eNews for February 20, 2026 | | | |
- Prayers in the Wilderness: A Service of Prayer & Lament - 6:00 p.m.
- Mid-week Lenten Bible Study
- Lenten Practices
- Grant Applications Due 2/25
- Rescheduled Men's Dinner - 3/7
- Family Eucharist 3/10
- Vacation Bible School Dates
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Prayers in the Wilderness: A Service of Prayer & Lament
Sunday 2/22 • 6:00 p.m.
2/22—In our baptismal covenant we commit to strive for justice and peace and to respect the dignity of every human being. Recent events related to immigration enforcement have left many of us feeling distressed about the treatment of others and in a kind of wilderness ourselves. If you're feeling the need for space to gather with others in your grief or anger, the need for prayer and lament, the need to be reminded of the light that continues to shine in our world, we invite you to gather on Sunday evening, February 22 at 6:00 p.m. for a candlelight service we are calling Prayers in the Wilderness: A Service of Prayer & Lament.
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To the Church of the Epiphany
This coming Sunday will be my last one with you before I'm ordained a priest in June. I know my time with you has been short and sporadic, but I wanted to say "THANK YOU" for your encouragement and welcome during my ordination process.
As some of you know, I serve full-time at St. Peter and St. Paul, but spent a few Sundays with your church this past year as a way to gain further experience in the Episcopal Church. I truly enjoyed getting to worship in your parish and I'm especially grateful for the kindness shown by your staff.
And an extra big "THANK YOU" to Reverend Amy who has helped mentor me over this past year as well. She has been incredibly kind in taking time from her schedule in order to support me during my ordination journey.
God Bless,
Brandon Dasinger
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Formation for All
Sundays at 11:30 a.m. through March 22 • parish hall
This Lent we will journey with Jesus on the way to Jerusalem using Walking the Way: Following Jesus on the Lenten Journey of Gospel Nonviolence by John Dear as our guide. We will reflect on the nonviolence of Jesus as he sets his face toward the cross—teaching, healing, practicing civil disobedience, sharing bread and wine, praying, and meeting suffering with steadfast love. Drawing connections to figures like Gandhi and Dr. King, John Dear invites us to consider what it means to follow the nonviolent Jesus today. This course will be led by the Rev. Amy-Dills Wright, the Rev. Carmie McDonald, Paul Hinson, and Suzanne Yoder.
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Adult Formation Playlist: Missed a class? You can find recordings of the current series and previous classes on our YouTube channel.
Joe Iarocci’s presentation on Emmaus House has been uploaded and may be viewed in its entirety at the link below. Emmaus House is a ministry that that is deeply rooted in our parish and for which Epiphany members serve in a multitude of different ways. In this presentation, Joe discusses new challenges faced as the current neighborhoods the ministry has served for decades experience rapid change as the result of gentrification. The core goals of Emmaus House haven’t changed however, and it continues to make to make measurable positive impacts on residents of all ages in the communities it serves.
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Children's Formation—Sundays at 11:30 a.m. • locations vary
- Room 206—Godly Play for children 3 years old through 2nd grade.
- Room 205—Children in 3rd through 5th grade—a lectionary based curriculum for older children
Youth Formation—Sundays at 11:30 a.m. • lower-level classroom / donut den
The Youth (6th - 12th grade) curriculum, Current: Seeking God Together, explores 13 spiritual practices that can deepen and transform our relationship with God and others using interactive, age-appropriate strategies to help children and youth connect with God and the church as whole.
Click here to provide donuts for the youth on Sunday mornings.
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Youth Group
Our youth group event will be a Tie-Dye activity that explores the themes of waiting and revelation in Lent. We will begin at 4:45 p.m. in the meadow and will end at 5:45 p.m. All materials will be provided, but students are asked to wear clothes they would not mind getting dye on.
Next Sunday, March 1, parents are invited to join the youth group for a night of dinner and games in the Epiphany parish hall from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
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Altar Arrangements & Sanctuary Light Sign Up
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The Arrangements at the Altar are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Neil Banfield, by Rod & Michele MacLeod.
- The Sanctuary Light is given to the Glory of God.
Altar Arrangements & the Sanctuary Light can be given in honor of an anniversary, birthday, or in memory of a loved one. Click the button link to reserve dates that have meaning for you.
Click here to choose a date >>
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Season of Lent - February 22 through March 22
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Midweek Lenten Bible Study
February 25, March 4, 11, 18, and 25
Join the Rev. Carmie McDonald on Wednesdays at noon during Lent for a midweek Bible study centered on prayer, reflection, and conversation. Together we will engage a five-part video series led by Bishop Wright, We Confess, which explores the Old Testament lectionary readings for the season. All are invited to pause in the middle of the week as we join with others on the Lenten journey.
