Pastoral Note
Bill Comer died on Sunday at home. The family will have a service at a later date.
Former member, Natalie Cato, died on March 15, 2025.
Natalie had moved to North Carolina and then to Palm Coast Florida with her daughter, Cynthia Shannon and her husband Michael.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. Thomas Episcopal Church there on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM.
Please keep the Comer, Cato, and Shannon families in your prayers.
Father of all, we pray to you for those we love but see no longer: Grant them your peace; let light perpetual shine upon them; and, in your loving wisdom and almighty power, work in them the good purpose of your perfect will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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This Saturday at 8:30 AM, we invite you to roll up your sleeves and help us plant new bushes in the Memorial Garden as we prepare for Sunday’s joyful Burning of the Mortgage Celebration! Many hands make light work, and we’d love your help getting everything looking beautiful. Email Stewart if you can join us. We have windows to wash too! Bring a shovel and gloves.
Be sure to scroll down and sign up for the upcoming Women’s Event, check out the Holy Week schedule, and RSVP for the Maundy Thursday Agape Meal.
Thank you for your incredible response to the Lenten Food Drive for the Community Assistance Center—your generosity is making a real impact! Let’s keep the momentum going. Keep bringing in food and donations—we’ll share an update soon on total pounds collected and our progress toward the $15,000 goal.
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Burn the Mortgage
Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 11:15 AM
We have almost paid off the note from our 2012 renovation (the balance is just under $10,000). So, it is time to celebrate this big moment. After the 10:15 service on Sunday, March 30, we will go outside to the luminarium (the big cauldron in the memorial garden) and burn the loan documents. Since it will be Lent, we encourage you to write down things you also want to be done with - and cast those burdens, sins, injuries, grudges, and worries into the fire. We will share some prayers (it is the Episcopal Church, we always have a liturgy), burn the mortgage and our burdens, and then celebrate with some "hot" themed food together. Join us for a celebration!
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Letting Go and Rejoicing
The Rev. Dr. Bill Murray, Rector
We began Lent with fire at the Pancake Supper. Stewart and the youth burned the palm crosses and branches from the previous Palm Sunday to prepare ashes for the Ash Wednesday service. For most of my life, I have been taught and have understood Lent to be a time to give up things so that we can focus on God. Stop eating the desserts, stop the extra helpings, and stop doing those things that take you away from God. I have also been taught it is a time to add things. Start reading the bible more, start praying more, and even start finding ways to help others. I think all of those are powerful ways to engage this sacred season.
I think we are missing something in this. Something that I am learning this year. Lent is also about letting go of things. We can become burdened with our mistakes and errors. We will willingly carry the guilt and frustration and shame of moments in our life that others have long forgotten- moments God has forgiven. For me, those old moments can be the heaviest on my heart, soul, and mind. Giving those up and moving on is no easy measure.
This Sunday, we are called to do just that as a church and as individuals. We will do all we can to put away the old. On Sunday, March 30, we will celebrate paying off our debt with a Burning of the Mortgage after the 10:15 am service. We have a beautifully renovated building. We have much to celebrate. To truly rejoice, we sometimes must set down the burdens we carry — the regrets, the frustrations, the old hurts, and disappointments — and make room for grace to meet us where we are.
I encourage everyone to write down those things that they need to leave behind this Lent. It could be literal debts, it could be sins and brokenness, it could be addiction, it could be past attitudes that have hurt others. I invite you to write down those things you might be carrying and bring them to the service. We will gather in the Memorial Garden around the large luminaria or cauldron, we will say some prayers, we will burn the mortgage, and we will encourage everyone to burn those things with which God can help us.
We are only partway through Lent. But this Sunday is Laetare Sunday, which is Latin for “Rejoice.” It is a Sunday when the clergy will wear pink, when the strictness of the season is relaxed, and when we are reminded that God wants us to put down those things we do not have to carry. And yes, this Sunday, we will put away our debt, celebrate this new day in our community, and enjoy a big, joyful reception. Sometimes, it is enough to say farewell to a season of life and celebrate the lessons we have learned. Sometimes, we must be reminded to put down our burdens and rejoice in God.
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Lent Class with Temple Sinai
“A season is set for everything”
Rituals, Traditions, and Theology for when our time comes.
March 20, 27 & April 3, 10 at 7:00 PM
Senior Rabbi Ron Segal and Bill Murray will teach and share the Jewish and Christian perspectives on death, dying, resurrection, grieving, celebrating, and life. Similar to past classes, the goal is to get to know our neighbors and go deeper in conversations and relationships. Please plan to come to all four classes to get to know each other better as we learn, share, and laugh together.
