COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 3

This is the 2nd Sunday after Christmas and the first Sunday in 2021!!  The lectionary gives us a choice of Gospel readings for this Sunday.  The one that will be used at St. Thomas' is the story from Matthew (2:1-12) that tells of the 3 wise men (also called kings or magi) who visited the baby Jesus.  The Feast of Epiphany, which is on January 6, celebrates the magi, but since the holiday falls mid-week, this Gospel passage is not always heard.  So this Sunday, tune into our service to hear about the kings and the star that they followed.  The link for the service can be found to the left. 

COMING UP SUNDAY-DEC. 27

This is the 1st Sunday after Christmas.  We will have an live, online worship service at 9am.  There will be Christmas carols and the extraordinary Gospel lesson from John 1 that describes Jesus as the Word of God.  All are welcome to join in!

CHRISTMAS 2020

We cannot be in person to celebrate Christmas this year, but you can watch our St. Thomas' Christmas service online.  The link will be available on December 24 after 2pm.  You can find it on the left column of this page.   In spite of all the unusual elements, we still rejoice because Christ was born into the world and God loves us!!    

                   Merry Christmas to all!

COMING UP SUNDAY-DEC. 20

This is the 4th Sunday of Advent.  The morning worship services continue to be at 9am via Zoom.  The link can be found on the column to the left. All are welcome!
This is the Sunday that our congregation will deliver its monthly food delivery to the WARM Center.  Thanks to everyone who donated!
Monday, Dec. 21, is the Feast day of St. Thomas-our patron saint! His celebration gets lost since it on a date that is so close to Christmas. Read about him on the tab at the top of this page.  
On Christmas Eve, there will be a Zoom service that you can watch live or at a time that is convenient for you.  The organist will play some Christmas carols so you can join in singing from home. The details will be posted early next week. 

COMPLINE AND COCOA

 Join us Wednesdays in Advent at 7pm for an online worship service of Compline followed by a fellowship time- bring your own cocoa.  Compline (from the Latin word meaning completion) is descended from the night prayers offered before bed at the end of the round of daily prayers said by monastics. Compline is a simple office which may include a confession of sins, psalms, a short reading from Scripture, versicles and responses, the Lord's Prayer, collects which ask for God's protection during the night to come, and the canticle Nunc dimittis. A hymn for the evening may follow the short reading from scripture. The collects may be followed by a time of silence, along with free intercessions and thanksgivings.  The service is found in the Book of Common Prayer on page 127. The Zoom link is here and the link for the order of service is here

COMING UP SUNDAY-DEC.13

 This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent.  It is also called Rose Sunday or Gaudete Sunday (read about it in the tab at the top called "What is Advent?").  The worship service is at 9am via Zoom -the details are in the left column).  There will be a vestry meeting this Sunday at 6:30.

St. Thomas' now has an Instagram account!  Follow us on Instagram at stthomasalton.  You can also find us on Facebook (see the lower right column). 

COMPLINE AND COCOA

Join us Wednesdays in Advent at 7pm for an online worship service of Compline followed by a fellowship time- bring your own cocoa.  Compline (from the Latin word meaning completion) is descended from the night prayers offered before bed at the end of the round of daily prayers said by monastics. Compline is a simple office which may include a confession of sins, psalms, a short reading from Scripture, versicles and responses, the Lord's Prayer, collects which ask for God's protection during the night to come, and the canticle Nunc dimittis. A hymn for the evening may follow the short reading from scripture. The collects may be followed by a time of silence, along with free intercessions and thanksgivings.  The service is found in the Book of Common Prayer on page 127. The Zoom link is here and the link for the order of service is here

COMING UP SUNDAY- DEC.6

This is the 2nd Sunday of Advent.  The morning worship services continue to be at 9am via Zoom.  The link can be found on the column to the left. All are welcome!
The parishioners of the church generously collected items to send to two active duty young men stationed overseas.  Cards, gifts and snacks were packed into boxes to remind them of home and let them know that they are loved and we are grateful. Check out the photos on our Facebook page (see the lower right column).

Compline and Cocoa will continue on Wednesdays in Advent at 7pm via Zoom.  It is an opportunity to pause during this season and pray and give thanks. And then socialize for a bit with one another.  All are welcome!

COMPLINE AND COCOA

Join us Wednesdays in Advent at 7pm for an online worship service of Compline followed by a fellowship time- bring your own cocoa.  Compline (from the Latin word meaning completion) is descended from the night prayers offered before bed at the end of the round of daily prayers said by monastic. Compline is a simple office which may include a confession of sins, psalms, a short reading from Scripture, versicles and responses, the Lord's Prayer, collects which ask for God's protection during the night to come, and the canticle Nunc dimittis. A hymn for the evening may follow the short reading from scripture. The collects may be followed by a time of silence, along with free intercessions and thanksgivings.  The service is found in the Book of Common Prayer on page 127. The Zoom link is here and the link for the order of service is here

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV. 29

This is the 1st Sunday of Advent and the beginning of a new church year (this will be Year B for those who follow the liturgical calendar).  To learn more about Advent, find the tab at the top of this page.  There will be a live Zoom service at 9am (see left column for details).  The church has many Advent resources available for families and individuals.  They can be picked up at the church at 9:45 on a Sunday morning.  Or they can be delivered to you.  Send a message to the church email address listed in the contact information tab.  

