|
Join us this week for a special All Saints Sunday! In every service, we’ll honor all our saints, and at 10:15 am, we’ll celebrate the baptism of four young people—three of whom are siblings! Expect stirring music from our choir, including beloved hymns For All the Saints and I Sing a Song of the Saints of God.
Start your Sunday with a delicious Breakfast, provided by our Education for Ministry class and Wisdom Circle. Then at 9:00 am, dive into our Adult Formation session led by John Porter and Bill Murray as they explore the theme of JOY.
With gratitude, we’re thrilled to share that we’ve reached over halfway toward our stewardship goal, thanks to 130 pledges! Haven't pledged yet? You can do so online or by bringing your pledge card to church this Sunday.
Thanks be to GOD for this community and the spirit of generosity that brings us together!
| |
|
Investing in Tomorrow
Children are truly the heartbeat of Holy Innocents. Each Sunday, when I see their bright smiles, hear their thoughtful questions, and watch their friendships grow, it reminds me why this community matters so deeply. Seeing them play, learn, and discover faith brings a sense of wonder and purpose to our church family. I’m in awe of the love and dedication you pour into their lives, choosing to raise them within this faith community. It’s a gift not only to them but to all of us who have the joy of witnessing their growth.
Our whole parish feels this way; nurturing our children and youth is a priority we all share. Our mission here is to surround them with the love and guidance they deserve as beloved children of God, helping them find strength, compassion, and confidence as they grow.
You may have noticed our campaign theme this fall, Nurturing Faith, Cultivating Community… The founders of this church gave generously of their resources and their time to create this place we love so much now, and we are committed to honoring their legacy by ensuring this place continues to thrive for generations to come. In 2024, we committed $160,000 to Children and Youth Ministry alone—a significant investment, one that translates to well over $1,000 per young person and deepens my commitment to our future.
We’re thrilled to be more than halfway to our goal of $1,540,000 for the 2025 Operating Budget, and now we invite you to join in this journey. Please consider making a pledge, sharing a portion of your blessings to ensure this mission endures and grows. You can learn more and pledge online here. Thank you for everything you bring to our church family.
The Rev. T. Stewart Lucas
Vicar
| | |
|
We have the privilege of hosting the two-day 118th Annual Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta next weekend. Bishop Wright will be preaching on the theme To Be Witnesses at the opening Eucharist in the nave at 9:00 AM on Friday November 8. If you can usher or be a greeter that morning to help direct delegates and clergy from church across the diocese, please email Stewart. | | |
|
|
An Unexpected Guide
to Human Nature & Happiness
Join the Rev. John Porter and Rev. Dr. Bill Murray as they lead conversations filled with quotes and ideas from thinkers like Thomas Jefferson, Adam Smith, the French Enlightenment as well as Jesus, the prophets, and a long line of Christian thinkers.
Each session promises moments of insight, reflection, and humor on the human need to be happy. How do we work together? What do I owe my neighbor and myself? What do we do when they drive us crazy? What do we want in this life or the next? How does all of this work as individuals, as a community, and with our faith?
| | |
|
|
Thanksgiving Food Drive for Emmaus House
October 21-November 21
Emmaus House believes the holidays together is an important factor in maintaining family ties. With your help, we will help families in need enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. We seek donations of bags filled with customary holiday side items. Please pick up a reuseable bag, with the list of requested items. Drop off filled bags between October 21st through November 21st. If you are able to help drop off bags to Emmaus House, please sign up below.
Contact Lilia Romero | lgrrn@comcast.net |
404-422-0523
| | |
|
HIYA: Friendsgiving
November 10, 11:30 AM
Join us for a Friendsgiving Brunch after church on November 10! We’re bringing together young adults for a cozy afternoon filled with food, fun, and friendship. Bring a friend and a dish to share if you’d like, and let’s kick off the season with warmth and gratitude! 🍂
| |
|
|
|
Men’s Dinner & A Book
November 12, 6:30 PM
The next Men’s Dinner and a Book is Tuesday, November 12 at 6:30 pm and the book is The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann. John Harris is hosting at Jeremy Webber’s house. All men at Holy Innocents are included and invited.
