SAVE THE DATE: SPRING PARISH RETREAT DAY AT GOODWOOD
Sunday, April 19 | 10 AM–5 PM | Rain or Shine

Please join us for a joy-filled day of worship, fellowship, and fun. Something for everyone at every age and every stage!

• Worship service at 10 AM (casual attire)
• Lunch
• Kickball and family fun on the lawn
• Spiritual education
• …more details coming soon!

Goodwood Museum & Gardens
1600 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Please note, the 7:45 AM service will be held in the church on Sunday April 19, but there will be no 9:00 or 11:15 services at St. John’s that day.

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Every year, the Church tells the same story. We return to it again and again because it is the story that reveals the depth of God’s love for the world. Holy Week is the Church’s most profound way of telling that story.

Beginning with Palm Sunday, we step into the final days of Jesus’ earthly life—walking the road from shouts of “Hosanna,” to the table of the Last Supper, to the cross, and finally to the wonder of the empty tomb. This year, Palm Sunday will be especially meaningful at St. John’s as Assisting Bishop Chip Stokes joins us in worship to confirm and receive new members of our parish family.

At the heart of Holy Week is what the Church calls the Triduum—the “three days” from Maundy Thursday evening through Good Friday and into the Great Vigil of Easter. Across these days, the Church keeps one continuous act of prayer: beginning at the table where Jesus shared bread and wine with his friends, continuing at the foot of the cross, and culminating in the deep night of Easter when a new fire is kindled and the first proclamation of resurrection is spoken.

These liturgies are not separate events, but one unfolding story of love stronger than death. We invite you to walk this sacred journey with us. Below you’ll find the full schedule for Holy Week and Easter at St. John’s. We hope you will make plans now to join us as we gather again, speak the ancient words again, and enter this holy story once more.

To help guide you through each of the services offered, we invite you to download our Guide to Holy Week. This guide outlines every step along the way to The Great Vigil of Easter.

Holy Week Schedule

The schedule below includes notes about services that will be offered digitally as well as in person, and those that will feature incense as part of the liturgies.

See our online calendar for more information. If you would like to sign up for an hour-long slot during the Gethsemane Watch, click here.

Festive receptions will once again follow the Easter Vigil and all morning offerings on Easter Day. If you would like to assist our Parish Life Reception Committee, please contact Claire Dodd.

Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, St. John’s welcomes you!

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Easter is a wonderful time to honor loved ones you’ve lost or special people in your life today.

Easter lilies displayed in the church on Easter and music dedications that support our music program are wonderful ways to honor these individuals. All dedications are listed in our Easter bulletins.

Again this year, dedications and donations will be handled digitally through the site that we use to coordinate weekly altar flower dedications. Contribution envelopes are also available in the pews so checks can be dropped in the offering plate. To make your flower or music dedication online, click the button below.

In order to allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Sunday, March 29.

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received. 

Need assistance? Contact the front office at (850) 222-2636.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

A few helpful tips:

• Click on the Easter flower or music boxes to add the item to your cart.
• If you are dedicating each lily to a separate individual, you add them to your cart and enter the dedication language separately.
• Where prompted, enter the dedication language (“In Memory of” or “In Thanksgiving For”) and the person’s name.
• Add to cart and follow the payment prompts to place your order.

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The rules are simple:

1. Choose a Bible scene: All entries must clearly depict a Biblical scene, event, action, concept, or character. It does not have to be related to Holy Week or Easter.

2. Containment: The diorama must be self-contained in a way that is easily transported without having to set up pieces. It is highly recommended that all parts be glued in place. A shoe box or other small box is commonly used, though foam board, wood, and cardboard may also be used. Characters and scenery may extend outside of the box as long as they are attached. Maximum width and depth of all components is 24 inches in either direction. There is no height limit.

3. Creative license: There is no limit on the number of Peeps used, nor are you bound to any color or type of Peep. You may use any medium, material or resource that fits your vision. Peeps may be cut, melted, molded, combined, glued, dressed, or otherwise mangled. Dioramas that utilize artistic license, humor, and are exciting to view are
encouraged.

4. Limitations: All submissions must be G-rated. Although non-peep props, scenery, dress, and minor characters may be utilized, peeps must be the main characters.

5. Title and description: Each diorama must be titled, contain a scripture citation (e.g. John 3:16), a scripture quote, and all Contributors’ names. This may be incorporated into the diorama or displayed on a placard in front of the diorama. Puns are welcome and encouraged.

6. Submissions are due by Palm Sunday, March 29 by 9 AM. Originality of concept and skill in execution will increase chances of winning. Winners will be announced on Easter Sunday, April 5. Pictures of peep dioramas may be posted online for admiration by the general public.

If you have any questions at all, contact Tyree Jordan.

The Entire Official Rules and Tips for Making Peeps Dioramas can be downloaded here.

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WHEN: Monday – Friday, June 15-19, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

This five-day camp, for rising 2nd through 8th graders, includes classes in ensemble singing, music theory and composition, games, and will even feature vocal coaching from professional singers! Mid-morning snacks and drinks are provided; child should bring a lunch. 

Space is limited. Reserve your spot! The early-bird registration fee is $150 per child (through May 1, 2026). After May 1, the registration fee increases to $175 per child. Need-based assistance is available.

REGISTER HERE

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Our 2026 Lenten Guide is built around a simple and hopeful theme: “And so we say it again.”

Lent invites us to return to the words, prayers, and practices that quietly shape our lives—spoken not once, but over time, and together. This guide is designed to help you slow down, listen more carefully, and discover how God uses repeated prayer and Scripture to form us in truth, humility, and hope.

What you’ll find inside the guide

The guide walks you through how repetition works in Christian life and worship—why returning to the same prayers and words is not dull, but deeply formative. You’ll be invited to notice how shared language trains our instincts, gives us words when our own fail, and helps us tell the truth about ourselves and the world before God.

Praying with the Great Litany

A central focus of this Lent is the Great Litany—one of the Church’s oldest prayers. The guide explains its history, its steady rhythm of honest petition, and why its repeated response, “Good Lord, deliver us,” is especially fitting for this season. Below is a recorded version of the Great Litany you can pray at home, on a walk, or whenever you need faithful words to lean on.

Words Jesus speaks—and words we carry

Each Sunday in Lent centers on a short, powerful phrase from the Gospel—such as “It is written,” “Come and see,” “One thing I do know,” and “Unbind him, and let him go.”

The guide invites you to dwell with one phrase at a time across the week, allowing Scripture to work slowly on the heart and imagination rather than rushing past it.

Simple practices for everyday life

You’ll also find gentle, realistic Lenten practices designed for busy lives—ideas such as carrying one short prayer through the week, noticing repeated responses in worship, reflecting on which words stay with you after prayer, and creating space through fasting or new rhythms of prayer and service. These are not meant as spiritual achievements, but as steady ways of making room for God.

Resources to go deeper

The guide includes a curated list of books and devotional resources—ranging from Scripture and prayer, to memoir, fiction, and cultural reflection—to accompany you through Lent and help you notice what is shaping your thinking, attention, and prayer.

Download the full Lenten Guide to explore the prayers, practices, weekly Gospel journey, and recommended resources in depth—and to walk this season with words the Church has trusted, and returned to, again and again.

Lenten Events & Services

Vessels of Faith: Crafting a Lenten Communion Set

Sunday, February 15 | 10:15 AM | Carter Chapel

Learn the story behind the handcrafted wooden Communion set created for Lent.

Ash Wednesday: The Beginning We Return To

Wednesday, February 18 | 7:00 PM, 12:10 PM & 6:30 PM*

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” *6:30 PM service will be livestreamed and have incense.

Friday Book Study

Fridays during Lent | Starting February 20 | 12 PM on Zoom

Book study featuring “Psalms, The Prayer Book of the Bible,” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

Lent I Worship Service

Sunday, February 22 | 7:45, 9, & 11:15 AM | Church

On the First Sunday in Lent at St. John’s, we will begin the season by praying the Great Litany together, with the choir processing among the congregation at the 9 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. services.

Morning Prayer in Carter Chapel

Tuesdays during Lent | Starting February 24 | 7:10 AM | Carter Chapel

Join St. John’s lay leaders as we gather and pray the Daily Office.

Lenten Quiet Day

Saturday, March 14, 9 AM – 12 PM | St. John’s Campus

Step away from the noise of everyday life for a gentle Lenten Quiet Day of rest, reflection, and renewal, complete with an Anglican Prayer Beads Workshop, contemplative prayer, and an Instructed Holy Eucharist led by Fr. Lonnie Lacy. This event is sponsored by the St. John Chapter of the Daughters of the King. (Attending the Lenten Quiet Day is free, but the Anglican Prayer Beads Workshop is $15 for supplies.) REGISTER ONLINE.

Lenten Service of Comfort & Healing: Feast of the Annunciation

Wednesday, March 25 | 12:10 PM | Carter Chapel

Lent can be a heavy season, but even in sorrow, light breaks through. This special 12:10 p.m. Wednesday Comfort & Healing Service, tied to the Feast of the Annunciation, invites us to bring our burdens before God in prayer, music, and anointing.

A Model Passover Seder with Rabbi Paul Sidlofsky

Thursday, March 26, 5:45 – 8:30 PM | Alfriend Hall

Join us at St. John’s for a two-and-a-half-hour, guided model Passover Seder led by Rabbi Paul Sidlofsky—a participatory, prayerful, and gently paced ceremonial meal that invites all ages to learn, listen, and linger with traditions familiar to Jesus and his disciples (cost: $20 adults, $10 children). REGISTER ONLINE.

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Join us at St. John’s for a special and meaningful evening as Rabbi Paul Sidlofsky of Temple Israel leads us through a model Passover Seder—a ceremonial meal designed to teach and invite participation, even though Passover itself has not yet begun.

This is not a typical dinner, but a carefully structured and prayerful meal with timed and symbolic moments that unfold at a gentle, intentional pace. The evening lasts approximately two and a half hours and moves step-by-step through the Seder ceremony, the shared meal, and a concluding blessing. Along the way, Rabbi Paul will explain each part of the Seder as we experience it together, with time for questions and conversation.

This interactive evening offers a unique opportunity to learn the story of the Israelites and to explore traditions that would have been familiar to Jesus and his disciples. The meal will be simple, the experience will be participatory, and all ages are welcome (wine will be served).

Come ready to listen, learn, and linger—this is a sacred meal meant to be experienced, not rushed.

Cost: $20/adults, $10/children

EVENT IS FULL

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Step away from the noise of everyday life and enter a gentle, prayerful space this Lent. On Saturday, March 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the St. John Chapter of the Daughters of the King invites you to a Lenten Quiet Day—a morning set apart for rest, reflection, and renewal.

All are welcome to shape the morning in the way that best meets your spirit. You may take part in guided offerings, or simply come and sit in stillness for a few minutes—or the whole morning.

Offerings include:

• Anglican Prayer Beads Workshop
  Led by Marcy Muldrow Sanders, this hands-on workshop introduces the ancient practice of prayer beads as a gentle tool for contemplative prayer. Participants will create their own set of prayer beads to use throughout Lent.
  (Registration required; 60 spaces available, $15 cost for supplies.)
• Reading Room
  Browse a selection of books on contemplative and prayer practices, and spend time learning at your own pace.
• Quiet prayer in our gardens
  Weather permitting, you are invited to spend time in Eve’s Garden, Messer Garden, or the Memorial Garden for personal prayer and reflection.
• Carter Chapel open for silent prayer
  The chapel will be open all morning for anyone wishing to sit in reflective silence and prayer. You may come after your workshop, or simply come as you are. As Jesus says to his disciples, “Come away with me and rest.”

We will close our time together with an instructed Holy Eucharist with Fr. Lonnie Lacy.

Whether you stay for the entire morning or arrive for just a few quiet moments, this Lenten Quiet Day is offered as a gentle space to listen for God and tend to your spiritual life—just as you are, and where you are.

A full schedule will be shared soon.

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We are currently seeking individuals to fill the following positions at St. John’s Episcopal Church:

Administrative Assistant

ABOUT OUR PARISH

St. John’s Episcopal Church is a historic downtown parish in the capital city of Tallahassee. We are a people who joyfully and continually seek to grow through worship, study, and fellowship as we become who God has created and calls us each to be.

We profess God’s love for every human being and welcome all people regardless of age, race, income, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. St. John’s believes that God loves all – no exceptions. And together we continue to build that legacy.

St. John’s is an energetic, thriving church with growing membership. We value excellent liturgy for parishioners of all ages; we love music and make it part of weekly worship and fellowship programs; we are seriously committed to outreach; and we constantly work to invite, encourage, and welcome others to join us.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Administrative Assistant serves as a welcoming and reliable first point of contact for parishioners, visitors, and community members, both in person and through phone and email communication. This role provides essential administrative support to clergy and staff and contributes significantly to the smooth and effective daily operation of the church office.

Success in this position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, a service oriented spirit, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion and care. The Administrative Assistant works collaboratively across staff teams and helps ensure that communication, records, and systems support the mission and ministry of the parish.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE JOB

Front Office & Hospitality

• Provide courteous and professional receptionist support, including answering phones, responding to emails, and welcoming visitors and vendors.
• Serve as a calm, helpful, and informed presence for parishioners and guests seeking assistance or information.
• Receive, log, and maintain records of incoming phone calls and messages as needed.

Administrative Support & Office Operations

• File correspondence, reports, and records in both digital and physical formats.
• Monitor, sort, and distribute internal and external mail; assist with bulk mailings and delivery to the post office as required.
• Maintain common office areas in an organized and professional manner to ensure a welcoming first impression and accessibility of files and records.
• Perform accurate data entry and assist with database maintenance and reporting.

Database, Systems & Technology

• Help maintain the parish database (Realm), ensuring records are accurate, current, and used effectively.
• Export, clean, format, and prepare data for mail merges, reports, and communications as needed.
• Assist with point-of-sale systems (e.g., Clover, Square) for events, programs, or parish operations.
• Support staff and parish activities using Zoom and other virtual meeting tools.
• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office, with particular emphasis on Excel, Word, and Teams.

Events & Program Support

• Assist with planning, registration, and fee collection for parish events and programs.
• Support coordination of event logistics, communications, and follow-up as requested.

General Support

• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Administrator for the Clergy or the Clergy, in support of parish operations and ministry.

COMPETENCIES AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with strong attention to spelling, grammar, and clarity
• Strong organizational, time-management, and multitasking abilities
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and discretion
• Strong interpersonal skills and comfort working with individuals and groups of all ages
• Working knowledge of the Episcopal Church and its practices, or willingness to learn
• Experience with Microsoft Office and database or donor-management software (e.g., Realm)

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

Work is conducted in an office setting and requires the ability to move throughout church buildings. A valid driver’s license and access to an automobile are useful. The position may occasionally require transporting bulk mailings to the post office.

Tests/Examinations

Background check and Safeguarding certification as required by the Episcopal Diocese of Florida.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to Kristi Leger, our Finance Director: kristi@saint-john.org

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Applications are now open for the 2026 Martha Lee Kuersteiner Scholarship, which provides financial support to undergraduate students who have participated in worship or parish life at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The scholarship is administered annually by the women of St. Mary’s Circle at St. John’s.

For 2026, $2,000 in grant funds will be awarded based on need, merit, or a combination of both. The application deadline is April 15, 2026.

2026 Scholarship Eligibility

College students may apply if they:

· Have completed at least one semester of college

· Are pursuing an undergraduate degree

· Have at least one semester remaining before graduation

· Have contributed meaningfully to parish life at St. John’s

· Have demonstrated leadership within the Tallahassee community

· Are showing continued academic excellence

Application Requirements

To be considered, applicants must submit a complete digital application, including:

· current college transcript

· written essay

· two letters of recommendation

Applications must be submitted online by April 15, 2026. Award announcements will be made in May 2026. Questions about the scholarship and requests for a downloadable version of the application can be sent to mandyschnittker@gmail.com

Read on for more information about the history of the Martha Lee Kuersteiner Scholarship and highlights from its 28 years of past recipients.

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Congratulations to the 2025 grant recipients, whose projects were selected to receive funding from the St. John’s Market Under the Stars Grants committee, and approved by the church Vestry.

The Alliance Française de Tallahassee
The Alliance Française de Tallahassee’s mission is to encourage and develop knowledge of the French language and francophone cultures globally and to foster cultural, intellectual and artistic understanding and relationships between the people of the Tallahassee / North Florida region and all French-speaking communities of Florida, Louisiana, French-speaking Canada, France, African Countries, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, South America, and all other French-speaking places in the world.

The grant awarded will go towards teacher development and local engagement.

Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition
A coalition of individuals and groups united to increase public safety and reduce recidivism through collaborating and establishing community partnerships.

The grant awarded will go towards tuition for 10 formerly incarcerated persons to attend anger management classes.

Big Bend Hospice
Positively impacting the way our community experiences serious illness or grief, by supporting individuals and their loved ones in the Big Bend.

The grant awarded will go towards essential patient care and comfort improvements at the Dozier Inpatient Unit.

The Blessing Cup
The Blessing Cup helps to improve the quality of life of the elderly poor in Leon County, Florida, by providing shelter, food, or clothing and by providing financial assistance.

The grant awarded will go towards Christmas gifts for 125 elderly in Leon County who are in need.

Elder Care Services
Elder Care Services is the leading provider of community-based senior care. 