THANKSGIVING DAY

There is no service at St. Thomas' on Thanksgiving Day.  But Bishop Knisely will lead a virtual morning prayer service at 9am.  The link is here  

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV. 22

This is the Last Sunday after Pentecost- also called Christ the King Sunday. It is the last Sunday of the church year and it is the day to celebrate Jesus as the Christ and King.   Advent will begin on Nov.29 and with that comes the start of a new church year.  
This week there will be an online service.  In person worship is on hold as the COVID numbers in Rhode Island are high.  The link for the Zoom service and the service bulletin are in the left column.

There was a car load of food delivered to the WARM Center this week from the parishioners at St. Thomas. Check out some photos on the Facebook page (lower right column).

IN PERSON WORSHIP SERVICES CANCELED FOR THE TIME BEING

 Due to spikes in COVID cases in our state, Bishop Knisely has asked Episcopal churches in this Diocese to have only online worship services.  All are welcome to join in.  See the left column for the link to the Zoom service and the handout for the day. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV.15

This is the 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28).  There will be an in-person Eucharist service inside the church this week.  It is a small, safe service- everyone wears masks and social distancing is observed.  The service is also available on Zoom (see left column for link).  If you want details, send a message to the address in the Contact Information tab listed above.  This is the Sunday that we collect and deliver items for the WARM Center-they need juice boxes, water bottles, individually packaged cookies and crackers.  The church is also collecting items to send to two deployed military members.  Those things can be brought to the church or picked up if you prefer (no homemade baked goods, please).  Include a signed Christmas card! 

Unfortunately, there will not be an Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service this year.  Normally, churches from Alton and Hope Valley gather to worship together and give thanks.  But our hearts are still grateful and we look forward to being together in 2021.  

COMING UP SUNDAY-NOV. 8

This is the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27).  Due to the recent increase in COVID cases in RI, our service this week will be totally virtual.  Look to the left column to get the Zoom link and access to the handout.  This is the week to celebrate all of the veterans and active duty military members.  Normally we acknowledge them with a great party and recognition.  This Sunday, we will read aloud of all their names in our service and we will express our thanks to them virtually.

There are a couple of collections going on at St. Thomas'.  For the November WARM Center meal, we are collecting, juice boxes, water bottles and individually packaged cookies and crackers.  We are also going to send two boxes to our active duty military friends who are serving over seas.  Some of the items needed for them include: granola bars, protein powder, Christmas treats (no homemade foods), games, books.  For more information, send a message to the email address listed in the Contact Information tab above.

IN PERSON WORSHIP SERVICES CANCELLED FOR NOV. 1 AND NOV. 8

Yesterday Governor Raimondo reported that COVID cases in Rhode Island are spiking and that the state's hospitals were just a few weeks from reaching capacity.  The Governor, and our Bishop, have asked that for the next two Sundays, they prefer that worship services be held virtually.   At St. Thomas', our in-person services have been small and very safe.  But we want to do our part and be a good role model.  So, for the next two Sundays, Nov. 1 and Nov, 8, there will be no in-person services.  You can find the Zoom link, along with the link to the handout, in the upper left column of this page. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- NOV. 1

November 1 is All Saints Day.  It is one of the major feast days in our church calendar.  On All Saints’ Day, the Church honors all the saints’, known and unknown.  While there is information about many famous saints, there are countless men and women who have lived lives of faith, but never been honored or remembered. On this holiday, we celebrate all these holy men and women.  Join us for virtual worship at 9am.  The Zoom link can be found in the left column of this page.  We will read aloud the names of loved ones who have died in the past year.  Send a message to the email in the Contact Information if you would like us to remember someone. 

COMING UP SUNDAY-OCT.25

 This is the 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25).  Last Sunday morning, worship was inside the church due to the cold temperature. The plan is to stay outside as long as possible throughout the Fall, as long as it is not too cold.  The service will be available live on Zoom each week.  If you want the details or in person worship or the Zoom connection, send an email to the address in the Contact Information tab above.  All are welcome at our services!
The Strong Arms Support Group continues to meet virtually twice a month. If you have a family member who is struggling with addiction, or if you have lost a family member to an overdose, join this support group.  It is led by two licensed therapists and they offer support and hope.

