This Sunday: October 4, 2026

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Holy Eucharist: Rite II

Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Cross Fleury, one of our clerestory windows, also called a cross flory or floriated cross, features arms that end in floral shapes with the three-petaled tips signifying the Holy Trinity.

Share the Stories. Shape the Faith.

Teach Church School!

Church School class leaders are still needed, so please consider growing in your faith alongside the children of St. Elizabeth's. All materials and lessons are provided. Church School will not happen without leaders for classes. Please check the sign-up for available dates.

Contact Beth for more information.

All adult and confirmed teen helpers will have to complete online Safe Church Training. If you can spare a little time and a lot of love, please consider signing up.  Children learn most when the whole congregation supports them, and your presence makes a real difference. If interested, please sign up below.

A Word from the Rector: A New Bell for St. E's

Our collection of bells recently grew a bit more at St. Elizabeth’s. A new bell now hangs inside the sanctuary at the west end of the nave—that is, at the back of the church near the center doors leading into the narthex. It is called a Sanctuary Bell, and while it is much smaller than the other bells we have, it is still important. Its purpose is to get our attention and let us know that something holy is about to happen: our worship of God.

The Sanctuary Bell allows the ministers to alert the congregation that the service is beginning, and so you will hear it just before the opening procession and hymn on Sunday mornings. It is also helpful on those occasions when a silent procession into the sanctuary takes place: the ringing of the bell will be the signal to stand. Lastly, the Sanctuary Bell gives the ministers preparing to process in a way to signal to those at the front of the church—in particular, the Organist—that everyone is present and ready to go. If you were in church on September 20th, you were likely surprised by its sound, but over time we will all get used to its presence in our weekly worship. 

A few more words about this particular bell that now hangs in our church: For several years, I had been looking for a Sanctuary Bell for St. E’s, and this past summer I finally found one. Our bell is cast bronze and was made at a small foundry called U.S. Bells in Prospect Harbor, Maine. When I heard it ring, I thought it sounded lovely. But when the bell-founder told me that he calls this type of bell a “dinner bell,” I knew it was the right one for us. Just as a family might use a bell like this to let everyone know that dinner is ready, we will use this bell to tell our parish family that God welcomes us all at his table for the Lord’s Supper.

The opening words of Psalm 122:1 are Laetatus sum, which is Latin for “I was glad.” The full verse is one that many of us know well: “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.” I pray this Sanctuary Bell will remind us all of the great blessing it is that we are able to gather in this beautiful house of the Lord.

Is giving a spiritual practice? How is it connected to my faith?

Giving is a deeply scriptural and spiritual practice, rooted in our most ancient

traditions. Scripture reminds us to give freely (Matthew 10:8); to do good and

share with others (Hebrews 13:16); and that even the smallest gifts matter (Luke 21:1-4). Our traditions remind us that giving alms, giving as we have received, is a

part of our commitment to our community of faith and our neighbors.

As with any spiritual practice, it needs practice! The more we imagine ways to

share what we have learned, acquired, received, and understood with our church

and the world, the more deeply connected to the original gift of Creation we

become.

What is a pledge?

Your pledge is an act of love and hope for your congregation. It’s a vote of support for the ministry that you offer to your fellow members and your neighbors. It is a way to support the long-term goals and physical needs of your church while supporting your members in the pastoral needs that they have now. Your pledge, or promise, is a commitment to give time, talent, and treasure to your congregation in the year to come.

Give the Gift of Sight

St. Elizabeth's 11th grader, Shivani Heltzel, will be hosting coffee hour and giving a presentation about her Girl Scout Gold Award project to help people who don't have access to proper eyeglasses on Sunday, October 4. Her project will be collecting used prescription glasses, and there will be a donation bin at St. Elizabeth's from 10/4-11/29. Any donations are greatly appreciated!   

Lector and Eucharistic Minister Training

Sunday, October 4, following Sunday Worship in the Church.

If you have any questions about Lector Training, contact Catherine Outten Olivo.

If you have questions about or interest in becoming a Eucharistic Minister, contact Rev. Andy.

Before Lunch Book Talk

Please join us on

Tuesday, October 6 at 12:00 p.m. 

(Garden Room or via Zoom) 

The first Tuesday of each month, we meet at 12:00 p.m. for a one-hour book discussion. Afterward, those who can stay enjoy lunch brought from home and more conversation.

