Thursday, December 29, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 1

January 1 is a major feast day in the Episcopal Church as it is the Holy Name of Jesus.  To learn about the meaning of this feast day, follow this link.  Or better yet, join us for worship at 9am to celebrate with us!!
January 1 also marks the start of St. Thomas new status as a parish.  After months of paperwork and meetings, the Episcopal Diocese of RI has agreed to make us a parish.  Our Bishop's Committee will now be a Vestry .
Next Sunday is the beginning of a very busy Epiphany season.  Confirmation preparation will start in anticipation of the bishop's visit in early April.  Contact the church  for more information. 

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

The Christmas Eve Service will be at 5pm.  Join us for the Blessing of the Creche, Eucharist and carols.  The children's choir will also sing that night.  There is plenty of parking on the street and all are welcome.  There will be no Christmas Day service at St. Thomas'.  If  you would like to attend a Christmas Day service, these churches will have services:  Church of the Holy Spirit in Charlestown at 9:30 am, St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley at 10am (no music), Christ Church, Westerly at 10 am (with music),

Thursday, December 15, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC.18

This is the 4th Sunday of Advent.  Church school will meet.
Last weekend, the parishioners of St. Thomas collected over 30 gifts and nearly $400 worth of gift cards.  Some of these items were put in a box and sent to our two military friends who are deployed over seas.  The rest of the items were given to a local family in need. Many thanks to everyone who contributed for your extreme generosity.
We are still collecting socks for the residents of the WARM Center in Westerly.
The Christmas Eve service will be at 5pm.  There is no service on Christmas Day.  Christ Church in Westerly will have a Christmas Day service at 10am

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 11

This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent. This Sunday is also known as Gaudete Sunday.  Click on the tab at the top of the page labelled What is Advent to learn more.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
This is the week when all of the gifts will be collected for our "adopted family" and for our military boxes. We will continue to collect socks for the WARM Center until the end of the month.
Looking ahead- the Christmas Eve service will be held at 5pm.


Thursday, December 1, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC. 4

This is the 2nd Sunday of Advent.  Church School will meet.  During coffee hour this week, there will be an exciting presentation from the Tomaquag Museum of Exeter.  Ms. Loren Spears, the director, will teach us about the Narragansett Indians- their history and culture.  St. Thomas is located in the midst of Narragansett territory.  Everyone is welcome to attend and this will be a great program for children and adults.
There are many upcoming events for Advent. Check out the link at the top of the page to learn more.

Friday, November 25, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 27

This is the 1st Sunday of Advent.  It is the beginning of a new church year and the beginning of  Year A in the lectionary cycle.  At St. Thomas', we use the color blue for Advent.  For more information about Advent, follow the link at the top of this page.
Church school will meet.  After worship this week, there will be a craft session to Make Your Own Anglican Prayer Beads.  This beans are like a rosary.  There are plenty of supplies, so come join us.
Next Sunday, Dec. 4, there will be a coffee hour presentation from Ms. Loren Spears from the Tomaquag Museum.  She will speak about the history and cultural aspects of the Narragansett Indians.
St. Thomas' will provided gifts for a local family in need this year.  If you would like to help with this project, please contact the Vicar.
There are many other events coming up in the weeks ahead.  Check the tab at the top of the page for more information.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 20

This is the Last Sunday after Pentecost- also called Christ the King Sunday.  It is the day the church celebrates the authority of God and Jesus.  Next Sunday, a new church year begins with the start of Advent.
This week church school will meet and the WARM meal will be prepared.
We had a wonderful Veterans Day celebration last week.  We were honored to have Director Kasim Yarn with us.  Check out all of the photos by clicking on the Facebook page link on the right.
On Wednesday, Nov. 23, at 7pm, there will be a Thanksgiving Ecumenical service to be held at St. Elizabeth's Church in Hope Valley.  All are welcome.
There are many activities coming up in the weeks ahead.  Click on the tab at the top of the page to learn about them.