COMING UP SUNDAY-OCT. 18

This is the 20th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24).  It looks like it will be sunny (but chilly) again this week, so another outdoor worship service is possible. There have been 15 consecutive Sundays with excellent weather.  The worship services on the lawn have included music, Scripture readings, a sermon and Eucharist.  They have been accompanied by birds, squirrels and now falling leaves in our midst. All are welcome for these services.  Send a message to the email address in the Contact Information tab and ask for details.  Or ask for the Zoom link so you can watch it virtually.
This is the week that our congregation gathers food items for the WARM Center.  The following items are needed: prepackaged cookies and treats, juice boxes, water bottles. Bring them to church on Sunday, or contact us if you have something to donate.

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 11

 This is the 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23).  It looks like the weather will be cooperative and we can have another outdoor worship service this week- the 15th sunny Sunday in a row!!  Last Sunday we blessed some animals as part of our morning liturgy.  Some photos are posted on the Facebook page (see the lower right column of this page).  Everyone is welcome to join us live, outside on Sunday mornings, or you can follow along on Zoom.  For all the details, contact the priest (see Contact Information tab above)

COMING UP SUNDAY- OCT. 4

This is the 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22).  October 4 is also the feast day of St. Francis.  He is the patron saint of animals and the environment.  To celebrate this day, we will include the Blessing of the Animals as part of our Sunday morning outdoor worship service.  Everyone is welcome to come with their pet- but masks and social distancing are required.  Send a message to the email address in the contact information tab for all of the details. 

Be sure to pick up your October "Grab and Go" bag filled with Christian education resources.  The theme for this month is Looking for Saints in the World. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 27

This is the 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21).  The outside services have been a great success and it looks like this Sunday the weather will be perfect again.  Everyone is welcome to come and join us- send a message to the contact information at the top of this page for all of the details.  There is a photo on the church Facebook page from our joyful worship service (see lower right of this page).  This week we delivered a carload of drinks and foods to the WARM Center.  Thanks to all who donated, including the parishioners from St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Hope Valley.

COMING UP SUNDAY- SEPT. 20

This week is the 16th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20).  It is the Sunday in the month that we collect food for guests at the WARM Center in Westerly.  The items that are needed include- small water bottles, juice boxes or individual packages of cookies, crackers, etc. If you have items to donate, you can bring them to worship on Sunday, or send us a message.  

We have now had 11 consecutive Sundays with sunny mornings for our outdoor worship service.  Little jackets are needed now, but it is still a safe beautiful way to pray, listen to music and receive Eucharist.  All are welcome!  If you would like to join us, send a message to the email address listed under the Contact Information tab.

COMING UP SUNDAY-SEPT. 13

This is the 15th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19).  During our worship service this week, we will have a blessing of the backpacks and laptops and accessories in preparation of the opening of school next week.  If you are a teacher or student or you work at a school, come for a blessing!  You can get the details of our worship service by sending a message to the email listed in the Contact Information tab above.    

Our church school program for adults and children this Fall will be Grab and Go.  Pick up a paper bag filled with Scripture readings, prayers and activities.  Each month has a different theme and the theme for September is Caring for Creation.

COMING UP SUNDAY-SEPT. 6

This is the 14th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18) and the beginning of September.  The summer Sunday mornings have been perfect for worship and with any luck, this weather will continue through the rest of this month.  There is an outdoor worship service every week with Scripture readings, a sermon, Eucharist, and keyboard music.  This service is live streamed or you can join in person.  If you want all of the details, send a message to the email address in the Contact Information tab listed above.

Church school classes will not meet this Fall. Instead, we will offer Church School Grab and Go.  This is a brown bag form of Christian education for children and adults.  Stay tuned for more details- or come to church this week to get your bag!

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 30

This is the 13th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17).  There have been 8 sunny Sundays in a row this summer which has allowed us to enjoy outdoor worship services on our church lawn. Parishioners bring their own chairs and masks and everyone sits a safe distance apart.  Even though there is no hugging or coffee hour, we are glad to see one another and share air hugs.  All are welcome!  If you want more details, send a message to the email address in the contact information.
Our neighbors down the street at RICAN have done a little renovating.  They have a food pantry available (donations accepted!) as well as a thrift shop and newly designed used clothing boutique. They are open Tuesday-Saturday from 10-5.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 23

This is the 12th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16).  The weather on Sunday mornings has been perfect for worship for the last 7 weeks!  The congregation is grateful for the outdoor lawn and large shade trees that have enabled us to meet outside.   St. Thomas' has a new project we are calling "Can you SPARE CHANGE for Church?"  Many of us have coins scattered around the house in jars, couches, under car seats and in pockets.   From now until the end of September, we are going to collect coins.  There will be a big container at church on Sundays so you can bring them with you and pour them in.   We will cash all of the coins in at the bank.  This project will help alleviate the coin shortage in the nation- and it will help give our parish budget a little boost. Bring them to church on Sunday morning.  Or you can donate to our congregation using the PayPal donation button in the top right of this page.   If you want the details for worship, send a message to the email address in the Contact Info. tab.

