecost (year B).  It is the last Sunday in the church year and Advent will begin on November 29.  Church school will meet this week.  We will celebrate the birthday of another parishioner who is turning 90!!!
On Wednesday, Nov. 25, there will be a Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service at 1st Baptist Church in Hope Valley beginning at 7pm.  Refreshments will follow.  All are welcome.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 14

This is the 25th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28).  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.  The WARM meal will be prepared this Sunday and served on Monday.
We enjoyed a wonderful Veterans' Day celebration last Sunday.  There are picture on the Facebook page- look on the right side of this page for the link.
The Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service will be held this year at the 1st Baptist Church in Hope Valley on Wed., Nov. 25 at 7pm.

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 8

This is the 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27).   Church school will meet.  This is the Sunday of the annual Veterans' Day celebration.  Worship is at 9am and there will be a special coffee hour reception to honor our veterans.  St. Thomas' is a small congregation, but our extended parish family includes 16 veterans- 3 of whom are WW2 vets.   It is always a wonderful celebration.

The Diocesan Convention will take place this Saturday, Nov. 7 at St.Paul's Church in Pawtucket. At this annual convention, all of the Episcopal congregations will be represented by clergy and lay leaders.  This body will vote on resolutions and on the budget of the diocese. 

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV.1

This Sunday is All Saints' Day- it is one of the major feast days in the Episcopal Church Calendar. There is no church school this week.  Children are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to church this week.  As part of the liturgy, the names of loved ones who have died will be read aloud. Bring in a photo of your loved one to display in church this week.  Read the tab at the top of the page to learn how All Saints' Day and Halloween are connected.
Next Sunday, Nov. 8, is the annual Veterans' Day Celebration.  Worship is at 9 am followed by a special coffee hour reception at 10am.  Veterans are encouraged to bring in some of their memorabla to display.
The 2 Eagle Scout projects at St. Thomas' have been completed!  New pavers adorn the walkway and front garden and there is now a peaceful mediation area in the back of the church.  Thanks to all of the scouts from Troop 45 Exeter and Troop 15 Charlestown for their hard work on these projects. And special thanks to the 2 young men who will soon be Eagles!

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 24

This is the 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25B).  Church school will meet.
On Saturday, Oct. 24, St. Thomas' will join with St. Elizabeth's and Church of the Holy Spirit for the third annual Oktoberfest and Hymn Sing.  It will be held from 5-7pm at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley. 
All Saints' Day is on Sunday, Nov. 1.   If you wish to be baptized that day, contact the vicar.  On this feast day, we will read aloud the names of our loved ones who have died.  This year we will celebrate this cloud of saints by having their photos displayed in the church.  All are welcome to bring a photo and add a name.  Children can wear their Halloween costumes. To learn about the connection between All Saints' Day and Halloween, click on the tab at the top of the page. 
Our annual Veterans' Day Celebration will be held on Sunday Nov. 8.  Worship is at 9am and a special coffee hour reception begins at 10am.  All vets are welcome to join us.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 18

This is the 21st Sunday after Pentecost- Proper 24.  Church school will meet this week and the WARM meal will be prepared after church. 
This Saturday, Oct. 17, there will be a lot of excitement on the church property.  Two parishioners are both doing their Eagle Scout projects on the church grounds. One young man is putting new pavers into the walkway and the other is clearing out some space for a meditation garden.  They will be there from 9am-12 noon and you can come cheer them on. 
There will be an Oktoberfest and Hymn Sing  at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 5-7.  All are welcome.  Contact St. Elizabeth's for more information 539-7346.
All Saints' Day is on Sunday, Nov. 1.   If you wish to be baptized that day, contact the vicar.  On this feast day, we will read aloud the names of our loved ones who have died.  This year we will celebrate this cloud of saints by having their photos displayed in the church.  All are welcome to bring a photo and add a name.
Our annual Veterans' Day Celebration will be held on Sunday Nov. 8.  Worship is at 9am and a special coffee hour reception begins at 10am.  All vets are welcome to join us.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 11

