FIELDNOTES

February 2026

 The Monthly Newsletter of 

St. Francis-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church

Malvern, Pennsylvania

The Theological Importance

of Knowing Black History

This month, just as we do each and every February, our nation will celebrate Black History Month. In the schools there will be posters, and readings, and reflections on the experiences of people of color, and on their contributions to American life. As a Diocese, we’ll honor this month especially through the annual Absalom Jones Celebration, being held this year on February 14th in our own Deanery, at the Church of the Good Samaritan in Paoli (see www.diopa.org for more information). And at St. Francis, per our usual custom, our Music Director, Joe Perry, will lead us through a selection of negro spirituals and black composers, while Tom Ridington helps us encounter Dr. King’s Letters from a Birmingham Jail (Sundays after Worship, Feb. 8, 15, & 22).

There is great importance for all Christians, I believe - especially for white, American Christians - in knowing about Black History, and the history of racial experiences and race relations in our nation. Basic familiarity with the life and work of the "big names" like Absalom Jones, Harriet Tubman, Howard Thurman, Frederick Douglas, Barbara Jordan, and of course, Martin Luther King, Jr., among many others, puts us in touch with a special kind of Christian witness, especially in the face of desperate circumstances. What does Discipleship really look like in practice? Look to those Christians and other people of color who, throughout history, have had to constantly swim against the tides of the prevailing powers.

But there is more to Black History Month than becoming aware of the specifics of the Black struggle for equal rights and full inclusion. Any time we take a moment to hear a story that is largely different from our own, we grow. I’m not saying we come to any particular conclusion or share the same viewpoint as the other person. But if we genuinely listen and, at the very least, receive and welcome what we’re hearing, our world gets a little bigger.

Think about the ways Jesus invited other stories into his own ministry. To begin with, each Disciple was different. That fact alone brings a vivid depth to the stories of four evangelists. Then there are the “Gospel NPCs” (non-player characters) who bring something, some kind of character or flavor, into the Gospel story that wouldn’t otherwise be there: The woman caught in adultery. The rich young ruler. The Gerasene demoniac. The woman with the issue of blood. (Along with the synagogue ruler, Jairus - whose emergency the woman interrupts in her urgency to see Jesus!) The Syrophoenician Woman, whose audacity at Jesus feet seems to rattle him, and challenge his own assumptions about his mission. The repentant thief on the cross. So many others.

The Gospels are not the same if we don’t have these stories. No amount of theological opining gives us the same experience as watching Jesus interact. There’s a reason more people prefer the Gospels to Aquinas, and it’s not just because Aquinas is boring (no offense to any theologians out thre …). It’s because we typically just connect better with stories involving other human beings than we do with cold, hard, rationally-adjudicated theological speculation. As important as that kind of thing can be, another warm body telling their story, sharing their life, giving us a window into their struggles and triumphs, just holds more fodder for our imaginations.

Which is why we need to avail ourselves of the opportunities to focus on experiences and histories that are not our own. Black History Month. Women’s History Month (March). Pride Month (June). The reason these month-long celebrations are with us is because these are cultural voices that are often not heard as loudly and clearly as others, and their stories get overlooked, buried, or lost. To hear them, we have to focus a bit. Take some time to give our devoted attention, just as Jesus did.

One thing I’ve always loved about Jesus is that he always seemed to be able to find that one - that one person in the crowd, or on the streets, or in the Synagogue - who really needed him. And so he stopped, and listened, and healed. And that’s really the call for us, too; for the Church and Disciples of Jesus Christ: To stop. To Listen. And to bring healing whenever, however, and wherever we can.

So please don’t overlook Black History Month as some kind of “secular” celebration. Its purpose is more than just "historical". It's to help us all open our hearts and minds, bringing our awareness - especially those of us who are not people of color - to the common experiences of those who are. And any time we can learn from someone different from us, that is real, honest, spiritual growth.

Fr. Kevin+

PS - Want to build skills in hearing and connecting with other people's stories? Learning the Enneagram is one great way to help us understand both others and ourselves. The Enneagram Journey returns to St. Francis beginning February 15. Please see the announcement below for registration information!

Lent Begins February 18th!

Ash Wednesday, February 18, marks the beginning of the Season of Lent, a period of reflection and preparation for Easter. The theme for this year's lenten journey at St. Francis will be, "Resting in Christ". How does the Cross of Christ invite us into God's rest? What confidence do we have of God's favor for us? How does our trust in God's unconditional love give us strength to face the challenges of our times? Join us as we study these themes throughout the season, as we journey toward Holy Week and the glory of the Resurrection!