Thursday, November 10, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV.13

This is the 26th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28).  Church school will meet.  This Sunday is the annual Veterans Day Celebration.  Mr. Kasim Yarn, the Director of Veterans Affairs in RI, will be the special guest.  We will be joined by some talented young people who will share their musical gifts with us.  For more details, read the post on the right side of this page.
On Sunday, Nov. 27, we will have a session after church to make your own Anglican Prayer Beads. Sign up on the sheet in the parish hall to ensure that there are enough supplies.
The Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service for the Hope Valley area will be held at St. Elizabeth's on Wed. Nov. 23 at 7pm.  The Rev. Shyral Wallis from 1st Baptist Church will be the preacher.

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 6 ALL SAINTS' SUNDAY

All Saints' Sunday is one of the principal feast days in the church calendar.  There will be no church school- but children are welcome to wear their costumes to church this week.  During the liturgy we will read aloud the names of our deceased loved ones.  You are welcome to bring a photo to display in the sanctuary.
There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church this week.
Next Sunday is our annual Veterans Day celebration.  Read the post on the right for more information.
On Sunday, Nov. 27, we will have a session after church to make Anglican prayer beads.  All are welcome.
There are many more things happening in November and December.  Click on the tab above to see what is scheduled in the coming weeks.

Thursday, October 27, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY-OCT. 30

This is the 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 26).  Church school will meet.  Following the service, we will have a discussion about Anglican Prayer Beads.  These are similar to Roman Catholic rosary beads and are used as a form of contemplative, quiet prayer.  We will meet from 10:15-10:35 in the sanctuary. 
Halloween in on October 31.  To learn about the connection between Halloween and All Saints' Day, click on the tab at the top of this page..
Next Sunday, November 6,  is All Saints' Sunday.   We will read aloud the names of those who have died.  Bring a photo of your loved one to display during the liturgy that day.  Children are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to church.  Also-bring your leftover Halloween candy to church that day.  We will send it to military members who are deployed overseas through Operation Gratitude.
Our annual Veterans Day celebration will be held on Sunday, Nov. 13.  Read the post on the right for more information. 

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 23

This is the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25).  Church school will meet this week.
Next Sunday, on Oct. 23, there will be a meeting after church for those who are interested in learning about Anglican prayer beads.  These are similar to Roman Catholic rosary beads and are used as a form of contemplative, quiet prayer.  Come learn about it!
Sunday, Nov. 6 is the celebration of All Saints' Sunday.  We will read aloud the names of those who have died.  Bring a photo of your loved one to display during the liturgy that day.  Children are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to church.  Also-bring your leftover Halloween candy to church that day.  We will send it to military members who are deployed overseas through Operation Gratitude.

Thursday, October 13, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 16

This is the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24).  Church school will meet.  There will be a liturgy committee meeting after church.
On Saturday, Oct. 22, St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley will have their annual Oktoberfest and Hymn Sing from 5-7pm.  Bring a dish to share. 
 On Sunday, Nov. 6, we will celebrate All Saints' Sunday.   We will read aloud the names of loved ones who have died. Bring pictures of them that will be displayed in the sanctuary during the service.  Children are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes on that day.  On Sunday, Nov. 13, we will have a special Veterans Day celebration after the 9am service.  Our special guest that day will be Mr. Kasim Yarn, the Director of Veterans Affairs for Rhode Island.  All veterans are welcome!

Friday, October 7, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 9

This is the 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23).  Church school will not meet this week due to the holiday weekend.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.  It is an important meeting as the new bylaws will be approved.
On Sunday, Nov. 6, we will celebrate All Saints' Sunday.  Come dressed as your favorite saint!  We will read aloud the names of loved ones who have died.  On Sunday, Nov. 13, we will have a special Veterans Day celebration after the 9am service.  Our special guest that day will be Mr. Kasim Yarn, the Director of Veterans Affairs for Rhode Island.  All veterans are welcome!

Thursday, September 29, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 2

This is the 20th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22).  Church school will meet and there will be a meeting for all parents after worship.
Tuesday Tutoring will begin on October 4.  The program is open to all middle school and high school students and it runs from 2:30-4:30.  Parent permission is required.  Click on the tab at the top of this page for more information.
On Saturday, Oct. 22, there will be a hymn sing and Oktoberfest from 5-7pm at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley.  All are welcome.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 25

This is the 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21),  Church school will meet.   After worship this week, there will be a bulb planting and yard clean up session from 10:30-11:30.
The fall Parish Luncheon will be held on September 26 at noon at the Richmond Country Club.  All are welcome (everyone pays for her/his own lunch).
Next Sunday, there will be a brief meeting for parents of all children.  The vicar will present some updates about youth.  The meeting will be held after church.

