FIELDNOTES

May 2026

 The Monthly Newsletter of 

St. Francis-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church

Malvern, Pennsylvania

There will be NO Service in the Garden on May 3, 2026. The service will be held indoors.

See you in church!

Togetherness

Last week Donna and I, along with Laura O’Brien, enjoyed a wonderful “Supper Six” evening at the home of Mark and Liz Hansler. Like other Supper Six events, it followed a familiar pattern: We talked. We ate. We laughed. We talked some more. We ate again. We laughed again. The evening went faster than we wanted, and soon we gave hugs and said our goodbyes, delighting in a successful evening of good conversation and deeper friendships. That kind of experience is what makes Supper Six great, and it’s also the sort of thing that makes me reflective on life both inside and outside of the Church.

Relationships take work. I don’t just mean internal family or spouse-to-spouse relationships. Those are a given. I mean church relationships, and beyond that, any number of other relationships that are important and meaningful to life and society. Healthy work environments, civic organizations, even little league baseball teams require some kind of intentional relationship work in order for collaboration to be fruitful. And that’s for no other reason than the fact that human beings are relational creatures, social creatures. It’s simply part of the imago dei (the image of God) in which we’re made. [“Let us make human beings in our own image. . .” (Gen. 1:26)]

As I was reading the New Testament letter to the Hebrews earlier this week, I came across a passage that has long held importance for me. It’s part of the author’s admonition of their audience, as a community of faith, to avoid the steady, unconscious creep of relational and ecclesiological entropy:

Let us consider how to provoke one another to love

and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is

the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all

the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

While this writer’s intent was directed toward a faith community, to their regular attendance at prayers and Eucharist, and to “the Day” (that is, the return of Christ), there is a reminder here that a healthy “togetherness” - in more ways than one - is essential for quality, social, human living, no matter what the organization may be. “Organize”, “organ”, “organic” - these are all words that tell us a truth about the groups we form: these groups are, in their own way, “alive” - and they need nurturing through relationship building, including things like eating, laughter, and even hugs.

I say all that because we live in an age - in spite of and also partially because of “social media” - notoriously known for its separation. And in this age the Church - the Body of Christ - can be both a witness, and an example, of how human beings can get together and be together. And I don’t just mean worship, fellowship, and other “churchy” functions. The practice of our faith - let’s call it a sense of “making Eucharist” - can be done by having coffee with a new friend, joining a community book club, helping out at a local shelter, serving on a civic board, or joyfully and patiently showing up to vote. The possibilities are really endless, and most of us can find a niche where our divine life fits nicely into the larger world.

So even as we move through May and enter the summer months, I hope you’ll be thinking about how God’s Spirit leads you toward more Togetherness, and all the wonderful configurations that can take. It’s part of God’s design for us - both inside and outside of the Church. And our togetherness here, every Sunday, can prepare us for togetherness “out there” - where God goes ahead of us to love the world.

Fr. Kevin

St. Francis is Growing!

On Sunday, April 26, our parish grew with four new members:

· Katherine Lane

· Kristina Lange

· Paula Turocy

· Regis Turocy



We're very happy that Katherine, Kristina, Paula and Regis have joined us at St. Francis. Next time you see them, please offer them a warm welcome.

Confirmation

In the Episcopal Church, Confirmation is “the sacramental rite in which the candidates express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop’ (BCP, p. 860).”

All mature Episcopalians are expected to affirm their faith through the rite of Confirmation. A Confirmation Service is being held on June 6 at Church Farm School.

In preparation, Fr. Kevin will hold a simple, two-part Confirmation Class on Sunday, May 3 and Sunday, May 31, beginning at 11:20 am in the Library.

Vestry Meeting Report

April 14, 2026

Accounting Warden, Lisa Buono, reported a sound financial condition with strong pledge receipts continuing. While some accounts are over-budget, others balance those by remaining under-budget.

Fr. Kevin announced that the Deanery Convocation will be held at the Church Farm School on June 6 at 10:30 am.

The annual fire inspection discovered some faulty emergency lights and exit signs. The problems will be corrected. Also door lock issues will be addressed.

Paula Turocy has assumed responsibility for preparing the monthly Fieldnotes.

Vestry member of the month John McGovern reported on various ministries’ progress. Several ministries are selected each month to provide recognition and support for the work being accomplished

Rector’s Warden Roberta Torian reported that Church Farm School is seeking mentoring support for its students. Vestry discussed additional ways to build the parish’s relationship with Church Farm School. 

