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- Vestry News & What is a VPOD?
- Families with "Littles" Potluck - 5/8
- Youth Car Wash - 5/9
- Photos from Recent Events
- Parish Picnic - 5/24 | RSVP
- Bach/Biber Project - 5/31
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Dear Epiphany Family,
When you enter Epiphany on Sunday mornings, you’ve likely noticed the sign that reads “Vestry Person of the Day” along with a smiling photo of one of our members of Vestry. While an important and very visible duty of the VPOD is to ensure that the coffee is brewed and ready for after the service, other critical elements of the VPOD responsibilities are behind-the-scenes.
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Before the service begins, the VPOD coordinates with nursery staff and the greeters to ensure everyone has what they need to welcome all parishioners and visitors. After formation hour, the VPOD is responsible for securing the church.
Most critically, we want to ensure everyone is aware that the VPOD is responsible for serving as the point of contact in the event of a medial or other emergency. Our parish is full of medical professionals, including mental health professionals, and all ushers and members of Vestry are aware of who can assist during the event of an emergency. The VPOD’s role is to coordinate any form of response that may be needed. If you need assistance - or need help getting someone else assistance - the VPOD is there to serve and connect.
In addition to serving as VPOD and other regular Vestry duties, each member of the Vestry serves in a liaison role with a church group or function. You’ll see each Vestry member’s role listed on their VPOD sign. We are here to support the incredible work of this parish!
I also have an update from Vestry to share. Carol Bartlett has let us know that she needs to resign from her role as a member of Vestry. Carol has been a wonderful Vestry liaison, serving as a connection for Adult Formation and Sustainability + Justice over the last two years. We are grateful for the time and service she has given to this parish during her time on Vestry, especially for her leadership on the Solar Task Force. Vestry members serve for three years. Because it is in the middle of the third year for this newly vacant position, Vestry has decided that we will not fill the vacancy at this time.
I am grateful to be in community with you all and for the specific ways that Epiphany is called to seek and serve Christ.
With peace,
Jordan Moody,
Senior Warden
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Potluck for Families with “Littles”
Friday, May 8 at 5:30 p.m. • Chaffin’s Home
| | | | 5/8—We invite all families with "littles" (newborn through kindergarten + any siblings) to a potluck dinner at the Chaffin family’s house on Friday, May 8 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. The main dish is included. Please bring a side item to share. There will be games, chalk bubbles, and the Epiphany bouncy house! Please register and sign up to bring a side dish or dessert. | | |
Annual Youth Car Wash
Saturday, May 9 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
5/9—Join us for our annual Car Wash to support the youth trip to Camp Mikell! Swing by on Saturday to get your car sparkling clean and support a great cause. This also makes for a great Mother's Day gift. Youth—especially those going on the trip to Camp Mikell together—are encouraged to come help wash cars. Everyone is invited to come get their car washed and cheer on our hardworking crew!
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Formation for All
Adult Formation | Sabbath—Sundays at 11:30 a.m. through May 17 • parish hall
Join us for this six-part course as we explore the biblical concept of Sabbath and what it means to embrace God’s rest in the midst of our busy lives and restless world. In doing so, we will come to understand the ancient idea of Sabbath as more than just downtime on the weekend. Rather, we will discover Sabbath as a disruptive and life-giving invitation to think differently about our priorities, the pace of our lives, and what it means to be created in the image of a God who rests. Each week will consist of a video presentation by Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio followed by conversation facilitated by Epiphany clergy and lay leaders.
Formation YouTube Playlists >>
Children's Formation—Sundays at 11:30 a.m. • locations vary
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Room 206—Godly Play for children 3 years old through 2nd grade.
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Room 205—Children in 3rd through 5th grade—a lectionary based curriculum for older children
Youth Formation—Sundays at 11:30 a.m. • lower-level classroom (donut den)
The Youth (6th - 12th grade) curriculum, Current: Seeking God Together, explores 13 spiritual practices that can deepen and transform our relationship with God and others using interactive, age-appropriate strategies to help children and youth connect with God and the church as whole.
Click here to provide donuts for the youth on Sunday mornings.
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Youth Group
Sunday at 4:00 p.m.
| The Youth Group will not meet on Sunday in honor of Mother's Day. | | |
Contemplative Practice
2nd Sundays in the Choir Loft at 4:00 p.m.
Come gather with us on second Sundays at 4:00 p.m. for a time of reflection, meditation instruction, and gathering with others seeking a more grounded way of being in the world. Led by Bobbi Patterson and Amy Dills-Wright. Contact Amy if you have any questions.
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Art Ministry
now showing for the month of May
Epiphany’s Art Ministry welcomes paintings by local artist, Phyllis Kalu for the month of May. Phyllis is a contemporary visual artist specializing in acrylic painting, known for her vibrant and expressive works that bridge community, creativity, and spirituality. Please use the Art Ministry QR code to pay. Reminder—25% of all sales benefits Epiphany.
