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CHRISTIAN FORMATION
for
CHILDREN & YOUTH
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DIVING DEEPLY
INTO
GOD'S LOVE!
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Teach children in the way they should go
and when they are old, they will not depart from it.
~ Proverbs 22:6 ~
| | | + + + THE SEASON OF PENTECOST + + + | | |
"The Spirit, the living memory of the church,
reminds us that we are born from a gift and that we grow by giving,
not by holding on, but by giving of ourselves."
~ Pope Francis ~
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CALENDAR QUICK LOOK!
This Sunday, September 27
9:30am: Nursery open
9:10am: Confirmation Class
(Conference Room)
9:45am: 3yrs - 5th grade classes (designated classrooms)
9:45am: Upper Room Time for Teens (Conference Room)
Youth Group Pet Food & Towel Drive continues!
Scroll down for more info!
NOTE: Today is Recovery Sunday! Our Outreach Director Gena Vallee will be preaching about recovery during the 8am and 10am services.
Join us after the 10am service in Harris Hall for a Coffee & Conversation session about recovery. All are welcome!
Scroll down to find out more about Recovery Sunday!
Saturday, October 3
9am: Annual St. Francis Day Pet Blessing
On the St. Gregory's front lawn
Scroll down for more info!
Next Sunday, October 4
9:30am: Nursery open
9:10am: Confirmation Class
(Conference Room)
10am: Rise & Shine service (Harris Hall)
No regular classes or Upper Room Time for Teens
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ONLINE REGISTRATION: ALWAYS OPEN!
Sunday School, Confirmation Class, Upper Room Time for Teens
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Click the link OR scan the QR code to register!
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Visit our Welcome and Registration Table!
(just outside the Godly Play classroom;
2nd floor of Harris Hall)
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WHAT IS RECOVERY SUNDAY?
Recovery Sunday in the Episcopal Church is a designated annual day of worship and awareness that celebrates God's grace in the healing and transformation of individuals affected by addiction.
Key Aspects of Recovery Sunday
Purpose and Timing: Observed typically during September in conjunction with National Recovery Month, it is a time to support those in recovery, remember those still suffering, and de-stigmatize addiction within church communities.
Worship and Liturgy: Parishes often adapt their services to include specialized prayers, sermons on grace and healing, or a "Twelve Step" Eucharist.
Education and Outreach: Churches may distribute informational pamphlets about alcoholism and substance abuse, share community resource contacts, or host open 12-step fellowship meetings.
Diocesan Support: Organizations like Recovery Ministries of the Episcopal Church and various regional dioceses provide tailored liturgical and formation resources to help local parishes lead these services.
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What's happening at St. Gregory's?
Our Outreach Director Gena Vallee will be preaching about recovery during the 8am and 10am services on Sunday, September 27.
Join us after the 10am service in Harris Hall for a Coffee & Conversation session about recovery. All are welcome!
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YOUTH GROUP PET FOOD & TOWEL DRIVE
OFF TO A GREAT START!
We are very grateful that the donations are coming in!
Many thanks to all who have contributed!
We also especially want to thank Katherine, Charlotte and Jack Ledwell for making the announcement about the drive during the 10am service on Sunday, September 13. They did a wonderful job in publicizing this effort!
| | WORSHIP ☩ DISCIPLESHIP ☩ STEWARDSHIP ☩ FELLOWSHIP | | |
WHAT'S COMING UP?
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
This Sunday, September 27
9:10am: Confirmation Class
(Conference Room)
9:45am: Upper Room Time for Teens
(Conference Room)
NOTE THE ROOM CHANGE!
TOPIC: Recovery Sunday Part 1
Short Upper Room session followed by attendance at the 10am service
to hear Gena Vallee preach on Recovery Sunday.
Scroll up for more information about this special Sunday!
Saturday, October 3
9am: Annual St. Francis Day Pet Blessing
On the St. Gregory's front lawn
All youth invited to attend and help: Greet guests, hand out St. Francis medals, visit with the animals, staff our welcome table, and more!
Scroll up for more info!
Next Sunday, October 4
9:10am: Confirmation Class (Conference Room)
10am: Rise & Shine service (Harris Hall)
No Upper Room Time for Teens
Looking Ahead!
Mark Your Calendars and Stay Tuned for More Details!
Sun, Oct 11: Upper Room on the road!
Join us in Harris Hall for breakfast and conversation
with Gena Vallee about recovery and related topics.