The grant awarded will go towards a new freezer for the main office’s food pantry.

Forgotten Coast K-9
Forgotten Coast K-9 is deeply committed to making a positive impact within the hero community by addressing the distressing rate of Veteran and First Responder suicides. Their main focus is to help provide individuals with highly trained service dogs along with comprehensive education and support.

The grant awarded will go towards completing repairs to property damaged by hurricanes.

Holocaust Education Resource Council
Providing instructional guidance, support and resources for educators who teach the history of the Holocaust, and educational programs for the community at-large.

The grant awarded will go towards a field trip for students to the Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg, FL.

Humble House
The Humble House Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sober living homes for women in recovery.

The grant awarded will go towards a kitchen renovation for an addiction recovery transition facility for women.

Ghazvini Learning Center
The mission of The Ghazvini Learning Center is to create a unique and adaptable educational environment that will meet the needs and aspirations of our students

The grant awarded will go towards the creation of a safe and calming room for students experiencing anxiety and stress.

Goodwood Museum and Gardens
Goodwood Museum & Gardens connects our community as a setting where we preserve and share our history, enjoy the arts, and celebrate significant events in our lives.

The grant awarded will go towards the support of the Blended Lives Program for 4th graders.

KidSafe
KidSafe plays an important role in helping to reduce childhood injuries and death in the local communities of the Big Bend area of North Florida by providing adaptable safety seats to families with low incomes. 

The grant awarded will go towards providing child safety seats for children living in low-income households.

Safe Families for Children
Safe Families for Children’s goal is to engage families via faith communities to open their homes to care for vulnerable children.

The grant awarded will go towards providing safety seats for newborns at TMH NICU.

Second Harvest of the Big Bend
Second Harvest of the Big bend is a nonprofit food bank that collects and distributes food to hunger-relief charities, and also through specialized programs and mobile food distributions undertaken with community partners.

The grant awarded will go towards the support of core food bank operations.

St. Francis Wildlife Association
St. Francis Wildlife Association provides humane care and rehabilitation for orphaned, injured and sick wildlife in North Florida and public education for our community.

The grant awarded will go towards replacing fencing damaged by storms for an enclosure to house fawns and other small mammals.

Tallahassee Bach Parley
Tallahassee Bach Parley provides concerts to the community and music education through the Bach Parley String Academy.

The grant awarded will go towards musical instrument accessories and materials.

Tallahassee Bail Fund
Tallahassee Bail Fund is a non-profit that pays bail for those who cannot afford it.

The grant awarded will go towards 20 pre-paid phones for use by persons waiting trial and out on bond.

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February 17, the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, is a time to gather—and at St. John’s, that means coming together for a joyful evening of fellowship. Join us for a relaxed, all-ages celebration filled with good company, lively music, and shared fun as we mark Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday, or Carnival together.

Enjoy beads and masks, music from the Lofty Pursuits Marching Band and other special guests, and pancakes served during the evening. Come for the fellowship, stay for the joy—we’d love to celebrate with you.

Tickets are $5 kids; $10 adults, or $25/family max. Register today!

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Get ready to spice things up! 🌶️

On Sunday, February 8, right after our Annual Parish Meeting, head to Alfriend Hall for one of the most delicious fundraisers of the year—the St. John’s Chili Cook-Off! Sample at least a dozen mouthwatering chilis and use your very own voting spoon to crown the 2026 St. John’s Chili Champ.

Entry: $10 per person, $5 for kids (max $30 per family)

Your voting spoon purchase includes:

• Unlimited chili samples
• Fran’s famous homemade cornbread
• Cookies, tea, and lemonade
• And yes… that all-important voting spoon

Wear your stretchiest, comfiest pants and come hungry for some friendly competition—all while supporting our summer youth mission to Quito, Ecuador.

Grab your spoons using the link below and let the chili showdown begin! If you’d like to enter a chili into the competition, contact Tyree Jordan.

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Flower dedications are a wonderful way to show gratitude for or honor loved ones. When altar flowers are dedicated, the names and messages are listed in our weekly order of service which is available for those worshipping in person or those joining in worship online.

Use the link above to view the available Sundays and make your contribution. Please read the instructions carefully when you reserve your date, as we want to ensure we accurately capture your dedication.

A few helpful tips:

1. Find your preferred Sunday. There are no altar flowers during the season of Lent. Easter lilies and Christmas poinsettias are dedicated through a special signup that will be available on the dedication page as the season approaches.
2. You may choose either Church or Chapel and the flowers will be placed in whichever location you choose. Church Altar Flowers are $100 and Chapel Altar Flowers are $75.
3. Choose the number of dedications (three are available weekly. If none are available, the Sunday will be listed as “out of stock.”)
4. Enter the dedication language (In Memory of, In Thanksgiving For, or In Celebration of), the person’s name, and any flower preferences.
5. Add to cart and follow the payment prompts to place your order.

Please contact our church office at (850) 222-2636 if you require assistance.

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Calling all current Education for Ministry (EfM) students, alumni, and interested persons!

The first EfM Community Gathering will be held Saturday, January 17, from 10 AM to 1 PM in Killeen Hall. Community Gatherings are special times for an EfM seminar when we invite alumni and those interested in joining EfM to gather and reflect upon a book relating to the Path’s theme or other multi-media content. For this first Community Gathering, we will be watching three videos: The Open Narrative of Love/Lieven Boev, The Greater Part/David Brown and Danseuse/Ann Loades. These three videos are part of a series of six short documentary films profiling living theologians in the UK and Europe, entitled “At the Threshold,” produced by UNTAMED. The introduction to this series states: “In theology there is a home for both the vast and the intimate. No question is foreclosed. Visually immersive, poetic, and global in scale, these short films invite viewers into a conversation about life and its limits, which is as vibrant as it is challenging.”

Bring a bag lunch and join us for these lively discussions and see why EfM is Sewanee’s most outstanding program for Episcopal laity.

Click here to RSVP!

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St. John’s youth will return to Quito, Ecuador  – Wednesday, July 8 to Saturday, July 18, 2026!*

NOTE: On Sunday, March 1 at 5 p.m. in Bishop’s Common, we’re going to hold an interest and informational meeting about the trip. We’ll go over the details, travel, and cost. You don’t want to miss out! Come along and hear all about it.

WHO: This trip is open to rising 9th through 12th graders.

WHAT: We will know more about our specific work areas as our time in Quito approaches, but typically it is a mix of children’s programs, improving the physical church building, a day or two of service in nearby homes of church parishioners, and worship with friends at the church. The itinerary is developed in partnership with Caroline and John Allen, and our ministry partners in Quito.

OVERALL COST: The expected overall cost for the trip is $2,200. However, our goal is to raise $800 per youth participant through group fundraising at church. This means, mission team members will be responsible for covering approximately $1,400. We encourage you to talk with your youth about how they can raise some of the remaining cost themselves (writing letters, working, or other fundraisers). Confidential scholarships are available and we are happy to work together to find an amount that is reasonable for your family. We can also help you develop an individual fundraising plan.

FUNDRAISERS: Our tentative list of fundraisers is available on the information form (see “resources” tab). Team members are expected to be involved each of these events which, in addition to raising funds, provide valuable opportunities for team building.

WHAT’S INCLUDED: Roughly half of the overall cost is airfare. Your participant fee includes travel insurance, all meals, lodging, private in-country transportation, cultural activities, and contributions to the ministries we will be partnering with in Quito.

NEXT STEPS: Submit your non-refundable deposit of $200 and a completed Youth Mission or Chaperone Information Form. Registration will be open until January 12, 2026 (or until our team is full).

*Please Note: dates could be adjusted one day on either end as flights are confirmed.*

REGISTER TODAY!

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Lenten Prayer Partners is back this Lenten season, and we would love for you to be a part of this powerful experience! When you join as a Prayer Partner, you’re embracing the incredible strength that comes from lifting up others in prayer, specifically someone from our St. John’s family. Through an anonymous “match,” you will be connected with a fellow parishioner, offering them your heartfelt prayers throughout the season.

During the 40 days of Lent, we ask that you:

1. Pray for your Lenten Prayer Partner daily.
2. Drop off a card at the church OR mail them a card or letter each week – signed “Your Lenten Prayer Partner.” Use St. John’s address as the return address, not your own. You will have the option to select drop off or mail your weekly card in the sign up below.
3. You’ll reveal yourself to your Prayer Partner by leaving a card for them at the Easter Vigil (April 4) or on Easter Sunday (April 5). These gift tables will be set up in Alfriend Hall at each Easter service (6:30 PM – Easter Vigil, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:15 AM – Easter Sunday). If you’re unable to attend either service, you’re welcome to leave your gift in the front office the week prior. 

If you are interested in being a secret Prayer Partner for someone at St. John’s, please fill out the form below (or fill out a hard copy of the form in the church office) by Sunday, February 1. You’ll know your form was successfully submitted when you see a confirmation message. We will be in touch with details about your Lenten Prayer Partner!

SIGN-UPS HAVE CLOSED

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St. John’s will hold our Annual Parish Meeting on Sunday, February 8, at our combined worship service at 10 AM. If you are joining us online, simply stay on the worship feed. Those attending in person are invited to enjoy fellowship at our Annual Chili Cook-Off after the meeting!

We invite you to review our 2025 Annual Report to see all we accomplished last year. Inside you’ll find reports from our clergy, lay leadership, and commissions. (The file is large and may take a moment to load properly.)

We invite you to get to know the candidates who have been nominated this year for our St. John’s Vestry and Diocesan Convention Delegates. We appreciate their ongoing commitment to our parish and are grateful for the time and talent they regularly share through ministry. See below our 2026 slate of nominees.

When voting opens, you will vote for six candidates. Remember, only “members in good standing” (see definition below) are invited to vote on the 2026 slate.

This year we will elect five individuals who will serve St. John’s for a three-year term, and an additional individual will fill a one-year vacancy, due to an unexpired term. Vote for no more than six candidates for Vestry and two candidates for Convention Delegate. ONE BALLOT will be accepted per email address.

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED.

2026 SLATE OF VESTRY CANDIDATES:

Stephanie Amidon

I joined St. John’s in 1998 after moving to Tallahassee with my family. Early in my time at St. John’s, I was an active volunteer, assisting Chef Fran in the café and helping with Vacation Bible School. My three children—Molly, Joseph, and Sean-Patrick—were all baptized at St. John’s.

While my children attended Holy Comforter Episcopal School, our family worshiped at that parish for several years. In 2015, we joyfully returned to St. John’s, drawn by the vibrant youth group. Since then, I have volunteered extensively, including many years serving during BEAT Week and mentoring first-year students in the Global Philanthropy Leaders (GPL) program.

As an AP Economics and AP Government teacher at Maclay School, I value opportunities to share my passion for civic engagement, service, and leadership with the youth involved in GPL. Myself, and my husband, Frank, actively participate in small groups, the Bun Run program, and the Christmas Eve meal deliveries. We have deeply enjoyed building relationships and friendships within the parish community.

I am profoundly grateful to St. John’s for the many years of spiritual growth, belonging, and friendship it has provided for me and my family. I would be honored to serve on the vestry to help foster these same experiences for others—whether lifelong members or first-time visitors. I believe St. John’s is something truly special and feels called to help share that gift with others.

Joe Dillehay

I am happily standing for vestry because I have a deep sense of love and gratitude for the city of Tallahassee and St. John’s Episcopal Church. I didn’t grow up in a church family and had always considered myself an agnostic. My wife Alison and St. John’s got me through the barrier of the door and kept me comfortable and feeling accepted long enough for me to realize that there had been a higher power at work in my life for years.  

After my baptism at Easter vigil in 2023, I consider St John’s to be my spiritual birthplace and will forever be grateful. I am blessed with love, health and energy that I’m eager to share with the parish. 

I struggled mightily as a younger adult. As I enter middle age I feel the privilege that I now have. I love my community and I want to use my gifts to serve those without it. 

I especially love my small groups at St. John’s. I have gained friendship and mentorship there that I have never experienced before. Also I love food, art, travel, and cats. Peace be with you.

Grady Enlow

Having grown up in Orlando, I moved to Tallahassee in 1984 to attend graduate school at FSU. My son was baptized at St. John’s in 1991. I married June Dollar in 2001 and at that time we attended another church in downtown Tallahassee. After living for some years in Sarasota and Thomasville, GA, we returned to Tallahassee in 2018 and joined in the summer of 2020.

I have served St. John’s in the Coffee and Conversations ministry since its inception. I love singing, playing the piano, and playing with our dogs, Gilbert and Sullivan. I also enjoy running, biking, and most recently, again, golfing.

I have a B.A. in Biblical Studies, an M.B.A., and a doctorate in education. I taught Sunday School at my previous church, led retreats, and served in music ministry. After a decade in the hospitality industry and 25 years in higher education administration, I now serve as Deputy Director for Administration for the Florida Department of Corrections Office of Health Services.

Myself and June feel like we belong at St. John’s and look forward to continuing to contribute to this faith community. I would be honored to serve my spiritual family at St. John’s by serving on the Vestry

Jennifer Guy-Hudson

I joined St. John’s with my husband, Matt Hudson, in 2019, and was baptized here later that same year. We appreciate our life in community at St. John’s as we celebrate our relationship with God, build meaningful fellowship and grow in our faith. I enjoy serving on the Flower Guild and previously attended EfM in Jim and Pat’s group for several years.

As I learn more about the Episcopal Church and deepen my spiritual life, I am grateful for the belonging I feel at St. Johns. 

George Mannheimer

I’ve been a lifetime member of St. John’s, and this church has shaped every chapter of my family’s faith journey. My wife, Michelle, and I were confirmed and married in this church, both of our children were baptized here, and our spiritual foundation continues to grow with this community.

Over the years, I’ve been blessed to serve St. John’s in many ways. I’ve bartended and DJ’d for multiple church fundraisers, helping create fellowship, energy and support for our ministries. I’ve had the honor of being a confirmation sponsor, walking alongside a member as they deepen their faith. I’ve also served as a “Shepherd”, reaching out to fellow parishioners in times of need, offering connection, prayer and care.

My father, Doug, and mother, Cricket, have been members of St. Johns for over 40 years, reflecting a family legacy of devotion and service. Alongside my wife, I lead MASH, a program designed to engage couples with young children and provide a welcoming space for their children to build friendships and community.

I feel called to serve on vestry to give back to the church that has given my family and me so much. I hope to support our ministries, be a good steward of our resources, and help ensure that St. John’s remains a vibrant, welcoming home for all.

Nan O’Kelley

I grew up in and was confirmed at St. John’s. I rejoined when moving back to Tallahassee in 2003 and am the daughter of longtime parishioners Mahaska and Tom Whitley.

At St. John’s, I have served in several capacities, including on the Vestry, the Stewardship Committee, the St. John’s Foundation Board, and as Co-Chair of the St. John’s Market and Co-Chair of the Market Preview Party.

I have a long track record of community involvement in Tallahassee. I have served in leadership roles with Leadership Tallahassee, the Big Bend Homeless Coalition, the Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, Youth Leadership Tallahassee, United Way of the Big Bend, Goodwood Museum and Gardens, and the Trinity Catholic School Advisory Council. These roles have given me experience in governance, strategic planning, and working with diverse groups to move projects forward.

I currently work at Tallahassee State College in the Office of Transfer Services, where I support students as they navigate academic transitions and plan their next steps.

I would welcome the opportunity to serve on the Vestry again and contribute my experience to the continued health and direction of St. John’s. 

MEAGAN OWENS

I love the things of God and God’s people, and from my earliest years, life always revolved around the church body. The Evangelical tradition raised me, with most of my life spent in Southern Baptist and non-denominational churches serving in various ministries in my youth group and into adulthood. While I am grateful for what I learned in those spaces, there came a time when they very deeply no longer fit who I was. After a few years in a spiritual wilderness, meeting God in incredibly beautiful and new ways, I sensed a calling to something ancient and yet fully equipped to meet the world of today. I found both of those strengths in the Episcopal tradition, and joined St John’s six years ago.

Over the years, St John’s allowed me to serve in several capacities and try new ways of ministry, ranging from leading small groups, serving in the St Francis Ministry, the Capital Area Justice Ministry, participating in Education for Ministry, and teaching Sunday School. While I love everything God allowed me to do, I truly found my place in Eucharistic Ministry and serving as a Lay Pastoral Care Minister.

Ann Elaine Rowe

I officially began attending St. John’s after moving to Tallahassee from my home state of Maine in late 1991. I was raised a Baptist – yet thank my college best friend, Janice Cooke-Wright and Westminster Choir College voice professor Lois Laverty for introducing me to the Episcopal faith in 1982.

I became a member of St. John’s in 1999, have actively served in the choir since then, I experienced Cursillo as a candidate and served on multiple Women’s Cursillo Weekend teams at Camp Weed in Live Oak, and was an adult volunteer during my stepson’s Happening Weekend there.

I am a Stephen Minister, volunteer annually for the St. John’s Market and other parish-based fundraisers, activities, and have accompanied St. John’s youth as a chaperone during day trips the past few years. My favorite trip thus far was the St. John’s England Choir Tour in 2015. I serve as a volunteer for the St. John’s Choir School and mentors choristers as they grow in their music life.

St. John’s truly is my home – and its congregation my family, on so many levels. As a veteran risk/crisis communications professional and public servant, I would be incredibly honored to help in the planning for and shaping of St. John’s future. As always, with God and our St. John’s family’s help!