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT.18

This is the 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20).  It is Welcome Back Sunday!!!  Have you been missing from church for a bit this summer?  Are you and your kids ready to get back into a Sunday morning routine of worship, education and fellowship?  Then join us this Sunday morning at 9am!! Worship begins at 9am and  church school begins at 9am.  The children join the liturgy during announcement time and are there for the celebration of the Eucharist.  And the service is finished by 9:50!  There will be a special coffee hour this week with some fun foods.  Bring a friend!

Wednesday, September 7, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 11

This is the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19).  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
Welcome Back Sunday is next week, Sept. 18.  Church school will begin.  Bring a friend!
St. Thomas' is proud to announce that we raised close to $1000 for 1000 Jobs Haiti by selling their handmade goods at the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  Thanks to all of the parishioners who helped staff the table.
For the past few Sundays, there has been a new feature added to announcement time +/or coffee hour time.  Parishioners are giving reports on God Sightings in their lives.  These are moments when the presence of God or the rush of the Holy Spirit have been particular noticeable.  We have already heard some remarkable stories!

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 4

This is the 16th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18).  The last Friday at the Charlestown Farmer's Market will be Sept.2.  During coffee hour this Sunday, the remaining items from 1000 Jobs Haiti will be for sale.  Our church has sold almost $1000 worth of items for 1000 Jobs Haiti this summer.
Church school will begin on Sept. 18.
Is this election year causing you to experience political turmoil in your family, job or community?  If so, there is an online webinar for you!  For more information, read the column on the left. .
Our annual Veterans Day celebration will be on Nov. 13.  Save the date!  A special guest will join in the celebration that day.

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 28

This is the 15th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17).  Join us on Sunday at 9am for worship.  The air conditioner will be on and garden flowers will adorn the altar. 
Summer is coming to an end, which means activities at St. Thomas' will be starting up. There is a list of events posted above.  Look on the pate titled,  In the Coming Weeks.   Church school will resume on Sept. 18 and Tuesday Tutoring will begin on October 4 (click on the tab at the top of the page to learn about that program).
There are only 2 Fridays left for the Charlestown Farmer's Market.  Stop by from 9am-1pm to purchase items made by the folks of 1000 Jobs Haiti.  

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 21

This is the 14th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16).  Summer is counting down, but life at St. Thomas' is busy!  Check out the recent Facebook postings from the parish picnic and the WARM Center meal.  The link is on the right side of this page.
Our sanctuary is AIR CONDITIONED and our altar is adorned with beautiful wildflowers.  What better way to spend a Sunday morning!
The Washington County Fair will  run from Aug. 17-21.  Once again,  our friends at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley will be selling Taco Salad and Boiled Potatoes at their booth.  Be sure to visit them there.
There are just a few weeks left for the Charlestown Farmer's Market. Each week, St. Thomas' sells items there for 1000 Jobs Haiti.   It is located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.

Friday, August 12, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 14

This is the 13th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15).  Join us for worship at 9am in our Air Conditioned sanctuary!!!  There are beautiful wildflowers that adorn the altar all summer.    The monthly WARM meal will be prepared after coffee hour this week.  
The Washington County Fair will  run from Aug. 17-21.  Once again,  our friends at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley will be selling Taco Salad and Boiled Potatoes at their booth.  Be sure to visit them there.
There are just a few weeks left for the Charlestown Farmer's Market. Each week, St. Thomas' sells items there for 1000 Jobs Haiti.   It is located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.

Friday, August 5, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 7

This is the 12th Sunday after Epiphany (Proper 14).  Join us for worship at 9am in an air conditioned sanctuary followed by fellowship at coffee hour.
St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.
The Washington County Fair will be run from Aug. 17-21.  Once again, St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley will be selling Taco Salad and Boiled Potatoes at their booth.  Be sure to visit them there.