Join us to discuss The Girl Who Wrote in Silk: A Novel of Chinese Immigration to the Pacific Northwest (Inspired by True Events) by Kelli Estes.

A historical novel inspired by true events, Kelli Estes's brilliant and atmospheric debut is a poignant tale of two women determined to do the right thing, highlighting the power of our own stories. 

The smallest items can hold centuries of secrets... 

While exploring her aunt's island estate, Inara Eckson is captivated by an elaborately stitched piece of fabric hidden in the house. The truth behind the silk sleeve dates back to 1886, when Mei Lien, the lone survivor of a cruel purge of the Chinese in Seattle found refuge on Orcas Island and shared her tragic experience by embroidering it. 

As Inara peels back layer upon layer of the centuries of secrets the sleeve holds, her life becomes interwoven with that of Mei Lien. Through the stories Mei Lien tells in silk, Inara uncovers a tragic truth that will shake her family to its core—and force her to make an impossible choice. Should she bring shame to her family and risk everything by telling the truth, or tell no one and dishonor Mei Lien's memory? 

Meeting ID: 823 8050 3238

Passcode: Book

November BLBT pick:

Death Comes for the Archbishop

by Willa Cather

11/3/26

Midweek Holy Eucharist

Resumes on Wednesday, October 7

at 12:00 p.m. in the Chapel

The Blessing Shelf

🖍️🎲♟️ Donate new or lightly used children's costumes, children’s activity supplies (e.g., coloring supplies) and chip snack bags.💕 Every donation makes a difference, no matter how big or small.

Please visit The Blessing Shelf for more information, or contact Emily Olkowski.

Sanctuary Work Begins: What to Expect

Dear Friends,

Almost exactly a year ago, we launched our Prepare the Way: Caring for Our Sacred Space capital campaign. The goal of the campaign was to raise funds for much-needed improvements and upgrades to our sanctuary and other spaces.

We officially ended the campaign in June, and we not only met but exceeded our goal, raising more than $2.6 million. We continue to be so grateful for this congregation’s generosity. It never fails to astound us how much you care for one another and for our sacred spaces. Thank you!

We hope you’ve seen or read about some of the work that was started and completed over the summer, including the roof of our Parish House and upgrades to the small kitchen on the second floor. We’ve had a excellent start to the planned work!



Now we begin construction both inside and outside the sanctuary. This phase of the work will take longer to complete, and will be much more visible to us all. The primary projects beginning this fall are the installation of HVAC components to cool the sanctuary during the sweltering summer months, the replacement and insulation of the church roof, and preparatory work for the new organ pipes that will be installed next summer. These are major projects, and they will all be happening essentially at the same time. While complex, we believe this approach is more efficient and cost-effective, while also reflecting our commitment to being good stewards of the resources entrusted to us.

There is one significant disruption we want you to know about: during this work, the organ will go offline so that it can be covered and protected from dust and construction debris. The covering will consist of plastic sheeting around the exposed pipes and organ console. It won't be particularly beautiful, but it is necessary to protect this important instrument. We will be mindful of other ways we might beautify the sanctuary while the plastic covering is in place, especially during the beloved Advent and Christmas seasons. The last Sunday when we will hear the organ will be October 11, and we anticipate that it will be out of commission until early 2027.

The construction will also be noticeable from outside the church, especially on Fairmount Road. There will be a large dumpster, a portable toilet, and other necessary equipment that may not always be pleasant to look at. This, too, is simply part of what happens when undertaking major capital improvements.

Now to the good news (remember, there is always Good News in the Church): Although this work will take several months to complete, we expect to be able to continue gathering in the sanctuary for Sunday services. There may be an occasional Sunday when we need to move to the Parish Hall, but the team doing this work understands how important it is for our parish family to gather for worship in the sanctuary.

When we gather, we will still be able to sing—we have a wonderful piano to accompany our hymns—and we will still be able to sit in our favorite pews, even if they are a little dusty. God will continue to be praised in our beautiful sanctuary even as this work takes place.

There is more we could say, and the parish can expect regular updates as the work progresses. For now, we want this letter to do three things:

1. Let you know that major work is about to begin in our sanctuary. You can expect to see signs of construction in mid- to late October.

2. Ask you to be nimble. There will be disruptions and unexpected hiccups that will frustrate just about everyone. Let us all strive to be flexible, patient, and extend grace to one another during this time.

3. Invite you to join us in giving thanks to God. It is because of your generosity that all these repairs and improvements are possible. Let us not forget to give thanks for all our many blessings!