Calendar of Events for Pre-Lent and Lent:

Sunday, February 15 - "Shrove" Sunday Pancake Supper

After worship, come to the Parish Hall for a brunch of pancakes, bacon, sausage, and other good things, sponsored by our Men's Group.

Wednesday, February 18: Ash Wednesday

Holy Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes at 12:00pm and 7:00pm. Start your lenten journey here!

Wednedays at 10:00am - Lenten Study: Savior, by Magrey R. DeVega

Feb. 25 - Apr. 1: A six-week study of the various theological images, metaphors, and interpretations of the Crucifixion found in the New Testament and Christian theology. Learn more about the concepts of "Substitutionary Atonement", "Ransom", and other theories. How do these understandings benefit us? How have they been misused or abused? How do they help us REST in God's love? (Wednesday Bible Study is followed by Holy Eucharst at 11:15am.)

Sundays in March, 11:20am to Noon - Savior (Abriged)

Fr. Kevin will lead a shortened version of the Wednesday study, with highlights and discussion of the theological images, metaphors, and interpretations of the Crucifixion.

Other events: Due to scheduling conflicts, the Lenten Day of Rest (March 7) and the Spoken Word Event (March 27) may be moved. Watch announcements for a change in schedule.

Vestry Meeting Report

January 13, 2026

Accounting Warden, Lisa Buono, reported a budget surplus in 2025 which was redistributed to areas in need of additional funds in 2026. 

Vestry members finalized plans for the Annual Meeting on January 25. Speakers were selected and members indicated what food items they would provide for the event.

Members discussed replacement of kitchen dishes, the agreement for use of church space, new rental partnerships with The Artist’s Circle, the Volunteer English Program, and the West Chester Garden Club, along with a policy for Financial Assistance to persons in need. The Directory of Ministries was updated with correct membership information. 

Fr. Kevin discussed this year’s St. Francis Youth Volunteer Service Award, which replaces the now defunded Presidential Volunteer Service Award. The Vestry Member of the Month, Sue Nangle, reported that ministries are proceeding well. Outgoing Vestry members, Sherri Lewis and Kathy Schilling, were thanked for their years of service. New candidates for Vestry, Carol Forte and Laura O’Brien, attended the meeting as part of their orientation.

Celebration of Father Kevin’s 10^th Anniversary at St Francis

Sunday July 12^th will mark the 10^th Anniversary of Father Kevin’s first Sunday at St. Francis. In thanksgiving for Father Kevin’s 10-year ministry with us, there will be a party at church on Saturday July 11^th from 5pm to 8pm. Please mark your calendars.  

Women's Group

A group of women met at St. Francis once a month to study the book of Ruth and share life together intertwining the scriptures, spiritual practices and life experiences. At the conclusion of our five monthly meetings we gathered to share artifacts that we made or curated to remember the book of Ruth. Janet Doyle wrote a poem that she agreed to share on her reflection of Ruth: 

Sometimes  by Janet Doyle

Sometimes I feel like I am stuck in a maze verses a labyrinth,

Sometimes it is hard to have hope and to move forward

Sometimes it feels like I am living in the time of Lot in Solome and Gomorrah.

Sometimes I relate to Lot’s wife and I almost turn into a pillar of salt.

Through Ruth and her journey, sometimes I can feel a bit of hope.

Sometimes, I can find beauty in nature; when the birds sing outside my window, 

when snow coats the trees, all glistening white, when the sun rises and sets in full color.

Sometimes I see hope in the future through my children and grandchildren.

Sometimes I know I must move forward despite all my sorrows, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Sometimes, I can push the rocks that are heavy on me, and plant a seed that will bloom into something beautiful for all I encounter, to share in a better day forward, and a better world for all.

February 3: Enneagram Growth Group

The Enneagram Growth Group meets on the 1^st Tuesdays of each month, from 6pm to 8pm, at the Dellaria residence in Paoli. The next meeting is Tuesday, February 3.

The FULL "Enneagram Journey" is starts on Feb. 15! See the announcement below for more information.

For more information, contact Fr. Kevin or Donna Dellaria (donnadellaria@gmail.com)

February 6: Red Cross Blood Drive

Our next Red Cross blood drive is at St Francis, on Friday, 2/6/26 from 2-7pm. Please sign up today.

Look for the poster in the stairwell and scan the QR CODE, and select an appointment time, or sign up on the app.

Together we help save lives! With gratitude, Nancy O. 484-757-4040. 