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 31

This is the 11th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13).  Worship on Sunday is at 9am in an air conditioned sanctuary adorned with garden flowers and spirit filled music. Come join us! St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer. 
There are a couple of movie nights coming up.  This Wed., July 27, we will show the movie, The War Room.  This is a movie for adults about prayer and discipleship. On Wed, Aug 3, we will show the movie, Homeward Bound.  This is a great family movie about 2 dogs and a cat.  Both movies start at 6:30pm and are FREE.  Popcorn and drinks will be served.

Thursday, July 21, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 24

his is the 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12).  Worship this Sunday is at 9am in an air conditioned sanctuary adorned with garden flowers and spirit filled music. Come join us!!
On Wed., July 27, we will be showing the movie, The War Room.  This is a movie for adults about prayer and discipleship.  Come join us and bring a friend.  It's free!!
St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.

Friday, July 15, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY-JULY 17

This is the 9th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11).  Worship this Sunday is at 9am in an air conditioned sanctuary adorned with garden flowers and spirit filled music. Come join us!!
As part of the weekly Sunday liturgy at St. Thomas',we are including a prayer from the Book of Common Prayer titled, For the Human Family (it is posted on the right). Our Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry, has suggested that we pray this prayer as struggle with the ongoing tragedies that befall our nation and our world (there are copies of the prayer available at the church, also).
St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.

Thursday, July 7, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 10

This is the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10).  Come join for worship at 9am in the air conditioned sanctuary, followed by coffee hour and fellowship in the parish hall.
This week was the first week of the Summer SPLASH food distribution program sponsored by the Jonnycake Center of Westerly.  Free groceries are available for families with school age children.  Contact the Jonnycake Center to register: 377-8069.  There are 5 pickup sites available, including Tuesdays at 9:30 at St. Thomas'.
Hymn Sing and Ice Cream Social will be held at St. Thomas' on Wed., July 13 at 6:30.  All are welcome.  There is plenty of parking on the street.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 3

This is the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9).  Once again this summer, St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   Come visit every Friday from 9:30-1pm throughout the summer.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 26

This is the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 8).  This Sunday the liturgy will be conducted in the form of an Instructed Eucharist.  During the service, there will be several pauses to explain the meaning of certain rites and actions.  Bring a question!
Once again this summer, St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   The first day is this Friday, June 24 from 9:30-1pm and will continue on Fridays throughout the summer.
Movie night coming up on Wednesday, June 29 at 6 pm.  We will show the movie, Homeward Bound.  Free movie, free popcorn and drinks.  Bring a friend!

Thursday, June 16, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 19

This is the 5th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 7).  The WARM meal will be prepared this week.  Once again this summer, St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   The first day will be Friday, June 24 from 9:30-1pm and will continue on Fridays throughout the summer. 
The second half of the Instructed Eucharist will be held on June 26. Read the column to the left for more information. 

Friday, June 10, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 12

This is the 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 6).  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church and an Audit committee meeting as well. 
This Sunday, and June 26, the liturgy will be conducted in the form of an Instructed Eucharist.  During the service, there will be several pauses to explain the meaning of certain rites and actions.  Bring a question!
Once again this summer, St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   The first day will be Friday, June 24 from 9:30-1pm and will continue on Fridays throughout the summer.

Thursday, June 2, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JUNE 5

This is the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 5C).  This is VISITOR SUNDAY at St. Thomas'.  We have invited people in the neighborhood to come and encouraged parishioners to Bring a Friend to church this week.
Next Sunday, June 12 St. Thomas' will have an Instructed Eucharist.  On this date, the first half of the service will be covered and on June 26, there will be another Instructed Eucharist to cover the second half of the service.  Read more about this in the left column.
Once again this summer, St. Thomas' will be selling items for 1000 Jobs Haiti at the Charlestown Farmer's Market located on the grounds of Church of the Holy Spirit.   The first day will be Friday, June 24 from 9:30-1pm and will continue on Fridays throughout the summer

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 29

This is the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost and the beginning of the Green Season (read more about this in the column on the left).  St. Thomas' will reveal the new green hangings and chasuble this week.  This Sunday the congregation will also vote on changing its status from a mission congregation to a parish (see tab above).  And since it is Memorial Day weekend, there will be a special remembrance of all those military personnel who have died.
Coming up on June 5, the church will welcome friends and visitors to the 9am service.  Bring a friend and share the good news of God's love that is celebrated every Sunday morning at St. Thomas'.

