This Sunday: October 18, 2026

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Holy Eucharist: Rite II

Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Cross Potent, one of our clerestory windows, also known as a Crutch Cross, is a heraldic cross with equal-length arms that each terminate in a T-shape or crossbar, resembling a crutch (derived from the Old French word potence, meaning crutch).

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.

How do I make a pledge?

Our 2027 Stewardship campaign is under way. Pledge cards and a letter from the Stewardship Committee are headed to your mailbox. You can return your card to the church office or pledge online with the QR code on the card or by using the button below. Thank you for helping our roots grow deeper.

Can I change my pledge if my circumstances change?

Your pledge is not a debt, and it is not a contract. It is a commitment between your household and the household of God, made with mutual love and respect. If your circumstances change at any time, you may change your commitment. A simple email to the Director of Finance and Administration is all that is needed.

Our lives are intertwined, and your membership in our community runs much more deeply than your ability to make financial gifts. If there are things we can do for you to support you through the circumstances that you encounter, please contact our clergy.

Serve Together Ministry Fair

Join us this Sunday, October 18th, at 10:00 AM for Family Sunday and the Serve Together Ministry Fair at St. Elizabeth's!

Come explore all the wonderful ways to get involved in the St. Elizabeth’s parish community. Whether you're looking to connect with others, enjoy some great fellowship, or find a place to serve, there truly is something for everyone. Come for the fun, stay for the community, and let's serve together!

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. This is the FINAL Sunday for costume donations.

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

Midweek Holy Eucharist

Wednesday, October 21

at 12:00 p.m. in the Chapel

Give the Gift of Sight

St. Elizabeth's 11th grader, Shivani Heltzel, is working on her Girl Scout Gold Award project to help people who don't have access to proper eyeglasses. Her project will collect used prescription glasses, and there is a donation bin at St. Elizabeth's from 10/4-11/29. Any donations are greatly appreciated!

There have been some exciting new developments this past week!

Hughes Environmental Engineering delivered the parts for the air-conditioning for the church. The materials are being stored in the basement storage area.

On Monday, October 12, the organ was wrapped to prevent dust from getting in the pipes.

On Tuesday, construction began. Plastic wrapping and protection that were up during the week were removed on Friday so that worship could continue in the church on Sunday.

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!

Before Lunch Book Talk

Please join us on

Tuesday, November 3, 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 Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather.

This beautifully written tale chronicles the lives of Father Jean Marie Latour and Father Joseph Vaillant as they establish the Catholic Church in the rugged American Southwest. Amid breathtaking deserts and towering mesas, these two friends navigate hardships, cultural divides, and spiritual reflections with unwavering devotion and humanity. 

Considered one of Cather's finest works, Death Comes for the Archbishop is a moving exploration of faith, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. Its vivid imagery and poetic grace have enchanted readers for generations. 

Meeting ID: 823 8050 3238

Passcode: Book

December BLBT pick:

Theo of Golden: A Novel by Allen Levi 

12/1/26

Parish Office Closed

Wednesday, November 11, for Veterans 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 that 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.

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

We have a Family Service at 10 am this Sunday. We will hear two songs from our amazing Childrens and Youth Choirs! 

There is no Church School on Family Sundays. We want our families to experience the entire service and enjoy coffee hour together.

Keep these dates handy!

October 17 - Mini-musicians 10 a.m.

October 18 - Youth Confirmation, 4 pm

October 22 - Children and Youth Choirs 5:30 p.m.

October 25 - Breakfast and Believe (5th-8th grades)

Blessing of the Costumes & Holy Ghost Weenie Roast

Youth Scavenger Hunt at American Dream Mall (6th grade and up)

November 1 - Youth Confirmation 4 p.m. at St. Alban's in Oakland

November 15 - Family Sunday

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 5 and under on Family Sundays.

Our Attendant this week is Akshara P

There are many upcoming opportunities for our teens to serve their communities!

We are looking for parents to take the lead on the Annual Food Drive in November. We are also actively signing up for volunteers (8th grade and up) for the following events: Holley Center Party (11/15), Emmanuel Cancer Foundation Party (11/21), St. E's Christmas Tree Lighting (12/16), the Christmas Pageant (12/19 & 20), and ongoing St. Paul's Meals for the Emergency Men's Shelter (11/16 and 12/21), and Acolyte service in worship. 


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. RSVP to Beth, and we will get those interested registered.

Curious

about how you can 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

Attend an Open House

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Summer 2027 staff applications are open for those 16+

Join the Cross Roads Staff Community! At Cross Roads Camp and Retreat Center, our staff is more than a team—we’re a vibrant, close-knit community that creates a welcoming and nurturing space for campers of all ages. Each summer, we offer a wide variety of activities like rock climbing, arts & crafts, swimming, team sports, nature exploration, and so much more! Our summer season runs from early June through late August.

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 take on a more active volunteer role. 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, NJ.

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.

Join the Needlecrafters Group!

All crafters welcome! Do you knit, crochet, embroider, cross-stitch, needlepoint, quilt, sew, or punch needle? Then this group is for you!

Some of the Needlecrafter Group handcraft 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.

Whether you’re a seasoned needlecrafter or just learning, everyone is 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 the 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.