Throughout the capital campaign, we said that this work is necessary not only for those of us who call St. Elizabeth’s our parish home today, but also for future generations who will one day continue the good work that has been taking place here for over 103 years. Let us continue looking ever forward to the bright future God has planned for St. Elizabeth’s!

Sincerely yours,

The Rev. Andy Olivo, Rector

Sandy Sullivan & Mike Dickson, Wardens

The Members of the Vestry:

Denise Barrand, Assistant Treasurer (2027)

Catherine Cardew (2027)

Bruce Firkins (2027)

Steven Gorey, Treasurer (2027)

Steve Anderson (2028)

Joan Cooke (2028)

Jeremy Sabella (2028)

Elizabeth Thauer (2028)

Christopher Aquilino (2029)

Catherine Carter, Clerk (2029)

Stacy Wilson (2029)

Lauren Winter (2029)

Parish Office Closed

Monday, October 12, for Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day

St. Paul’s Community Development Corporation, Paterson, NJ

Volunteers needed — Emergency Men’s Shelter

The SPCDC Emergency Men's Shelter relies on volunteer support from area churches and civic organizations who bring prepared food and serve hot meals each night. St. Elizabeth's supplies dinner the 3rd Monday of the month. Food expenses will be reimbursed upon submission of a receipt to the office. St. Elizabeth’s tax-exempt form is available in the parish office.

Signs and Grace: An Introduction to the Sacraments

October 26, November 2, 9, and 16 at 6:30 p.m.

"The sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace.” This is a new video-based course on the sacraments of Holy Baptism, Holy Eucharist, and the church’s five other sacraments/sacramental rites. Adults are invited to join the Rector on four consecutive Mondays for a light dinner at 6:30 p.m. The class will begin at 7:00 p.m., and the evening will conclude at 8:15 p.m. with Compline, the brief service of night prayers from the prayerbook. Contact the Rev. Andy Olivo with questions or for more information. All are welcome!

If you would like to receive our Christian Education Weekly email (CEW) directly for all things Children's Ministry-related, please Sign Up HERE.

Keep these dates handy!

October 3 - Mini-musicians 10 am

October 4 - Youth Confirmation 4 pm

October 8 - Children and Youth Choirs 5:30 pm

October 25 - Diocese of Newark Youth Scavenger Hunt at American Dream Mall (6th grade and up)

We welcome the joyous noise of our youngest worshipers! For those who need a little wiggle room, our second floor nursery is open for ages 3 and under.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: Diocese of Newark Youth Scavenger Hunt at American Dream Mall for students in sixth grade and up will return this October. The St. E's Youth who attended two years ago had a great time, so we'll do it again! We will arrange for carpools and attend this event with our youth. Please RSVP to Beth and we will get those interested registered.

Curious

about how you canwide be part of transforming

the world here in Northern New Jersey?

Wondering

if your gifts can support the

mission of the Diocese of Newark,

the Episcopal Church in Northern New Jersey?

Then this INVITATION 

is for YOU!

The Nominations Committee of the 152nd Annual Diocesan Convention invites YOU to prayerfully consider serving on one of the many Boards, Committees, and Councils of the Diocese. There are opportunities that appeal to a broad variety of gifts, interests, and availability. Some deal with governance, others deal with grantmaking. Some meet monthly, others less frequently than that. Some meet in person, others meet virtually or in a hybrid setting. All of them are looking for members who desire to be part of a diocese known for God's love, mercy, and justice.

Use the button below to get more detailed information about open seats and information about the Nominations Process.

See something that interests you?

Talk to your priest or warden. Talk to your friends and family.

Talk to God. Then Act. You’ll already be changing the world.

News from the Diocese of Newark

The Episcopal Church in Northern New Jersey

Back to Camp: Alumni Weekend

October 2-4, 2026

Whether you knew it as Beisler, Eagle’s Nest, or Cross Roads, camp has always been a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and faith is strengthened. Now, it's time to come back.

Join us for Back to Camp: A Beisler–Eagle's Nest–Cross Roads Alumni Weekend, where generations of campers, counselors, and friends will gather for a classic weekend of campfires, songs, laughter, and reconnection. This is your chance to relive the magic and make new memories—together.

Annual Rally for Cross Roads

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Calling all walkers and runners. Join us for a day of movement, community, and impact at the Rally for Cross Roads.