Contact Jeremy Webber | jhwwebber@gmail.com
| | | | |
|
|
Women of HI: Sound Bath
November 14, 6:00-7:30 PM
Back by popular demand! Sonja will be with us again to lead us in a Sound Bath just in time to de-stress and center ourselves before the fall and winter holidays. We’ll begin with simple healthy refreshments. Dress comfortably and bring a blanket or a yoga mat.
| | | |
|
|
Third Friday: Men of HI
November 15
Enjoy warm hospitality, engaging discussions, and a fresh sausage and biscuit breakfast. Come for the conversation and stay for the fellowship. 7:30 AM in the Frost Youth Center.
Contact Charles Crosby | charles@corepm.net
| | |
|
|
Church of the Common Ground
November 17
HI will be packing 80+ lunches for our unhoused brothers and sisters who attend Church of the Common Ground in Woodruff Park in downtown Atlanta. Please join us in Parish Hall after the 10:15 AM service to help make sandwiches and assemble lunch bags. An additional part of our outreach is to worship with the men and women of CCG at their 1:00 PM service in Woodruff Park.
Contact Robin Hickey | hickeys5040@gmail.com | churchofthecommonground.org.
| | |
|
|
|
Reading Connections
November 18
Readings Connections is the women’s book club!
The book for November is Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Srout Join us at 6:00-7:30 PM in the conference room.
Contact Kathie Larkin | kathie.larkin@retired.paceacademy.org
| | | | |
|
|
Artist Call for Angels Among Us Exhibition at Ventulett Gallery
Ventulett Gallery is excited to announce an artist call for our upcoming show, Angels Among Us, on display from December 5 to January 13. We are seeking artists interested in showcasing their work alongside featured artist Judie Jacobs and friends. If you are inspired by themes of angels, spirituality, or the divine in everyday life, we encourage you to submit your artwork for consideration.
For more information or to express interest, please contact Caroline Fleming.
| | |
|
|
Christmas Concert & Lunch
December 11, 11:30 AM
Get into the holiday spirit on Wednesday, December 11, with lunch at 11:30 AM, followed by a delightful Christmas Concert featuring our very own Randy Romig and his friend Cathy Adams on our Steinway piano. They’ll bring joy to the season as they “tickle the ivories” with festive tunes!
| | |
|
|
HIYA: Secret Santa
December 15, 4:30 PM
Ho ho ho! The young adults are playing Santa Claus for a friend in the group. The deadline to sign up is November 15. The price limit is $30.
| | |
|
|
FOMA: Atlanta Gay Men's Chorus
December 15, 4:30 PM
“It’s Just Isn’t Christmas Until the Gay Men Sing!” The Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus is back with our 44th Annual Holiday Concert. This holiday show is a preview of the one at the Cathedral of St. Philip – an Atlanta tradition that is not to be missed. This year our show will be on the third weekend in December, and we’ll be joined by a jazz combo to bring you holiday favorites and the combination of beauty, camp, power, and joy that only the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus can.
| |
|
|
|
GLOW
November 6, 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Let’s GLOW for November. Kids ages PreK-5th grade are invited to join us for a special time of gratitude. We will talk about our upcoming food service volunteer opportunity, make a craft and play some games. Friends are welcome!
| | | | |
|
|
HI Youth Basketball
November 17
It’s time for some fun with basketball! The Holy Innocents Youth Basketball, season is open for registration! All kids in grades 2-5 are welcome to join us.
| | | |
|
|
Children’s Service Opportunity
November 20
We are excited to offer a children’s service opportunity this fall! The Children’s Ministry will be serving dinner for 50 students at Agape, which is a local Youth & Family Center that empowers children from under-served families. Agape provides after-school academic support, development programs, and dinner for approximately 200 children every school night throughout the year. We are pleased to be able to join in that effort and allow this great opportunity for children to experience the joy of giving back to our community. Volunteer spots are limited to 15 children 3rd- 5th grade.