Will Scarboro

I was drawn to St. John’s by my love of the music and liturgy of the Episcopal Church and a desire to renew and deepen my spiritual life. I have found this parish to be a place of welcome and grounding since becoming a regular part of the community. Singing in the St. John’s Adult Choir has become a meaningful way for me to participate in worship, offering prayer through music and shared fellowship. Through weekly worship, thoughtful preaching, and the richness of our liturgical tradition, St. John’s has become a place of spiritual nourishment and growth for me.

I am standing for Vestry out of a strong desire to serve the church that has nurtured me, and to support its ongoing discernment, ministries, and faithful stewardship. If elected, I aim to listen deeply, collaborate faithfully, and offer my gifts in service to the parish and its ministries as we grow together in faithful discipleship.

Susan Shelton

I have been a member of St. John’s since moving to Tallahassee with my family in 2015. I am a “cradle Episcopalian”—baptised, confirmed, and married in the same parish where my parents met as high school seniors. Originally from middle Georgia, my adult life has taken me around the southeast, and a consistent grounding point has been the Episcopal church. I have enjoyed serving each church in a variety of capacities.

At St. John’s I have participated with youth activities, small groups and the market, and most often I am seen serving as an usher and now verger. I enjoy the different outreach ministries here, opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection, and engaging activities within the parish and larger community. I view participation through vestry as another opportunity to serve the church and grow more connected with others.

I am married to Dayne Shelton who I met as a college freshman. We have three children who have all served as acolytes at St. John’s: Davis (23), Mary (21), and Forester (17). Professionally, I am a certified nurse-midwife and have taught undergraduate and graduate nursing in the university setting for nearly 20 years.

Wendy Wriggins-Ernst

I am a Miami native and lifelong Episcopalian, married to Jim, and mom to Brianna (28 yrs) and Matthew (23 yrs).  My journey at St. John’s began when Jim, Matthew and I moved to Tallahassee in 2020.  During a challenging move and career transition, St. John’s embraced us with warmth and support.  In gratitude, I am standing for Vestry to serve the community that has become our home. 

At St. John’s, I serve on the Community of Hope Pastoral Care Team, Daughters of the King, and Front Porch Committee.  I’m an EFM graduate and grateful for the many adult formation programs at St. John’s, and the opportunity to facilitate a Parish Discernment Committee.  At my previous parish home I served as verger, lay reader, outreach committee leader, and women’s group director.  I delight in inhabiting the seasons of the liturgical year and seeing God in everyday moments. 

Outside of church, I am an adjunct professor in healthcare administration at Tallahassee State College and an educational surrogate and reading mentor for Leon County Schools.  I hold a BA from Texas Christian University and an MBA from the University of Miami.  In my spare time, you’ll find me reading, gardening, or watching football. 

2026 SLATE OF CONVENTION DELEGATES:

Jenny Blalock

I have been a member of St. John’s since 2008 and would be honored to represent our parish as a convention delegate. Over the years, I have served on the vestry and youth commission, taught high school Sunday School, helped start and coordinate a young adults ministry, co-chaired parish weekend at Camp Weed, served on the flower delivery ministry and as a greeter, volunteered at and served on the board of Grace Mission, volunteered with Vacation Bible School, participated in MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Foyers, and the Faith at 5:30 series, and currently serve as a lector.

I am married to Adam and we have two daughters, Anna and Eleanor. I work as a policy analyst for the Education & Employment Committee in the Florida House of Representatives.

Monique Ellsworth

I am the Chief Executive Officer of Second Harvest of the Big Bend, where I lead regional efforts to address hunger and food insecurity across North Florida. I have worked in Tallahassee’s social services community since 2011, dedicating my career to serving individuals and families experiencing poverty, housing instability, and crisis.

Before joining Second Harvest in 2019, I served as the Executive Director of CESC, Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates The Kearney Center, providing comprehensive services for individuals experiencing homelessness. I hold a master’s degree in social work from Florida State University and continue to teach in FSU’s College of Social Work, helping prepare the next generation of social workers.

I am standing to serve as a Convention Delegate because I believe deeply in the Episcopal Church’s commitment to justice, compassion, and service in the world. My professional and personal life are rooted in the belief that faith should be lived out through action—by listening, showing up, and advocating for the dignity of every person. As a member of St. John’s, I am honored by the opportunity to represent the parish, contribute thoughtfully to the work of the Diocese, and help strengthen the church’s witness in our community.

Neil Rambana

I am honored to stand for election as a St. John’s Episcopal Church Convention delegate. My family has roots at St. John’s—my wife Elizabeth and I were married here, and both of our daughters have received sacraments at St. John’s. I currently serve as an usher and greeter, and I was privileged to serve on the rector search committee, helping guide our parish through an important transition to secure Fr. Lonnie.

Professionally, I have practiced immigration law for 25 years, specializing in complex immigration and deportation defense. Originally from Jamaica, I have become a recognized voice in immigration advocacy, with one of my cases featured on the cover of the New Yorker. I previously served as Congressional Liaison for the American Immigration Lawyers Association and have spoken at St. John’s about immigration.

I hold leadership positions throughout Tallahassee, including President of the Governors Club Board of Directors and Treasurer of the Tallahassee/St. Maarten Sister City Foundation. I am also an amateur pilot.

My experience in advocacy, governance, and community leadership has prepared me to represent St. John’s effectively, ensuring our parish’s voice is heard in the broader Episcopal Church.

Stephen Waltz

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida and Georgia. I am also a Licensed Psychological Examiner in Tennessee (retired, 1995). I have been a psychotherapist for 50 years.

I have been attending St. John’s since the early 1990s. I was, at the time, employed by Faith Counseling Center. While there, I joined with Father Dr. Bill Finlaw and Margie Watkins to serve on the Bishop of Florida’s Evaluation and Response Team, Commission on Human Sexuality, Episcopal Diocese of Florida from 1995 to 1997.

I have led a number of groups at St. John’s. in 1994, I taught a six-week course on Jungian Psychotherapist Thomas Moore’s Book Soul Mates: Honoring the Mystery of Love and Relationships. I have also conducted four 9-week courses on Dr. John Gottman’s The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.

I attend the early service each Sunday and the Sunday School that follows. I am honored to be asked to represent St. John’s in the Diocese.

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Did you know that St. John’s has a dedicated team of drivers who deliver donated baked goods to The Kearney Center? Every Friday morning, a St. John’s volunteer drives donated bread, bagels, and cookies from Tasty Pastry Bakery directly to those in need. Thanks to the faithful efforts of many parishioners, tons of high-quality baked goods have been shared with grateful guests at The Kearney Center.

We still have a few spaces on this year’s schedule and would love your help! If you would like to make the Bun Run, even just once, add your name to the signup below. Contact Heather Jordan at heatherleila3@gmail.com with any questions.

Click here to learn more about all we do at the Kearney Center.

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Las Posadas (Spanish for “Inns” or “Shelters”) is a tradition that is celebrated chiefly in Latin America, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Cuba, Spain, and by Hispanics in the United States to commemorate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph as they walked from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be registered in the Bethlehem census. As the story goes, baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem in a stable as the couple couldn’t find lodging at an inn because they were all full.

Once again this year, parishioners of all ages are invited to join the St. John’s Children’s Ministry and host the Holy Family during Advent. Rooted in a tradition more than 400 years old, Las Posadas began in Spain, where Catholic priests discovered that drama was one of the most powerful ways to share biblical stories with the faithful. The celebration traditionally spans nine evenings, from December 14–24, leading up to the Christmas Eve service. Throughout these nights, participants reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay, bringing the Advent story to life in a vivid and meaningful way. Starting on December 14, all the way until Christmas Eve, parishioners host figures of Mary and Joseph in their homes as they travel along their way to Bethlehem.

As Mary and Joseph’s stay winds down at one host’s home, that host will accommodate Mary and Joseph’s transportation to the next host’s home until the couple reaches Bethlehem (or rather, back to St. John’s for the 1 PM Christmas Eve service). We’ll provide you with a prayer book and more information on Las Posadas to make this a meaningful experience. And we’ll share the journey with our parish along the way!

Thanks in advance for signing up to host Mary and Joseph this year! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email Tyree (tyree@saint-john.org) at (850) 408-5092 with any questions.

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Every year, we print poinsettia and music dedications in our Christmas Eve service bulletins. This is a beautiful way to honor friends, family, and loved ones who are living or deceased.

Please submit your dedications online or look for envelopes in the pews and place your donations in the offering basket. To allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Sunday, December 14.

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received.

Contact Deborah Dugger with questions at (850) 222-2636 or deborah@saint-john.org.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

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Come bask in the music, breathe in the prayers, and receive the love and grace of God as we await his coming and look with hope toward the promise of peace on earth.

CHRISTMAS EVE
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
1 PM | Abbreviated service with soloist, trumpet, family-friendly candles, and children’s homily
4 PM | Traditional Christmas Eve service with candles, brass, and adult & children’s choirs (livestreamed)
8 PM | Traditional Christmas Eve service with candles, brass, and choirs
11 PM | “Midnight Mass” with sung prayers, incense, candles, brass, and choirs

CHRISTMAS DAY
Thursday, December 25, 2025
10 AM | Holy Eucharist with organ and Christmas carols

CHRISTMAS MUSIC & FLOWER DONATIONS
Poinsettia and music dedications are listed in Christmas Eve bulletins – a beautiful way to honor friends, family, and loved ones who are living or deceased. Due 12/14. PLACE DEDICATIONS

ADVENTWORD
Pause. Pray. Prepare. Sign up for daily Advent meditations and join our community in prayer. LEARN MORE

SOCK DRIVE FOR GRACE MISSION
Give the gift of socks this Christmas! Donate new full-length adult and children’s socks to the Daughters of the King’s Sock Drive for Grace Mission. A donation box is located in Calhoun St. lobby. Deadline 12/16.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, November 30 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM. At 11:30 AM, join us for Advent Wreath Making!

ADVENT WREATH MAKING
Sunday, November 30 | 11:30 AM
Prepare for the season! Kits available ($10/each); greens provided. Enjoy a hot cocoa bar!

BRASS BRIGADE
Saturday, December 6 | 4 to 6:30 PM
Help make St. John’s shine and learn how to care for our beautiful brass fixtures year-round. RSVP HERE

WINTER FESTIVAL PARKING & HOSPITALITY
Saturday, December 6 | 4 to 6:30 PM
Park in the convenient church lot during Tallahassee’s Winter Festival parade and watch from our front step! Supports St. John’s Youth Ministry. RESERVE SPOTS

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 7 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

CHRISTMAS CAROLING
Sunday, December 7 | 11:30 AM
All are welcome on this merry outing to sing for our neighbors. We’ll board the bus at 12:15 PM, after refreshments and caroling “practice” in Alfriend Hall. For all ages and singing abilities! LEARN MORE

“SPUDS” HOLIDAY FELLOWSHIP GATHERING
Thursday, December 11 | 6:30 PM
Hosted at the home of Jeff & Sara Merrill. SPUDS stands for “St. John’s Parishioners United for Dining & Spirit,” which means all are welcome for holiday cheer! LEARN MORE

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 14 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

YOUTH GROUP (EYC) CHRISTMAS PARTY
Sunday, December 14 | 5 to 7 PM
Let’s have a fantastic Christmas Party, including fun White Elephant Gift Giving! LEARN MORE

SERVICE OF ADVENT LESSONS & CAROLS
Sunday, December 14 | 7 PM
Holiday service featuring Advent carols, hymns, and anthems. A dessert reception follows in Alfriend Hall. Childcare will be available. LEARN MORE

SERVICE OF COMFORT AND HEALING
Wednesday, December 17 | 12:10 PM
Holy Eucharist. Especially for those experiencing grief and loss, or in need of healing, during the holiday season. Enjoy Eucharist, special prayers, and music at this poignant service. LEARN MORE

AN ADVENT EVENING AWASH IN SOUND
Saturday, December 20 | 6 to 8:30 PM
Take time to enjoy a sound bath, an oasis of peace and relaxation, during the busy season of Advent. Dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat, pillow, and blanket. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served after the sound bath concludes. REGISTER ONLINE

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 21 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

MEALS ON WHEELS
Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) | 9 to 11 AM
St. John’s volunteers will deliver meals to senior adults in our area. Join us to play Santa with Elder Care Services’ annual Meals on Wheels program. SIGN UP HERE

CHRISTMAS LESSONS AND CAROLS
Sunday, December 28 | 10 AM
Holy Eucharist Rite II. There will be just one worship service this Sunday. No Sunday School.

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS
Sunday, January 4 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

EVE OF THE FEAST OF EPIPHANY & EPIPHANY PAGEANT
Monday, January 5 | 5:30 PM
A Service of Holy Eucharist featuring a children’s pageant. All are invited to this night of beauty and mystery to celebrate the culmination of the 12 days of Christmas. Spaghetti dinner for all follows in Alfriend Hall. LEARN MORE

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Join Us for AdventWord

AdventWord is a global online Advent calendar that invites us to pause each day with a single word drawn from the Sunday Lectionary. Each morning during Advent (November 30 – December 25), you’ll receive a short meditation and image inspired by that word—an opportunity to reflect, pray, and prepare your heart for the coming of Christ. These reflections will also be posted on our social media.

As we await the birth of our Lord and Savior, we invite you to find moments of quiet reflection that keep you grounded in faith and connected to God and one another.

There’s no one “right” way to join in—every reflection is part of the shared journey. Here are a few ways to participate:

• Read and pray with the daily emailed meditation.
• Reflect on the day’s word with others through our St. John’s social media pages.
• Share your own response on social media—whether a short reflection, poem, photo, or piece of art—to inspire our community. Be sure to use the tag #adventword

Click the button below to add your name to our AdventWord email list.

AdventWord is an offering of Forward Movement, a ministry of the Episcopal Church. Learn more about their ministry at forwardmovement.org.

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Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) lapsed on November 1. Millions of Americans—including children—are now facing immediate food insecurity. In Florida alone, nearly 3 million people rely on SNAP each month, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Although federal judges have ordered the Administration to use existing contingency funds to maintain benefits, it’s still uncertain how quickly—or if—November payments will be distributed in full.

Given the deep commitment of our church community to supporting those in need, here are some immediate ways you can help our neighbors in the Big Bend area.

Donate to St. John’s November Food Drive

Your donations will make a direct and immediate impact to those served by St. John’s. Requested donations:

• Non-perishable food items
• $25 Publix or Wal-Mart gift cards

Drop-off Location: St. John’s front office throughout November.

Every contribution matters—thank you for making a difference!

•  Donate to Deacon Joe’s Fund for the Poor and Needy

Use the link below to donate money that goes directly to those who have requested assistance.

Contribute to Second Harvest of Big Bend

Second Harvest of Big Bend helps our community by providing much needed food supplies to those in need. They provide healthy food for neighbors facing hunger and food insecurity throughout our 16-county Big Bend service area. Your monetary donations help keep many in our area from going hungry.

Urge Congress to Support the “Keep SNAP Funded Act”

The “Keep SNAP Funded Act” is bipartisan legislation that would ensure SNAP is fully funded any time there is a shutdown in fiscal year 2026, including the current shutdown. It also allows for benefits to be distributed to SNAP recipients retroactively.

Please contact your members of Congress and urge them to support and vote for passage of the Keep SNAP Funded Act.

Contact all your members of Congress easily through Bread for The World using the link below.

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Sundays at St. John’s Are Growing Again! 

We’re delighted to share that beginning Sunday, January 11, we will return to a three-service Sunday morning schedule. We had hoped to make this shift sooner, but we chose to pause until the right pieces were in place. That time has now come. 

Because of your faithfulness, our continued numerical growth, and the strengthening of our ministry teams, we now have the resources to offer more opportunities for worship, connection, and belonging. 

This change is not simply a schedule update; it’s a celebration. God is moving among us. New faces are coming. Long-time members are re-engaging. We are growing because God is growing us. And now—together—we’re ready. 

Below you’ll find answers to common questions about what’s changing, why now, and how this new rhythm makes more room to welcome members new and old into the love of St. John’s. There will be a place for everyone. 

Q: What’s changing about Sundays this fall?

We’re returning to three Sunday morning services starting January 11:

• 7:45 AM
• 9:00 AM
• 11:15 AM

Q: Why is this change happening now?

Because we’re growing. Attendance has steadily increased across the last three years—especially this past year. With only two morning services, our 10:00 AM has become crowded. This expansion simply makes space so newcomers and longtime members can worship with comfort and belonging.

Q: Didn’t we used to have three services before?

Yes, before COVID, the church had a rhythm of three services: 8:00, 9:00, and 11:15. We’re essentially returning to that structure, with one small tweak.

Q: What’s different this time?

The early service will start at 7:45 AM instead of 8:00 AM, which gives necessary transition time between services for the altar guild, clergy, and musicians.

Q: What will each service be like?

Each service will continue to offer a distinct experience: 

• 7:45 AM: A quiet, contemplative Rite I service. 

• 9:00 AM: Lively and family-friendly with organ, choir, choristers, and Children’s Chapel—similar to the current 10:00 service. 

• 11:15 AM: Solemn and traditional with chant, incense, and choral music. 

Q: When will Sunday School happen?

10:15–11:00 AM between the 9:00 and 11:15 services.

Q: Will this new schedule be year-round?

Almost. From Memorial Day through Labor Day we’ll return to our simplified summer pattern with 7:45 AM and 10:00 AM services.