Sunday, Oct 25: Special Upper Room presentation by Paige Shortsleeves
from P.E.A.C.E.; 9:45am in the Youth Room
Sunday, Nov 01: All Saints Day; Youth participate in the 10am service;
AND it's our Meals with Meaning Serve Day (1:30pm - 3pm)!
Scroll down to our Community Service section for more info
about the service projects listed here as well as
other service opportunities!
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CONFIRMATION CLASS: LIFE IN CHRIST
(Grades 6, 7, 8 and others)
Confirmation Class meets every Sunday at 9:10am during the school year in the Conference Room (unless otherwise noted).
Our journey to Confirmation for young people is a three-year program. Our program seeks to nurture the faith of our young people as they prepare for their high school years and beyond, giving them a solid foundation for a Christ-centered life. The Confirmation Class experience may also include retreats, service opportunities and other activities. All young people in grades 6, 7 and 8 can participate in and benefit from this class, regardless of whether or not they choose to be confirmed. Older teens, those transferring from other churches, or any others who are interested are most welcome to participate as well.
During Confirmation we explore:
-- The Bible and the stories that shape our life and faith
-- A life of prayer and worship led by and replenished by the Holy Spirit
-- A life of ministry and service as disciples of Jesus
-- The Anglican/Episcopal tradition in all its breadth and depth
ANY QUESTIONS?
NEED MORE INFORMATION
ABOUT CONFIRMATION AT ST GREGORY'S?
Please contact Confirmation teachers
Fr. Andrew Sherman - asherman@at-gregorys.com
Gena Vallee - gvallee@st-gregorys.com
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UPPER ROOM TIME
Conversation, Reflection and Prayer -- with lots of Fun and Fellowship!
Upper Room Time meets at 9:45am in the Youth Room during the program year. All teens 6th - 12th grade are warmly invited to join us!
This Sunday, September 27
9:45am: Upper Room Time for Teens (Conference Room)
NOTE THE ROOM CHANGE!
TOPIC: Recovery Sunday Part 1
We will have a short Upper Room Time session and then head to church to hear Gena Vallee preach about recovery.
Scroll up to read more about Recovery Sunday!
Next Sunday, October 4
10am: Rise & Shine service (Harris Hall)
No Upper Room Time for Teens
LOOKING AHEAD TO UPPER ROOM SPECIAL EVENTS
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Sunday, Oct 11 -- Brothers Breakfast Sunday - Upper Room on the road!
Recovery Sunday Part 2
Join us in Harris Hall for breakfast and conversation
with Gena Vallee about recovery and related topics.
Sunday, Oct 25 -- Special presentation by Paige Shortsleeves of P.E.A.C.E. during Upper Room Time
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WHAT DO WE DO DURING UPPER ROOM TIME?
Following our pattern of Pause, Listen, Reflect, Pray and Go,
we build on our previous themes of
What will you do with your one wild and precious life?
(based on Mary Oliver's poem The Summer Day) and
"What makes you come alive?"
(from a quote by theologian and civil rights leader Howard Thurman)
"Building Beloved Community"
In conjunction with St. Gregory's church-wide Beloved Community initiative we worked on how our lives and gifts reflect God's love in the world.
Theme for 2026-2027 -- "I matter. I belong. I love."
We will delve more deeply into our core identity statement:
I am a beloved child of God. (I matter.)
I am a member of the Body of Christ. (I belong.)
I have a unique calling and purpose in this world. (I love.)
As we have in the past, we continue to use some Benedictine practices to bring more balance, proportion and harmony into our lives.
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SCENES FROM THE UPPER ROOM...
On Sunday, Sept 20 we gathered for Part 2 of "Jesus Who?? Whom Do We Follow?" Our meditation time consisted of Visio Divina (Sacred Seeing; lit candles) along with Audio Divina (Sacred Listening; Native American flute music). We then embarked on a spirited session of "Speed Debating", offering pros and cons of the following positions:
1. Jesus is totally over. He died over 2000 years ago. There is no evidence in the world today that he makes any difference in our lives now.
2. An AI “Digital Jesus’ can provide all our spiritual needs. It can do everything Jesus did.
3. AI is nothing but a tool. There is no need to panic about it or slow down its development.
Since we had a variety of opinions shared during our discussion and there seemed to be much more to say, we will be revisiting this timely topic periodically.
We had to wrap up a bit early to head downstairs to be present for the announcements during the 10am service. (Many thanks to Katherine, Jack and Charlotte for offering the great announcement about our Pet Food & Towel Drive! Scroll up for more info!) As always, we closed with prayer and picked up a little piece of inspiration from the Blessing Bowl as we headed out of the Upper Room.