Learn more here >>
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United Thank Offering (UTO)
Make a practice of thank offerings during Lent
| | | | In 1889, two Episcopal women envisioned a way to collect small thank offerings in homes as a personal expression of gratitude. Today, UTO contributions from Episcopalians around the world support more than 5,300 Episcopal missions and ministries. UTO boxes/envelopes are in the Gallery. Make checks out to The Episcopal Church Women, noting UTO in the memo. Ingathering will be Sunday, April 12, but checks can be made out to the ECW anytime between now and April 12. | | |
Meditations from Episcopal Relief & Development
Free online
| | | | If you are looking for a Lenten devotional to read as a spiritual practice during Lent, pick up one of the Living Compass booklets in the gallery: Living Well Through Lent 2026: Cultivating Healing and Wholeness in Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind. Prefer a digital practice? A free PDF version is also available at livingcompass.org. You can also sign up to receive a daily email of each reflection for free. | | |
A Booklet from Living Compass
Free in the gallery, limited supply
| | | | This year, Episcopal Relief & Development is offering Lenten Meditations with spiritual reflections from author and TikTok influencer Sister Monica Clare, on the holy habits that bring us closer to God. Visit episcopalrelief.org/church-in-action/lent/ to sign up for daily meditation emails, read them online, or download their booklet. | | This Week at Epiphany & Other News | | |
Epiphany Endowment Grant Submission Period Closes February 25
Application deadline is February 25, 2026.
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Now Accepting Applications: Epiphany Endowment Grant applications are available online and in the gallery tract rack and can be submitted beginning January 25. Grants may be for capital improvements; scholarships or grants to members; or community outreach projects.
Click here for the application form >>
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Contemplative Book Group
Thursday at 11:00 a.m. - six weeks
The Contemplative Book Group current study is on the book A Midwinter God: Encountering the Divine in Seasons of Darkness by Christine Valters Paintner. Join us at 11:00 a.m. in Room 201. This book study will run for six weeks. Remaining Dates: 2/26, 3/5, 3/12
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Volunteer Check In
Thursday at 6:00 p.m. • Zoom
2/26—All Children and youth volunteers are encouraged to attend a mid-year check in on Thursday, February 26, at 6:00 p.m. on Zoom. We will recap the program year thus far and review resources safeguarding policies that are important for all volunteers. For questions, please contact Taylor Irwin.
| | Group Meetings & Programs Taking Place This Week | | |
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The Community of Hope’s Circle of Care—Last Mondays • parish hall
2/23—Members gather to pray, learn, and provide each other with mutual support as they reflect on their emotional and spiritual responses to pastoral encounters. If you or a loved one would like to receive a pastoral visit or home communion by one of the trained caregivers, please contact Ann Fowler.
Men’s Breakfast Group—Tuesdays following the 7:00 a.m. service
2/24—The Men’s Breakfast Group gathers for breakfast and discussion following the 7:00 a.m. Tuesday service and are typically on their way by 8:00 a.m. Contact Dave Thompson with any questions.
Choirs for Children & Youth—Tuesdays
2/24—Beginning Choristers meet from 4:45 to 5:15 p.m.
2/24—Junior Choir meets from 5:15 to 6:00 p.m.
Register your child for choir >>
Trivia Group—Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. • Wild Heaven in Avondale Estates
2/24—All are invited to join the Epiphany Trivia Group on Tuesdays at Wild Heaven in Avondale. Trivia begins at 7:00 p.m. and ends by 9:00 p.m. Contacts: Edie Brush or Jacob Geiger.
Choirs for Adults & Youth—Wednesdays
2/25—The Epiphany Ringers rehearse from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. in the Choir Loft.
2/25—Our all-volunteer Epiphany Choir rehearses from 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. in the Music Suite.
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Social Justice Action Group—Virtual Group
This social advocacy group promotes social and cultural change. The group identifies community events in which we can participate, and provides a curated list of local community happenings via Realm Groups. If you’d like to be part of this group, join via Realm Groups to view current opportunities of social justice action in our area.
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Looking Ahead
3/5—Grief Pastoral Care Group—1st Thursdays at 12:00 p.m. • Zoom
3/5—Fireside Sit & Sip—Once a month at 7:00 p.m. • Courtyard
3/9—Epiphany Book Group—2nd Mondays at 7:00 p.m. • location varies
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March Book: Citizens of London, by Lynne Olsen (Epiphany
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April 13: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride (at Epiphany)
3/10—ECW—2nd Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. • Parish Hall/Kitchen
3/11-13—Gateway Shelter Meal Ministry—2nd Fridays • Parish Hall/Kitchen
3/17—Epiphany & Earth & Soul—3rd Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. • Room 201 | Zoom
3/17—Caregiver Support Group—3rd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. • Zoom
3/18—The Munch Bunch—3rd Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. • Thinking Man Tavern
| | | | Upcoming Services & Events | | |
RESCHEDULED Epiphany Men's Fellowship Dinner
Saturday, March 7 at 6:00 p.m.