Friday, May 20, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 22

This Sunday is Trinity Sunday.  It is the one feast day in the church year that celebrates a church doctrine-the doctrine defines God as three persons- Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  These three persons are distinct, yet are one substance or nature.
This week at St. Thomas', the congregation will visit people in the neighborhood as a way of sharing the Good News of Christ.  St. Thomas' is committed to being an evangelist. This church has a message of love and hope to share with the world.
The months of May and June are busy at St. Thomas'.  On May 29, the new green paraments will be revealed.  It is also the day that the congregation will vote on becoming a parish.
June 5 is Visitor/ Bring a Friend Sunday.
For more upcoming events, check out the tab at the top of the page, "In the Coming Weeks."

Friday, May 6, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 8

This is the 7th Sunday of Easter and it is Mother's Day!  This week will be the last day of church school,  Many thanks to the dedicated teachers and faithful students who participated this year.
There was a great group who gathered for the Ascension Day service on Thursday.  There was worship, hotdogs, red balloons and an unexpected rush of wind!  Check out the photos on the Facebook link to the right.
The Bishop's Committee will meet on May 15.  On May 29, there will be an important meeting after church of all parishioners to vote on making the transition to parish status.

Thursday, April 28, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAY 1

This is the 6th Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet ant the church school students will sing during the worship service this week.  The liturgy committee will meet after church.
Ascension Day is  Thursday, May 5.  There will be a service beginning at 6pm- followed by a potluck dinner. This is one of the major feast days in the Episcopal Church.  Read the post to the right for more information.
The last day of church school will be next Sunday, May 8.
The Feast of Pentecost is Sunday, May 15.  If you would like to be baptised on that day, please contact the vicar.
On Sunday, May 29, there will be a congregational meeting after the worship service.  At this meeting, the members of St. Thomas' will vote to submit an application to the Bishop and Standing Committee of the diocese to change its status from a mission to a parish.  To learn more about this, click on the tab at the top of the page titled, Mission or Parish?

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 24

This is the 5th Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet.  This week members of the congregation will be asked to write down some of their favorite hymns.  The liturgy committee will review them and introduce some new hymns to the Sunday morning liturgy in coming weeks.
St. Thomas' had 6 bowlers participate in the WARM fund raiser last Sunday.  Check out the photos on the Facebook link on the right side of this page
The Parish Luncheon will be held on Monday, April 25 at 12 noon at the Richmond Country Club.  All are welcome- everyone buys her/his own lunch.
Save the date- Ascension Day is Thursday, May 5.  We will have a service at 6pm followed by a hotdog dinner.  It is a great event for families and children.  We will be done by 7:30 pm

Friday, April 15, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 17

This is the 4th Sunday of Easter.  This is also called Good Shepherd Sunday.  On this day, the Gospel lesson is taken from the 10th chapter of John in which Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd.  In the Hebrew Scriptures, kings and rulers were sometimes called shepherds and were expected to care for the sheep- the people of Israel.  This Sunday celebrates Jesus who is the culmination of all shepherds, caring for the flock.  The 23rd psalm is also read in worship on this day.
At St. Thomas', church school will meet.   Later on Sunday, the annual WARM bowl-a-thon will take place at Alley Katz lanes in Westerly from 1-3pm.  Come support the St. Thomas' Tom Katz who will participating in this fundraiser.

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 10

This is the 3rd Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church.
The WARM  bowl-a-thon is Sunday, April 17.  This is a fundraiser for WARM.  There are 8 people form St. Thomas' bowling on the Tom Katz team.  Click here to donate (no need to designate a team to donate).
The Narragansett Deanery will hold a meeting on Wed., April 13 at St. Peter's by the Sea in Narragansett.  The guest speak will be Ms. Joanne Pope Melish.  She will speak on the History of Racism in RI.  The meeting will be from 7-9pm and all are welcome.
The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church has asked that during the Easter season,  congregation  pray for parts of the world that are experiencing violence and trouble.  Read the column on the right for more information.