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG. 16

This is the 11th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15).  This is the week that members of St. Thomas' provide the Monday evening meal for guests at the WARM Center.  Items that are needed include: small bottles of water, individual juice boxes, single serve cookies and chips.  You can drop them off at the church on Sunday morning, or send an email to the address in the contact tab located above. 

Outdoor services continue to be held every Sunday morning.  It is a safe, joyful setting under the trees, listening to the birds.  Everyone is welcome.  Send a message if you want more details. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG.9

This is the 10th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 14).  There continues to be an outdoor, Sunday morning worship service each week at St. Thomas'- as long as the weather cooperates.  There are masks, social distancing and lots of love!   All are welcome! Send an email to the church if you want the details (see tab above).  

There will be an on-line vestry meeting this Sunday at 6:30pm.  

RICAN, (located at 805 Alton Carolina Road in Charlestown) is open and available to help those who need food and other household items.  They are always looking for volunteers and donation!  Click here to learn more

COMING UP SUNDAY- AUG.2

This is the 9th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12).  Each Sunday we meet outside for worship and we enjoy each other's company (at a distance) and the beauty of creation.  There have been squirrels, chipmunks, crows and dragonflies who have joined our celebration.  And last week, a bunch of yellow hawk weed flowers were blooming where we arranged our chairs.  If you would like to join us on Sundays, send a message to this email located in the Contact Information tab at the top of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 26

This is the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12).  St. Thomas' continues to have Sunday morning worship on the church lawn every week- Mother Nature has been very kind to us this month! The Holy Eucharist is celebrated and the service is mostly like worship that is celebrated in the inside of the building. In addition, we hear the sounds of the crows and chipmunks and we look around at the beauty of the earth.  All are welcome!  Bring your own chair and mask.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 19

This is the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11).  This is the week that we prepare the meal for the WARM Center.  These items are needed by Sunday: individual water bottles or juice boxes and single serving cookies or crackers.
St. Thomas' has celebrated with two outdoor Sunday worship services on the church lawn this month.  Everyone wears a mask and stays socially distant.  It has been a great joy to be together.  All are welcome to attend.  If you would like to join us this Sunday, contact the priest or send an email to the address in the Contact Information tab.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JULY 12

This is the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10).  Last week, we enjoyed an outdoor worship service.  There were 16 people and lots of social distancing and hand sanitizer. Check out the Facebook pictures on the lower right side of this page.  We will meet again for outside worship this week-weather permitting.  All are welcome!  Send a message to the church if you want the details (see Contact Information tab at the top).  There will be an online vestry meeting next Sunday.

COMING UP JULY 5

This is the 5th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9).  This week there will be an outside worship service at St. Thomas'.  It will be a little different from usual Sunday morning services and there are many guidelines that will be followed.  All are welcome- but if you would like to attend, contact the priest or send an email to the church and you can get all of the details.  See the "Contact Information" tab at the top of this page.

JUNE 24- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This Sunday, June 28, is the 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 8).  The Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Matt. 10:40-42), is a short passage- only 84 words long.  But the word, "Welcome," is used 6 times by Jesus in this lesson.  It is an important reminder to us that Jesus wants us to embrace everyone and be welcoming of all- regardless of any differences or issues.
St. Thomas' is going to have an in-person, outside worship service on Sunday, July 5.  The service will only be held if it is not raining.People are asked to bring their own chairs (if possible) and everyone will be asked to wear a mask.  The service will follow the guidelines prescribed by our Diocese (which can be found here).  If you would like to attend on this day, please send a message to the priest (see contact information tab at the top of this page).

JUNE 17- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This Sunday is the 3^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 7) and it is part of the green season in the church year (see left column).  The Episcopal Diocese of RI has released guidelines for resuming worship at churches across the state.  Those guidelines are here.  Several churches are currently having small indoor services, or larger services outside.  St. Thomas' plans to have outdoor services beginning in July (contact the priest for details).
This past Monday, members of St. Thomas', delivered food to the WARM Center to be used in its brown bag meal distribution.  Thanks to St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley who also donated items for this meal.

JUNE 10- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

The Church has now entered the Green Season (see the column on the left about this season of the church year).  As our nation continues to struggle with injustices and a pandemic, Christians are encouraged to pray, read, their Bibles and speak out in LOVE in all situations.
Our diocesan leaders are working on guidelines to help congregations get back to in person worship services.  At St. Thomas', we hope to have a Sunday morning service outside- sometime early this summer. 
We continue to pray together three times a week (see right column).  If you would like to receive a Sunday video, or if you would like to get the weekly emails, send a message to the email address listed in the contact information tab.