Learn more about the artist and the art ministry at epiphany.org/epiphany-gallery.
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Altar Arrangements & Sanctuary Light Sign Up
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The Arrangements at the Altar are given to the Glory of God and in memory of Mary Jarvas Mundy, Annie Lowman Mundy, Betty Weinschenk Mundy, and Diane Houser Mundy, by Dan Mundy.
- The Sanctuary Light is given to the Glory of God.
Altar Arrangements & the Sanctuary Light can be given in honor of an anniversary, birthday, or in memory of a loved one. Click the button link to reserve dates that have meaning for you.
Click here to choose a date >>
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Children's & Youth Choirs Appreciation Supper
Epiphany’s Children’s and Youth Choirs finished their program year on Palm Sunday, participating in the Palm Sunday blessing of Palms in the meadow and leading the procession into the nave.
On April 14, choristers and their families were recognized and thanked for their membership in the music ministry. Special thanks to Beginning Choristers George Janke, Izzy Wauchope, Jake Gibbs, Kapi Ross, Livie Fraijo-Paul, Nduva Hartman and Sammy Wauchope, and to Junior Choir members Anna Hare, Mary Eleanor Fraijo-Paul, and Reya Alexander for sharing their gifts with each other and the parish during the 2025-26 year.
Click the image to see photos from the dinner.
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Chez Epiphany
This time, Joel Fowler featured two items on the griddle - Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) and grilled fruit skewers with dessert sauces.
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Men's Fellowship Dinner
The men gathered on Saturday, April 25. This time lasagna was on the menu.
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Epiphany Book Group
2nd Mondays at 7:00 p.m.
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5/11—The Epiphany Book meets on the second Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. They are meeting in the Parish Hall for the months of May and June.
For May: A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II, by Sonia Purnell.
For June: Deacon King Kong by James McBride. All are welcome. Contact Linda Ryder-Wolf.
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Frequent guest organist and Epiphany fan Alvin Blount was recently named to the "Movers & Shakers 2026" by the Library Journal.
Read more about Alvin and his community building efforts with the Diocese of East Tennessee at this link.
Have you or another parishioner you know given a gift of their time and talent to Epiphany? Do you know someone who has received recognition for a personal achievement? If so, please let us know!
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One of our neighbors, weary of all the negativity in the world now, made a yard sign with a quote from Micah for neighbors, family, and friends. He has offered them to us for our parishioners as well.
They are located in the gallery. If they run out and you would still like one, use QR Code posted in the gallery or email the office to request one.
| | Group Meetings & Programs Taking Place This Week | | |
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Men’s Breakfast Group—Tuesdays following the 7:00 a.m. service
5/12—The Men’s Breakfast Group gathers for breakfast and discussion following the 7:00 a.m. Tuesday service and are typically on their way by 8:00 a.m. Contact Dave Thompson with any questions.
The Episcopal Church Women (ECW)—2nd Tuesdays at 9:30/11:00 a.m.
5/12—The ECW meets monthly at 9:30 a.m. to make sandwiches for Emmaus House. The meeting and program begin at 11:00 a.m. in the parish hall. Afterwards, they will adjourn to Melton’s App & Tap for lunch. All women of Epiphany are invited to attend.
Trivia Group—Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. • Wild Heaven in Avondale Estates
5/12—All are invited to join the Epiphany Trivia Group on Tuesdays at Wild Heaven in Avondale. Trivia begins at 7:00 p.m. and ends by 9:00 p.m. Contacts: Edie Brush or Jacob Geiger.
Choirs for Adults & Youth—Wednesdays
5/13—Our all-volunteer Epiphany Choir rehearses from 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. in the Music Suite.
Contemplative Book Group—Thursday at 11:00 a.m. through May 21
5/14—The Contemplative Book Group is reflecting on Fully Alive – Tending to the Soul in Turbulent Times by Elizabeth Oldfield on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. through May 21 in Room 201. Oldfield’s book provides a framework for exploring ways we can stay “fully alive,” resilient, kind, open, generous, and brave, in these turbulent times. Click here to sign up >>
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Social Justice Action Group—Virtual Group
This social advocacy group promotes social and cultural change. The group identifies community events in which we can participate, and provides a curated list of local community happenings via Realm Groups. If you’d like to be part of this group, join via Realm Groups to view current opportunities of social justice action in our area.
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Looking Ahead
5/19—Epiphany & Earth & Soul—3rd Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. • Room 201 | Zoom
5/19—Caregiver Support Group—3rd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. • Zoom
5/20—The Munch Bunch—3rd Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. • Thinking Man Tavern
5/25—Community of Hope’s Circle of Care—4th Mondays at 6:00 p.m.