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OUR CLOSING PRAYER FOR THIS SUNDAY
Jesus, we know that whether we are at school, at activities, with friends, or at home, every day we have opportunities to choose love.
Help us to make good choices about whom we follow.
Help us to remember that every conversation and interaction can be an opportunity to build bridges rather than put up barriers.
Among all those whom we follow, help us to follow you most closely, to seek peace, be forgiving and help create communities where everyone can feel valued, included and respected.
Amen.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE, IN THE WORLD?
WHERE DOES JESUS MEET US IN ALL THIS??
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YAYA BOUTIQUE
Reminder -- Where does the name "YAYA" come from? Easy -- it stands for Youth and Young Adult! All our proceeds benefit our ministry with youth and young adults.
We feature new and/or gently used clothing, accessories, and fun "what nots"!
Restore the Earth ~ Refresh your style ~ Renew your wardrobe!
SHOP YAYA!
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YAYA pop ups are coming!
FALL POP UP - MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Saturday, Nov 14 (during the ECW bazaar)
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A note about YAYA donations: Please speak with Anita Sherman directly if you have any items to donate.
We are very grateful for those who would like to contribute, but due to extremely limited storage space, we cannot accept drop off donations without prior notice and agreement. We appreciate your patience and understanding -- and your beautiful donations! Thank you!
| | JUST ANNOUNCED! DIOCESAN YOUTH EVENT! | |
To REGISTER,FOR THE YOUTH CONVENTION CLICK, YOUTH2026
WHEN: Saturday, September 26, 2026
TIME: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Cost: $10 pp, Groups of four youth = 1 youth leader FREE
Please note that while Anita will not be available for this event,
any teen from St. Gregory's can attend.
If you need more information, please contact Anita!
| | ...AND CELEBRATING WHAT WE'VE DONE! | | |
CONTINUING OUR VOYAGE ON OUR 4 "SHIPS"!
Worship ☩ Discipleship ☩ Stewardship ☩ Fellowship
WHAT'S HAPPENED SO FAR? LET'S CELEBRATE!
🙌 Upper Room Time Meet & Greet Day
🙌 Sunday Fun Day
WHAT'S COMING UP? LET'S LOOK FORWARD TO:
Pet Food & Towel Drive and Pet Blessing Day
Meals with Meaning Serve Day ~ Presentation by P.E.A.C.E.
Breathwork presentation by Rev. Elizabeth Pankey Warren
Upper Room Fun Days ~ YAYA Pop Up Sales
BRIYA gatherings ~ Mental wellbeing program(s)
All Saints Day Prayers of the People presentation
Poinsettia Sale ~ Annual Christmas party and gift exchange
Rock the Universe trip ~ Lenten Soup Sale
Palm Sunday Passion Story Presentation
Confirmation Retreat and Service
and, of course...
🙌 Confirmation Class every Sunday
and regular Upper Room Time Gatherings on Sunday mornings
during the school year!
WOO HOO!! EVEN MORE GREAT PROGRAMS IN THE WORKS!
STAY TUNED!
— Cyber safety program
-- All About THC awareness program
— More fun activities!
Got a great idea? Please share!
Contact Anita to share your thoughts and ideas!
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How have you served our community?
Share your stories and photos!
Send to anitasherman561@gmail.com
OUR NEXT SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
Sun, Sept 20 - Sat, Oct 03: Youth Group Pet Food & Towel Drive
We're doing this at church, but if you want to do more, get your school,
club or other communities involved!
Scroll up for more info!
Need help? Contact Anita anytime! anitasherman561@gmail.com
Sat, Oct 03: Blessing of the Pets; 9am on St. Gregory's front lawn
All youth invited to attend and help!
Hand out bulletins and St. Francis medals, help people find seats,
visit with the animals, staff our information table, and more!
Sun, Nov 01: All Saints Day; Youth participate in the 10am service;
AND it's our Meals with Meaning Serve Day (1:30pm - 3pm)!
More to come -- stay tuned!
Service Ideas...Do On Your Own Any Time!
Though the following are not organized St. Gregory's activities
you can still try one and earn hours!
Try one of these ideas or come up with some of your own!
❤️ Write notes or make cards of encouragement
for seniors in local nursing homes.
Deliver them yourself (Boca Rehab is a great choice; 755 Meadows Rd, Boca) OR drop them off at church and Anita will deliver them!
❤️ Send a note of thanks or encouragement
to someone serving in the military.