Q: Will there ever be other combined services?

Yes. On special occasions—such as stewardship Sunday or the Bishop’s visitation—we may schedule a combined service. These will always be announced well in advance.

Q: What’s the big picture here?

This isn’t about dividing people up; it’s about making room for the people God is already sending. This is faithful hospitality, joyful adaptability, and the kind of growth every church hopes for. 

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We will begin with our Growing in Grace Retreat on February 14 (9 AM-2 PM). At the retreat, we will get to know one another, discuss baptism, and explore what the course will entail.

This course will mean something different to each individual. Even if you’ve taken Growing in Grace before, consider joining us again, as this edition will be a unique experience (see schedule below).

Growing in Grace classes take place on Sunday afternoons from 2:30-4:00 PM in Killeen Hall. Classes are clergy and lay leader led with small group discussion. We will meet on the following Sundays:

February 22 – The Episcopal Way (A brief crash-course in church history)
March 1 – NO CLASS
March 8 – The People of the Book (How we read, believe & use Scripture)
March 15 – Worship (A discussion about sacraments, season, and Sundays)
March 22 – The Trinitarian Life (What we mean when we talk about the Trinity & why it matters)
March 29 – Bishop’s Visitation

If you have questions about the confirmation process or would like to join this year’s class, contact Claire Dodd, Director of Communications & Membership.

The post Growing in Grace 2026 and “Episcopal 101” appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Over the course of eight sessions (starting late September 2025 and concluding in November 2025), participants will explore themes that touch the heart of caregiving. Sessions will gently open space to name our caregiving journeys, reflect on the griefs and joys that accompany change, and consider how family patterns shape our present experiences. Together, we will also discuss the importance of healthy boundaries, the dignity of our loved ones as they age, and practices of prayer and presence when words are hard to find. Each meeting will be framed by prayer, scripture, or a devotional reflection, along with time for conversation and mutual support.

The group is not about providing solutions or case management, but rather creating a safe and spiritually nurturing community. Through shared prayer, compassionate listening, and reflection on God’s presence in the caregiving journey, participants will be reminded that they are not alone—and that their work of love is holy.

If you would like to learn more or are interested in joining, please email Melanie Salsgiver by September 19 to register your interest.

The post A Small Group for People with Aging Parents appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

CENTERING PRAYER (ZOOM ONLY)
MONDAYS | 7:00 – 8:30 PM | ZOOM ONLY
Centering Prayer is a movement beyond words or silent communion with God. Our Centering Prayer group meets weekly to study scripture, discuss writings by contemplative authors, and listen to God through Centering Prayer. Click here to learn more and for the Zoom link.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
TUESDAYS | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | KILLEEN
Starting Sept. 16, join us for a women’s Bible study using A Beautiful Year in the Bible, an accessible and inspiring guide through weekly themes of faith and life. This welcoming group invites women of all ages to grow together in Scripture and fellowship. Click here to learn more.

MEN’S BIBLE STUDY (HYBRID IN-PERSON/ZOOM)
THURSDAYS | 7:00 – 8:00 AM | KILLEEN & ZOOM
Join us for a relaxed, insightful Bible study with early morning fellowship! Whether you’re new or well-versed in the scriptures, all are welcome. Dive into our weekly discussion at your own pace. Participate weekly, as your schedule dictates, without missing a beat. Starts Sept. 4. Click here to learn more and for the Zoom link.

CONTEMPLATIVE LUNCHES
1^ST & 3^RD THURSDAYS | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | RUTLEDGE
On the first and third Thursdays of each month, come along to an in-person offering to help you deepen your spirituality through contemplative practice. We’ll begin with a centering prayer practice, and then enjoy poetry, readings, and prayer together. Click here to learn more.

THE GOOD BOOK (ZOOM ONLY)
THURSDAYS | 12:00 – 1:00 PM | ZOOM ONLY
Community, conversation, learning, prayer: all rooted in God’s Word. Join us for an online Bible study that will help you grow in faith. Click here to learn more and for the Zoom link.

FRIDAY BOOK STUDY (ZOOM ONLY)
FRIDAYS | 12:00 – 1:00 PM | ZOOM ONLY
Each Friday, join us online as we make our way through selected readings designed to take us deeper into our Biblical knowledge and dive into Scripture. We’re currently reading Luke for Everyone by NT Wright. Click here to learn more and for the Zoom link.

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Adult Sunday School (September 2025 – April 2026)

This program year, St. John’s offers a variety of Sunday School offerings. From lectionary discussion, to reclaiming our Biblical roots, to diving right into the afterlife: we want to give everyone the chance to try something new and grow deeper in their Christian lives. Below you will find descriptions, dates, times, and locations of the classes offered until we break for the summer. We have also included links to purchase the class book, if you so choose.

Year-Round Gatherings

Lectionary/Sermon Discussion Group
9 AM, Rutledge Room and 10:15 AM, Upstairs Meeting Room
Have you ever walked out of church wishing to dig even deeper into the scriptures and sermon of the day? Join us on Sundays after each service to further unpack the wisdom and insights revealed during the church service.

Learning to Speak God from Scratch
10:15 AM Sept. 14–Apr. 26,Killeen Hall/Zoom
Struggle to talk about faith? This class breathes new life into words like “grace” and “gospel,” helping us reclaim their biblical roots and find fresh language for sharing our faith. Click here to purchase a copy of Learning to Speak God from Scratch by Jonathan Merritt via the St. John’s Cathedral Bookstore & Gift Shop, Jacksonville. This class is hybrid and if you cannot attend in person, join us via Zoom.

NOTE: This class is also available to join via Zoom. If you cannot join us in person, click the meeting link below and join us. You’ll be muted upon entry, so enter any questions or comments into the chat!

Click the link below to join the Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81897508324?pwd=hOsbZ2sAMTa47vWhRy0GsSSO8MfPtD.1

Meeting ID: 818 9750 8324
Passcode: 1829

Beginning January 11

To Hell with the Rector
10:15 AM, Jan. 11–Feb. 1, Chapel
What does the Bible really say about hell? Join Father Lonnie for a fun, myth-busting dive into Scripture, tradition, and the Episcopal perspective on the afterlife.

Beginning February 15

Heroes of the Faith
10:15 AM, Feb. 15-Mar. 29, Rutledge Room
Meet the bold voices and inspiring leaders who shaped Christianity—from Augustine and Julian of Norwich to Bonhoeffer and Desmond Tutu—and discover how their lives still speak to us today.

Beginning April 12

N.T. Wright’s Acts for Everyone
9 AM, Apr. 12–May 31, Killeen Hall
Journey with the early Christians in the book of Acts as they spread Jesus’ message with passion and courage. This study brings their travels, trials, and triumphs to life while inspiring fresh insights for our own faith. Click here to purchase a copy of Acts for Everyone by N. T. Wright via the St. John’s Cathedral Bookstore & Gift Shop, Jacksonville.

Children’s Sunday School (September 2025 – April 2026)

Children in PreK-5th grades are invited to join us from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM for weekly Christian formation. This year, 4 classes (PK/K, 1st, 2nd/3rd grades, and 4th/5th grades) will meet weekly through April 27. Activities take place upstairs in the Sunday School wing.

Here’s what we’ll be learning!

PK/K: Godly Play– This nurturing approach honors the unique competencies and capacities of early childhood. Students’ innate spirituality will be engaged, and their growing use of religious language will be nourished as they make meaning from Biblical stories through a creative process of self-discovery.

1^st: Festal Eucharist– Students will participate in a special curriculum created right here at St. John’s to prepare our first-grade children for worship in the Episcopal tradition. They will focus on Worship, Holy Baptism, Christian Giving and The Holy Eucharist culminating with the Festal Eucharist in May.

2^nd/3^rd & 4^th/5^th: StoryMakers- Upper elementary students will become StoryMakers and use their imaginations to enter God’s story. They will engage with Biblical stories through creative visual arts, interactive storytelling, field notes, fun facts, thoughts to ponder, and hands-on activities. They will experience stories of The Promised Land, Isaiah, Advent, Lent, and Easter.

Families are asked to complete Sunday School registration form online for the year using the link below. Any questions, please contact Tyree Jordan, Director of Youth & Families.

Middle School Sunday School (September 2025 – April 2026)

Middle-schoolers (6-8 grade) are invited to join us from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM for weekly Christian formation in the Sunday School wing. 

Middle school students will become StoryMakers to express their questions, discoveries, and creativity as they explore the deep theological truths and faith in God. They will walk through the Signs of Grace—baptism and Communion—which contain the tangible means they can hang on to when all seems lost, and the Lord’s Prayer, which assures us we have been given the title of heirs—adopted into God’s kingdom and claimed as his own.

Families are asked to complete Sunday School registration form online for the year using the link below. Any questions, please contact Tyree Jordan, Director of Youth & Families.

Youth Sunday School (September 2025 – April 2026)

High school Sunday programing this year revolves around loving God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. Students will rotate through four themes each month with the Wellness Compass, the Prayer Book, Global Philanthropy Leaders (and other special topics), and a movement-based class. Students will also have the option to use the time for personal reflection or preparation on any or all Sundays. Students are welcomed AND encouraged to bring their homework with them on Sundays. They may use this time to prepare for the week ahead and get on top of any assignments.

We hope you join us for this Sacred Space on Sundays.

Families are asked to complete Sunday School registration form online for the year using the link below. Any questions, please contact Tyree Jordan, Director of Youth & Families.

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This fall, on Saturday, November 22, 6-9 PM, we will gather for Market Under the Stars, a festive celebration in Eve’s Garden and Alfriend Hall. With string lights twinkling overhead, experience the sounds of light jazz and laughter, and the joy of holiday shopping with purpose. This one-night-only event will blend the most meaningful elements of our historic St. John’s Market—dating back to the late 1800s—with the warmth of fellowship and the spirit of giving.

With our traditional holiday bazaar on hiatus this year, Market Under the Stars offers a joyful and meaningful alternative—a chance to come together to support outreach ministries and honor the legacy of generosity that has defined St. John’s for generations.

In addition to Chef Fran’s delicious hors d’oeurves and festive music, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a silent auction, and Market favorites, such as:

• Handmade Gifts & Jewelry
• Holiday Centerpieces & Arrangements
• Sauces, Jams, & Jellies
• Homemade Chili & Cornbread To Go
• Sweet Treats, Cakes & Pies 

Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 after November 16. Your $40 ticket reflects the real cost of the event and the outreach it supports. Feeling generous? Feel free to give more in the donation box provided! If $40 is a stretch for you, we invite you to contact a member of the clergy in confidence. We want every St. John’s parishioner to be part of this joyful evening. (All tickets will be $50 after November 16.)

Sign up to be a volunteer or inquire about sponsorship opportunities below!

Note: Ticket purchases are processed through Zeffy, a platform designed for non-profits. During checkout, Zeffy may ask if you’d like to “Help keep Zeffy free for St. John’s Episcopal Church” by adding a small contribution. This is optional. To contribute, choose a percentage you’re comfortable with. To skip, simply select “Other” and enter $0.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Do you enjoy baking?

One of our most popular booths, featuring Sweet Treats, Cakes & Pies, is back! Sign up below to bring us your freshly baked breads, cakes, pies, cookies, brownies, and candies; anything to satisfy someone’s sweet tooth.

Jewelry Donations

We are collecting donations of costume and fine jewelry to sell at the Jewelry Booth. This is a great time to clean out your jewelry boxes and share your treasures that you are no longer wearing. Your donations will help fund the outreach dollars we give to our community.

We are limiting donations to ONLY JEWELRY this year.  We will not be accepting accessories such as scarves and handbags.

You are welcome to drop items off in the collection bin in the Church Office.

Interested in being a sponsor?

We invite you to play a vital role in Market Under the Stars by joining us as an event sponsor. Your support will not only sustain the cherished tradition of St. John’s Market, but will also strengthen our parish and extend care to those in need through our outreach ministries. Click here to see the organizations who received a Market grant last year!

Sponsorship opportunities are available at a variety of levels, each with meaningful benefits and recognition. We would be honored to highlight your generosity in our event materials and throughout this special evening. Here are the three levels of sponsorship:

For any questions about sponsorship, please reach out to David Campbell, Fundraising Chair (850-545-9836) or fill out the interest form below (you can download the form, fill it out and return it to the office OR fill it out online and we’ll get in touch with you)—we would love to share how your partnership can make a lasting impact.

The post Market Under the Stars 2025 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

In the Introduction to God Willing, A History of St. John’s Episcopal Church, it says, “In 1829, a handful of Christians banded together under the leadership of a visiting missionary to charter a small Episcopal mission in the frontier village of Tallahassee, FL.”

Tallahassee is no longer a frontier village, and St. John’s is no longer a small Episcopal mission, but we are still Christians banding together to love and serve God. And by the grace of God, in less than 5 years, our congregation will celebrate its 200th year.

In preparation for this important milestone, St. John’s has formed a Steering Committee to keep us organized and energized. The members are:

Jim & Laurye Messer, Co-Chairs
Rollins & Sarah Ball Miller, Co-Chairs
Skip Foster
Sara Merrill
David Proctor
Mary Byrd Sims
Kelly Kibbey Smith
Claire Dodd
Marissa Hall
Fr. Lonnie Lacy
Mtr. Leslie Roraback

2029 will be a year of celebration, thanksgiving, education, and service. If you would like to join in the planning for this momentous milestone, please fill out the sign up form below by Sunday, September 14.

What a blessing to be part of such a significant anniversary. We hope you’ll help us prepare. It only happens once every 200 years!

The post St. John’s Bicentennial Planning appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

We are delighted to announce that the Kearney Center has been able to place 100 people into more permanent housing! While housing may have been found, they still need some help to make it a “home.”

St. John’s — let’s help our neighbors fill their new homes by providing Welcome Home Supplies during the month of August!

Throughout the month of August, parishioners are invited to purchase items using the comprehensive list of supplies every new home needs below. You are welcome to drop items off in the labeled boxes in the front office.

Bedroom:
• Sheets/pillowcases
• Blanket
• Pillows x 2
• Hangers (5-10pk)
• Hamper

Kitchen:
• Dish soap and sponges
• Cooking pot (1-2)
• Oven mitts X2
• Dishtowels
• Cooking utensils: ladle, spatula, whisk, etc.
• Food storage containers/Tupperware
• Can opener
• Plates and bowls X 2
• Utensils (spoon, fork, knife)
• Cups
• Aluminum foil, plastic wrap
• Paper towels
• Garbage bags
• Trash bin

Bathroom:
• Bath towels x2
• Washcloths x2
• Shower curtain and liner
• Shower curtain clips
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Trash bin
• Hand soap
• Toilet brush
• Toilet plunger
• Toilet paper
• Shampoo/conditioner

Cleaning Supplies:
• Broom and dustpan if no carpet
• Mop/bucket
• Cleaning supplies – disinfectant, toilet bowl cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner
• Rags
• Laundry detergent and fabric softener/dryer sheet

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Did you know that St. John’s has a dedicated team of drivers who deliver donated baked goods to The Kearney Center? Every Friday morning, a St. John’s volunteer drives donated bread, bagels, and cookies from Tasty Pastry Bakery directly to those in need. Thanks to the faithful efforts of many parishioners, tons of high-quality baked goods have been shared with grateful guests at The Kearney Center.

We still have a few spaces on this year’s schedule and would love your help! If you would like to make the Bun Run, even just once, add your name to the signup below. Contact Heather Jordan at heatherleila3@gmail.com with any questions.

Click here to learn more about all we do at the Kearney Center.

The post Bun Run 2025 Schedule appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Small Groups Are Back – Sign Up for 2025-26!

Whether you’re looking for connection, encouragement, or a space to grow in faith, Small Groups at St. John’s are a wonderful way to journey together. These groups offer friendship, fellowship, and spiritual reflection—supporting one another through both life’s joys and challenges.

Groups of 8–12 individuals (or a few couples) will gather once a month for conversation, prayer, and a shared reflection based on a monthly prompt. Each group will choose their own meeting time and place, with help from a designated facilitator. If you’d like to use a meeting room at St. John’s, just let us know—we’re happy to help.

Whether you’re returning or trying a group for the first time, we encourage you to sign up. Groups will meet through May 2026. Prefer to meet virtually? Indicate that on the form. Everyone—including past participants—must complete a new form for the 2025-26 program year. You can also note on the form if you’re signing up with a partner or would like to be grouped with specific people.

Let’s grow in faith and friendship—together.

If you have any questions about St. John’s Small Groups, please contact Claire Dodd.

Signups are closed!

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Sharpen your pencils… school is almost back in session! St. John’s Episcopal Church has supported our partner school, Riley Elementary, for years with mentoring, volunteerism, teacher recognition, and more. We plan to do the same this year by helping the student body start the year with all the items they need to learn and succeed!

You can help by purchasing school supplies and dropping them off at church by Wednesday, July 30. There will be a collection box in the Calhoun Street lobby near the church office.

If you can’t make it to the store, check out our Amazon Wishlist! Click here to view the list, and after you fill your cart, all the items will be shipped to directly to St. John’s.