| | |
|
|
Youth Group
November 24
All 6th-12th graders are invited to youth group on Sunday, November 24th from 4:00-6:00PM. We will enjoy a meal together, learn about gratitude, and play some hilariously awesome Thanksgiving games! You don't want to miss this!
| | |
|
|
Advent Wreath and Breakfast
December 1
Join us December 1 from 9-10 AM as we celebrate the season and prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ. Our youth will cook a delicious breakfast for $5 online and $10 at the door. You and your loved ones can create your own Advent wreaths for $15 with all proceeds going directly to the youth group. Please register by November 25th.
| | |
|
|
GLOW
December 4 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Let’s GLOW for advent. Kids come and join us for some advent FUN! Wear your favorite Christmas shirt and get ready for some fun games and go home with a very special advent activity to use at home. Kids ages PreK-5 grade.
| | |
|
|
St. Nicholas Sunday
December 8
Join us on Sunday, December 8 to celebrate the Feast of St. Nicholas and wear your favorite Christmas pajamas! We will have a special children’s chapel and leave our shoes out for a treat from St. Nicholas, and we might even have a visit from the Saint himself! After church, there is a Women of HI Cookie Swap and kids are invited to stay for a separate lunch and Christmas fun with friends. Registration is required for lunch.
| | |
|
|
Kid's Christmas Lunch
December 8, 11:30 AM
Kids ages PreK-5th grade are invited to a special Christmas Lunch and Cookie Decorating in celebration of St. Nicholas Sunday. Stay after church until 12:30 and enjoy a festive meal, cookie decorating, and fun with friends! Registration is required.
| | |
|
|
Youth Group | White Elephant
December 8, 4:00 PM
Let's celebrate the upcoming birth of our King! Join us for a special youth group on Sunday, December 8th from 4:00-6:00 PM as we enjoy a meal together and play the fun game of White Elephant. Anyone who wishes to participate must bring a wrapped gift. Limit of $35 per gift.
| | |
|
|
Club 45: Christmas Party
December 22, 9:00 AM
4th & 5th graders: Join us for a festive Club 45 Christmas Party on December 22 at 9:00am. Did you know that in 1965, astronauts played “Jingle Bells” on a harmonica in space? Well we won’t be playing harmonicas during our party but we will play some fun Christmas games and share some special treats. Bring your holiday spirit and get ready for a festive morning!
| | |
|
|
Children’s Choir
December 22
Our Children's Choir will sing on Sunday, December 22nd as part of the 10:15 Lessons & Carols.
Rehearsals are ongoing in Sunday School and Children's Chapel; kids can join any time. We are so excited to give children this opportunity to share their joy. Contact Ms. Renee if you have any questions!
| | |
|
|
Christmas Pageant
December 24
Mark your calendars for a wonderful afternoon as children retell the Nativity story! Children are rehearsing for the pageant in Sunday school and Children's Chapel, and we invite friends and guests to join in the fun anytime—no prior rehearsal is necessary!
| |
Click above to watch Ruth's sermon from last Sunday! | |
|
Pastoral Notes
If someone is in the hospital, has died, or has some other pastoral emergency, we hope you will contact our clergy directly. Please call the church office at 410-255-4023 and follow the prompts. This will connect you directly with the clergyperson on call for the week.
If you have joys to share, new births, grandbabies, graduations, or job announcements, we will gladly share them in our weekly Hi-Lights email if you send a note to communications@holyinnocents.org
| |
|
Warning about email scammers
When you receive an email from a Holy Innocents staff member, please check if the sender's email address ends with 'holyinnocents.org'. If it does not, it is likely not from us. Unfortunately, some individuals are attempting to scam various church members, posing as clergy and requesting gift cards. We never ask for money in this way. If someone claiming to be Bill, Stewart, Ruth, or another staff member contacts you, please let us know immediately. Report the email, block the sender, and delete the message. If you have any doubts, please give us a call.
| | | | |