Fr. Kevin expressed appreciation for all the work done by volunteers during Holy Week. One of Father’s pastoral visits was conducted with another priest and was very successful. Father will conduct an overview of St. Francis’ values and the Anglican/Episcopal faith tradition on Sunday, April 19.

Fr. Kevin led Vestry members in a “vision casting” exercise, which included identifying areas of focus, where to lead the parish community, what needs to be addressed, what needs to grow or be retired. One key issue discussed was the need for expanded children’s ministry to encourage more young families to attend worship.

Book Reviews

Good Goats: Healing our Image of God by Dennis Linn, Sheila Fabricant Linn and Matthew Linn. “It is important to heal our image of God, because ‘we become like the God we adore.’ For example, if we see God as judgmental, we are likely to be judgmental. The book was enlightening, using scripture to validate the true image of God”. Recommended by Carol Cashon.

Jesus and the Disinherited by Howard Thurman. “It has been reported that Martin Luther King, Jr. carried two books with him everywhere—this one and the Bible. King’s mentor in nonviolent resistance, Thurman offers survival strategies for the oppressed to overcome fear and hatred by positioning love and faith as tools for liberation and advocating for self-respect as opposed to passive submission”. Recommended by Ida Guckes.

Listen to the Children: Conversations with Immigrant Families by Elizabeth Conde-Frazier. “What I appreciated most about this book was Elizabeth’s reminder of the wisdom and insight that immigrant children can offer to us. A good read for anyone seeking to nurture faith, empathy, and understanding across differences.” Recommended by Tom Ridington.

Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness by Nan Merrill. “This book helped me find all the right words to express my thoughts and desires to God”. Recommended by Meridith Ridington

Searching for Sunday by Rachel Held Evans. “Evans was a voice for many struggling with the negatives of a conservative evangelical upbringing. She grew up in 'monkey town' - Dayton TN - site of the Scopes Trial concerning the teaching of evolution. It follows her own growth in faith and understanding”. Recommended by John Woodcock

New Member Spotlight Update

You may have noticed a new feature in the Fieldnotes that began last year called New Member Spotlight. The goal of this feature is to highlight relatively new members for our parish as a way to get to know their background and interests. 

If you are a newer member, or even if you have been here awhile, we would love to interview you for a future article! The interviews can be done in person, via zoom, or phone and take 20 to 30 minutes. 

If you would like to be featured, please reach out to Jill Quinn or Susan Thomas, and don’t be shy! 

Ministry Volunteer Needed:

Church School Teachers

St. Francis is in need of Church School teachers! Our Church School program is active and growing under its wonderful Director, Sherri Lewis. But she needs help! Our Storymakers NYC curriculum is flexible, creative, and requires little preparation from volunteers. And our kids LOVE it! If you would like to see what it's like, please consider joining Sherri one of the upcoming Church School Sundays. Your help on any Sunday would be much appreciated!

If you would be willing to provide this important and needed ministry, please contact Sherri Lewis, Deacon Diane, or Fr. Kevin. Thanks!

Ministry Volunteer Needed:

Children's Room Manager

St. Francis needs someone to help keep our Children's Room (in the office hallway) safe, clean, and stocked with supplies. The Children's Room Manager's job would include putting up toys, straightening books, checking on diapers/wipes/snack supplies, and otherwise keeping an eye on the needs of the room. This job does NOT involve watching children. If you have an eye for organization and a sense of the needs of others, this is an easy job for you! If you would be willing to provide this important and needed ministry, please contact Deacon Diane or Fr. Kevin. Thanks!

May 5: Enneagram Growth Group

The “EGG” meets on the 1^st Tuesday of each month, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at the home of Kevin & Donna Dellaria.

This monthly group meets to go beyond basic Enneagram theory through group discussion and reflection.

Everyone with interest and some experience with the Enneagram is welcome.

May 2: Men’s Breakfast Fellowship

The monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast will be held on Saturday, May 2 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.

Book Group

On May 20, the book group will be discussing River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer.

The master of the Providence plantation in Barbados announces that the king decreed an end to slavery. His slaves are now apprentices and must work for him for another six years. Rachel decides to run to search for her children, the five who survived birth and were sold.

May 26: Brown Bag Lunch

Almost 30 years ago, Connie Black (Scanga) set off for Wellington, New Zealand, where she lived, worked, and explored the Antipodes for three and a half years. When she returned to Malvern, she brought home a lasting case of the travel bug—and has spent a good part of nearly every summer since then discovering new corners of the world. At the Brown Bag Lunch, she will share highlights from her journeys and perhaps spark ideas for your next adventure.