Riley administrators have identified the most-needed items:

• #2 PENCILS
• TICONDEROGA PENCILS
• BIG PINK ERASERS
• PLASTIC PENCIL BOXES
• DRY ERASE MARKERS & BOARD ERASERS FOR STUDENTS
• PERSONAL DRY ERASE BOARDS
• HEADPHONES (BIG, STURDY ONES)
• CRAYONS (24 COUNT) OR JUMBO SIZE
• COLORED PENCILS
• HIGHLIGHTERS
• MARKERS
• BLUE AND RED PENS
• SHARPIES
• WHITE OUT
• FOLDERS WITH POCKETS AND PRONGS
• 1/2-INCH BINDERS (WHITE AND BLACK)
• 1 INCH BINDERS
• 5 INCH BINDERS
• WIDE-RULED NOTEBOOK PAPER
• CONSTRUCTION PAPER
• POST-IT NOTES
• COMPOSITION NOTEBOOKS
• COLORED PRINTER PAPER
• RULERS
• PROTRACTORS
• GLUE STICKS
• STAPLES
• PAPER CLIPS
• BINDER CLIPS
• ROLLS OF TAPE
• INDEX CARDS
• DICTIONARIES
• HAND SANITIZER
• LYSOL SPRAY
• DISINFECTANT WIPES
• KLEENEX BOXES
• ZIPLOC BAGS (SANDWICH, QUART, AND GALLON)

All items collected will be provided to students at John G. Riley Elementary by coordinators from our “Lend a Hand” program, who will ensure the items are delivered before the start of the school year.

If you wish to make a monetary donation to the program instead, please do so by check, ATTN: Nancy Barfield (note “Riley” or “school supplies” in the memo line). You can also MAKE A DONATION ONLINE by selecting “pass thru” from the drop-down menu and indicating this is a “Riley/school supplies” donation.

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St. John’s bids a heartfelt farewell to Deacon Mike and Linda Hall as they depart from St. John’s. Their faithful service, compassionate presence, and unwavering dedication have deeply enriched our parish community. As they embark on this next chapter, we offer our prayers for God’s continued guidance, blessings, and peace in their journey ahead. All are invited to read their farewell letter below and please wish them well when you see them. Their last Sunday at St. John’s is June 22, 2025.

It is with bittersweet emotions that we share some important news with you. After much prayer, reflection, and discernment, we have decided to relocate from Tallahassee to Ocala. Recently Mike’s sister moved from Missouri to a retirement community in Ocala and at this point in our life we are called closer to family. This decision was not made lightly, and while we are excited for the opportunity to be near family, it is difficult to say goodbye to the incredible fellowship and community we have been blessed to be a part of.

Our time here has been filled with countless memories, many friendships, and a shared faith that has strengthened and uplifted us. We are immensely grateful for each of you—the love, support, and kindness you have shown us will remain in our hearts always.

Though we may be moving physically, our connection to St. John’s will never fade. We will continue to pray for each of you. We hope to stay in touch and welcome visits whenever paths cross again.

May God continue to bless and guide each of you, just as He is guiding us on this new journey.

With love and gratitude,

Yours in Christ,

Deacons Mike & Linda

The post Staff Update: Deacon Mike & Linda Hall appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

St. John’s Market has been a cherished tradition since the late 1800s, bringing joy, fellowship, and generosity to our parish and the wider community. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, we’re taking a thoughtful pause to reimagine what Market can be—not because anything is wrong, but because we want this beloved event to thrive for generations to come. Below are answers to common questions about this year’s plans and the discernment ahead. Click here to watch Fr. Lonnie’s May 25 sermon where he preaches about St. John’s Market 2025 and beyond.

Q: What’s changing with Market this year?

For 2025, we’re taking a one-year pause from the traditional, full-scale Market. Instead, we’ll host a one-night-only event that combines the most joyful and meaningful parts of Market and the Preview Party in a simpler, more sustainable format.

Q: Why the pause?

The classic Market—especially the garage-sale-style elements like books, attic goods, and furnishings—has become increasingly complex and time-intensive over the last few decades. Organizing it requires months of year-round effort and a heavy volunteer lift, which has become harder to sustain.

Q: Is Market going away for good?

Not at all. This is simply a pause for 2025. There’s no decision yet about how Market will look in 2026 or beyond. As a parish, we will use this time in 2025 to reflect, regroup, and imagine what Market can look like in the future.

Q: What will the 2025 event look like?

We’re envisioning something like “Market Under the Stars” (name still TBD):

• One festive evening in both Alfriend and Eve’s Garden
• String lights, music, and great food
• Holiday shopping, silent auction, and perhaps even some live auction!
• Featuring:
  • Artisan goods and jewelry
  • Florals and plants
  • Jams, jellies, pies, and cakes
  • Honor cards, allowing guests to make donations to outreach ministries in honor of a loved one
  • Fellowship, conversation, and fun

Q: What won’t be included this year?

This year’s event will not include the garage-sale-style items: no books, dishes, trinkets, or furnishings. These are the pieces that require the most volunteer hours and space year-round.

Q: Will you still need volunteers?

Absolutely. Volunteer support will still be essential. More details on how to get involved will be shared in the coming months.

Q: Are you still taking donations?

For 2025, we are not receiving material goods like dishes, furnishings, or books.

Q: Will the 2025 event be open to the public?

Yes! It will be a ticketed event at an accessible price, open to all. We’ll spread the word through local media and social platforms. Unlike past preview parties, items will be sold at their regular prices—not marked up.

Q: Why not just ask for more volunteers?

This isn’t a simple logistics issue; it’s an adaptive challenge. Volunteer availability and energy have shifted over the years, and so have people’s patterns of giving, serving, and buying. This moment calls for listening, creativity, and care, not just a new signup sheet.

Q: Who made this decision?

Since there’s no formal Market committee, the Vestry made the decision based on a recommendation from a subcommittee they appointed after reviewing the current challenges. As part of our plans for 2026 and beyond, we plan to form a dedicated steering team—closer to the ground—to help carry Market forward and guide future adaptive decisions.

Q: How will the parish be involved in discerning Market’s future?

We’ll share more in the fall about how the discernment process will unfold. This will be a parish-wide conversation, with opportunities to listen, share, and shape the future of Market together.

Q: How can I share my thoughts or ideas?

We’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to Senior Warden Leslie Redding if you have questions, insights, or inspiration.

Q: What’s the bigger picture?

We want Market to thrive, not just this year, but for generations to come. This lighter-lift version in 2025 gives us space to rest, reflect, and reimagine for the long-term future. The process is just beginning, and it will be a parish-wide conversation.

The post St. John’s Market Updates appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Starting June 29, we’re taking worship on the move! Due to some needed restoration work on our sanctuary ceiling, we’ll temporarily relocate Sunday services to Alfriend Hall for 6 to 8 weeks. Everything you love about worship—music, preaching, Communion, and community—will still be there, just in a new setting. Think of it as “Summer Church”: same Spirit, different space, with a little extra flexibility. On June 25, the 12:10 p.m. Wednesday Healing Service will shift to Killeen Hall.

Below are answers to common questions about the change. Click here to watch Fr. Lonnie’s May 25 sermon where he discusses summer worship.

Click here to sign up to help set-up and breakdown Alfriend Hall for worship.

Q: Why are we changing worship locations this summer?

Our sanctuary ceiling has developed mold. We have had it professionally tested, and it is not harmful. It does, however, need to be cleaned and treated. This restoration work requires us to vacate the sanctuary for about 6 to 8 weeks.

Q: When will this begin?

We’ll move out of the sanctuary starting Sunday, June 29.

Q: Where will worship be held during this time?

Sunday worship will take place in Alfriend Hall while the sanctuary ceiling is being restored.

Q: What will worship be like in Alfriend Hall?

Everything you love about worship remains the same: Communion, music, sermons, just in a different room! The relaxed summer setting may even give us space to try a few creative touches, but the heart of our worship remains unchanged.

Q: How long will we be in Alfriend Hall?

We expect to worship there for about 6 to 8 weeks.

Q: Is help needed with the transition?

Yes! We need volunteers to help with weekly setup and takedown. If you’re willing to help, please contact Junior Warden Kathy Bye or click here to sign up.

Q: Do I need to contribute financially to this restoration?

Nope! The funds for the ceiling work are already secured. No fundraising appeal is being made.

Q: What about the Wednesday 12:10 healing service?

The Wednesday service will take place in Killeen Hall starting June 25.

Q: Will Vacation Bible School and Choir School Camp still happen?

Yes! Both VBS and Choir School Camp will continue as planned.

Q: What about livestreaming services?

We’re actively working on livestreaming options from Alfriend Hall to keep our online community connected.

Q: What should I do?

Stay flexible, faithful, and joyful—and come to church! Your presence matters, no matter the room.

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St. John’s is here and we come with prayers, emotional support, meals, or whatever is needed. Pastoral Care Teams assist clergy in many ways. Some by visiting and supporting those in our parish who need pastoral attention through an illness, loss of a loved one, or other pastoral needs. However, there are times when a priest is most appropriate.

When to contact a priest…

Only a priest can offer sacraments. Births, marriage, death and dying, funeral planning, baptism, and reconciliation of a penitent are all times when we need a priest by our side. In these cases, please call the front office (850) 222-2636.

Pastoral Care Ministries at St. John’s

St. John’s is here for you. In times of illness, loss, or life’s challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out—to a fellow member, the church office, or our clergy—and let the care of this community surround you.

From prayer and conversation to casseroles, prayer beads, and hand-knit shawls, the Pastoral Care Ministry is ready to offer comfort and support. Whether you need a listening ear or communion brought to your home or hospital room, St. John’s is a place of grace, healing, and love.

We are one body in Christ, and we are here for each other.

Contact us: pastoralcare@saint-john.org or call (850) 222-2636 ext. 33

Here are ways St. John’s can support you!

Community of Hope (COHI) – Pastoral Care Person of the Day

In 2024, several St. John’s parishioners have trained with Community of Hope International (COHI) to support our pastoral care ministry. COHI equips lay people to offer compassionate, faith-based care through a ministry of presence—listening with empathy and offering non-controlling, spiritually grounded support.

Every Sunday, a Pastoral Care Person of the Day, identified by a Pastoral Care ribbon on their name badge, will be available after each Sunday service for 30 minutes in the Chapel for support and prayer as well as connection to other pastoral care resources.

Angel Food Meal Delivery

Are you or another parishioner in need of meal delivery? When recovering from illness, loss of a loved one, or difficult times, sometimes all you need is a home-cooked meal delivered to your home. Contact Emily Garretson and be added to the Angel Meal Delivery list.

Eucharistic Visitors

Jesus is always reminding us to go out into the world taking what we have received to those we meet along the way. A Eucharistic Visitor takes the bread and the wine from services at St. John’s and shares them with those who cannot physically come to church. With training and clergy direction this special ministry connects all of our members together as the body of Christ. If this is a form of support you or a loved one needs, contact Steve Bryan to learn more.

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Join us as we walk this path with Christ—praying, reflecting, and celebrating the triumph of life over death.

Many at St. John’s say that taking part in Holy Week has changed their lives. Easter means more when you’ve made the way of the cross with our Lord, walking beside him every step of the way. Set this week aside as we experience the full story of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.

To help guide you through each of the services offered, we invite you to download our Guide to Holy Week. This guide outlines every step along the way to The Great Vigil of Easter.

The schedule below includes notes about services that will be offered digitally as well as in person, and those that will feature incense as part of the liturgies.

See our online calendar for more information. If you would like to sign up for an hour-long slot during the Gethsemane Watch, click here.

Festive receptions will once again follow the Easter Vigil and all morning offerings on Easter Day. If you would like to assist our Parish Life Reception Committee, please contact Claire Dodd.

Please join us! Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, St. John’s welcomes you!

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Cuba Mission Team – November 2025 Trip

St. John’s will again send a mission team to visit our companion church, Iglesia Episcopal San Pedro Apostol, in Zorrilla, Cuba, Nov. 13-18. They will worship and share fellowship with the parish and community and deliver much-needed donations from St. John’s.

Missionaries are: Francine Walker and Chris Schoonover, co-leaders; Fr. Lonnie Lacy, Alison Dillehay, Joe Dillehay, Paula Kiger, Jan Porter, and JR Saginario. Each will take donated supplies for San Pedro Apostol, including over-the-counter medicines and vitamins for children and adults, altar supplies, and women’s items, and other support for the church.

Please help the November team collect the medicines, vitamins, and other needed health-related items. Purchase any time before Nov. 1 and drop-off to the Cuba Mission bin in the St. John’s office, or order for delivery to the church via Amazon: Click here for the list. As you scroll down to the bottom of each page, be sure to click on See More Items. Prices for most of the donated items range from $2-25.

We will also again hold another ministry Cuba Mission Fundraiser on the Patio at Cafe de Martin, Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 5:30-7:30. For more information and to register ($25 per attendee) and/or to donate funds for mission work, CLICK HERE.

We will also be joined on the November mission trip by two members of Episcopal Church of the Advent, Tallahassee. Their companion is Iglesia Episcopal La Trinidad in Los Arabos, also a church led by Fr. Juan Carlos. The entire team will also visit the Episcopal Cathedral, in Havana and Seminario Evangelico de Teologia de Matanzas.

A Call to Mission: Crossing Borders with Love

At St. John’s Episcopal Church, we believe that mission is not just about traveling across the world—it’s about crossing any significant border with the love of Christ. Whether that border is an ocean, a street, or simply the pew behind you, we are all called to be missionaries through our baptism. The mission of the Church, as our Prayer Book reminds us, is to restore all people to unity with God and one another in Christ. And as Paul teaches, this mission is one of reconciliation—not through conquest or argument, but through love.

Recently, a team from St. John’s traveled to Zorrilla, Cuba, to visit our companion church, San Apóstol. Life in Cuba is challenging. Many buildings are in ruins, jobs pay very little, and resources like food, electricity, and medicine are scarce. As one of our translators put it, “We do not live in Cuba. We survive in Cuba.” Yet in the midst of hardship, the Church thrives, offering both spiritual and physical sustenance. Our partnership supports clean water systems, essential medical supplies, and a growing faith community. These efforts are not just acts of charity—they are faith in action, tangible expressions of Christ’s love.

But mission is never one-sided. Our friends in Cuba don’t just receive; they share their faith, generosity, and resilience with us. True reconciliation happens when we meet each other as equals, when we cross borders—not just geographical ones, but those that separate survival from joy, isolation from belonging. As followers of Christ, we all have something to give. Whether it’s financial support, supplies, advocacy, or prayer, each of us plays a part in this Gospel work.

Jesus himself crossed the greatest border of all to dwell among us. Now, in Him, strangers become companions, divides become meeting places, and despair gives way to hope. Every relationship in our lives is a mission field, and each of us is called to be an ambassador of grace. Because, whether we realize it or not, we are all missionaries of Jesus—the living, loving Christ of God.

We invite you to watch Sunday, March 31’s Sunday sermon with Fr. Lonnie and featuring, Beth Sylvester, Cuba Mission Team Member. And mark your calendars for April 28! We’ll hear the full Cuba Mission Team’s presentation.

New Way to Help

Here’s a great new way to help our sisters and brothers of San Pedro Apostol year-round when shopping at Costco, Sam’s, or a pharmacy and see a BOGO or a great sale price on any of these items. Or if you have extra funds in your FSA or HSA account, spend them any time and drop off your donations in the Cuba Mission basket in the church office.

Children: 
Tylenol
Antihistamines
Multivitamins
Cough Syrup

Adults: 
Multivitamins
Vitamins B, B6, B12, C, E
Probiotics
Aspirin
Acetaminophen
Ibuprofen
Cough Drops
Throat Lozenges
Antacids
Anti-Diarrhea
Anti-Nausea
Zinc
Hydrocortisone & Triple Antibiotic Creams
Antihistamines
Vicks VapoRub
Calamine Lotion
Bengay
Bandages
First Aid Supplies

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Are you seeking a deeper connection with God through prayer and service? The Daughters of the King® is a community of Christian women—both lay and ordained—who support one another in a shared commitment to a life of prayer, service, and evangelism. Whether you are just beginning your faith journey or have walked with Christ for many years, you will find strength and encouragement among sisters who share your desire to know Jesus and make Him known. United by our Rule of Life, we seek to reflect God’s love in our daily lives and in the world around us.

As a spiritual order rather than just an organization, the Daughters of the King offers a sacred and lifelong commitment to growing in faith. After a period of study and discernment, each member takes vows to uphold the Rule of Prayer and the Rule of Service, deepening her relationship with God and her fellow sisters. With members ranging from age seven to one hundred and seven, we are a multigenerational sisterhood where wisdom is shared, faith is nurtured, and lives are transformed. If you find joy and purpose in prayer and long for a supportive community of faith-filled women, we invite you to join us in this sacred calling.

If you are interested in learning more about the Daughters of the King, we encourage you to reach out to Winifred Williams or Regina Lewis, our chapter’s co-presidents.

If the Daughters of the King feels right to you, then we invite you to join! We are holding training sessions this summer on Sunday, June 1, 11:30 AM-1 PM and will run for 10-12 weeks. Registration ends on May 1! Click the link to register for training below.

To learn more about the order, visit the national order’s website by clicking here. Join other women of deep faith as they continue the time-honored tradition of praying for others in our parish and our community.

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Easter is a wonderful time to honor loved ones you’ve lost or special people in your life today.

Easter lilies displayed in the church on Easter and music dedications that support our music program are wonderful ways to honor these individuals. All dedications are listed in our Easter bulletins.