This is the 20th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23),  There will be no church school because of the holiday weekend.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
St. Thomas' is sponsoring a day long retreat on Saturday, Oct. 17.  Read the post on the right for more information.
There will be an Oktoberfest and Hymn Sing  at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 5-7.  All are welcome.  Contact St. Elizabeth's for more information 539-7346.
All Saints' Day is on Sunday, Nov. 1.   If you wish to be baptized that day, contact the vicar.  On this feast day, we will read aloud the names of our loved ones who have died.  This year we will celebrate this cloud of saints by having their photos displayed in the church.  All are welcome to bring a photo and add a name.
Our annual Veterans' Day Celebration will be held on Sunday Nov. 8.  Worship is at 9am and a special coffee hour reception begins at 10am.  All vets are welcome to join us.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 4

This is the 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22).  Church school will meet and there will be a liturgy committee meeting after church.
The fall parish luncheon will be held on Monday, Oct. 5 at the Richmond Country Club at 12 noon.  All are welcome!  Each person pays for her/his own lunch.
Tuesday Tutoring begins this week on Oct. 6.  Click on the tab at the top of the page for more information.
On Oct. 17, there will be a one day retreat held at St. Thomas'.  Read the column on the right for more information.
Looking ahead to November- baptisms will be held on All Saints' Day, Nov. 1 and our annual Veterans' Day celebration will take place on Nov. 8.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 27

This is the 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18B),
Last Sunday was the first week of church school for this school year.  There are 6 students registered and 4 teachers who each take one Sunday a month.  Church school begins at 9am and then the children enter the worship service at the time of the announcements.
Tuesday Tutoring will begin on Oct. 6.  Click on the tab at the top of the page for more information about this program.
On Saturday, Oct. 17, St. Thomas'  will sponsor a retreat let by Ms. Donna Tornatore. The title of this program is Sensing the Mystery.  The cost for the day is $15. To register, please call 401-714-4276.
Baptisms will be held on All Saints' Day, November 1.  Contact the vicar if you are interested in baptism.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 20

This is the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20).  It is also Welcome Back Sunday!  If you have been gone for the summer, or a bit longer, this is a great day to start back to church. Worship begins at 9am and you can be out the door by 9:50 with still plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your Sunday. Of course, you can always stay for fellowship and refreshments following the service.  Coffee hour is part of our Sunday schedule.   Church school begins this week at 9am for children age 4-12.  The children are in class for about 30 minutes and then join the rest of the worshiping congregation at the time of the announcements.  We are a multi-generational congregation - our youngest member is 1 week old and our oldest members are in their 90's- and they are all in church together!!  Come join us as we worship and celebrate the love of God together.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 13

This is the 16th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19).   After worship,Mr. Mike Reeves will be at coffee hour to discuss his work with homeless adolescents.  If you know of any young people ages 14-19 who do not have a permanent home, please come and share your story with him that morning.
The Bishop's Committee will meet this week. 
Next Sunday, September 20 is Welcome Back Sunday!  Have you been away from church for the summer....or longer?  This is a great time to get back into a new routine.  Worship begins at 9am and is done by 9:55.  Coffee hour follows.  This is a great time for fellowship, but if you need to get on with your day, you can be out the door before 10am!  Church school also will begin that day at 9am.  There is one class that meets for children from age 4-11.  They use a Scripture based curriculum that is multi-age appropriate.   Did you know that children who attend church school are usually better students and become better adjusted teenagers!  Come join us!  For more information, contact the Vicar (see tab at the top of the page).  There is plenty of parking on the street in front of the church.  Dress is casual and the atmosphere is very family friendly. Don't be surprised if an infant sings along with the hymns and a toddler toddles in the aisle. Come join us!!