6/3-5—Gateway Shelter Meal Ministry—2nd Fridays • Parish Hall/Kitchen
6/4—Grief Pastoral Care Group—1st Thursdays at 12:00 p.m. • Zoom
6/8—Epiphany Book Group—2nd Mondays at 7:00 p.m. • location varies
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For June: Deacon King Kong by James McBride. All are welcome. Contact Linda Ryder-Wolf.
6/14—Contemplative Practice—2nd Sundays at 4:00 p.m. • Choir Loft
| | | | Upcoming Services & Events | | |
Annual Parish Picnic
Sunday, May 24 • Join us after the service
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5/24—Please join Parish Life for a picnic style lunch served after the service. Joel Fowler and his crew will be grilling beef tenderloin, hot dogs, and veggie burgers. Please sign up to bring a table ready dessert or side dish to share. Parish Life will provide beverages (tea, lemonade, and water).
Cost for the tenderloin is $10 and $3 for the hot dogs and veggie burgers. Family maximum cost is $35. Register by Wednesday, May 20.
Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. Intergenerational field games will take place in the meadow.
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Intergenerational Field Day
Sunday, May 24 • During the Parish Picnic
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5/24—Intergenerational field games will take place in the meadow during the parish picnic. Adults and children of all ages are invited to participate.
You may want to bring a change of clothes and some comfortable shoes for this event. Bring lawn chairs to watch the games!
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The Bach/Biber Project | NEW DATE
Sunday, May 31 at 4:00 p.m. • Nave
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5/31—Join us for the 6th and final performance of the Bach/Biber Project with violinist Judith Cox and organist Julie Ryder. Donations welcome, and a reception in celebration of this 3-year cycle will follow.
For more information, click here >>
Make a donation >>
| | | | Youth Trip to Camp Mikell | This year, our youth are invited to attend Camp Mikell’s Intermediate Camp (June 16–22 for rising 7th–9th graders) and Work Camp (July 12-18 for rising 10th graders through recent graduates). Money raised during youth fundraisers in the coming months will help offset registration costs, and we will travel together to and from Toccoa. Taylor will join students for check-ins and some evening meals. Visit campmikell.com to register and experience the Mikell magic this summer! | | |
Vacation Bible School
June 27, July 11, July 25
This year’s VBS will take a new shape! Families with children ages 3 through 5th grade are invited to gather for three Saturdays this summer for a shared experience of storytelling, service, and Sacrament. Join us on June 27, July 11, and July 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information about youth counselors and adult volunteer opportunities.
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For members who are bidding our prayers: Darwin Embser (partner of Larry Wilcox) • Lynda Smith • Joy Boyden • George Ross • Lisa Gray • Richard Shirah • Larry Wilcox • Mike Curry • Chris Miller & Ron Hutcheson • Philip Anderson • Louise Bedrossian (wife of Bob Thompson) • Barbara Belcore • Esther Harbert • Veta Smith (mother of Cecilia Democko) • Sally Brockington
For friends and family: Melinda Little, cousin of George Ross • The McCord & Bloom families, relatives of Pam Tipton • Marshall Keys, brother-in-law of Laura Keys • Paul & Nan O’Conner, friends of Jewel Allen • Kelty Grace, friend of Linda Ryder-Wolf • The Morse Family, friends of Rod & Michele MacLeod • Brian Peacock, grandfather of Elli Peacock • Rachel Williams, daughter-in-law of Susan & Loren Williams • Kay Harris, mother of Rebecca Webb • Danny Nodine, brother of Larry Nodine • Louise Peters, grandmother of Tristen Webb • Dave Tipton, brother of Pam Tipton • Isabel, granddaughter of Mike & Beth Towers
For members who desire our continuing prayers: Jewel Allen • Mary McCall Cash • Wende Crowe • Pat & Bill Graves • Bruce Fort • Esther Harbert • Robin Hairston • Rod MacLeod • Sally McClintock • Chris Miller & Ron Hutcheson • Ellen Mintzmyer • Ann Rowles • Pat Spivey • Beth Towers • Michael Towers, Jr. • Wayne & Judy Urban • Larry Wilcox • Wes, Kelly & Lillian Wright • Colleen
For those who have died: Rose Mallard, cousin of Randy Shearin • Betty Porter, grandmother of Christen Erskine
For those celebrating birthdays the week of 5/10-16: Rita Warwick • Richard Messner • Patrick Hanna • Marcus Hoesterey • Henry Bryant • Will Bryant • Sarah Keys • Cassie Leung • Livie Fraijo-Paul • Sharon O’Flaherty • Richard Shirah • Susan Ashmore
| | | | Did we miss your anniversary or birthday? Send the full date of your anniversary and/or your date of birth to the parish office so that we can update our records. | | | |
The weekly deadline for submission of announcements for the Friday Morning eNews
and the Sunday bulletin is Wednesdays at Noon. Please send your submissions
ready to go to the parish office.
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