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Gumbo is still on the menu!
3/7—The Epiphany Men’s Fellowship Dinners (EMFD) group has rescheduled their meal for Saturday, March 7 at 6:00 p.m. No agenda—just a gathering to prepare a meal and enjoy conversation.
The menu for this meeting will center around Gumbo. Cost including drinks, is $30 per person. Register by Thursday, March 5, so we know how much food is needed. For questions or suggestions, contact Brian Wright or Joel Fowler.
Donation Request: We are asking everyone to bring a new pair of sweat pants and/or a sweat shirt for those in need at a local psychiatric hospital.
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Family Eucharist & Service Project
all activities in the parish hall
3/10—We look forward to seeing you for this family and kid focused celebration of the Eucharist. Please arrive at 5:00 p.m. for the service project, 6:00 p.m. for pizza, and 6:15 p.m. for the start of the service.
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Youth Art Show in the Gallery this Spring
Submissions Due 3/15—This spring the Epiphany Art Ministry will include an exhibit featuring work from the Epiphany Youth! Youth are invited to bring up to three pieces of artwork in any medium. Funds will be split 50% to the artist and 50% to the Youth Group fund. All submissions are due by Tuesday, March 15. For questions, contact Liefy Smith or Page Love Smith.
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Youth Pilgrimage to Camp Mikell
June 27, July 11, July 25
| | | | This year, our youth pilgrimage takes a new shape as students are invited to attend Camp Mikell’s Intermediate Camp (June 16–22 for rising 7th–9th graders) and Work Camp (July 12-18 for rising 10th graders through recent graduates). Money raised during youth fundraisers in the coming months will help offset registration costs, and we will travel together to and from Toccoa. Taylor will join students for check-ins and some evening meals. Visit campmikell.com to register and experience the Mikell magic this summer! | | |
Vacation Bible School
June 27, July 11, July 25
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This year’s VBS will take a new shape! Families with children ages 3 through 5th grade are invited to gather for three Saturdays this summer for a shared experience of storytelling, service, and Sacrament. Join us on June 27, July 11, and July 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information about youth counselors and adult volunteer opportunities.
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For members who are bidding our prayers: Pam Hall • Les Howell (husband of Cliff Edge) • Richard Shirah • Kim Boswell • Larry Wilcox • Mike Curry • Wes, Kelly & Lillian Wright • Laraine Fraijo-Paul • Chris Miller • Ellen Mintzmyer • Philip Anderson • Louise Bedrossian (wife of Bob Thompson) • Barbara Belcore • Esther Harbert • Veta Smith (mother of Cecilia Democko) • Sally Brockington
For friends and family: Keren Clay, neighbor of Susan & Richard Messner • Cherise & Bob, friends of Cliff Edge • Nancy & Ron, neighbors of Linda & Paul Parisi • Sally Williams, daughter of Susan & Loren Williams • Mark McCord, cousin of Pam Tipton • Kay Harris, mother of Rebecca Webb • Danny Nodine, brother of Larry Nodine • Mark Thornhill, uncle of Kurt Erskine • Louise Peters, grandmother of Tristen Webb • Sherri Sharpe, cousin of Terri Lawrence & Julie Ryder • Dave Tipton, brother of Pam Tipton • Isabel, granddaughter of Mike & Beth Towers
For members who desire our continuing prayers: Jewel Allen • Mary McCall Cash • Wende Crowe • Pat & Bill Graves • Bruce Fort • Esther Harbert • Robin Hairston • Rod MacLeod • Sally McClintock • Chris Miller & Ron Hutcheson • Ann Rowles • Pat Spivey • Beth Towers • Michael Towers, Jr. • Wayne & Judy Urban • Larry Wilcox • Colleen
For those who have died: Pat Johnson, aunt of Leslie Jo Tottenham • Marshall McGraw, uncle of Chris McGraw
For those celebrating anniversaries the week of 2/22-28: Brent Henderson & Calvin Houts
For those celebrating birthdays the week of 2/22-28: Nick Christian • Bill Gary • Claire Tobin • Brian Wright • Wayne Richardson • Maggie Reetz • Bekka DePew • Amanda Kay Seals • Mike Towers • Jim Hoesterey • Eloise Wierwille • Finley Williamson
| | | | Did we miss your anniversary or birthday? Send the full date of your anniversary and/or your date of birth to the parish office so that we can update our records. | | | |
The weekly deadline for submission of announcements for the Friday Morning eNews
and the Sunday bulletin is Wednesdays at Noon. Please send your submissions
ready to go to the parish office.
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