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 6

This is the 15th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18).    Worship is at 9am and coffee hour follows.  Church school will begin on September 20.   Tuesday Tutoring will begin on Oct.6.  Next Saturday, Sept. 12, the Episcopal Diocese of RI will be one of the sponsors at Waterfire, Providence.  For more information, visit the diocesan home page
Next Sunday, Sept 13., Mr. Mike Reeves will be at coffee hour to discuss his work with homeless adolescents.  If you know of any young people ages 14-19 who do not have a permanent home, please come and share your story with him that morning.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 30

This is the 14th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17B).   Summer is getting ready to say good-bye, but there is still one week left at the Charlestown Farmer's Market. St.Thomas' has already sold over $1200 worth of goods for 1000 Jobs Haiti.  Be sure to visit this Friday to get your beautiful, hand-made items.
Welcome Back Sunday is Sept. 20.  Church school will begin that week.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 23

This is the 13th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16B).  This past week, we gave 43 filled backpacks to local school students.  The leftover backpacks and school supplies were donated to the Jonnycake Center who has many clients in need of these items.
There are only 2 Fridays left at the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  St. Thomas' has been selling goods for 1000 Jobs Haiti and to date there has been over $1200 worth of items sold.  Visit the Farmer's Market on Friday from 10-12 noon to see the wonderful handmade goods.
Church school will begin on September 20 for students in grades pre-K to 6.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 16

This is the 12th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15B).  The WARM meal will be prepared after church this week.  Beginning at 10am, backpacks filled with school supplies will be available.  Call the church for more information at 364-3113.
Be sure to visit the Washington County Fair this week and visit the food booth sponsored by St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley.  They are selling taco salad, boiled salted potatoes and bottled water.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 9

This is the 11th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 14B).  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
Next Sunday, Aug. 16, we will distribute backpacks filled with school supplies beginning at 10am.  If you know of a student in the Chariho region who could use a backpack, call the church.
Did you know that the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island is celebrating its 225th anniversary this year?  As part of the celebration, the Diocese is a sponsoring a Waterfire event in Providence on Saturday, Sept. 12.  Follow this link for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 2

This is the 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13B).  The Episcopal Church has announced that our newly elected presiding bishop, The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, will be installed on Sunday, Nov, 1 at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC.  More information can be found here.
St, Thomas' continues to have very successful Fridays at the Charlestown Farmer's Market selling hand made goods from Haiti. Check out this diverse market every Friday from 9-1pm.  Follow this link for details.
Backpacks and school supplies will be distributed at St. Thomas' at 10am on Sunday, August 16.  Contact the vicar for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 26

This is the 9th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12 B).  Some of the best things about summer worship at St. Thomas' is that we welcome visitors who are enjoying local rentals and campgrounds, our altar is adorned with  beautiful flowers from family gardens and we have AIR CONDITIONING!
So far we  have sold over $500 for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  Join us there every Friday from 9:30 to noon.
Do you need food this summer?  If so, contact the Jonnycake Center at 377-8069, or leave a message at the church 364-3113.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 19

This is the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11B).  The Summer Splash food distribution is in full swing.  If your family needs food this summer, contact the Jonnycake Center and you can pick it up at St. Thomas' on Tuesday between 9:30 and 10:30,
On Thursday, July 23, a summer book group will meet at Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown from 12-2pm (bring a bag lunch).  The book is titled, Big Lessons from Little Places, and it explores the role of small congregations and the important role they have in the church.  All are welcome to attend.  Learn more about the book by going to our Facebook page
Vacation Bible School will be held at Aug. 10-14 at Christ Church in Westerly from 9am-noon.  This FREE program is open to youth from ages 3-18.  Follow this link for more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 12

This is the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10).   Come visit our table every Friday at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of the Church of the Holy Spirit.
Have you heard about the Presiding Bishop elect of the Episcopal Church?  The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop of North Carolina, will be installed in November.  Follow this link to hear the closing sermon that he preached last week at General Convention.
Check out our new e-resource of the month!  Read the column posted on the right of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 5

     This is the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9).  This week, St. Thomas' is honored to have a guest vocalist at the 9am service.  Ms. Lauren Wedertz, who is a member of the singing group, Timothy's Gift, will be with us.    This musical group, based in Nashville, Tennessee,  has a prison ministry which touches the lives of those who are incarcerated and spreads a message of love and hope.  They appeared last December in the television show, The Sing Off. You won't want to miss this! Click here to learn more about the ministry of Timothy's Gift. 

