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Christian Identity
The Rev. Dr. Bill Murray, Rector
When I started working for the church in 1998, I could not imagine talking about what it means to be a Christian. Sure, we had classes on what it is to be an Episcopalian, but Christianity was part of the air we breathe in the South and in much of the country. In the past 27 years, things have changed dramatically. The fastest growing faith group is the "nones". That is, people who say that they do not have any faith. We also have to deal with a combination of extreme groups claiming to be Christians, along with the media constantly focusing on those marginal groups with the most unpopular opinions. More and more, folks outside of our community are claiming to know what it means to be a person of faith.
To be honest, we did not start out planning this Fall to address this topic, but I believe the Holy Spirit was getting us ready for the conversation. Dr. Gaby Thomas and I had been talking for years about her coming to teach. Her schedule finally lined up, and she is now teaching for three weeks on the Nicene Creed, one of the seminal and often misunderstood statements of faith. The first class was a wonderful entry into this complex issue of what it is to be a Christian.
We then continued a conversation between the Vestry and School Board about Episcopal Identity. We have a strong statement of those values developed for our faculty, staff, and students. Some on the Vestry rightly pointed out that our congregation likely does not even know that the statement exists. So, we will now plan to follow up the Nicene Creed class with an Episcopal Identity Class.
Between those two classes, we want to begin conversations about what it means to be Christian, what it means to be an Episcopalian, and what it means to be Holy Innocents. We know that there will be lots of different ideas, questions, and answers to each of those questions. We also know that there is a great deal on which we can agree. The key is starting to have these conversations. We need to be able to share our faith with others in this complex and often scary world in a way that invites others to be part of the conversation, part of our family. So join us in thinking, praying, talking, and worshipping our ways into a deeper understanding of our faith and our community.
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HIES Great Day of Service
from Paul Barton, Head of School
On Thursday, Sept. 11, Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School held its first-ever Great Day of Service! After our Fall Convocation, the entire HIES community, including students, faculty and staff from across campus, rolled up their sleeves for a day dedicated to making a difference together.
There were many different service projects completed, differentiated by division and grade so that every Golden Bear could participate. All students engaged in lessons and hands-on projects that emphasized why our service efforts matter. Middle and Upper School students also heard from Allison Toller, chief social impact officer at YMCA of Metro Atlanta, and Michelle Hodgson, HIES parent and founder of Children Helping Children, about the power teens have to create change by partnering with local nonprofits.
The results of this all-hands effort were nothing short of incredible:
- 37,500 meals were packed for Rise Against Hunger.
- 360 hygiene kits and 360 snack bags were assembled for Church of the Common Ground and Solidarity Sandy Springs.
- 400 blankets were created for patients at Winship Cancer Institute, while leftover fabric scraps will be used to create dog toys for local shelters.
- 322 sandwiches were prepared for Solidarity Sandy Springs, each paired with a handwritten note.
- The senior class completed an amazing park cleanup project at Morgan Falls Overlook Park.
The day concluded with a spirited pep rally hosted by the Upper School Student Council, celebrating the energy, compassion and commitment that made the first Great Day of Service an unforgettable success. It was a powerful reminder of what the HIES community can achieve when serving side by side. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our chaplains for their leadership and dedication and to our students, faculty and staff for the outstanding efforts that brought this day to life. Click here to see some highlights from the day!
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CAC: Broadway Lights Gala
September 20, 6:00-10:00 PM
Step into the spotlight! Join our congregational partner, Community Assistance Center, for a dazzling evening under the Broadway lights at their annual benefit gala. Enjoy a seated three-course dinner, drinks, live entertainment by the City Springs Theatre Conservatory, and exciting silent and live auctions — all in support of CAC’s mission to help local families stay housed, fed, and financially stable.
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Church of the Common Ground
September 21
HI will be packing 120+ 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
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Song of Atlanta:
Singin' in September
September 21, 3:00 PM
Join the award-winning Song of Atlanta Show Chorus for Singin’ in September, a high-octane performance featuring 100+ powerhouse voices in stunning a cappella harmony. Fresh off their 2nd place finish on the international stage, this world-class ensemble delivers more than just barbershop harmonies. Experience vocal fireworks, captivating choreography, and moments that will leave you simply breathless. All proceeds support the chorus and its community outreach initiatives.
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Young Adults: Puttshack
September 21
Join other 20s & 30s somethings for an afternoon of fun at Puttshack! After worship, we’ll head over together, carpooling from the church or meeting there at noon. Cost is $10. Bring your friends and your best mini-golf skills! Please RSVP so we can save your spot.