February 7: Men’s Breakfast Fellowship

The monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast will be held on Saturday, February 7 at 9:00am, at the West Chester Diner (1147 West Chester Pike). This is BYOB (“Bring Your Own Bucks”).

All men of St. Francis are welcome to attend.

Beginning February 8 - Adult Forum: Letter from Birmingham Jail

February 8, 15, and 22, we will read and discuss Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail.

Written as a message to the church, this powerful letter invites reflection on how people of faith respond when societal practices conflict with God’s justice.

We’ll meet in the Library after the service (approx. 11:20 am) the last three Sundays in February.

Grab your coffee and join the conversation! Questions? Please contact Tom Ridington at mtr19355@gmail.com.

February 8: Outreach Committee Meeting



There will be an Outreach Meeting on Sunday, February 8 after church in the Church School area. All are welcomed! 

2026 Absalom Jones Celebration

Saturday, Feb. 14

This year's Diocesan celebration of Blessed Absalom Jones will take place on Saturday, February 14, from 10:30am to 1:00pm at the Church of the Good Samaritan in Paoli.The speaker for this event will be the Rev. Dr. Kenyatta R. Gilbert, a nationally recognized scholar on African American preaching. For more information, at to reserve your spot for the event, click HERE!

Beginning February 15: The Enneagram Journey (12 weeks)

Sundays, 4:00pm to 6:00pm. Through the Enneagram you come to know yourself better, and learn to understand and connect with others in deeper and more meaningful ways.

This is the full course of The Enneagram Journey, using videos from noted Enneagram teacher Suzanne Stabile. The class includes video and discussion. A simple soup supper is provided. This is a great course for couples and individuals alike. Cost: $50.

To register or for more information, contact Fr. Kevin or Donna Dellaria (donnadellaria@gmail.com).

Book Group

The next meeting of the book group will be on February 20, at 1 p.m. in the library.

We will be discussing James by Percival Everett.

Jim runs away when he hears he is about to be sold. Huck fakes his death to escape his violent father. This historical novel retells their story from Jim’s point of view.

** Note: Church Farm School will be hosting Percival Everett for the inaugural event in their "Public Programs & Events" series on Friday, March 27 at 7pm. Visit gocfs.org for more information. **

Brown Bag Lunch - February 24, 2026

Vision Corps, founded in 1926, is one of Pennsylvania’s oldest and largest nonprofits dedicated to empowering people who are blind or vision‑impaired. Through rehabilitative, preventive, and educational services—and by providing meaningful employment in manufacturing, food processing, and administrative roles—Vision Corps helps individuals build confidence, skills, and independence.

Our speaker, Natanya Sortland, knows firsthand how life‑changing this support can be. Legally blind, Natanya became an advocate for the visually impaired after losing her sight following a stroke. What began as blurry, double vision gradually progressed to profound vision loss. Everyday tasks became dangerous: she cut and burned her hands while cooking, narrowly avoided being struck by a car, and could no longer read her mail. Although she sought help from her doctors, she discovered that Chester County had few resources to teach people with vision loss how to navigate daily life safely.

Everything changed when someone told her about Vision Corps. The services she received not only restored her independence—they also restored her hope.

In her presentation, Natanya will share her powerful story and raise awareness of Vision Corps’ free services for people who are blind or visually impaired, including those living with macular degeneration. She will speak candidly about the emotional and practical challenges of losing her sight, her struggle to find support, and the tools and training that helped her rebuild her life. She will also lead hands‑on activities that enable sighted attendees to experience what it feels like to navigate the world with limited vision.

This is an opportunity to learn, deepen empathy, and discover resources that make a real difference in our community. Mark your calendar, share this with your friends and neighbors, and plan to join us on Tuesday, February 24th.

PLEASE NOTE: THE JANUARY BBL WAS POSTPONED DUE TO THE SNOW STORM, SO IT WILL BE RESCHEDULED AT A FUTURE DATE.

New Community Partners at St. Francis

The Artists Circle, a respected, local organization of women artists, is now meeting in the St. Francis Parish Hall from 10am to 3pm, twice each month on Thursdays. We are honored to provide a regular workspace for this new non-profit partner and their artists.

In addition, we recently signed an agreement to allow the Volunteer English Program, a long-time St. Francis Outreach partner, to utilize our space for one-to-one tutoring on Mondays and Fridays.

Church Farm School

Winter is here!

Winter coats and jackets, hats, scarves and gloves would be greatly appreciated.

The Griffin Clothes Closet could also use the following items: Black and brown shoes, both casual and dress. Black and brown belts (small and medium), deodorant, body wash, and plastic bar soap containers (they have a lot of bars of soap).