JUNE 3- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

The Church across the globe celebrated Pentecost last Sunday in the midst of a pandemic and as this country struggles with injustices and violence across the land.  Pentecost, and the reality of the Trinity of God (which the Church celebrates this Sunday), remind us that God and the power of the Holy Spirit, and the love of Christ, need to be the foundation of life.  Michael Curry, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, has been in the news several times this past week.  His message is always the same- Love God, love neighbor.  This is the only way to move forward when the challenges of life start to overwhelm us.  Bishop Curry's words can be found here.

MAY 27- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This Sunday, May 31, is the Feast of Pentecost.  This is one of the major holidays in the church year as it celebrates the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the crowd in Jerusalem in the form of wind and fire.  The story is recorded in the Book of Acts 2:1-21.  We recognize this day as the birthday of the Church.  This powerful Scripture reading is a good reminder to us during these unsettling times- the Holy Spirit has been given to us- and will inspire each person to live a life of faith and love.  Bad times will come and go, but the good news of God in Christ last forever!
Everyone is welcome to join in a virtual evening prayer meeting on Wednesdays at 6pm.  See the column on the right for details.
If you want to be on the church email list, or if you want to receive Sunday videos, send a message to the address listed in the contact info. above.

MAY 20-CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This past Monday, St. Thomas' donated snacks, drinks and sandwich meats for bag meals to be distributed to WARM Center guests. Thanks to Dunns Corner Market and the parishioners at St. Elizabeth's for their help with the project this month.
This Thursday, May 21, is Ascension Day.  Normally at St. Thomas', we would celebrate with at worship service at 6pm, followed by a potluck, hotdog dinner.   This year, we will pray at home and remember the day that Jesus ascended into heaven- 40 days after Easter. The Scripture lessons for the day can be found here.
Our Bishop and his team are writing guidelines for Episcopal churches in this diocese that will help as churches begin the re-opening phase in Rhode Island.  Stay tuned for updates!
The vestry at St. Thomas' has been working to keep its budget on track, even in the midst of the pandemic.  Donations can be made by sending a check to the PO Box address in the Contact tab above, or by using PayPal (see right column).

MAY 13-CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This coming Sunday is the 6th Sunday of Easter.  The Gospel lesson appointed for this week begins with these great words from Jesus, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments."  At a time when we are missing our routines, we are missing our social times, and we are missing our worship services, it is so helpful to hear Jesus share this message.  It may be hard to live a normal life these days, but it is not hard to be a Christian.  Jesus makes it so simple.  Follow his rule- Love God and love each other.  Be creative and find ways to share that love- especially with those who need it at this time.  If you are aware of someone who has a need, contact the priest (info in the contact info. box).

MAY 6- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

While the  building continues to be closed, the parishioners of St. Thomas' are busy being the church at work in the world.  They donate food to the WARM Center, they make masks, they support Episcopal Charities, they give rides to medical appointments, they shop for others, they write notes and make phone calls, and they do jobs around the church building. There is also an active Facebook group where people connect with one another and show encouragement (send a message if you want to join this group!)   A Zoom prayer meeting is held every Wednesday at 6pm. 
Go forth and be the Church!!

APRIL 29- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

This coming Sunday, (May 3), is the 4th Sunday of Easter, traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday.  The readings appointed for the day include Psalm 23 and the passage from John's Gospel (10:1-10) in which Jesus describes himself as the loving, faithful shepherd who will protect his sheep.  Normally we don't think of our selves as being of need of protection.  But these are not normal times.  Reading Psalm 23, or any of the psalms, can provide comfort and reassurance when we are feeling nervous or uncertain.
Another way to ease nervousness is to do something for another person.  Write a note, make a call. Or if you are financially able, make a donation to an agency that is helping in the community.  This Way of Love Easter calendar (from a church in Minnesota) has suggestions for each of the 50 days of Easter.
Have faith in God and love your neighbor.
All will be well.

APRIL 22- CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

Our church building continues to be closed, but the church is alive and active in the world.  There are many stories of people in our congregation who are helping one another in many ways!  One parishioner reaches out to one person a day, just to see how they are doing.  Another member of St. Thomas' provided a kitchen appliance  when she heard about a stranger who was in need.  A couple of people donated money to Episcopal Charities and to the WARM Center. Several  are sewing masks and distributing them to family, friends and community groups.  And  many parishioners have dropped off packages or sent notes or gifts to those who are in need or alone or who just needed cheering up. This is the church at work!!! This is what Jesus asked us to do! Keep these love stories going!!!
Our copies of Forward Day by Day for the months of May-July have arrived.  If you would like one mailed to you, send a message to the email address in the contact info. tab at the top of this page. 