Thursday, March 31, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- APRIL 3

This is the 2nd Sunday of Easter.  Church school will meet.  
St. Thomas' celebrated a wonderful Easter Sunday-there were 70 people who packed the pews.  The children enjoyed an egg hunt following the service (check out some photos on the Facebook page- see the link in the lower right column.)
On Wednesday, April 13, the Narragansett Deanery will hold a meeting at St. Peter's by the Sea in Narragansett.  There will be a short business meeting followed by a guest speaker.  Joanne Pope Melish, an Episcopalian and a retired professor of History at the University of Kentucky, will speak about the History of Racism in RI.  The meeting will go from 7-9pm.  
The WARM Center will host its 24th annual Bowl-a-thon at Alley Katz Lane in Westerly.  St. Thomas' will sponsor two teams this year- The Tom Katz!  If you would like to support the bowl-a-thon, click here

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

COMING UP EASTER SUNDAY-March 27

This is Easter Sunday.  The worship service will begin at 9am followed by coffee hour and an Easter Egg hunt,  All are welcome.
St. Thomas' sent 3 overstuffed boxes of Easter treats to the active duty military persons who are related to the congregation.  Look at the photos posted on the right side of this page.
The Spring luncheon will be held on Monday, April 4 at the Richmond Country Club at 12 noon.



Wednesday, March 16, 2016

COMING UP PALM SUNDAY- MAR. 20

This is Palm Sunday.  The service will begin outside with the Blessing of the Palms in the meditation area and there will be a procession into the church.  There is no church school this week.  The WARM meal will be prepared after church.
The Holy Week schedule is posted to the right.  Anyone wishing to bring flowers to the church for Easter Sunday can drop them off during Holy Week.
This week there were 3 overflowing boxes filled with Easter treats that were sent to the 3 active duty military members who are part of the extended St. Thomas' family.  Thanks to everyone who made a donation to these packages.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAR. 13

This is the 5th Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church,
This Sunday we are packing up 3 boxes that will be Easter care packages for the 3 men related to the congregation who are serving in the military at locations around the globe.
Palm Sunday is March 20 and Easter is March 27.  If you would like to donate flowers for the Easter altar, they can be dropped off at the church any time during Holy Week.

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAR. 6

This is the 4th Sunday in Lent- also known as mid-Lent Sunday or Mothering Sunday- read the column to the left.  Church School will meet.  After church there will be a discussion of the book, Crazy Christians, written by our Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry.  Join us even if you have not read the book. 
March 6 is also Girl Scout Sunday.  All Girl Scouts are welcome to join us for worship at 9am followed by a reception.


Wednesday, February 24, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 28

This is the 3rd Sunday in Lent.  Church School will meet. This week we welcome our annual Episcopal Charities speaker- Mr. Baha Sadr from Dorcas International Institute,  St. Thomas' proudly participates in the Episcopal Charities campaign each year- last year we attained 117% of our fundraising goal for this effort.
March 3 is Girl Scout Sunday.  There will be a special coffee hour reception to honor all Brownies and Girl Scouts.  The girls should wear their uniforms to church.
The WARM Center is looking for volunteers to help paint, clean and move furniture in their Harvest Homes apartments.  Contact WARM for more information.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 21

This is the 2nd Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after church. 
There will be two guest vocalists joining our worship this week- Ms. Kateryna Diachenko and Ms. Heather Pollin will provide some special music.  
Next Sunday, Feb. 28, Mr. Baha Sadr from Dorcas International will be the Episcopal Charities speaker at St. Thomas'.  This organization was in the news last week as they arranged for a Syrian refugee family to come to Providence. Come and learn about the great work they do and about the important mission of Episcopal Charities. 
Don't forget to vote in Lent Madness this week (see the link on the right of this page.)

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 14

This is the 1st Sunday in Lent.  Church school will not meet because of school vacation week.  This week there will be a guest preacher- The Rev. Dr. James Jacob.
During the season of Lent, St. Thomas' will be participating in Lent Madness.  Anyone is welcome to join up.  For more information, follow the link on the right side of this page.
St. Thomas' collected $80 from the Souper Bowl of Caring collection last Sunday.  The money was sent to St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Flint, Michigan as it works to help the people of Flint get clean water and food.
Even though Feb. 14 is Valentine's Day, St. Valentine is not recognized on the Episcopal Church calendar.  Look on the left side of this page and read about this saint and the tradition of the holiday.