Whether you walk or take on the 2K or 5K, this event is for everyone. Bring your friends and family, choose your pace, and enjoy the day together.

Every step makes a difference, supporting camp scholarships, strengthening our facilities, and expanding programs for young campers.

Women's Retreat

October 9-11, 2026

2026 Theme

Women, Water, and Oil

Led by Laurie Matarazzo and Dale Selover

Washing with water and anointing with oil, women’s hands have blessed human bodies with their touch for centuries. So did Mary when she anointed Jesus for his burial. So did Jesus when he washed his friends’ feet in the Upper Room. What are our own experiences with water and oil, with cleansing and consecrating bodies? How has our touch conveyed the love and life of the Spirit?

Attend an Open House

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Morning Prayer

Morning Prayer is on Zoom only, Monday through Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Meeting ID: 858 4728 7483 Password: Morning

Questions? Contact Jim Alimena at jim.alimena@gmail.com

At St. Elizabeth’s, Morning Prayer follows the Rite I order in The Book of Common Prayer. People participate in the twenty-minute service in many ways. Some listen while commuting on public transportation or eating breakfast with their audio on mute and video off. Others participate by saying the responses of the people or reading one of the lessons. Parishioners Jim Alimena, Peter Angelica, Mary Hayes, Don Taylor and Denise Vollkommer rotate leading the liturgy. Prayers and thanksgivings focus on families, children, education, the parish, the sick and the nation. All are welcome.

Bring Joy to Our Community

Volunteer for Coffee Hour

Each Sunday after our 10 a.m. worship service, we gather in the Parish Hall to meet and greet our fellow parishioners. All are welcome to attend coffee hour. 

This ministry depends on volunteers to provide light refreshments and to help with set up and clean up. Please consider being a part of this fellowship by signing up for a Sunday to host. 

As the host, you will provide sweet and savory goodies (store-bought or homemade, whatever is most convenient for you), make the coffee, and set the table. Use these links for Getting Started and Simple Coffee Hour Instructions. We have experienced hosts who are happy to partner with you. If you are new to hosting coffee hour or would prefer to co-host, please contact Sandy Sullivan, and we will match you with an experienced guide!

Hearts, Hands, and Hours @ Philip's

❤️ 👐 🕰️ 🏫

Philip's Academy Charter School of Paterson is dedicated to providing their students with a nurturing and enriching educational environment. To continue their mission and enhance the experiences of their students, they are reaching out to our community—and to you—for support!

They invite you to become a volunteer or a more active volunteer role at their school! Your hearts, hands, and hours will have a profound impact on their students and their learning journey. There are numerous ways to get involved, including:

• Tutoring and Mentoring: Share your knowledge and inspire students by helping them with their studies or guiding them through personal development.
• Event Support: Help us plan and execute events, from academic fairs to community gatherings, that bring our school community together.
• Classroom Assistance: Work alongside teachers to support classroom activities and ensure a productive learning environment.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to engage with the students, share your passions, and make a lasting difference in their lives.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to partner with Philip's Academy in their mission. They look forward to welcoming you to the Philip's Academy family!

Forward Day by Day: Daily Devotions for Disciples:

August/September/October 2026

Copies of the August/September/October 2026 issue are available on the table outside Rev. Melina's office in the foyer leading to the Parish Hall. Please be sure to leave a donation to cover the cost of print copies. Forward Day by Day is a simple and effective daily prayer practice. Each day features a Bible verse from the daily readings and a related reflection written by a different author each month, all in less than 200 words. It even includes the daily feast days, as well as prompts to take faithful action in your daily life.

You can download the free app to Apple devices. Forward Day by Day offers prayer on the go—daily spiritual practices for busy people. In English and Spanish. The app includes the daily meditation from Forward Day by Day, as well as all daily prayers from The Book of Common Prayer, and the daily scripture readings from the lectionary. Integrated podcasts allow users to listen within the app as they read. Display preferences provide various fonts and text sizing options. Forward Day by Day is an offering of Forward Movement, a ministry of the Episcopal Church.

You can also visit their website:

St. Elizabeth's now has a LinkedIn page

A LinkedIn page has been created for St. Elizabeth’s. You can now link your volunteer work at St. Elizabeth's on your personal LinkedIn page. You can also follow St. Elizabeth's page.

Large Print Bulletins

The ushers will have a few large print bulletins for use during the worship service. Feel free to ask for a copy.