APRIL 15 CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

Happy Easter!  The world celebrated an Easter unlike any other, but Christ is still risen and God is still victorious!  Check out the Facebook photos of how our church looked on Easter morning (lower right of this page). 
One of the great things about being a small parish (and there are many!) is that we are all able to be in frequent contact with one another by phone, email, texts, Facebook and handwritten notes.  If you would like to be on the list to receive the weekly email news, send a note to the email address listed under contact info. at the top of this page. 
We continue to worship together from our home three times a week- see the column on the right for all the details.  There will be a Zoom meeting at 6 pm for the Wednesday Evening Prayer service. Contact the priest if you want the link for that meeting.
If you are in need of anything, or you would like prayers, send us a message and we will try to help. 

APRIL 8 CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

We are in the midst of a Holy Week that is unlike any we have ever lived through in modern times.  At St. Thomas', we continue to stick together as a congregation through phone calls, emails, text messages, our Facebook page (see lower right column) and a Facebook chat group.  We continue to worship together from our home three times a week- see the column on the right for all the details.  There will be a Zoom meeting at 6 pm for the Wednesday Evening Prayer service. Contact the priest if you want the link for that meeting. This week, parishioners have made short reflective videos that include prayers, readings and thoughts.  We have shared these with our congregation as we encourage each other in prayer and love.
If you would like to be on this email list, or Facebook chat group- or if you would like us to pray for you, send a message to the priest (see Contact Information in tab at the top of this page).
In case you missed these news items, the Episcopal Church has made headlines in RI and across the country.  Did you read about all of the N95 masks found at our National Cathedral in Washington DC  (view the article here).  And this week, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in NYC is going to turn its sanctuary into a hospital (read about it here).  Then, the Rev. Meaghan Kelly Brower, director of ECC,  was in the news with a rap video she made (view it here)

APRIL 1 CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

The congregation of St. Thomas' is not meeting at the church, but we continue to be the Body of Christ in our world and in our small RI community.   The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Michael Curry, reaches out to the flock on a regular basis and shares his thoughts and prayers.  This week,  he wrote an epistle to the Church made to comfort us as we mourn the loss of our Holy Week and Easter services.  That letter can be found here.
We continue to worship together from our home three times a week- see the column on the right for all the details.  Starting today, there will be a Zoom meeting at 6pm for the  Wednesday Evening Prayer service. Contact the priest if you want the link for that meeting. 
For Holy Week, we are asking parishioners, and others, to prepare a short video of  a prayer or Scripture reading that we can share with our congregation. Again- contact the priest if you want to take part. 
There are  many online resources for worshiping at this time.  Many local churches are streaming Sunday and mid-day services. The Episcopal Church has is providing access to daily morning prayer services here and a Sunday service at the National Cathedral here.  
At this time, many of us are feeling isolated, anxious and depressed.  Try to make a phone call and/or write a note a week to someone who needs some cheering up.If anyone is in need, the priest can be reached by going to the Contact tab at the top of this page.  Remember to have faith in God and love your neighbor!

MARCH 25 CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

Our Presiding Bishop has said that churches should be closed until after Easter.  That is a shock to all of us, but it is what we have to do.  They have asked us to be creative in finding ways that we can still be a worshiping community during that most holy time of year.  If you have ideas, send them to the priest, or message the Facebook page here.
It is Lent and we continue to be mindful of the season.  Some parishioners are reading A Resurrection Shaped Life by the Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby.  Others are praying with their prayer pals.  If you want a prayer pal- contact the priest.
As a congregation, we are pausing at homes 3 times a week and praying from the Book of Common Prayer (see times in right column and the link to access an online book),
There are so many online resources for worshiping at this time.  Many local churches are streaming Sunday and mid-day services. The Episcopal Church has is providing access to daily morning prayer services here and a Sunday service at the National Cathedral here.  
At this time, many of us are feeling isolated, anxious and depressed.  Try to make a phone call and/or write a note a week to someone who needs some cheering up.
If anyone is in need, the priest can be reached by going to the Contact tab at the top of this page.  Remember to have faith in God  and love your neighbor

MARCH 18 CONGREGATIONAL UPDATE

Our worship service is cancelled for March 22 and probably will not resume for several weeks.  But we continue to be a church- a worshiping community- that shares love and praises God. To that end, St. Thomas is going old school. We are going to have three opportunities for worship from home using the Book of Common Prayer.  See the post on the right for the times and pages.
At the top of this page, under Links of Interest, you can find ways to access a Book of Common Prayer and a Bible (and other things!).
Our diocese has  many opportunities for online worship.  And the Episcopal Church has dedicated a page to resources and prayers for this time in our lives.  It also includes regular updates from our Presiding Bishop, Michael Curry.  You can view that page here.
What can you do during this stressful time?  Pray and love your neighbor.  We all have to do both of these things in new, creative ways.  Make a phone call everyday to someone.  Write an email or a real letter to a person who might be feeling alone or anxious.
The priest can be contacted by email or phone at any time.  Go to the Contact Information tab on this page for details.