FREE FOOD FOR FAMILIES!  The Summer Splash program has begun!  There are free groceries available at St. Thomas' on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:30.  Call the Jonnycake Center in Westerly to sign up for the program.  Contact them at 377-8069

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 27

This is the 5th Sunday after Pentecost- Proper 8.  After church there will be a celebration to honor two of our graduates.  The audit committee will also meet.
Follow along with news from the General Convention of the Episcopal Church and the triennial meeting of the Episcopal Church Women.  Look to the column on the left for the links.
This Friday, the Charlestown Farmer's Market begins on the ground of Church of the Holy Spirit.  For the 4th year, St. Thomas' will be selling goods from 1000 Jobs Haiti.  The market is open from 9:30-1pm,
FREE FOOD FOR FAMILIES!  The Summer Splash program begins next week!  Call the Jonnycake Center in Westerly to sign up for free groceries that you can pick up at St. Thomas'.  Contact them at 377-8069.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 21

This is the 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 7).  It is also Father's Day!  There are many activities coming up in June and July.  
The final numbers for the Episcopal Charities campaign are in and St. Thomas' pledged  $2295, which exceeded our goal.  Well done!!
Saturday, June 27, is the Greater Westerly Relay for Life.  If you would like to support our team, click here.
The General Convention of the Episcopal Church will meet from June 25- July 3.  Read the column on the left for more information.  The Triennial meeting of the Episcopal Church Women will be held at the same time.  You can read about that meeting on the left column, also. 
The Charlestown Farmer's Market begins on June 26.  Every Friday we will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at this market.  The Summer Splash Program will also begin later this month. This program provides free food for families with school age children during the summer.  Register by calling the Jonnycake Center at  377-8069.
There will be a new program for youth at St. Thomas' this summer sponsored by South County Community Action.  If is for youth ages 12-14.  They will meet at the church on Wednesdays from 1-2 pm beginning July 8.   To register, call 596-7272 x4116. Click on the tab at the top of the page labeled "In the Coming Weeks" for a complete list. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 14

This is the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 6).  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting this week and the WARM meal will be prepared after church.
Read about the E-resource of the month for June on the right side of this page.
With June comes new programs!  St. Thomas' is sponsoring a team for the Greater Westerly Relay for Life to be held on June 27.  Click here for more information. The Charlestown Farmer's Market begins on June 26.  Every Friday we will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at this market.  The Summer Splash Program will also begin later this month.  This program provides free food for families with school age children during the summer.  Register by calling the Jonnycake Center at 
There will be a new program for youth at St. Thomas' this summer sponsored by South County Community Action.  If is for youth ages 12-14.  They will meet at the church on Wednesdays from 1-2 pm beginning July 8.   To register, call 596-7272 x4116

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 7

This is the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 5).  We are back to the Green Season also known as Ordinary Time in the church.  Read the column to the left to learn more about this.
Last Saturday we had a wonderful Pasta Dinner Fundraiser.  There were over 60 people in attendance and great food.  We raised money for our church and for the summer camp program at ECC in Pascoag.
Read about the E-resource of the month for June on the right side of this page.
With June comes new programs!  St. Thomas' is sponsoring a team for the Greater Westerly Relay for Life to be held on June 27.  Click here for more information. The Charlestown Farmer's Market begins on June 26.  Every Friday we will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at this market.  The Summer Splash Program will also begin later this month.  Check the tab at the top of this page for more events that are coming up.

Also in June, the General Convention of the Episcopal Church will meet. The General Convention is the is the governing body of The Episcopal Church that meets every three years. The Convention is a bicameral legislature that includes the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops. The work at Convention is carried out by deputies and bishops representing each diocese. During its triennial meeting deputies and bishops consider a wide range of important matters facing the Church.  At the same time the General Convention is meeting, the Episcopal Church Women have their triennial meeting.  Stay tuned for more information!

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 31

This is the first Sunday after Pentecost, also known as Trinity Sunday.  It is the day that the church celebrates the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity.  

This Saturday, May 30, St. Thomas' will host a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser.  For more information, read the column on the left.