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Foyers
September 21
Want to make new friends or renew acquaintances? Sign up for Foyers on the sign-up sheet at the table in Bishop's Common. The purpose of Foyers is to get to know fellow parishioners in a small group setting (which is usually a simple dinner). After the sign-up period is complete (September 21st), groups of between 6 and 8 will be formed. Each group will have a starting host couple (or two singles) who will host the first dinner based on the availability of everyone in their group. At each get-together, plans for who will host the next are made and a date set. Everyone in the group is expected to host one dinner during the year. Since the fall is such a busy time, most groups won’t have their first get-together until the new year. Historically, Foyers met on Sunday evenings, but each group can determine the best time for their dinners (or lunches). A Foyers brochure with complete details is available at the table next to the sign-up sheets.
Contact Phyllis Weisser | pcweisser@yahoo.com
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FOMA Concert: EarlyBird
October 5, 4:30 PM
EarlyBird returns to Holy Innocents’ Friends of Music series with Silk & Sequins, an hour-long concert where sacred light meets sequined shimmer. Join us on Sunday, October 5, at 4:30 PM in the chapel for a radiant journey of sound, featuring six local professional singers.
From the brilliance of Monteverdi and Lassus to the delicate colors of Takemitsu and Izawa, and the lush lyricism of Finzi and Stanford, the program traverses centuries and cultures. Four evocative sets — Thrones in the Spotlight, Brush Strokes, Petals and Sky, and The Gilded Stage — weave together Renaissance splendor, Japanese-inspired delicacy, English romanticism, and contemporary anthems of love, identity, and resilience. At once intimate and celebratory, Silk & Sequins invites us to see our true colors and embrace the glittering fullness of self.
Save the Date: The Atlanta Gay Men's Chorus returns December 14, 4:00 PM!
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Blessing of the Animals
October 5, 6:00 PM
Join us on Sunday, October 5, at 6:00 PM in the Parish Hall for our annual Blessing of the Animals. This special service will take the place of our regular 6:00 PM worship and will celebrate the joy and companionship our pets bring into our lives.
Our youth, along with 4th and 5th-graders, will help lead the service. Bring your furry, fluffy, or plush animal and share in this joyful tradition!
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Reading Connections
October 6, 6:00 PM
The Women’s Reading Connections will meet on Monday, October 6, at 6:00 PM in the Frost Youth Center (a week earlier than usual to accommodate the upcoming holiday on October 13). We will be discussing Life and Other Love Songs by Anissa Gray, author and HIEC member, will be leading our discussion. The book chronicles a father’s disappearance on his 37th birthday and how his disappearance has a lasting impact on his family. The narrative moves from the Great Migration to 1970s Detroit and 1990s New York as the book follows the hopes, triumphs, losses, and secrets that build up and tear apart an American family.
Contact Michelle Driscoll | dris1296@yahoo.com
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Bucket List Book Club
October 7, 1:00 PM
The next meeting of the book club will be on Tuesday, October 7, at 1:00 PM. The book we’ll be discussing is Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. The club is open to men and women.
Contact Audrey Sumner | audreysum4833@gmail.com
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Prayer Shawl
October 7, 7:00-8:30 PM
The Prayer Shawl Ministry will gather in the Parlor on Tuesday, October 7, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. All are welcome! We would love to have you join us this fall. We knit and crochet prayer shawls that church staff deliver to those who are ill or grieving, but if you're currently working on some other project of your own – needlepoint, cross stitch, or even mending – come join us and socialize while you work.
Contact Cammie Ives | cammieives@gmail.com
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Men of HI: Low Country Boil
October 19, 5:30-8:00 PM
Join the Men of Holy Innocents for food, fellowship, and fun at our annual Low Country Boil on the banks of the Chattahoochee! $30 per person, includes food and beverages.
Contact Charles Crosby | charles@corepm.net
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Men's Dinner and a Book
November 11, 6:30-8:30 PM
The next Men's Dinner and a Book is Tuesday, November 11, at 6:30 PM. The book is The Gunfighters: How Texas Made the West Wild by Bryan Burrough. Jeremy Webber is hosting. If you would like to attend, please contact him for details. All men at Holy Innocents are included and invited.
Contact Jeremy Webber | jhwwebber@gmail.com
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Parish Retreat
February 13-15, 2026
Mark your calendars for a special weekend of connection, belonging, and spiritual growth at beautiful Kanuga Conference Center! Our parish retreat is a time for all ages to come together, children, youth, and adults, for meaningful activities, worship, and shared experiences. Whether you're seeking quiet reflection or lively conversation, you'll find space for both.