Again this year, dedications and donations will be handled digitally through the site that we use to coordinate weekly altar flower dedications. Contribution envelopes are also available in the pews so checks can be dropped in the offering plate. To make your flower or music dedication online, click the button below.

In order to allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Monday, April 7.

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received. 

Need assistance? Contact Deborah Dugger with questions at (850) 222-2636 or deborah@saint-john.org.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

A few helpful tips:

• Click on the Easter flower or music boxes to add the item to your cart.
• If you are dedicating each lily to a separate individual, you add them to your cart and enter the dedication language separately.
• Where prompted, enter the dedication language (“In Memory of” or “In Thanksgiving For”) and the person’s name.
• Add to cart and follow the payment prompts to place your order.

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What is Lent?
Lent is the 40-day season of fasting and prayer leading to Easter. The word “Lent” comes from the Old English “lencten,” referring to Spring and the “lengthening” of days that occurs at this time of year. Why 40 days? Because that’s how long our Lord fasted and prayed in the wilderness after his baptism. During this season, our worship adopts a uniquely reflective tone.

Lent is a sacred invitation to slow down, reflect, and make space for God. It is not about striving for perfection or proving our devotion. Rather, it is about coming as we are—flawed, weary, hopeful—and allowing God to meet us on the road.

Like the ancient pilgrims who walked to Jerusalem, we embark on a journey that is both inward and outward. We set down burdens. We take up new disciplines. We press forward, not alone, but together, knowing that at the end of this road, resurrection awaits.

This guide is more than just a schedule of events. It is a companion for the journey—filled with teachings, practices, and invitations to deepen your walk with Jesus this Lent. Whether you fast, pray, study, or serve, know this: God is already walking beside you.

We invite you to take this journey with intention, with courage, and with hope. May this Lent be a season of transformation and grace. Download our Lenten Guide below for more information and guidance.

A Lenten Pilgrimage: Walking with Jesus 2025

We invite you to download our Lenten Guide by clicking on the image above. Inside we hope you will find ways to engage with prayer and penitence during this season. It is a pilgrimage with many possible stops along the way. A few are listed below.

• WORSHIP: During this season, our worship adopts a uniquely reflective and penitential tone. In place of our typically festive approach to worship, these changes allow us to experience a different side of the Christian life as we journey with Christ to the cross, the grave, and ultimately to resurrection. For other changes you will see and hear, check out this article from Fr. Lonnie.
• PRAY: Lent is a season to devote yourself to prayer. Whether it is following the Daily Office in the Book of Common Prayer, praying for your Lenten Prayer Partner, or simply sitting in reverent silence, set aside time every day this season to pray. Try a different place to pray than usual, like Eve’s Garden or other spaces around the church. For your convenience, there’s even an online version (written or audio format) of The Daily Office.
• DEVOTIONALS: Establish a set time during Lent to read and then sit in silence or prayer. Find Episcopal Relief & Development’s Lenten Meditation Guide online.
• FAST: Fasting is a spiritual discipline that many have practiced throughout the millennia. “Fasting was part and parcel of a communal call on God to act when the odds seemed overwhelming. Fasting was not merely a rite used to ask for forgiveness but a plea to God to help those who couldn’t help themselves.” The Rev. Canon Dana Colley Corsello. If you have health issues, please consult a doctor before fasting.
• RECONCILE: This is a season to stop for self-examination and introspection. It is a time to nourish the yearning to come closer to God. This practice can lead to a need for penitence. The Episcopal Church offers the sacramental rite called Reconciliation of a Penitent, the practice of 1:1 personal confession with a priest. You can read about this in the Book of Common Prayer, p. 861. If you feel the need for personal confession, please consult with our clergy.
• ENGAGE: As we clear our hearts and minds of focusing on ourselves and grow closer to God, we remember those in our community who are in need. Consider giving of yourself to a local non-profit or helping in a new area at St.John’s. Be the hands and feet of Christ for others.
• MAKE SPACE: The tradition of self-denial during Lent is a way to say “no” to what we want and say “yes” to the will of God. The purpose of this self-denial isn’t misery for misery’s sake. It’s for the sake of clearing space for prayer and making our hearts more in tune to the suffering of Christ. People often give up favorite foods, drinks, or bad habits. When you give something up on your Lenten pilgrimage, with what do you fill that space?
• ATTEND COMPLINE: Join us for our weekly Sung Compline service, on Sundays at 7:30 PM. This ancient monastic service is held in the candlelit church, led by clergy and the St. John’s Compline Choir.
  

Lenten Events

“MEETING GOD IN MARK: REFLECTIONS FOR THE SEASON OF LENT”: FRIDAY BOOK STUDY
JOIN WEEKLY BY ZOOM | BEGINS MARCH 7
Meets Fridays at 12 PM on Zoom. During Lent, we’ll journey through Lent guided by Rowan Williams. No registration is required.

“Before his presence with a song”: An Exploration of Lenten Hymns
SUNDAYS, STARTING MARCH 9 | 11:30 AM | CARTER CHAPEL
Join us as we explore the theological depth of Lenten hymnody, led by Marissa Hall. Discover the meaning behind the hymns we sing and how they shape our Lenten journey.

LENTEN PRAYER BEADS WORKSHOP
MARCH 15 | 10 AM
Hosted by the Front Porch and led by Marcy Muldrow Sanders, this workshop will introduce the ancient tradition of prayer beads as a tool for contemplative prayer. Participants will make their own set of prayer beads to use throughout Lent. Register online.

LENTEN SERVICE OF COMFORT & HEALING: FEAST OF ANNUNCIATION
MARCH 26 | 12:10 PM
Lent can be a heavy season, but even in sorrow, light breaks through. This special 12:10 PM Wednesday Comfort & Healing Service, tied to the Feast of the Annunciation, invites us to bring our burdens before God in prayer, music, and anointing. The angel’s words to Mary—“Do not be afraid”—offer us the same promise of hope and renewal.

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When someone in our life dies, it affects our entire being. Twice a year, St. John’s offers “Walking the Mourner’s Path,” a six- to eight-week grief support program that is grounded in prayer and reminds us that we are not alone in our grief. In March-April 2025, we will once again be offering this program in partnership with Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.

If you have lost a loved one and have walked the path of grief over the past year or years, “Walking the Mourner’s Path” may be what you need. Open to St. John’s and Holy Comforter members and the community alike, the program gathers participants for a series of small-group workshops. It’s different than a Sunday morning faith formation program, but the format allows time for being still together, sharing stories, and seeing where God is in our grief and in our hope.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS:

REGISTRATION INFORMATION (winter 2025):

The spring 2025 series of workshops will be held on Tuesday afternoons from 5:00 – 6:30 PM. Gatherings will alternate meeting at St. John’s Episcopal Church and Holy Comforter Episcopal Church. Gatherings begin on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 and will be held weekly through Wednesday, April 16, 2025 (We will meet mostly on Tuesdays, with a few exceptions). There is a $65 fee* to cover the cost of the workbook.

You will receive more information after you register, but please feel free to contact Melanie Salsgiver with additional questions or for more details.

*Please note that this cost should not prohibit you from attending. Scholarships are available as needed.

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Growing in Grace is a spiritual renewal course for adults seeking to become part of the Episcopal Church through confirmation or reception, or for those who simply want to publicly reaffirm their faith. This year, Fr. Lonnie and Mtr. Leslie will lead us through “Episcopal 101” over six weeks.

We will begin with our Growing in Grace Retreat on March 8 (9 AM-2 PM at St. John’s). We’re excited to announce that this year’s New Members’ Retreat will be combined with our Growing in Grace Retreat on Saturday, March 8. This retreat is for anyone new to St. John’s, curious about the Episcopal Church, or seeking to deepen their faith. You’ll learn about the history of St. John’s, our core beliefs, and what it means to be part of our church family.

This retreat also kicks off Growing in Grace, a course designed to help adults renew their faith, learn more about the Episcopal Church, and prepare for confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation of faith. At the retreat, we will go over the basics of what the course will look like, as well as touch upon St. John’s history and what it means to be a member of St. John’s. For those looking to join St. John’s, this retreat is perfect. At the end of the day, seekers may choose to continue on with Growing in Grace classes with the intent of Confirmation or Reception at the end. We’d love to have you join us!

This course will mean something different to each individual. Even if you’ve taken Growing in Grace before, consider joining us again, as this edition will be a unique experience (see schedule below).

Growing in Grace classes take place on Sunday afternoons from 2:30-4 PM in Killeen Hall. Classes are clergy and lay leader led with small group discussion. We will meet on the following Sundays:

March 16
March 23
March 30
April 6
April 13

If you have questions about the confirmation process or would like to join this year’s class, contact Claire Dodd, Director of Communications & Membership.

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During the 40 days of Lent, we ask that you:

1. Pray for your Lenten Prayer Partner daily.
2. Mail them a card or letter each week – signed “Your Lenten Prayer Partner.” Use St. John’s address as the return address, not your own.
3. You’ll reveal yourself to your Prayer Partner by leaving a small gift or card for them at the Easter Vigil (4/19) or on Easter Sunday (4/20). These gift tables will be set up in Alfriend Hall at each Easter service (6:30 PM – Easter Vigil, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:15 AM – Easter Sunday). If you’re unable to attend either service, you’re welcome to leave your gift in the front office the week prior. Gifts should cost no more than $10.

This is more than just a practice—it’s a chance to share comfort and support within our community while deepening our own prayer lives. Whether you’re 3 or 103, we invite you to join us in creating a prayerful network of love and care. Together, let’s make this Lent a season of powerful connection and prayer for one another.

If you are interested in being a secret Prayer Partner for someone at St. John’s, please fill out the form below (or fill out a hard copy of the form in the church office) by Sunday, February 23. You’ll know your form was successfully submitted when you see a confirmation message. We will be in touch with details about your Lenten Prayer Partner!

SIGN-UPS ARE NOW CLOSED.

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Scholarship amount grows and expands to college students at all levels!

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025 Martha Lee Kuersteiner Scholarship, a $2,000 need- and merit-based award. All St. John’s college students who have participated in worship can apply for this $2,000 scholarship to help support their college education.  Read on for information about the 2025 scholarship award and its history, with a rundown of some past scholarship recipients.

2025 Scholarship Eligibility:  The $2,000 scholarship is a need- and merit-based award.  College students known to have participated in worship at St. John’s are eligible to apply.  To be considered, students must share a completed application, a current college transcript, a written essay, and two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from the church rector.  Completed application packets must be mailed to the address provided or returned to the church office, or emailed to mariannebryant@gmail.com by April 15, 2025.

Read on for information about the 2024 scholarship award, a list of past recipients, and the story of how St. Mary’s Circle established this scholarship, which is now in its 26th year!

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St. John’s would like to extend a big “Thank you” to our team of market volunteers who baked, knitted, curated, donated, organized, and more! You helped make 2024’s St. John’s Market a wonderful success. The 2024 St. John’s Market took in $31.4K after expenses, which enabled us to award $15.7K in grants to local organizations. The remaining $15.7K will help support St. John’s mission, programs, and ministries.

Congratulations to the 2024 grant recipients, whose projects were selected to receive funding from the St. John’s Market Grants committee, and approved by the church Vestry.

2024 GRANT RECIPIENTS:

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will go towards funding spay/neuter vouchers.

Visit their website to learn how Be the Solution is dedicated to preventing the cycle of suffering for unwanted pets living in shelters and on the street by promoting and facilitating affordable spay and neuter surgeries.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help provide winter supplies for many people living in Tallahassee.

Visit the Beyond the Pantry’s website to learn about this Tallahassee-based non-profit that sources and
shares basic-needs products: the expensive necessities of life beyond food that many of us take for granted.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will go towards their peer support program activities.

Visit the Big Bend AFTER (A Fight To End Recidivism) Reentry Coalition website to learn more about how they are working to increase public safety and reduce recidivism through collaborating and establishing community partnerships, identifying and providing services to currently and formerly incarcerated people, empowering them to become proactive, self-sufficient members of the community.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help purchase items to better serve their patients.

Visit the Big Bend Hospice website to learn how they are positively impacting the way our community experiences serious illness or grief, by supporting individuals and their loved ones in the Big Bend.

Visit the Blessing Cup of Tallahassee’s website to learn how they help to improve the quality of life of the elderly poor in Leon County, Florida, by providing shelter, food, or clothing and by providing financial assistance.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help rebuild and replace kennels damaged in Hurricane Helene.

Visit Forgotten Coast K9’s website website to learn how they are deeply committed to making a positive impact within the hero community by addressing the distressing rate of Veteran and First Responder suicides. Their main focus is to help provide individuals with highly trained service dogs along with comprehensive education and support.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund the Blended Lives Project which will help over 3000 Leon County School students learn about ethnic and racial harmony.

Visit the Goodwood Museum & Garden website to learn more about this historical site in Tallahassee.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund the CARE Program which includes care packages, travel and utilities, and grief counseling.

Visit the Hang Tough Foundation’s website to learn how the Hang Tough Foundation offers resources and encouragement to families during their journey with childhood illness and special needs.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help furnish a recreation space and lounge for their residents.

Visit Independence Landing’s website to learn about this not-for-profit corporation, the mission of which is to build, own, and operate an affordable safe, planned residential community for adults with varying intellectual and/or developmental disabilities allowing residents to successfully lead independent and fulfilled lives.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund KidSafe’s Look Before You Lock marketing materials as they expand into Gadsden County.

Visit KidSafe’s website to learn how they play an important role in helping to reduce childhood injuries and death in the local communities of the Big Bend area of North Florida by providing adaptable safety seats to families with low incomes.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund baby showers for six expectant refugee families.

Visit That’s Neighborly’s website to learn more about how their vision to deinstitutionalize charity by helping you become friends with those at a disadvantage, thus, making poverty personal.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund metal enclosures to help quarantine and keep the wild animals safe from disease.

Visit the St. Francis Wildlife Association website to learn how they provide humane care and rehabilitation for orphaned, injured and sick wildlife in North Florida and public education for our community.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help with food distribution of no-cost meals to low-income and food insecure children and families throughout the Big Bend.

Visit the Second Harvest of the Big Bend website to learn how this nonprofit food bank collects and distributes food to hunger-relief charities, and also through specialized programs and mobile food distributions undertaken with community partners.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help source new instruments for their students.

Visit the Tallahassee Bach Parley website to learn more about this organization that provides concerts to the community and music education through the Bach Parley String Academy.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help support their Restorative Justice Program.

Visit the Tallahassee Bail Fund website to learn about their mission to pay bail for those who cannot afford it.

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St. John’s will hold our Parish Meeting on Sunday, February 2, following our 10 AM Holy Eucharist. Children’s activities will be provided for PreK-5th graders. If you are joining us online, simply stay on the worship feed. Those attending in person are invited to enjoy fellowship at our Annual Chili Cook-Off after the meeting! Click here to purchase your spoon.

We invite you to also take a look at our 2024 Annual Report to see all we accomplished last year.

We invite you to get to know the candidates who have been nominated this year for our St. John’s Vestry. We appreciate their ongoing commitment to our parish and are grateful for the time and talent they regularly share through ministry. See below our 2025 slate of nominees.

When voting opens, you will vote for five candidates. Remember, only “members in good standing” (see definition below) are invited to vote on the 2025 slate.

This year we will elect five individuals who will serve St. John’s for a three-year term. An additional individual will fill a one-year vacancy, due to an unexpired term. Vote for no more than five candidates. ONE BALLOT will be accepted per email address.

VOTING HAS NOW CLOSED.

2025 SLATE OF CANDIDATES:

ALEX BOLER

As a life-long Episcopalian, I have been active in the church from a young age at my family’s parish in the Clearwater area, then as a college student at Ruge Hall (The Episcopal University Center at Florida State), and at St. John’s since 2014. Shortly after joining St. John’s, I became an usher and then was tasked with coordinating the Usher ministry, and later came to lead the Greeter ministry, as well (both ministries contributed to our Invite-Welcome-Connect program). At St. John’s, I’ve also been involved in our fellowship groups, and occasionally volunteer doing audio/video and technical work. I appreciate the traditions of the Episcopal church, especially its liturgy, but my favorite part of St. John’s is the community that is formed amongst the congregation.

CATHERINE CONNOR

I was confirmed at St. John’s in 1990 while attending graduate school. After graduation, I moved away but attended and been active at Episcopal churches. When my husband passed away, I retired from 30+ years of teaching and moved back to be near my son and his family. I felt like I was “back home” when I came back to St. John’s. I’ve always had a servant’s heart and am the Sec./Treasurer for Daughters of the King, Bible school teacher, BEAT week, Lively Café, Hostess committee, Vacation Bible School, St. John’s Market, St. John’s Bible docent, and have helped serve at the SALT luncheon. I love St. John’s and its parishioners!

JEFF COUCH

I have been a devoted member of St. John’s Episcopal Church since 2012. My wife, Janine, is a current Vestry member who is now stepping down after her term of service. Together, we have two children, Charlie, who is in the 11th grade, and Georgie, who is in the 7th grade. I have actively contributed to the church community, serving as a Youth Advisor, participating in the Property Commission, and acting as a Eucharistic Minister. I am eager to continue my family’s tradition of service by joining the Vestry.

DINA FOSTER

I have been attending St. John’s since 2015 when my family moved to Tallahassee.  Prior to that time, I attended Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Shelby, North Carolina where I served on Vestry and was very active in my church.