NO WORSHIP SERVICE ON MARCH 15

As you know, the Coronavirus news has developed over the last 24 hours. The Governor announced state-wide school closings for a week and encouraged people to stay away from gatherings.  Many Episcopal churches (and other churches) have decided to cancel services tomorrow.  After talking with our senior warden,  it seems that we should do likewise.  Bishop Knisely told the clergy that each church could make its own decision about canceling and that he is supportive of whatever we decide.  As for now, we are just cancelling tomorrow- we will decide later about next week.

A few housekeeping notes-

• If you know of people who need food, or other essentials,contact the priest.  
• Please call, email or write one another.  This will be a lonely and isolating time for some people.
• Pray!
• Tomorrow, at 11 am, Presiding Bishop Curry will preach at a  worship service at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC.  It will be live-streamed and you can watch it here   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUGZLwnLhUU    
• Alternatively, tomorrow at 10 am, Christ Church, Westerly will live-stream a morning prayer service  The link for that is here

Take care of yourself and love your neighbor!

CORONA VIRUS UPDATE- MARCH 13

As we strive to focus on our walk with Jesus during this season, the reality is that the Coronavirus has taken over the news and now impacts our lives in many complex ways- including our church and worship life.

Our Bishop has written a pastoral letter recommending some modifications  to our worship services.  We will have a service at St. Thomas' this Sunday, but if you are hesitant to come, or you are sick, or you are in a high risk category, please stay home.  You can read the Scripture lessons appointed for Sunday here and you can read the morning prayer service at home by yourself or with your family.  You can find it in the Book of Common Prayer starting on page 75, or follow it on line at this link. And you can sing a hymn together!  Here are some Episcopal hymns on YouTube. If you want a copy of my sermon, let me know.  I have outlined a few things below that are from the Bishop's letter and also specific to our church.  These precautions will be in place until Easter, and then will be re-evaluated.

• We will practice social distancing with each other- keep at least 3 feet apart if possible and no touching or hugging.  We will wave during the Peace.
• During communion, consecrated wafers will be distributed.  I will consecrate a small amount of wine in the chalice, but we will not touch it.  The full benefit of communion is received in the bread as the  Body of Christ.  The chalice will remain on the altar as a reminder of Christ's sacrificial blood. 
• The offering plate will not be passed during the service- it will be at the front of the church for your offering.
• There is hand sanitizer in every pew, and at several other places in the church.
• There will be no coffee hour for the next two weeks.
• There will be no church school for the next two weeks.
• Our fellowship  dinner for March 27 has been cancelled.  Another dinner will be planned afterr Easter.
• The WARM meal will not be prepared on Sunday or served on Monday.   The WARM Center will be distributing sandwiches and "to go" meal bags.  You can learn more about that here.
• If you have a Lenten Prayer Pal- this is a perfect time to pray for that person and be in touch.  We need to encourage one another and keep communications open.  If you don't have a Prayer Pal, send the priest a message and you can be connected with one.
• For those of you are not in a high risk category for the virus, maybe you can be of help.  Some others in our church family may need help with shopping, or other jobs and may not be able to go out.  Perhaps you could volunteer to do some of those things.
• Please call and check on each other - this is a time to love one another and realize that we are all in this together.
• For more information, contact the Rhode Island Dept. Of Health at 401-444-5960 visit their website at here.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MARCH 15

This is the 3rd Sunday in Lent. Church school will meet and the meal for the WARM Center  will be prepared.
In response to the new coronavirus, the churches in the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island will make changes to the worship services to protect parishioners from the possibility of infection.  These precautions have been established in connection with the RI Department of Health and will be in effect until Easter.  Contact the priest for more information. 
Parishioners at St. Thomas' are observing Lent by following the Way of Love and finding ways to share love in their communities. Some members are reading the book, A Resurrection Shaped Life by the Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby.  On Sunday, March 29, we will gather after worship to talk about it. 
On Saturday, March 14, there will be a community hike  at the Browning Mill Pond Trail beginning at 10 am.  This is sponsored by the Chariho Youth Task Force .  Visit their website for all of the details.

COMING UP SUNDAY- MAR. 8

This is the 2nd Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet and there will be a vestry meeting after the worship service.
Lent has begun and at St. Thomas, everyone is encouraged to follow the Way of Love during this season.  Get a Lenten calendar here.  Some members of the congregation are reading a book during Lent titled,  A Resurrection Shaped Life by the Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby.  On Sunday, March 29, we will gather after worship to talk about it. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- MARCH 1

This is the 1st Sunday in Lent.  Church school will meet.  Lent is the season that precedes Easter.  It lasts for 40 days.  To learn more about Lent, click on the tab at the top of the page.
There will be a community hike this Saturday, Feb. 29, at the Ninigret Wildlife Refuge.  This is sponsored by the Chariho Youth Task Force .  Visit their website for all of the details.
Join us in reading a book during Lent!  We will read  A Resurrection Shaped Life by the Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby.  You can order the book yourself or sign up on the sheet in the parish hall.  We will meet after church on March 29 to discuss it..  Also during Lent, we will have Prayer Pals.  We will commit to praying for a particular member of the parish.  Everyone is welcome to take part.  Contact the priest for the details.