Visit Operation Gratitude's website for great info and guidelines.
https://www.operationgratitude.com/volunteer/anywhere/letters/
❤️ DIY Beach Clean Up
Grab a bag, gloves and/or grabber and hit the sand to pick up trash
to keep our beaches clean, beautiful and hospitable for wildlife.
You'll be amazed at how much debris you can collect
in even a few minutes of clean up.
❤️ Paint and Distribute "Kindness Rocks"
Put your artistic skills to work and paint messages or drawings
of encouragement on smooth stones (you can easily order stones and paint markers online). Put them around the neighborhood
or offer them to anyone who might need a pick-me-up.
GOT A GREAT SERVICE IDEA OF YOUR OWN?
SHARE IT WITH US!
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUTH MINISTRY
OR TO BE ADDED TO THE MAILING LIST
PLEASE CONTACT ANITA SHERMAN
anitasherman561@gmail.com
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BECAUSE WE LOVE THEM!
This section is dedicated to items of interest
for anyone who loves and cares for children
and youth. Enjoy!
[Please note that inclusion of any item in this section is purely for informational purposes and does not constitute endorsement or promotion of any person, product or program.]
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2026 NATIONAL TOY HALL OF FAME FINALISTS
The 2026 crop of National Toy Hall of Fame finalists has something for everyone: baby boomers who grew up with Mouse Trap, ’80s kids who collected Care Bears, and veteran and newcomer mah-jongg club members alike.
Announced today by The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, 12 contenders are vying for induction, and fans are invited to join in on the selection process. The three toys that receive the most votes on the public ballot — open through Sept. 23 — will join the top three picks from the museum’s selection committee, and the overall winners will be announced next month.
Learn how to vote here!
News Source: nicenews.com
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JUST FOR FUN AND WONDERING
WHAT DO YOU SEE? 👀
[Please note that inclusion of any item in this section is purely for informational purposes and does not constitute endorsement or promotion of any person, product or program.]
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SEPTEMBER 11 REMEMBRANCE
In the night sky over New York Harbor on Wednesday, 2,977 lights — representing the individuals who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks — re-created the twin towers at full architectural scale. The public art installation is pictured here next to a test of the annual Tribute in Light, two beams that shine 4 miles into the sky from dusk to dawn each Sept. 11.
Source:www.nicenews.com
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EVEN MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR
FUN, FELLOWSHIP, AND SERVICE!
Please note that these activities are not sponsored, supervised or hosted by
St. Gregory's Youth Ministry
or Sunday School.
They are extra opportunities
that we are sharing in case you would like
to participate on your own.
If you have any questions, please email Anita at anitasherman561@gmail.com.
PLEASE LET ANITA KNOW
IF YOU HAVE AN ACTIVITY TO ADD TO THIS SECTION!
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BOCA RATON PUBLIC LIBRARY
The library has abundant free and low-cost activities for children and teens. Check out the latest offerings and fun ideas for the upcoming months, including those on hoopla!
| | Hoopla is a digital streaming service that provides access to movies, TV shows, audiobooks, eBooks, music, and comics. It's available to library cardholders and is accessible through a variety of devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. | | |
BOCA RATON
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Check out the website
for a listing of great activities in our community!
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FANTASTIC PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES!
Discover a place where creativity comes alive for kids, teens, and families.
At the Boca Raton Museum of Art, our Youth & Family programs invite visitors of all ages to explore art through hands-on making, playful learning, and meaningful experiences. Whether you're joining us for a drop-in workshop, a family event, or an adventure in the galleries, there's always something inspiring to discover together.
Explore Anytime
Some of our favorite ways to experience the Museum don't require a reservation. Grab a kit at the front desk and dive in — on your own schedule, at your own pace.
Art Tales
Art Tales invites children ages 4–8 years old and their caregivers to explore art and stories together in the galleries. Available to check out anytime at the front desk, each Art Tales kit is centered on a featured artwork currently on view in the museum. Inside each kit, families will find a book, looking prompts, and gallery friendly activities that encourage shared reading, close looking, and conversation. This program is funded through the generous support of the Florida Blue Foundation.
Sketching Kits
Pick up a Sketching Kit at the front desk and turn any gallery visit into an art-making adventure. Each kit includes a sketchbook, pencils, and prompts to help you observe, draw, and respond to the artwork around you — no experience necessary. Perfect for visitors of all ages who want to slow down and see the galleries through a different lens.
Tips for Exploring the Galleries Together
- Look closely and take your time. Slow down and notice the small details — colors, textures, expressions, patterns. Encourage children to share what they see first.