March 20: Temple Sinai
March 27: Holy Innocents
April 3: Temple Sinai
April 10: Holy Innocents
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Lenten Food Drive Update – Progress and Gratitude
Our CAC Lenten Food Drive continues to gain momentum, and we’re so grateful for the growing generosity from the Holy Innocents’ community.
To date, we’ve collected well over one thousand pounds of food and over $6,000 dollars in donations—well on our way toward our $15,000 goal. Every dollar raised is stretched even further by CAC’s ability to purchase food in bulk, and every item donated goes directly to neighbors in need through their pantry.
A special thank you to our youth Sunday School classes who recently helped sort donations. Their joy and willingness to serve beautifully embody the spirit of Lent and remind us what’s possible when we come together in faith and love.
There’s still time to participate! Let’s keep the momentum going and see how far we can go together.
Here are a few reminders:
- If you purchase food online, enter Holy Innocents in the “Company Name” block during checkout.
- If you donate money, please send or deliver the check to the church so we can determine how many pounds of food your donation is worth.
- Drop off donated food items in the Bishop Commons
Food items are most needed:
If you’ve donated, thank you for your support of CAC. If not, please join us in our Lenten observance and help our neighbors in need. Look for weekly updates and volunteer opportunities. For more information check our website here, or contact Charles Crosby at charles@corepm.net or Jan Paul at janpaul1005@gmail.com.
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Easter Flowers & Music
Help us prepare for a beautiful and meaningful celebration of Easter! We invite you to make a donation to support Easter flowers and music. You may dedicate your gift In Memory of or In Thanksgiving for a loved one. These dedications will be included in our Easter bulletins as a meaningful way to honor your loved ones. To donate, please use this online form or the envelopes in the pew. When donating, please use the memo line to indicate how you would like your donation to printed in the bulletins. Deadline for donations is April 10th. For more information, please contact Renee Stephens at rstephens@holyinnocents.org
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Young Adult Egg Stuffing Party
April 2, 6:00 PM
Calling all young adults for an Easter egg stuffing party on April 2 at 6:00 PM! This is a great way to give back and bring joy to the Church. Join us for food, fun, and to connect with other young adults. Meet in Bishop Commons from 6:00-7:00 PM.
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An Evening of Inspiration: WOHI Dinner & Event
April 3, 6:00-8:00 PM
Give yourself the gift of grace. Join us to learn from Katherine Wolf, founder of Hope Heals. She’s a disrupter in the most inspiring way: "disrupting the myth that joy can only be found in a pain-free life." Her story is extraordinary, and so is what she and her team have accomplished since her catastrophic stroke in 2008, at age 26. The cost is $15. Sign up below.
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FOMA: Song of Atlanta
April 6, 4:00 PM
Song of Atlanta is a captivating women's acappella show chorus, performing songs in four-part harmony in the barbershop style. They have been a part of the Atlanta music community for 67+ years! Members come from all over Metro Atlanta and the Southeast to sing and perform with this exhilarating group that takes artistry to a new level. They rehearse every Tuesday at HIEC.
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Reading Connections
April 7, 6:00 PM
Join us for the April Reading Connections meeting at 6:00 PM on Monday, the 7th. We’ll meet in Inglett Hall C. This month's book is The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Mathieu. The novel delves into the lives of a group of teachers navigating their personal and professional challenges at a high school in Texas.
Contact Michelle Driscoll | dris1296@yahoo.com
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Palm Sunday | April 13
8:00, 10:15 AM & 6:00 PM • Potluck Brunch | 9:00 AM
The annual celebration of the triumphal entry into Jerusalem by Jesus at Passover. We begin by blessings the palms and shouting hosannah and end with the gathering gloom of the week ahead with the reading of the Passion during our services: 8:00 AM in the Christ Chapel, 10:15 AM in the church Nave, 1:00 PM for the Spanish service in the Nave, and 6:00 PM in the Chapel. Please bring a dish to share for the potluck brunch in Inglett Hall.
Holy Monday | April 14
After the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Jesus visited the home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha. In the Gospel of John, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with a costly ointment. Our seminarian Marycelis preaches as Bill celebrates and offers an anointing prayer in Christ Chapel at 6:00 PM.