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 7

This is the Last Sunday after Epiphany. Church school will meet.  This is Boy Scout Sunday and it is the Souper Bowl of Caring. The paragraph on the right describes the history of this event.  This year St. Thomas' will donate its collection to the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan as it strives to help the people of Flint. 
 Ash Wednesday is on Feb. 10.  There will be a 10am service at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley and a 7 pm service at St. Thomas'.  
This year, members of St. Thomas' are going to take part in Lent Madness.  This is a fun, learning adventure based on the lives of the saints and patterned after March Madness.  If you would like to take part, send a message to the church via the Facebook link on the right column.
The Lenten study book this year is Crazy Christians written by our presiding bishop, Michael Curry.  There will be a book discussion after worship on March 6.
There are many more events scheduled during the season of Lent.  Click on the tab at the top of the page- In the Coming Weeks.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 31

This is the 4th Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet.  The Annual Parish meeting will be held after the worship service. At this meeting the parishioners will review the 2016 budget and affirm the new goals.  There will be a potluck brunch.
Next Sunday, Feb. 7 is Boy Scout Sunday and the Souper Bowl of Caring (see the post in the right column.)
Ash Wednesday is on Feb. 10.  This year, members of St. Thomas' are going to take part in Lent Madness.  This is a fun, learning adventure based on the lives of the saints and patterned after March Madness.  If you would like to take part, send a message to the church via the Facebook link on the right column.
The Lenten study book this year is Crazy Christians written by our presiding bishop, Michael Curry.  There will be a book discussion after worship on March 6.

Saturday, January 23, 2016

THE WORSHIP SERVICE ON JANUARY 24 IS CANCELLED DUE TO THE BLIZZARD

Since you can't make it to church on this snowy Sunday,  listen to this sermon given by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry on Thursday night.  He preached at the opening Eucharist for the Trinity Institute conference titled. "Listen for Change- Sacred Conversations for Racial Justice."  It is a little long (26 minutes), but you will be on the edge of your seat the whole time and he will make you laugh.  




Wednesday, January 20, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 24

This is the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet.
The Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Sunday, Jan. 31 after the 9am service. There will be a potluck brunch during the meeting.
Boy Scout Sunday is February 7.  Local boy scouts and cub scouts will join us for worship and there will be a special coffee hour reception to honor them.  All scouts are invited- wear your uniform!   That is also the same day as the Souper Bowl of Caring. 

Stay tuned for more details. 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 17

This is the 2nd Sunday after the Epiphany (back to green until the first Sunday in Lent).  Church school will meet and there will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after the service.  The WARM meal will also be prepared this week.
On Jan. 22-23, the Trinity Institute is sponsoring  a 2 day teleconference on Racism.  This program is open to everyone.  For more information, go to the column on the right side of this page.
The Annual Parish meeting will be held on Sunday, Jan. 30 following the service.  There will be a potluck brunch to accompany the meeting.  All are welcome.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 10

This is the 1st Sunday after the Epiphany, also known as the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus.  This week church school will resume.  There will be a Bishop's Committee meeting after the service.
On Saturday, Jan. 9, the spirituality group will meet at the church from 9:30-10:30.
Looking ahead, the Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Sunday, Jan. 31 after the 9am service. There will be a potluck brunch during the meeting.
Boy Scout Sunday is February 7. That is also the same day as the Souper Bowl of Caring.
Stay tuned for more details.

Friday, January 1, 2016

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 3

Happy New Year!  The Christmas season continues this week as it is the 2nd Sunday after Christmas. The worship service is at 9am. There is no church school this week.
January is a busy month.  There are 2 Bishop's Committee's meetings- Jan. 10 and Jan. 17.  Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings as new goals and plans are made for 2016.  Parishioners who would like to be a member of the Bishop's Committee or an officer should contact the vicar.
Baptisms will be held on Sunday, Jan. 10- the Feast of Jesus' Baptism.  Contact the church for more information.