ASH WEDNESDAY IS FEB. 26

Come to St. Thomas at 12 noon for the imposition of ashes and Eucharist.  There will be a 7pm service at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley.  To learn more about Ash Wednesday and Lent, click on the tab at the top of the page,

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 23

This is the Last Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet this week.
There was a wonderful parish luncheon held last Monday-with 21 people present!  The theme was chocolate and love!  Check out the photos in the lower right side of this page.
Ash Wednesday is Feb. 26.  There will be a 12 noon service at St. Thomas' and a 7pm service at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley.
Our Lenten book selection is A Resurrection Shaped Life by the Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby.  You can order the book yourself or sign up on the sheet in the parish hall.  We will pick a Sunday to discuss it after church.  Also during Lent, we will have Prayer Pals.  We will commit to praying for a particular member of the parish.  Everyone is welcome to take part.  Contact the priest for the details.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 16

This is the 6th Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will not meet because of the holiday weekend. The WARM meal will be prepared after the worship service.
This coming Friday is Valentine's Day- learn more about this holiday by reading the tab at the top of this page.
On Saturday, Feb. 15, the Chariho Youth Task Force is organizing a Community Hike to be held at Grills Preserve in Bradford. Read more about it on the right column.
Ash Wednesday is Feb. 26.  There will be a service at St. Thomas' at 12 noon and a service at St. Elizabeth's in Hope Valley at 7pm.

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 9

This is the 5th Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet.  There will be a vestry meeting after the service.
Last Sunday was the Souper Bowl of Caring and St. Thomas' collected $80 in our soup pot.  Thanks to all who donated!  This money will be sent to Church Beyond the Walls- this congregation holds services in Burnside Park in Providence at 2pm every Saturday- rain or shine.
February is a busy month!  Join our congregation for hikes, luncheon and worship!  Details can be found by clicking the tab at the top of the page titled, "In the coming weeks."  Or contact the pastor for more information. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- FEB. 2

Sunday, February 2, is the Feast of the Presentation- also known as Candlemas  or Groundhog Day (you can read about it in the tab at the top of this page.)  When this day falls on a Sunday, it takes precedent over the regular Sunday readings.    Historically this has been a day to bless candles.  If you have candles you would like blessed, bring them to church with you this week.
Church School will meet this week.
This day is also the Souper Bowl of Caring (see post on right).  Bring a dollar to put in the soup pot to help us support Church Beyond the Walls. 

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 26

This is the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet .  This is the week of our annual parish meeting. It will take place after worship and it will be accompanied by a potluck brunch.  Bring a dish to share.  The children who do not want to take part in the worship service will make Blessing Bags for parishioners to take home. 
St. Thomas' partners with the Chariho Youth Task Force and they have an exciting initiative for 2020 called All Year Evolution. As part of this program, they will be taking twice monthly  hikes to locations in our region. Join them for fellowship and use the time to connect with God's creation.  Click here for more details.
The Souper Bowl of Caring is coming up on Sunday, Feb. 2.  See the post on the right top side of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 19

This is the 2nd Sunday after Epiphany.  Church school will meet and the WARM meal will be prepared.  The annual parish meeting is scheduled for Jan. 26.  We will share a potluck brunch during the meeting. 
St. Thomas' partners with the Chariho Youth Task Force and they have an exciting initiative for 2020 called All Year Evolution. As part of this program, they will be taking twice monthly  hikes to locations in our region. Join them for fellowship and use the time to connect with God's creation.  Click here for more details.
The Souper Bowl of Caring is coming up on Sunday, Feb. 2.  See the post on the right top side of this page.

COMING UP SUNDAY- JAN. 13

This is the 1st Sunday after Epiphany, which is celebrated as the feast of Jesus' baptism.  Church school will meet and there will be a vestry meeting following the service.
The annual parish meeting is scheduled for Jan. 26.  We will share a potluck brunch during the meeting.
During the month of December, parishioners at St. Thomas' collected new socks and underwear for the residents of the WARM Center.  The count included 1 hat, 69 pairs of socks and 11 items of underwear.  Thanks to everyone who donated.  View some pictures on  our Facebook page (see lower right side of this page).
The Souper Bowl of Caring is coming up on Sunday, Feb. 2.  See the post on the right top side of this page.