My Husband, Skip and I have three children. Our two sons were both confirmed at St. Johns.  I participated in Camp BEAT when my boys were younger.  Skip was previously on Vestry and served on the Covid Task Force.  Since 2021, I have been involved with Altar Guild. I also worked in the Lively Café for about one year (I loved it and miss it!).  I currently assist with Weddings at the church. In the past, I have volunteered at Market and St. Mary’s.  I truly love St. John’s and would be honored to serve on Vestry. 

DAVID GRIMES

I have been a member of St. John’s for ten years. Growing up as a Mennonite, I came to the Episcopal Church later in life after becoming interested in the Anglican tradition while studying in England during law school.  I have two siblings. I am an attorney for the Florida Legislature. I’ve been involved in the following at St. John’s: Youth Confirmation Instructor, Verger, Eucharistic Minister, Rector Search Committee member, Greeter, and Strategic Plan Implementation member.

As I discussed in my “Faith at 5:30” talk, I spent several years as a young adult alienated from the Church believing that my faith journey would be an individual one. After finding a spiritual home at St. John’s, I’ve been happy to be proven wrong. My appreciation for the beautiful and unique community we share has only grown through the years, especially after my service on the Rector Search Committee exposed me to so many new ways our parishioners love and serve God and each other. After prayerful discernment, I am standing for vestry to lend my time and talent to support the continued work of St. John’s as a needed witness of Christ’s unifying love in a divided world. 

CHRISTINE HANSEN

I can tell you a lot about St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, my childhood faith community in Sunbury, PA, but I can most clearly describe the back of the sanctuary, with its stairs to the choir loft, dark wood paneling, and pews with red velveteen cushions. That’s because, I so vividly remember standing on the pew, facing backwards, and whispering with Mrs. Breeon. She would pass me a little bag of cheerios or a box of raisins and chat with me throughout the service. I’m not sure how Paster Kieffer felt about our hushed discussions during his sermons, but I am sure of how I felt, loved. That’s why my home at St. John’s Episcopal Church is so important to me. This church is also, first and foremost, a place of love, and I would like to take an active role in the work necessary to increase that love within our walls and carry it out into our community and world.

I have been a member of St. John’s since moving back to Tallahassee from Philadelphia, where I was a member of the Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral, and before that, St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Columbus, GA. I have one wonderful child, Davis, who also lives in Tallahassee and a sweet pup named CJ, short for Calamity Jane. I am the director of programs for the Askew Student Life Center at FSU and participate in lots of theatre in the area. Prior to my position here at FSU, I taught theatre for many years in Idaho, Georgia, and here in Florida. 

MEAGAN OWENS

I have been a member of St John’s since early 2020, and am so grateful to have found the Episcopal church. Loving the things of God and God’s people, I solidly identify as a church nerd. Over my time at St John’s I’ve been involved with the Capital Area Justice Ministry, Becoming Beloved Community, the Education for Ministry program, coordinated Lenten Prayer Partners, and served as a mentor to the Growing in Grace Adult Confirmation classes.

I currently serve as a Eucharistic Minister and participate in the Community of Hope International program for lay pastoral care.

MARTHA RAY-BROOKS

I have been a member of St. John’s for many years and serve as a Eucharistic Minister, founding member of the St. John’s Historical Society, volunteer for the St. John’s Choir School, and as a researcher and grant writer for the St. John’s Cemetery research project.  Past activities include high school youth Sunday School teacher and confirmation coordinator, EfM graduate and volunteer at Grace Mission.  I am a retired Leon County Schools High School Guidance Counselor.  St. John’s and it’s community are an important aspect of my spiritual life.

MICHAEL STEWART-MEZA

Since joining Saint John’s in 2018 and being confirmed in 2019, I have been blessed to be part of this wonderful faith community. I am an alumnus of FSU where I studied Philosophy and Religion. In my professional life, I lead FSU’s Medical Response Unit and am an adjunct instructor for TSC’s Emergency Medical Services Department, having previously worked as a paramedic in Gadsden and Leon Counties. These roles have given me opportunities to mentor students and serve the community.

My husband, Enmanuel, and I find deep spiritual nourishment at Saint John’s through attending the 10am Sunday service and Compline. I continue to learn and grow in faith through Education for Ministry (EFM) and Community of Hope classes. This church has blessed me with opportunities to serve in various ways, including as a greeter, usher, and Eucharistic Minister. Enmanuel and I have served as small group leaders, helped with New Members’ classes, and as discussion facilitators for Growing in Grace. Currently, I serve on the Adult Formation Committee and teach adult Sunday School classes.

I am willing to stand for Vestry because I have witnessed firsthand how God works through Saint John’s, particularly in the church’s dedication to welcoming all of God’s children, including those who may have felt excluded elsewhere. The grace and love I have experienced here has deeply touched my life and family, and I am inspired by the faithful leadership of the clergy and lay leaders. If nominated, I would prayerfully serve with God’s help, trusting in the Holy Spirit’s guidance through this process and wherever God leads.

QUINN TOWNSEND

As a mom of three children, ages 9, 11, and 13, I am drawn to the idea of serving on St. John’s Vestry because I see it as an opportunity to give back to the community that has been a cornerstone of support for my family. Since joining St John’s in 2016, our church has become a second home, a place where my kids have found friends, mentors, and a sense of belonging. By joining the vestry, I hope to help shape and sustain this space for other families and contribute to programs that nurture faith and connection.

I believe this role would be a meaningful way to serve, grow, and set an example of community involvement for my children. Serving on the vestry would allow me to help our church flourish and ensure it remains a vibrant part of our lives.

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Every year, we print poinsettia and music dedications in our Christmas Eve service bulletins. This is a beautiful way to honor friends, family, and loved ones who are living or deceased.

Please submit your dedications online or look for envelopes in the pews and place your donations in the offering basket. To allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Sunday, December 15.

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received.

Contact Deborah Dugger with questions at (850) 222-2636 or deborah@saint-john.org.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

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Come bask in the music, breathe in the prayers, and receive the love and grace of God as we await his coming and look with hope toward the promise of peace on earth.

CHRISTMAS EVE
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 – SEE DETAILS
1 PM | Abbreviated service with soloist, trumpet, family-friendly candles, and children’s homily
4 PM | Traditional Christmas Eve service with candles, brass, and adult & children’s choirs (livestreamed)
8 PM | Traditional Christmas Eve service with candles, brass, and choirs
11 PM | “Midnight Mass” with sung prayers, incense, candles, brass, and choirs

CHRISTMAS DAY
Wednesday, December 25, 2024
10 AM | Holy Eucharist with organ and Christmas carols

CHRISTMAS MUSIC & FLOWER DONATIONS
Poinsettia and music dedications are listed in Christmas Eve bulletins – a beautiful way to honor friends, family, and loved ones who are living or deceased. Due 12/15. PLACE DEDICATIONS

SOCK DRIVE FOR GRACE MISSION
Give the gift of socks this Christmas! Donate new full-length adult and children’s socks to the Daughters of the King’s Sock Drive for Grace Mission. A donation box is located in Calhoun St. lobby. Deadline 12/13.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 1 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM. At 11:30 AM, join us for Advent Wreath Making!

ADVENT WREATH MAKING
Sunday, December 1 | 11:30 AM
Prepare for the season! Kits available ($10/each); greens provided. Enjoy a hot cocoa bar!

WINTER FESTIVAL PARKING FUNDRAISER
Saturday, December 7 | 4 to 6:30 PM
Park in the convenient church lot during Tallahassee’s Winter Festival parade and watch from our front step! Supports St. John’s Youth Ministry. RESERVE SPOTS

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 8 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

CHRISTMAS CAROLING
Sunday, December 8 | 11:30 AM
All are welcome on this merry outing to sing for our neighbors. We’ll board the bus at 12:15 PM, after refreshments and caroling “practice” in Alfriend Hall. For all ages and singing abilities! LEARN MORE

YOUTH GROUP (EYC) CHRISTMAS PARTY: Polar Plunge
Sunday, December 8 | 5 to 7 PM
We’ll go for a “Polar Plunge” in the Kiles’ pool and have s’mores around the campfire. Youth in grades 6-12 should bring a friend and your swimsuit and towel. RSVP TODAY

“SPUDS” HOLIDAY FELLOWSHIP GATHERING
Thursday, December 12 | 6:30 PM
Hosted at the home of Chuck & Jen Hinson. SPUDS stands for “St. John’s Parishioners United for Dining & Spirit,” which means all are welcome for holiday cheer! LEARN MORE

ADVENT PRAYER LABYRINTH WALK
Saturday, December 14 | 11 AM to 12 PM
Join St. John’s Episcopal Church and The Front Porch as we walk a local labyrinth together. If you’ve never done this before, you’ll find it to be a unique contemplative experience that can take you on a symbolic spiritual journey! LEARN MORE

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 15 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

SERVICE OF ADVENT LESSONS & CAROLS
Sunday, December 15 | 7 PM
Holiday service featuring Advent carols, hymns, and anthems. A dessert reception follows in Alfriend Hall. Childcare will be available. LEARN MORE

SERVICE OF COMFORT AND HEALING
Wednesday, December 18 | 12:10 PM
Holy Eucharist. Especially for those experiencing grief and loss, or in need of healing, during the holiday season. Enjoy Eucharist, special prayers, and guitar music at this poignant service.

AN ADVENT EVENING AWASH IN SOUND
Saturday, December 21 | 6 to 8:30 PM
Take time to enjoy a sound bath, an oasis of peace and relaxation, during the busy season of Advent. Dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat, pillow, and blanket. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served after the sound bath concludes. REGISTER ONLINE

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Sunday, December 22 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

MEALS ON WHEELS
Tuesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) | 9 to 11 AM
St. John’s volunteers will deliver meals to senior adults in our area. Join us to play Santa with Elder Care Services’ annual Meals on Wheels program. SIGN UPS COMING SOON

CHRISTMAS LESSONS AND CAROLS
Sunday, December 29 | 10 AM
Holy Eucharist Rite II. There will be just one worship service this Sunday. No Sunday School.

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS
Sunday, January 5 | 8 AM & 10 AM
Two services of Holy Eucharist. Sunday School for all ages at 9 AM & 11:30 AM.

FEAST OF EPIPHANY & EPIPHANY PAGEANT
Sunday, January 5 | 4 PM
A Service of Holy Eucharist featuring a children’s pageant. All are invited to this night of beauty and mystery to celebrate the culmination of the 12 days of Christmas. Spaghetti dinner for all follows in Alfriend Hall. LEARN MORE

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Las Posadas (Spanish for “Inns” or “Shelters”) is a tradition that is celebrated chiefly in Latin America, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Cuba, Spain, and by Hispanics in the United States to commemorate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph as they walked from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be registered in the Bethlehem census. As the story goes, baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem in a stable as the couple couldn’t find lodging at an inn because they were all full.

Once again this year, parishioners of all ages are invited to join the St. John’s Children’s Ministry and host the Holy Family during Advent. From the first Sunday of Advent, on December 1, all the way until Christmas Eve, parishioners host figures of Mary and Joseph in their homes as they travel along their way to Bethlehem.

As Mary and Joseph’s stay winds down at one host’s home, that host will accommodate Mary and Joseph’s transportation to the next host’s home until the couple reaches Bethlehem (or rather, back to St. John’s for the 1 PM Christmas Eve service). We’ll provide you with a prayer book and more information on Las Posadas to make this a meaningful experience. And we’ll share the journey with our parish along the way!

Thanks in advance for signing up to host Mary and Joseph this year! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or text Tyree Jordan, our Director of Youth & Families at (850) 408-5092.

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The St. John’s Foundation is accepting nominations to fill a position on the Foundation Board of Trustees. The Trustee would serve a three-year term beginning January 1, 2025.

The Foundation Board is responsible for growing and protecting its endowment, annually deciding how to spend a portion of the endowment for St. John’s programs and activities, and increasing membership in the Foundation’s Legacy Society which recognizes a person’s intention to make a planned gift to the Foundation.

Please submit nominations or self-nominations in writing to Charley Redding (credding2008@gmail.com), chair of the Foundation Nominating Committee, by November 7, 2024. Please include a short statement regarding why the nominee is interested or would be a good fit for serving on the Board. The new Trustee will be elected by the current Board in late November and announced thereafter.

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— Ezekiel 36:26

The Stewardship Committee is holding the entire parish in prayer as we begin the Stewardship Season for the upcoming calendar year 2024. Pledge packets are being mailed out during the month of October. If you do not receive one by October 31, please email Kristi Leger or call (850) 222-2636 ext. 17. Your Stewardship Committee members include: Ben & Sarah Bowersox (Chairs), Lynn Bannister, Graham Demont, Kyle Griffis, Chuck Hinson (Vestry Chair), Jen (Jennifer) Hinson, Kelly Kirby, Jenni Morris, Katie Proctor, Manny (Enmanuel) Stewart-Meza, and Andrew Wiggins.

St. John’s is continuing our new tradition of a shortened pledge season, now happening during the months of October through mid-November. Please prayerfully consider your pledge commitment and let us know by November 15.

You can return your pledge card in the mail, place in the offering plate (in the envelope provided for confidentiality) or try your hand at making your pledge online by logging in to your Realm account!

We know that many people have questions about Stewardship and what it means. How do we engage with Stewardship at St. John’s and in our own lives? Join us during the month October at one of our Gratitude Gatherings to enjoy each other’s company and to visit with Father Lonnie to learn more about Stewardship and the impact it makes in our lives and our community.

These gatherings will take place from 5:30-7:00 PM and will begin with fellowship and light hors d’oeuvres followed by a conversation with Father Lonnie. Conversation will touch on new beginnings in our church, the renewal of our spirit of giving, and the role stewardship plays in the vision of our church.

We hope to see you there. All are invited, but we ask that you kindly RSVP to help our hosts plan accordingly. Choose the gathering that is most convenient for you, simply click on one of the links below.

October 16, 5:30-7 PM at the home of Jim & Laurye Messer

October 23, 5:30-7 PM at St. John’s – join us for Chorister Evensong!

October 30, 5:30 – 7 PM at the home of Chuck & Jen Hinson

The St. John’s Stewardship Committee is looking forward to a joyful and generous stewardship season with you!

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While this annual holiday bazaar is a popular fellowship and community-building event, it is also one of St. John’s largest outreach projects. Market proceeds support both parish ministries and community organizations. Each year, 50 percent of the money raised at our annual Market is designated for outreach and is awarded to organizations that address a current critical need in the community. The grants can be used for supplies, educational materials, equipment, or infrastructure for non-profit organizations. Past market grants have been awarded to agencies such as the Alzheimer’s Project, Big Bend Hospice, Boy’s Town North Florida, Elder Care Services, Habitat for Humanity, The Kearney Center, Second Harvest, Grace Mission, Oasis Center for Women & Girls, Tallahassee Bail Fund, and more.

This year’s deadline for grant submissions is November 18, 2024. Notification of grant awards will be made the week before Christmas and checks will be cut and mailed before December 31, 2024.

Please direct all questions about Market Grants to Holly Sinco, Administrator for the Clergy & Engagement.

The post 2024 Market Grant Applications Available appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Adult Sunday School (September to December 2024)

This program year, St. John’s offers a variety of Sunday School offerings. From dedicated prayer groups, to lectionary discussion, to diving right into Paul’s letters: we want to give everyone the chance to try something new and grow deeper in their Christian lives. Below you will find descriptions, dates, times, and locations of the classes offered until we break for Christmas.

Year-Round Gatherings

Lectionary/Sermon Discussion Group
9 AM and 11:30 AM, Rutledge Room
9 AM led by Betty Lou Joanos and Frances Hart
11:30 AM led by Marda Messick and Erik Salsgiver
Have you ever walked out of church wishing to dig even deeper into the scriptures and sermon of the day? Join us on Sundays after each service to further unpack the wisdom and insights revealed during the church service.

Prayer Group
9 AM, Rear of the Nave
Led by Meagan Owens
When it comes to intercessory prayer, there’s no better way to learn than by doing. This group will meet on Sunday mornings between the church services to pray for our leaders, members, and world.

Walk in Love: An Episcopal 101
11:30 AM, Killeen Hall and YouTube
Led by Jonathan Jackson, Mike Stewart-Meza, and Sarah Michael Trupiano
Take a journey through The Book of Common Prayer to learn what we believe, why we do what we do, and how it all shapes who we are as Episcopalians. Using the book Walk in Love by Scott Gunn and Melody Wilson Shobe, this class is perfect for newcomers and longtimers alike. This class will be recorded and posted online. Click here to purchase the book.