- Ask open-ended questions. Try prompts like "What do you notice?", "How does this artwork make you feel?", or "What do you think is happening here?" There are no wrong answers!
- Make it playful. Turn looking into a game — find shapes, spot colors, or imagine what sounds an artwork might make. A little play goes a long way.
- Follow your child's curiosity. Let young visitors lead the way. If a piece captures their attention, pause and explore it together.
- Use your body and senses. Try posing like a figure in a sculpture, tracing lines in the air, or imagining textures with your hands. Movement helps kids connect deeply with what they see.
- Connect art to their world. Ask: "Does this remind you of anything?" or "If you made a piece like this, what would it be about?" Art becomes more meaningful when it relates to their lives.
- Celebrate their ideas. Affirm every observation — excitement and confidence grow when kids feel heard.
Upcoming Youth & Family Programs
From weekly drop-in workshops to seasonal family celebrations, there's always something happening at the Museum. Browse what's coming up and find your next experience.
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The Art School offers a hands-on, instructional approach across multiple mediums to aspiring artists of all ages, the intermediate artist looking to expand their skills and working artists looking to reinforce skills under the watchful eyes of seasoned, award winning teaching professionals. The Art School's growing curricula offers thousands of studio sessions each year to enjoy.
Offerings for young people include classes such as ceramics and pottery, art exploration, comic drawing, fashion, and anime drawing.
Click here for more info about classes!
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SKETCHING AT THE GALLERIES
All are welcome to slow down, look closely, and draw inspiration from the art around you. Sketching in the Galleries invites visitors of all ages to pick up complimentary drawing materials and sketch at their own pace. This is a drop-in program, no preregistration required.
Find out more!
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CREATION STATION
Offered monthly on Saturdays, Creation Station is a drop-in program featuring an art activity inspired by artworks currently on view. Start your visit with a fun gallery exploration using kid-friendly prompts and activity aids that highlight a featured artwork. Then head to the studio to create your own piece using a variety of materials and techniques. Each month brings a new theme to keep things fresh, creative, and connected to the exhibitions. Designed for children ages 5 and up. No preregistration required—just bring your imagination!
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Great programs and events for all ages,
including lessons, camps, performances and more!
VISIT THE WEBSITE!
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2026/2027 Nicklaus Children's Health System
Smart Stage Matinee Series
Mister C Vol. 3: When Science Goes Viral | Oct 21, 2026 | The Parker
Slow Burn Theatre Co.: Come From Away | Oct 22, 2026 | Broward Center
School House Rock | Nov 13, 2026 | Broward Center
Shakespeare 45 | Nov 17, 2026 | Broward Center
Slow Burn Theatre Co.: Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory | Dec 15, 2026 | Broward Center
Arts Ballet Theatre - The Nutcracker | Dec 16 & 17, 2026 | The Parker
Magic School Bus | Jan 26, 2027 | The Parker
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! | Feb 4-5, 2027 | Broward Center
Bill Blagg: Magic in Motion | Feb 23-24, 2027 | The Parker
Junie B. Jones | Apr 1-2, 2027 | Broward Center
Slow Burn Theatre Co.: Dear Evan Hansen | Apr 15, 2027 | Broward Center
Llama Llama Live! | Apr 22-23, 2027 | Broward Center
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Nature talks and walks, all manner of fitness classes, tai chi groups and much, much more are available through the Palm Beach County Parks system. Check out the link below to see all the offerings! | |
PLEASE REMEMBER:
-- Safety policies: Please refer to the "What's Happening" weekly email or other church communications for current policies set by church leadership. Stay tuned for updates as situations are always evolving.
-- Stay home if you or your child(ren) feel unwell, test positive for COVID, or have recently been exposed to someone with COVID or other communicable diseases.
-- Don't forget that all our Sunday services are livestreamed. To access online services, please click on the link below at the scheduled time. No Facebook account is needed to access the services. https://www.facebook.com/pg/SaintGregorys/videos
-- Register your children for Sunday School Visit the St. Gregory's website to access online registration. Scroll down to the Children, Youth & Families section. See the link below!
-- Provide us with updated contact information so that we can keep you informed and in the loop.
-- Contact us at any time with questions or concerns. We will do our very best to address them. See contact information below.
-- Let us know if you would like to volunteer -- We can always use some helpers! No prior experience necessary. Speak with Sunday School Coordinators Silvia Hall, Ayanna Reid, or Anita Sherman if you would like to volunteer.
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DON'T FORGET -- YOU CAN REGISTER ANY TIME ONLINE!
Sunday School, Confirmation Class, Upper Room Time for Teens
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