What to Expect:
- Engaging programs for kids, teens, and adults
- Campfires, music, and a classic s’mores sing-along
- Plenty of free time to rest, explore, and reconnect with nature
- Opportunities to deepen your faith and friendships
Come away with us to Kanuga and return refreshed in spirit and community. We can’t wait to be with you!
Kanuga Conference Center | February 13–15, 2026
More details and registration info coming soon!
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Join the Altar Guild
The Altar Guild is a ministry–a gift of time and talent to serve God–by committing to help others with setting up, attending, and cleaning up after Sunday services.
Serving on an Altar Guild Team is about an hour commitment one Saturday each month and 30 minutes before or following a Sunday Service; YOU can pick the service that's most convenient for you.
"How To" manuals are on hand in each Sacristy with specific directions so you and your teammates that week have the "blueprint" for each service.
We try to have social gatherings throughout the year to foster community and fellowship with all the altar guild members. If you have any questions, please contact Marilyn Kimball 404-290-4924 or Debbie Vaky 678-642-8248
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Youth Group: Study Hall
September 21, 4:00-6:00 PM
Middle and high school students are invited to join us for Study Hall on September 21 from 4:00-6:00 PM! We’ll start with prayer, enjoy some dinner, and spend time working on homework and studying together. Feeling stressed? Head outside after you study for a fun surprise!
Contact Megan | matkinson@holyinnocents.org
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Club 45 Kickoff Event
September 24, 6:00-8:00 PM
4th & 5th graders are invited to a very special Club 45 Kickoff Party. Join us for pizza, an escape room, and a very special time of fun and fellowship as we start an exciting new year at Club 45. Register by September 20th.
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Wednesday Night GLOW
October 1
Family Dinner at 5:30 PM, Program from 6:00-7:00 PM
Come & GLOW with us for a very special STEAM-themed evening where kids will learn about the power of prayer through an exciting science experiment and art activity. Adults and kids are invited to gather for dinner at 5:30 PM, and then kids will leave for GLOW program from 6-7:00 PM. Parents are invited to stick around for wine and conversation while the kids are at GLOW.
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Children’s Choir
October 5
Come Be the Light. Our Children’s Choir has been preparing to sing this beautiful anthem at the 10:15 service on October 5th, following Children’s Chapel. All kids in preK-5th grade are welcome to participate. Rehearsals are ongoing in Sunday School and Children’s Chapel.
Contact Renee | rstephens@holyinnocents.org
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Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat
October 26, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM
Celebrate the season with us at our Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat on Sunday, October 26! Come in costume for Sunday School and worship, then stick around after the service for an afternoon full of fall fun and festive fellowship.
We’ll have something for everyone, including: trunk or treat, hayrides, petting zoo, lunch, seasonal treats, and more! Whether you're young or just young at heart, all are welcome to join in the fun as we enjoy the beauty of fall fun together.
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Trunk or Treat Volunteers
We need you! Sign up to host a trunk for our trunk or treat on October 26th. Decorate your trunk as simply or as elaborately as you would like. Prizes will be offered for Most Creative Trunk, Best Decorated Trunk, and Funniest Trunk. Setup will begin immediately after 10:15 worship, and Trunk or Treating will begin after lunch. Email Renee Stephens at rstephens@holyinnocents.org to volunteer to host a trunk.
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Club 45 Halloween Breakfast Party
October 26, 9:00-10:05 AM
4th & 5th graders, join us this Sunday at 9:15 AM for a Halloween Breakfast Party. Wear your costume and come ready to enjoy breakfast, special treats, and fun times with friends!
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Dollywood
November 7-9
Students in grades 6-12 are invited for a weekend of fun and fellowship at Dollywood on November 7-9! We’ll stay in a mountain cabin, enjoy the park, and connect over meals, games, and laughter.
This trip is all about building lasting friendships that help students stay engaged in church life. Spots are limited so sign up fast!
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Click here to watch last Sunday's service!
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Realm Access
Realm is our database system, which allows us to send emails, mailings, schedule events, and all of the things that the clergy and staff do behind the scenes to make Holy Innocents' our home. The neat thing about it for you is that you are able to connect to your record in the system and have instant access to the directory, track your online giving, register for events, and more. To connect to your account:
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Email Renee Stephens at rstephens@holyinnocents.org for an invitation link
- Create your password and remember it
- Use your email address and password to log in through a browser or the Connect app
Connect app for iPhone: click here.
Connect app for Android: click here.
Once you have your account access, check to see if all of your contact information is up-to-date and upload a picture that will be used in the directory. Reach out to Renee Stephens at rstephens@holyinnocents.org if you need any assistance.
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 404-255-4023 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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