Holy Tuesday | April 15
In a conversation with some Greeks or Gentiles recorded in the Gospel of John, Jesus predicts his crucifixion. We mark this night by walking the way of the cross through the eyes of women by reading reflections from the book Women of the Passion. Ruth leads this service that concludes with communion in Christ Chapel at 6:00 PM.
Holy Wednesday | April 16
Sometimes called Spy Wednesday, the day recalls the betrayal of Judas, one of Jesus’ disciples. We pray for those we love, but we also do the hard work of praying for our enemies and for forgiveness. Stewart preaches & celebrates communion in Christ Chapel at 6:00 PM.
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Agape Family Dinner
April 17, 6:00-7:00 PM
You're invited to our Agape Family Dinner on April 17th at 6:00 PM! This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Holy Week by sharing in food, fellowship, and connection. This will be a warm, welcoming atmosphere with activities for all ages to mark the Last Supper. Whether you're a long-time member or a first-time guest, we welcome you to bring your family and friends for a night filled with joy and warmth to mark this special occasion. Catered Mediterranean dinner is $10 per adult. Children and youth are free.
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Third Friday: Men of HI
April 18
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
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Good Friday
April 18, 12:00 PM | Nave & Live-stream
Join us for a solemn and moving Good Friday Liturgy on Friday, April 18, at noon at Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church. This powerful service will include scripture, prayer, and reflection on Christ’s passion and death, culminating in a profound musical offering—Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, performed by our adult choir and chamber orchestra. Fauré’s transcendent setting of the Requiem invites us into a space of deep contemplation, hope, and beauty, even in the shadow of the cross. All are welcome for this service expected to last about an hour.
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Men of HI Retreat
April 25-27
The Men of Holy Innocents will gather at Lake Logan Episcopal Center in Canton, North Carolina, near the Blue Ridge Parkway, for a weekend of spiritual enrichment, fellowship, and renewal. The retreat begins with dinner on Friday evening, followed by a Saturday morning program. Saturday afternoon is free for activities like hiking, a visit to Waynesville, golf, fishing, or relaxing on the porch. We’ll wrap up on Sunday morning with the Eucharist.
Fees include lodging and all meals.
Single occupancy: $495 (1 single room available)
Double occupancy: $356
Contact John Harris | harris4338@gmail.com
678-761-6765
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Men's Dinner and a Book
May 13, 6:30 PM
The next Men's Dinner and a Book is Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 pm and the book is "The Right Stuff " by Tom Wolfe. Tony Clarke is hosting. If you would like to attend, please contact Jeremy Webber at jhwwebber@gmail.com for details. All men at Holy Innocents are included and invited.
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Children’s Choir
April 13, 9:00 AM
We are so excited to be singing and leading the processional for Palm Sunday. Our awesome kids have been working hard on our Palm Sunday piece and will lead the Palm Sunday processional at the 10:15 service and then sing our anthem at the very beginning of the service. Kids meet in Sunday school at 9:00 before we start rehearsal at 9:30 and get our big palm leaves!
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Youth Group
April 13, 9:00 AM
We invite all 6th- 12th graders to join us on Palm Sunday, April 13th, for a special Holy Week youth group event from 4:00-6:00 PM. This will be an event our students won't want to miss! Dinner will be provided, and all friends are welcome to join us.
Text Link
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Easter Egg Hunt
April 20, 9:30 AM
The hunt is on! Join us at 9:30 AM for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. Bring a basket and meet near the entrance of the playground behind the Church. Kids will hunt with their age groups. After the hunt, join us inside for refreshments, and kids can congregate and open their eggs together before worship at 10:15 AM.
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Easter Egg Hunt
April 20, 11:30 AM
Easter isn't just for the little kids! All 6th-12th graders are invited to join us for a Youth Easter Egg Hunt immediately after worship on Easter Sunday. We will meet on the playground to find some awesome prizes like gift cards, squishes, and more. This hunt won't take long but will help make Easter extra special for our older students. Bags will be provided!
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VBS
June 2-6
Join Holy Innocents Episcopal Church for a very special Road Trip VBS June 2nd-6th! This year's VBS is based on Joshua 1:9, "The LORD your God is with you wherever you go." It reminds us that God's presence is always near no matter where the journey of life takes us. Kids will go on an exciting journey to discover new places, new friends, and new ways that we can discover God's goodness and presence everywhere. Open to rising Pre-K to rising 5th grade. Rising 6th grade and up are invited to serve as youth leaders. The cost is $85 with optional aftercare until 3:30 for an additional $85
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Click here to watch last Sunday's service!
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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
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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.
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