Donated items can be put in the bin located in the narthex.

Thank you!

For more information about donating please contact:

Cindy VanHefter cvanhefter@gmail.com.

August 9 – 14: Cross Roads Family Camp

Are you looking for a faith-based summer camp opportunity? Bring your whole family to enjoy the awesome perks of summer camp: fun activities, learning, nature, worship, and time for reflection.

Cross Roads Camp & Retreat Center is a joint venture of the of the New Jersey Synod of the ELCA and the Episcopal Diocese of Newark.

Fr. Kevin and his family enjoyed a week of vacation at Cross Roads in 2025, and will be returning for Family Camp week in 2026.

For more information, visit https://www.crossroadsretreat.com.

Contemplative Service

Fr. Kevin will offer a service of contemplative prayer on the 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month, from 6pm to 7pm. (February 1 and 15) This quiet, reflective service, gathered “in the round” will include Taizé-inspired songs, easy Psalm chanting, and periods of Centering Prayer. Everyone is welcome!

Church School!

Our Church School for kids through 6^th grade meets on the 2^nd and 4^th Sundays until summer. (February 8 and 22).

Our Church School uses the StoryMakers NYC curriculum, encouraging children to use their imagination to explore the world of the Bible through activities, crafts, and storytelling.

We welcome your children and/or grandchildren to be part of our growing group of young disciples!

Our Church School Leader is Mrs. Sherri Lewis.

Weekly Lectionary Bible Study

This weekly study group meets both in-person and on Zoom Wednesdays at 10 am to discuss the readings for the upcoming Sunday.

Those who attend in-person gather after for a brief service of Holy Eucharist.

A weekly email link is sent out for those who desire to attend virtually.

Help Support our Mission!

Please scan the QR code to make a donation to St. Francis.

Thank you for your support!

To save money on fees, please

do NOT use this feature for your monthly pledge

Let us take your picture!

Our pictorial directory is a great resource that helps members put together faces and names. However, many of our newer members don’t have their pictures in the directory, and many of our longer-term members need to update their pictures.

After service on Sundays, please allow Roberta Torian or David Brooks take your photo to put in our updated member directory.

Join the Front Sign Ministry!

One of the most effective ways we catch the eyes of those driving by is by changing our front sign almost every week. It’s an easy task that has a big impact, and we need more people to help.

If you can give an hour every couple of months, join the Front Sign Ministry team! See Fr. Kevin for details. Your help would be much appreciated!

Circle of Friends

Wednesday, February 25.



Packets can be prepared for pickup or delivery as needed. 

Please contact Shelley Steel at 610-299-3963 or shelleybsteel@gmail.com.

ALL Meetings, Events, and Repairs



PLEASE call (610-647-0130) or email (stfrancisfields@stfrancisfields.org) Diane Faison in the church office to schedule ANY events at the church!

Doing this helps prevent scheduling conflicts.

Thistle Hills House 2025

Thank you for your recent donations!

The women at the Thistle Hills House are very grateful but

supplies are still needed!

We are still collecting for Thistle Hills House in Coatesville.

When shopping, take the list with you and throw something extra in the cart! Anything you can give would be greatly appreciated by the women who live at Thistle Hills House!

Please be as generous as you can!

A list of needs is in the Narthex and below!

Much appreciated!!

Altar Flowers

Honor a loved one or celebrate a special occasion by signing up for our weekly flower memorials. For a donation of $50, your dedication will help adorn our altar with beautiful flowers during the service your choice and will brighten the life of a shut in.

To reserve a date, please use the book in the back of the church, find the date of your choice and fill in. Entries in pencil are only for one year and entries in pen will be considered permanent and reoccurring.  

Your generosity and remembrance will be a blessing to our parish community.

Thank you for your support! Pamela Hudson, 484-787-6669 

St. Francis "Night at the Ballpark"!

Saturday, August 1 @ 6:45pm

Last but not least - mark your calendars! Our summer tradition of fun at FirstEnergy Stadium in "Baseballtown" (Reading, PA) happens this year on Saturday, August 1st. As usual, St. Francis has been invited to sing the National Anthem on the field before the game. Tickets will go on sale later in the year.

And in VERY important and related news . . . pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training in less than two weeks!

Click HERE for an inspirational video!

St. Francis-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church

689 Sugartown Road

Malvern, PA 19355

610-647-0130

stfrancisfields@stfrancisfields.org

stfrancisfields.org

The Very Rev. Kevin Dellaria, Rector

The Rev. Diane E. Faison, Deacon & Parish Administrator

Mr. Joseph Perry, Minister of Music