St. Thomas' is sponsoring a team for the Greater Westerly Relay for Life.  The team is the St. Thomas Angels.  If you would like to make a donation, click here.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 24

This is the Feast of Pentecost!!  It is customary to wear something red to church on this day.  There will be a baptism during the liturgy. Church school has finished for the year.
It is also Memorial Day weekend.  We will read aloud the names of those military members who have died.
Preparation for our Pasta Dinner Fundraiser is in full gear.  It will be held on Saturday, May 30 at the Carolina Firehouse.  Suggested donation is $12 for adults and $5 for children over 5 years old. Tickets must be purchased in advance.  Call 741-9568 to reserve a ticket.  The money raised from this event will be used to support our church and to support the summer camp programs at the Episcopal Conference Center in Pascoag.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 17

This is the 7th Sunday of Easter.  This will be the last week of church school for the school year.  Many thanks to all of our teachers who served in this important ministry over the course of the year. This week several parishioners will take a "field trip" to St. James' Episcopal Church in Woonsocket to attend their 10am service.
St. Thomas' is holding a Pasta Dinner on Saturday, May 30 at the Carolina Firehouse.  Donations received from this fundraiser will be used to support the church and to assist campers attending the Episcopal Conference Center summer camp in Pascoag, RI.  To reserve a ticket, call 741-9568

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY10

This is the 6th Sunday of Easter and Mother's Day!  Church school will meet.  The Pasta Dinner committee will meet after church.  
Thursday, May 29 is Ascension Day.  There will be a service at 6 pm during which red (environmentally friendly) balloons will be released.  After the service there will be a hotdog dinner.  Members of St. Elizabeth's, Hope Valley and Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown will join us.
In honor of Memorial Day weekend, on Sunday, there will be a special remembrance of all veterans who have died.  If you wish to have a name added to the list, contact the vicar.
The brochures for summer camp at the Episcopal Camp Center in Pascoag are available at the church. Visit their website for details and registration. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 3

This is the 5th Sunday of Easter.  Church School will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.  This week, the Rev, Christine Burton will be our guest preacher.  Chris is a deacon in the Episcopal Church and currently serves at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley.  This month, the deacons  are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the vocational diaconate in our diocese.  As part of the celebration, the deacons have been raising funds for St. Mary's Home for Children in North Providence.  Chris will talk about St. Mary's in her sermon.
This will be the last Sunday to make a pledge or donation to our Episcopal Charities campaign.
Ascension Day is Thursday, May 14.  There will be a service at 6pm followed by a hotdog potluck dinner.  Parishioners from St. Elizabeth's and Church of the Holy Spirit will join us for this service.
There will be a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser to support our church to be held on Saturday, May 30 at the Carolina Firehouse.  Stay tuned for more details.

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 26

This is the 4th Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet. This Sunday is the WARM Bowl-a-thon. It will be held at Alley Katz Lanes in Westerly from 1-3pm.  St. Thomas' is sponsoring a team- the Tom Katz!  Monetary donations will be accepted as well as donations for the basket we are making for the basket raffle- it is a gardening theme.
On Sunday, May 3, The Rev. Christine Burton will be the guest preacher.  She is a deacon in our diocese who serves at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley.  Christine grew up in Wood River Junction- in the house across the street from St. Thomas'!!!  She will talk about St. Mary's Home for Children in North Providence.  This agency receives money from Episcopal Charities. May 3 will be the last day to make a pledge or donation for Episcopal Charities at church.  Contact Brenda Pater if you would like more information.

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 19

This is the 3rd Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet and the WARM meal will be prepared after church.   This is the week that we will reveal our new altar cloth made by our friends at 1000 Jobs Haiti.   The altar cloth was custom made for St. Thomas' and includes spectacular embroidery. Visit the website of 1000 Jobs Haiti to order some of their hand made items.
There is a new spirituality group that meets at the church every Saturday from 10-11am.  The hour includes reading the Scripture lessons for Sunday and prayer.  All are welcome to attend.
The WARM bowl-a-thon will take place on Sunday, April 26.  The St. Thomas' Tom Katz will be part of this fundraising event. Donations for the team can be sent to the church.
Last Sunday there was a baptism at St. Thomas'.  There are photos posted on the Facebook page.  The link is on the right side of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 12

This is the 2nd Sunday of Easter.  There will be a baptism on Sunday (contact the vicar if you would like to be baptized).  Church school will meet.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
Last Sunday we had a wonderful celebration with a full church.  The flowers were beautiful and the music was great.  The children enjoyed an Easter egg hunt after church.  There are some photos posted on the Facebook page.  Click on the link to the right of this column to view them.
On Sunday, April 19, we will reveal our new altar cloth that was made by the employees at 1000 Jobs Haiti.  It is a beautiful piece of art work covered with colorful embroidery.