Google Drive for Photos

Do you have photos from St. Elizabeth's events? You can download the photos onto St. Elizabeth's Google Drive. Use the button below to access the Google Drive.

Name Tags

Did you bring your magnetic name tag home? Please return it to the whiteboards by the elevator.

Have you lost your name tag? Is it broken in some way? Do you have two?

Email Stephanie to replace lost name tags or create new ones. sdoyle@stesridgewood.org

Leave broken parts or extras on Stephanie's desk with a note. Thanks!

SCAM ALERT: The rector and staff will never ask for money, gift cards, or crypto. If a message claims to be us and feels urgent, please verify with the parish office before acting.

Community Thrift Shop

Accepting FALL clothing, shoes, linens, small electronics, kitchenware, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, party supplies, greeting cards, magazines, jewelry, bric-a-brac, paintings, frames, lamps, unused cosmetics, craft supplies.  Donation hours: Mondays, 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Limit: two kitchen-size bags. Please label all donations with account #4. St. Elizabeth’s receives a percentage of sales. Shopping hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Cash only. 85 Godwin Ave., Midland Park.

Lost & Found

There is a box on the desk outside the Parish office containing small items. If you are missing anything, please look there.

Meals Ministry

St. Elizabeth’s community care ministries include a meals ministry. Food can be a source of comfort and support for you or your family during challenging times such as stressful situations, illness, after surgery, or following the birth of a child. Our team of volunteers will deliver meals to your residence so that you and your family can focus on healing and togetherness without the added time demands of meal prep.

After years of faithful and gracious efforts by Mary Wynn Seiter, stewardship of our meals ministry has transitioned to Gaye Thurston and Karla Tombaugh.

Need help?  If you are in need of support, please reach out to Andy to initiate the process. Gaye or Karla will then connect with you to obtain information that will help them set up a meal schedule for you (e.g., dietary restrictions, likes/dislikes, number of days per week and the length of time that support is needed). Delivery can be coordinated to accommodate your preferences: for example, you might enjoy a short social visit with the food delivery, or if you prefer more privacy, food can be dropped off with no contact.  

Want to help?   If you would like to provide meals to people in need within our community either by cooking a meal yourself or arranging for takeout to be delivered), please provide your email address to Gaye (gaye.thurston@gmail.com) and Karla (ktomb833@outlook.com). You will be notified by email when meals are needed (via our management platform, “Take Them a Meal”) and sign up for one or more dates that work for you.

Get Involved in our Baptismal Blanket Ministry

The Needlecrafter group handcrafts blankets for every child baptized at St. Elizabeth's. This ministry is a group of caring hands and prayerful hearts, coming together to knit and crochet cozy blankets for those being welcomed into the family of faith. Each blanket is lovingly handmade as a symbol of warmth, comfort, and God’s embrace, and is gifted to families during their child’s baptism. And we have several baptisms on the horizon!

Whether you're a seasoned knitter or just learning, all are welcome to join this meaningful ministry of love and stitches. Our experienced needlecrafters provide the yarn and lessons, if needed. You can join the regular group at 10 a.m. on Thursdays. Contact Sherry Kock about the Thursday morning group.

St. Elizabeth's Card Ministry

We are offering parishioners the opportunity to request cards of celebration, sympathy, and encouragement. The handwritten notes to family and friends are a connection to our caring church family at St. Elizabeth's. Your request may be given to members of our committee, clergy, vestry or staff any time throughout the year.



We look forward to hearing from you with your requests or questions.

Cathy Cardew, Sherry Kock, and Valerie Florstedt, chairperson

Interested in receiving communion at home? 



Rev. Andy is available to bring you Eucharist and to pray with you. If you’d like to arrange a time, please reach out to him directly at aolivo@stesridgewood.org.

You can also call the Parish Office at (201) 444-2299 to request a visit.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” 

Proverbs 19:17

Join us on Sundays!

Holy Eucharist

Every Sunday at 10 a.m.

Can't make it in person? We livestream our services on YouTube

St. Elizabeth's has a media opt-out policy. Anyone who does not wish to allow the church to use their name or image, or the name or image of their children, on social media must fill out a form. The policy and the opt-out form may be found HERE. Please contact the Parish Office for more information (201) 444-2299.

Office Hours The Parish Office is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The outer doors are locked. To enter, press the button on the building wall near the California Street door and you will be buzzed in. If you need assistance, please call the parish office at (201) 444-2299.