Join Us for a Celebration of New Ministry

On Sunday, November 23rd, at 5PM The Rt. Rev. Laura J. Ahrens, Suffragan Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut, will formally install The Rev. Joseph J. Rose as St. Francis’ sixth Rector at the New Church, 2810 Long Ridge Road. The Very Rev. Winnie Varghese, Dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, will preach.

All are invited to witness this next chapter in St. Francis’ story. The Eucharistic service will include special music selections. A festive reception will follow the service with generations of parishioners, community leaders, interfaith partners, and friends of St. Francis coming together.

If you can help with the reception, please use the button below to sign up.

Help with the Reception

Please note that this will be our only service on Sunday, Nov. 23. Children are welcome but there will be no Godly Play during the service.

The Very Rev. Winnie Varghese will preach at the Nov. 23 installation of The. Rev. Joe Rose.

An Invitation from Rev. Joe

Beloved,

Although the service on Nov. 23rd marks my installation as your next rector, it is not about me. It is about us – a celebration of the Holy Spirit bringing us together into this shared life and ministry. It is a moment to give thanks for how God has already begun weaving our stories into one, and to rejoice in the beloved community we are becoming – a people shining as a beacon of God’s love, hope, and justice in Stamford and beyond.

I could not be more thrilled by the journey we have begun. Together, we are building something beautiful and real.

We will be joined by my dear friend, The Very Rev. Winnie Varghese, one of the church's most prophetic and transcendent preachers. I look forward to introducing St. Francis to her. But more than anything, I cannot wait for her to meet you.

This will also be a time to meet my family and friends, who have walked with me through thick and thin. All are welcome to gather at the table to share bread for the journey ahead, honoring where we have been, while looking forward to where the light of God’s grace is guiding us.

I can't wait to give thanks and to celebrate our new ministry together! See you then.

Faithfully yours,

Joe+