COMING UP EASTER SUNDAY- April 5

This is Easter Sunday!  There will be a 9am service followed by an Easter egg hunt and coffee hour.  Church school will not meet this week.
The complete Holy Week schedule is posted on the left of this column.
There will be a church clean up this Saturday, April 4 at 10 am.  If you cannot make it at that time, there is a list of jobs posted at the church and you can do them at anytime during the week.
Easter lilies and other potted plants can be dropped off at the church anytime in Holy Week.
Baptisms will be held on Sunday, April 12.  Contact the vicar if you would like to be baptized that day.

COMING UP PALM SUNDAY- MAR. 29

This Sunday is Palm Sunday.  The liturgy will begin outside with the blessing of the palms and a procession.  Church school will not meet this week or next week.
The Holy Week Schedule is posted on the left.
This Saturday, March 28, a new spirituality group is meeting at the church from 10-11am.  All are welcome .  This week the lectionary Scripture readings will be discussed.
After church this Sunday, the Prayer Partners group will meet.
Baptisms will be held on the Sunday after Easter, April 12.  Contact the vicar if you are interested.
The annual Episcopal Charities campaign is underway at St. Thomas.  Pledge forms are available at the church.
Our congregation will once again sponsor a team for the WARM Center bowl-a-thon to be held on Apr. 26 from 1-3 at Alley Katz Lanes in Westerly.  If you want to make a donation to the St. Thomas' Tom Katz, there is an envelope at the church.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAR. 22

This is the 5th Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet and there will be a liturgy committee meeting after church.
On Monday, there will be a parish luncheon at Brick Oven Restaurant in Ashaway.  All are invited.
St. Thomas' is sponsoring a bowling team for the WARM bowl-a-thon on April 26.  The team is called the Tom Katz.  Donations for the team are welcome!
The church will be collecting potted flowers to decorate the Easter altar.  All plants can be dropped off at the church during Holy Week.
The Holy Week schedule can be found to the left.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAR. 15

This is the 4th Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet.  The WARM meal will be prepared this week.  Following the service, there will be a special coffee hour to honor all of the people who worked on our church kitchen.  This is a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to all of our skilled craftspeople.
This Saturday, March 14, the young people will gather in the church to make Pretzels.  Pretzels are a traditional Lenten food.
Each January,  St. Thomas' sets a list of goals to accomplish for the calendar year.  Click on the tab at the top of this page to see what has already been achieved in 2015.
For a list of upcoming events, click on the tab- In the coming weeks.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MARCH 8

This is the 3rd Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet this week.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting following the service.
Last Sunday was a great celebration at St. Thomas'.  Bishop Knisely presided over a service with 1 baptims and 7 confirmations.  There are wonderful photos posted on the Facebook page (they can be viewed via the column on the right).
This Sunday the sermon will focus on the subject of St. Therese of Lisieux.  Come learn about this inspiring Christian!
There are many more activities coming up at St. Thomas'.  They are listed on the tab at the top of the page, "In the Coming Weeks."

COMING UP SUNDAY- MARCH 1

This is the 2nd Sunday in Lent.  This week, the Rt. Rev. Nicholas Knisely will be at St. Thomas' to preside at a service of baptism, confirmation and eucharist.  There will be 1 baptism and 7 confirmations!!  A special coffee hour reception will follow the service.
There are mite boxes and booklets at the church for those who are interested in a Lenten discipline.  Click on the tab at the top of the page to learn about Lent.
One of our parish goals for 2015 is to find new ways to engage youth and families into church life. Check out the column on the right to read about the importance of bringing children to church.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 22

This is the 1st Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet.  The Confirmation class will meet after church. To learn about the season of Lent, click on the tab at the top of this page.
Next Sunday, Bishop Knisely will be at St. Thomas' to baptize one child and confirm 7 people. The service will be followed by a special coffee hour reception.  All are welcome!!
During the season of Lent, we will be reading about St. Therese of Lisieux.  There are 2 books to consider:Shirt of Flame: A Year with St. Therese of Lisieux by Heather King is a book for adults and Bringing Lent Home with St. Therese of Lisieux by D. Cooper-O'Boyle, is a book for families and children.  Sign up at the church if you would like to order one. 
Our Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser planned for March 7 has been postponed. The weather has made it difficult to get organized.  It will be rescheduled in the Spring. 