Connie lives in Malvern and has been a member of St. Francis for more than 40 years. She sings in the choir, previously served as Rector’s Warden, and is now on the verge of retiring after a long and successful teaching career at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.

Please mark your calendar and join us for her presentation on Tuesday, May 26, at noon. Come enjoy highlights from her remarkable journeys and help us celebrate her upcoming retirement. It’s going to be a joyful gathering!

Hands-Only CPR + AED Training

Saturday, May 30, 2026 • 9:00–10:15 AM

During a cardiac emergency, every second counts, yet most Americans feel unprepared to help. Would you, a family member, or a friend be able to respond appropriately if someone suddenly collapsed?

Join us for a practical, confidence‑building session on Hands‑Only CPR, a simple, effective technique that does not require mouth‑to‑mouth breathing. You’ll learn to take quick, lifesaving action and reduce fear and hesitation in emergencies.

This training also includes:

Ø A demonstration of how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Ø Education on the early signs and symptoms of a heart attack

Ø Guidance that empowers you to respond calmly and effectively when it matters most

A sign-up sheet will be posted in the Narthex by May 3rd. The class is limited to 20 participants. Please plan to attend—your preparedness could save a life. Thank you! 

May 31: Annual Picnic

The church's annual picnic will be held on Sunday, May 31st, after the service. Please save the date.

More details will follow! 

Brandywine Deanery Confirmation, Reception,

and Affirmation of Vows Service



Saturday, June 6, 10:30am

Brandywine Deanery Convocation & Confirmation Service at Church Farm School. Please make plans to attend this special service of our Deanery in the beautiful Chapel of the Atonement at Church Farm School in Exton.

As Dean of the Brandywine Deanery, Fr. Kevin will be preaching, with Bishop Gutierrez celebrating Holy Eucharist.

This is wonderful opportunity for Episcopalians from the 14 congregations in our Deanery to share common worship together and celebrate our Confirmands.

Vegetable Garden

The Vegetable Garden Committee kicked off the 2026 growing season by planting ten different spring crops ranging from potatoes and cilantro to beets and lettuce.

This Church Ministry is part of the Chester County FoodBank Raised Bed Garden Program. The nine-member garden team, now led by Judy Culver, will monitor and tend to the crops throughout the spring, summer and fall.

This year's goal is to meet or exceed last year's donation of 600 lbs+ of fresh produce to the FoodBank.

The Garden Committee is blessed to still have the wise counsel of Mahala Renkey who remains on the team after recently stepping down as Chair.

NAMI: Two New Programs!

In recognition of May as National Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI of Chester County is launching two new programs.

Sharing Hope is a program for Black and African Ancestry communities to have a safe space to talk about mental health and wellness. It promotes awareness, explores signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, and provides guidance on how and where to find help. This series will meet on zoom Tuesday evenings from 7 - 8:30 PM on 4/28, 5/5, and 5/12.

Peer-to-Peer is a free, eight-session program for adults with mental health conditions or who experience mental health symptoms. This program is co-led by volunteers with lived experience, offering a safe and confidential space for mutual support and growth. Participants gain insights, set goals, practice coping skills, share experiences in an accepting environment. This program will be held on Wednesday evenings, starting May 20th through July 8th from 6pm-8pm at Central Presbyterian Church in Downingtown. For more information and registration options, visit https://namichescopa.org/.

Church Farm School

Summer Session is almost here!

Thank you to all who have donated to the Griffins Clothes Closet!

The Church Farm School students will soon be heading home or to other summer adventures.

We will pause our collections until they return in the fall.

For more information about donating or anything Church Farm School related please contact: Cindy VanHefter cvanhefter@gmail.com.

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.

Contemplative Service

Fr. Kevin will offer a service of contemplative prayer each Sunday from 6pm to 7pm. This quiet, reflective service, gathered “in the round” will include Taizé-inspired songs, easy Psalm chanting, and periods of Centering Prayer. Everyone is welcome!

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.

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.

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, May 27.



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!

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Here's GREAT new challenge for parents and grandparents! Help your kids read 1000 books before Kingdergarten. Any book will do! Read the same book 1000 times! (or dont...) The point is to get kids reading! Sign up now at the Tredyffrin or Paoli Libraries, or sign-up online by clicking HERE!

Fr. Kevin is a member of the Trefyffrin & Paoli Library Board

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