NO SERVICE ON FEBRUARY 15

Service is cancelled due to the blizzard.
Ash Wednesday is this Wednesday, Feb. 18.  A 10am service will be held at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley and a 7pm service at St. Thomas'.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 15

This is the Last Sunday after Epiphany. Church school will meet and the Bishop's Committee will meet after church. The meal for the WARM Center will also be prepared. 
Valentine's Day is February 14.  Learn all about it by reading the column on the left.
Ash Wednesday is Feb. 18 and this marks the beginning of the Lenten season.  There will be a 10am service at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley and a 7pm service at St. Thomas'.  You can learn about Ash Wednesday and Lent by clicking on the tab at the top of this page.
There are many things coming up in the next few weeks.  Click on the tab at the top for more details.

Last Sunday we had 8 Boy Scouts and leaders in church for Boy Scout Sunday.  There are pictures posted on our Facebook page (see the link on the right side of this page).

One of our parish goals for 2015 is to find new ways to engage youth and families into church life. Check out the column on the right to read about the importance of bringing children to church. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 8

This is the 5th Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
This week is Boy Scout Sunday.  All boy scouts and cub scouts are welcome to join us and there will be a special coffee hour reception.  Scouts should wear their uniforms!
At the Annual Parish Meeting last week, new goals for 2015 were established.  They can be found on a tap at the top of this page.  We are already in the process of achieving some of them!
Last Sunday there was $43 collected in the soup pot for the Souper Bowl of Caring.  This money will be donated to St. Mary's Home for Children.
Ash Wednesday is Feb. 18.  There will be a 10am service at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley and a 7pm service at St. Thomas'.
There are many things coming up in the next few weeks.  Click on the tab at the top for more details.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 1

This is the 4th Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet.  The Annual Parish Meeting will be held after the worship and it will be accompanied by a potluck meal.
This week is also the Souper Bowl of Caring.  Read the column on the left for more information.  Remember to bring $1 to put into our soup pot on Sunday.
Monday, February 2, is Ground Hog Day and the Feast of the Presentation also known as Candlemas. Read the column to the left to learn more about it.
Next Sunday, February 8, is Boy Scout Sunday.  All Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts are welcome to join us for worship and a special coffee hour.  Wear your uniform!

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 25

This is the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany.  Church School will meet and there will be a liturgy committee meeting after church.
Last Monday the Confirmation Class prepared and served the evening meal at the WARM Center. There are several pictures posted on the church Facebook page (click on FB link on the right side of this page).
Next Sunday is the Annual Parish meeting that will take place after the 9 am service.
Next Sunday is also Souper Bowl Sunday.  To learn more about this event, read the post on the right. This year we will send our soup pot collection to St. Mary's Home for Children located in North Providence.
February will be a busy month!  Follow the link at the top of this page entitled, "In the Coming Weeks" to learn about all of our events.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 18

This is the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
On Monday, Jan. 19, the confirmation class will meet at the WARM Center in Westerly and will prepare a meal and serve it.  The class will also get a tour of the WARM Center.
The annual parish meeting will be on February 1.  This is also Souper Bowl Sunday (see the column on the right for more information)
Boy Scout Sunday is on February 8.  All cub scouts and boy scouts are invited to attend and there will be a special coffee hour reception that day.  Wear your uniforms!

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 11

This is the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus.  We will celebrate a baptism at the 9am service. Church school will meet and the there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church. The new goals for 2015 will be established.  Check back next week to see what they are!
The annual parish meeting will be on Sunday, February 1. That is also Souper Bowl Sunday.  Follow the link for more information.
There are many events coming up in weeks ahead. Click on the tab at the top of the page for more details.