Beginning September 22

The Gospel of John
9 AM, Killeen Hall
Led by Jen Hinson and Bo Shippen
John’s Gospel is full of intriguing language—of being born anew, of living water, of wind and spirit, of the “I Am”—that enhances how we understand the Divine, experience the world, and participate in the mystery of faith. Using Amy-Jill Levine’s The Gospel of John, we’ll deep-dive into this unique gospel to unpack all its riches for today. Click here to purchase the book. (Runs Sep. 22 – Nov. 3)

Teach Me to Pray
11:30 AM, Carter Chapel
Led by rotating facilitators
Are you unsure of how to pray? This class will explore multiple types of Christian prayer and will give practical applications for a full and fruitful personal prayer life. Journaling, prayer beads, and more are on offer. There’s truly something for everyone. (Runs Sep. 22 – Oct. 27)

Beginning November 10

Richard Rohr: The Work of the People
9 AM, Killeen Hall
Facilitator TBD
Richard Rohr is a globally recognized ecumenical teacher bearing witness to the universal awakening within mystical and transformational traditions. His video series “Work of the People” is perfect for anyone who seeks meaning and direction in their spiritual journey. We will enjoy the films together and then discuss the direct implications and lessons for our lives. (Runs Nov. 10 – Dec. 22)

Paul’s Perplexing Passages
11:30 AM, Carter Chapel
Led by Fr. Lonnie Lacy
Many modern-day Christians struggle with the writings of the Apostle Paul, especially his passages on women, marriage, slavery, government, and homosexuality. A closer look, however, reveals that Paul was a progressive pastor far ahead of his time. Join Fr. Lonnie for this six-week class exploring the social, cultural, political, and religious contexts behind Paul’s most difficult passages. Together, we’ll learn how the writings of this 2,000-year-old curmudgeonly saint still offer abundant grace for people today. (Runs Nov. 10 – Dec. 22)

Adult Sunday School Schedule (Click the image to download a pdf of the schedule)

Children’s Sunday School (September 2024 – April 2025)

Children in PreK-5th grades are invited to join us from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM for weekly Christian formation. This year, 4 classes (PK/K, 1st, 2nd/3rd grades, and 4th/5th grades) will meet weekly through April 27. Activities take place upstairs in the Sunday School wing.

Here’s what we’ll be learning!

PK/K: Godly Play– This nurturing approach honors the unique competencies and capacities of early childhood. Students’ innate spirituality will be engaged, and their growing use of religious language will be nourished as they make meaning from Biblical stories through a creative process of self-discovery.

1^st: Festal Eucharist– Students will participate in a special curriculum created right here at St. John’s to prepare our first-grade children for worship in the Episcopal tradition. They will focus on Worship, Holy Baptism, Christian Giving and The Holy Eucharist culminating with the Festal Eucharist in May.

2^nd/3^rd & 4^th/5^th: StoryMakers- Upper elementary students will become StoryMakers and use their imaginations to enter God’s story. They will engage with Biblical stories through creative visual arts, interactive storytelling, field notes, fun facts, thoughts to ponder, and hands-on activities. They will experience stories of The Promised Land, Isaiah, Advent, Lent, and Easter.

Middle School Sunday School (September 2024 – April 2025)

Middle-schoolers (6-8 grade) are invited to join us from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM for weekly Christian formation in the Sunday School wing. 

Middle school students will become StoryMakers to express their questions, discoveries, and creativity as they explore the deep theological truths and faith in God. They will walk through the Signs of Grace—baptism and Communion—which contain the tangible means they can hang on to when all seems lost, and the Lord’s Prayer, which assures us we have been given the title of heirs—adopted into God’s kingdom and claimed as his own.

Families are asked to complete Sunday School registration form online for the year using the link below. Any questions, please contact Tyree Jordan, Director of Youth & Families.

Click here to register.

Youth Sunday School (September 2024 – April 2025)

High school Sunday programing this year revolves around loving God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. Students will rotate through four themes each month with the Wellness Compass, the Prayer Book, Global Philanthropy Leaders (and other special topics), and a movement-based class. Students will also have the option to use the time for personal reflection or preparation on any or all Sundays. Students are welcomed AND encouraged to bring their homework with them on Sundays. They may use this time to prepare for the week ahead and get on top of any assignments.

We hope you join us for this Sacred Space on Sundays.

Families are asked to complete Sunday School registration form online for the year using the link below. Any questions, please contact Tyree Jordan, Director of Youth & Families.

Click here to register.

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We wanted to give everyone a quick refresher on how to get logged on to Realm, as well as introduce a new function: Entering your Skills and Interests. If you have any questions, please contact Claire Dodd.

You can log on to Realm by clicking here.

Skills & Interests: Why This Is Important

We believe that everyone is unique. We all have time and talents that we wish to share with everyone. St. John’s would love to know where your passion lies and what you feel called to do. Through Realm’s Skills & Interests function, St. John’s can help you identify those areas where you would like to serve most. There is a place for everyone and adding your skills and interests to your profile will not only help St. John’s serving teams find YOU, but YOU find St. John’s serving teams! For example, do you love the way the altar looks on a Sunday morning? Do you have a gift or a “Skill” for organization and cleaning? Perhaps the Altar Guild Ministry is the “Interest” for you.

At St. John’s, we believe everyone should have a ministry, but don’t let that intimidate you. At its core, “ministry” is simply anything we do to extend God’s love beyond ourselves. Ministry can be behind-the-scenes or out-front. It can happen one-on-one or in a crowd. It can take place at church, in the community, or even in your own home. There are infinite ways to serve God. What’s yours?

You can log onto Realm by clicking here. Follow the instructions below to enter your Skills & Interests.

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Due to the fact that the Episcopal Diocese of Florida’s Annual Diocesan Convention was postponed from January 2024 to September 21, 2024, we were unable to post St. John’s slate of convention delegate nominees. During worship on Sunday, September 22, Fr. Lonnie and our current delegates will share news about the convention, which will have been held the day before. Following this update, we will open voting for our new convention delegates who will attend the 2025 and 2026 Annual Diocesan Conventions.

Below is the slate of parishioners prepared by your vestry nominating committee in the fall of 2024. We appreciate these individuals’ ongoing commitment to St. John’s and the time and talent they share through parish ministry.

Stay tuned! St. John’s will still hold a parish meeting in February to elect new church vestry members, and we will most likely elect additional delegates to attend the 2026 and 2027 Annual Diocesan Conventions. That slate of nominees will be published in December.

CONVENTION DELEGATE VOTING:

This fall, you will be asked to vote for two candidates. The two individuals who receive the most votes will be our new convention delegates, and the two nominees who receives the second most votes will serve as alternates. ONE BALLOT will be accepted per email address. Remember, only “members in good standing” (see definition below) are invited to vote on this slate.

2024 SLATE OF CANDIDATES:

Gene Adams

I am currently an attorney with Pennington P.A., Attorneys, in Tallahassee. I am married to Susan Adams.

I currently serve as an usher at St. Johns. I also serve on the Property Committee and also served on the Search Committee to Select Father Lonnie as the  new priest after the resignation of Father  Killeen. I formerly served on St. John’s Vestry, a two-year term as  Junior Warden, and  with Susan as Stewardship Committee Chair. I have previously served as a member of the Finance Committee of St. John’s and as Chair of the Discernment Committee for Gray Hodsdon seeking Diocesan sponsorship to attend seminary and become a priest. Susan and I have attended St. John’s for over 24 years. I am a Past Board Chair of Ronald McDonald House Charities in Tallahassee and enjoy reading history and biographies.

Kristina Nilsson

A lifelong Episcopalian, previous to my St. John’s membership (as of 2021; my grandchildren were baptized here the following year), I have been a member of parishes in Minnesota and Massachusetts. Glad always to serve the Church in whatever capacity I’m called to do so, I have enjoyed the camaraderie, education and service opportunities that have come of my involvement at St. John’s, as part of the tower bell-ringing crew, as a member of the altar guild, as a Eucharistic Minister and lay reader, and as a violinist — when instrumental music is needed. I have garnered spiritual enrichment from the Sunday adult education offerings, from the Friday noon book discussions (zoom) — most recently, of C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, and from participation in one of the parish’s “small groups” (ours is dubbed “The Shepherds”) dinner/discussion gatherings. I’ve appreciated expanding my acquaintance with other members of every generation, through SPUDS and other social occasions at St. John’s, and I am in awe of the “something-for-everybody” nature of the many activities available at this parish. I feel strongly that God destined me to be here, and I embrace St. John’s as my Christian home.

Mary Byrd Sims

I am from a multi-generation St. John’s family, and was baptized and confirmed here before attending Sewanee with my husband, Ramsay. We returned to Tallahassee and rejoined this parish in 2004 with our daughters, Melissa and Holly (former choristers, acolytes and Quito team members). Since that time I have served twice on the Vestry, and found myself involved as Youth Director Search Committee Chair, Nominating Chair, the original Youth BEAT Co-chair, Parish Retreat Co-chair and the HVAC Fundraising Committee Co-chair. I have enjoyed serving alongside many of you at the Lively Café, Sunday School, VBS, Parish Life events, various Youth activities, as well as Adult Formation. It is truly a privilege to be able to faithfully serve and worship among family and friends at St. John’s.

Greg Springer

I love St. John’s. I was confirmed in the Episcopal Church in 2009 at St. Andrew’s Cathedral (Jackson, Mississippi), and I joined St. John’s when I moved to Tallahassee in 2018 with my partner Jonathan Jackson. I remain active at St. John’s through music and worship, singing with the Adult Choir on Sunday mornings and the Compline Choir on Sunday evenings. I also participate in various ministries and programs throughout the year (e.g., the Greeter Ministry, Invite Welcome Connect Ministry, Men’s Bible Study, Integrity Tallahassee, St. John’s Choir School Advisory Board, Growing in Grace class discussion leader, Education for Ministry program), and I completed a term on the Vestry in 2023. It would be an honor to represent St. John’s as a delegate at Diocesan Convention during this important time in the Diocese of Florida.

Voting is now closed!

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What began as an idea while visiting the Episcopal Parish Network Conference in 2023 turned into a parish-wide Year of the Bible supported by The Saint John’s Bible‘s beautiful illuminations and history. St. John’s is so grateful for the opportunity to house the Gospels and Acts Volume this past year. We will now send it on its way back to Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. Whether on the road or at home on our church campus, The Saint John’s Bible brought beauty and inspiration to our community since September 2023.

Our dedicated docents took The Saint John’s Bible to schools, churches, community groups, book clubs, the State Capitol, and parishioner homes. Not to mention using it to read the Gospel nearly every Sunday this year. Thank you to all our docents, vergers, acolytes, church staff, and leadership for their hard work ensuring that our brothers and sisters in Christ heard about the Bible’s history and saw the beautiful illuminations up close.

Along the way, we collected several of our favorite facts about The Saint John’s Bible. Did you know…

• The SJB is the first handwritten illuminated Bible of its scale in over 500 years.
• The translation of this Bible is the Catholic Edition of New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).
• The NRSV was chosen because of its wide use among Christian denominations.
• Each full page of calligraphy took approximately 8 to 12 hours
• A Jewish scribe drew the Hebrew script.
• Six artists created over 160 major illuminations.
• Six calligraphers hand wrote all 1,150 pages on approximately 300 sheets of calfskin vellum.
• While God is never depicted in the Bible, gold leaf is used to represent him in the illuminations. Since humans were made in the image of God, the gold leaf’s reflective properties add a meaningful weight to the artwork.
• In order to share The Saint John’s Bible with the world, Saint John’s asked Donald Jackson to direct the creation of the Heritage Edition.
• The Heritage Edition is the only full-scale, illuminated, fine art edition of the Bible.
• Limited to only 299 seven-volume sets, Mr. Jackson’s goal was to make the Heritage Edition “true to the artistic intent of the original.”
• No two Heritage Editions are identical because many illuminations required hand treatments by the Scriptorium’s studio manager, Sarah Harris.

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Small Groups are back for the 2024-25 program year and it’s time to sign up!

In times of need and times of fun, small groups are a source of friendship and support. They are also a great place for spiritual growth. Your small group will receive a discussion prompt each month to think about and share with one another.

• Small Groups are made up of eight to 12 individuals or a few couples, that gather monthly for conversation around a topic, fellowship, and prayer.
• Small group facilitators will guide the group in selecting a meeting time and location once groups are formed.
• We encourage people who have participated before and those who are looking to meet new people to sign up.

We know that finding the time and the space to meet can be difficult. If you would like to use any of St. John’s meeting rooms, that can be arranged. Call the front office for more details.

The small groups that are forming now will meet through May 2025. If you prefer online-only gatherings, please indicate that on the sign-up form below. All participants need to fill out a new form for the 2024-25 program year. There is a section on the form for you to list others you would like to be in your small group or to list your partner if you are a couple signing up together.

If you have any questions about St. John’s Small Groups, please contact Claire Dodd.

*After you complete this form, make sure you press “submit” to record your response!

Sign-ups are now closed.

The post Join a Small Group! appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Sharpen your pencils… school is almost back in session! St. John’s Episcopal Church has supported our partner school, Riley Elementary, for years with mentoring, volunteerism, teacher recognition, and more. We plan to do the same this year by helping the student body start the year with all the items they need to learn and succeed!

You can help by purchasing school supplies and dropping them off at church by Monday, August 5. There will be a collection box in the Calhoun Street lobby near the church office.

Riley administrators have identified the most-needed items:

• #2 PENCILS
• TICONDEROGA PENCILS
• BIG PINK ERASERS
• PLASTIC PENCIL BOXES
• DRY ERASE MARKERS & BOARD ERASERS FOR STUDENTS
• PERSONAL DRY ERASE BOARDS
• HEADPHONES (BIG, STURDY ONES)
• CRAYONS (24 COUNT) OR JUMBO SIZE
• COLORED PENCILS
• HIGHLIGHTERS
• MARKERS
• BLUE AND RED PENS
• SHARPIES
• WHITE OUT
• FOLDERS WITH POCKETS AND PRONGS
• 1/2-INCH BINDERS (WHITE AND BLACK)
• 1 INCH BINDERS
• 5 INCH BINDERS
• WIDE-RULED NOTEBOOK PAPER
• CONSTRUCTION PAPER
• POST-IT NOTES
• COMPOSITION NOTEBOOKS
• COLORED PRINTER PAPER
• RULERS
• PROTRACTORS
• GLUE STICKS
• STAPLES
• PAPER CLIPS
• BINDER CLIPS
• ROLLS OF TAPE
• INDEX CARDS
• DICTIONARIES
• HAND SANITIZER
• LYSOL SPRAY
• DISINFECTANT WIPES
• KLEENEX BOXES
• ZIPLOC BAGS (SANDWICH, QUART, AND GALLON)

All items collected will be provided to students at John G. Riley Elementary by coordinators from our “Lend a Hand” program, who will ensure the items are delivered before the start of the school year.

If you wish to make a monetary donation to the program instead, please do so by check, ATTN: Nancy Barfield (note “Riley” or “school supplies” in the memo line). You can also MAKE A DONATION ONLINE by selecting “pass thru” from the drop-down menu and indicating this is a “Riley/school supplies” donation.

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING OR MENTORING?

Leon County Schools is always looking for new mentors and adult volunteers.

St. John’s home school is Riley Elementary, but you can serve at the Leon County school of your choice. If you would like to assist in a classroom, mentor a child for one hour a week, or volunteer in any capacity, please fill out the Leon County Schools Volunteer Application. New volunteers will need to complete background screening and fingerprinting (free of charge) and training IS also available! Whether you are new or whether you volunteer currently, a volunteer application is required annually and will be valid from the date of completion through June 30, 2025.

Questions? Please EMAIL WENDY ERNST our Mentoring Program and “Lend a Hand” Program Co-Chair.

The post 2024 Riley School Supply Drive appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

WHO IT IMPACTS: Through the GPL program, Youth are entrusted with church funds to make micro-loans (through kiva.org) and positively impact people in the US and around the world.

WHAT YOU LEARN: Using scripture and group discussion, we consider “who is our neighbor?” and how can we share God’s abundance by investing in others. Additionally, Youth learn about risk, diversification, barriers to capital, and debt. They acquire a basic understanding of loans, what life is like for the poorest of the poor, and what kinds of programs do and don’t help. They also learn the difference between spending one’s own money and being entrusted with the responsibility of being good stewards of church funds. Youth involved in GPL take on leadership roles, deepen their faith, and work together to create a final presentation for the parish.

PROGRAM LEADERS: GPL is led by Stephanie Amidon (lay leader) and Youth Ministry leaders, along with parishioners and professionals from the Tallahassee community in the fields of education, finance, government, economics, biology, and technology: Ben Bowersox, Austin Carroll, Jeff Couch, JR Saginario, and Bo Shippen.

COURSES OFFERED: All new students must first attend the “Year 1” session. Returning students will have the option of continuing with our “Year 2” curriculum or advancing to our “Year 3” offering.

• Year 1: global philanthropy, micro-loans, personal finance, global poverty, and hunger
• Year 2: economic impact of racism in America
• Year 3: creation care – investing in a sustainable future

TIME COMMITMENT: We ask that Youth commit to attending ALL sessions on the following dates. Gatherings will be held from 12:30 to 2:30 PM on Sundays, unless otherwise indicated:

• September 22, 2024
• October 3, 2024 (Thursday at 6 PM) – Dinner & Movie
• October 27, 2024
• November 17, 2024
• December 15, 2024
• January 26, 2025
• February 23, 2025
• March 30, 2025
• April 27, 2025 – Parish Presentation during Coffee & Connection Hour

FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION: Upon acceptance into GPL, we request that all first-year students contribute $25 at the first Sunday session, preferably from their own savings/earnings to combine with funds provided by St. John’s to make loans. This by no means should be a barrier for anyone, need-based scholarships will be available upon request. Returning students will invest with accumulated loan repayments.

Use the form below to apply for the 2024-25 Global Philanthropy Leaders program. Applications will be accepted through 7/31/24. Please contact Stephanie Amidon with questions regarding GPL or the application process.

The post GPL Enters 5th Year! appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

We have compiled a list of resources that help explain what General Convention is and why it matters to us. There is also a link to the Diocese of Florida’s website listing all of our clergy deputies and laity deputies who will be attending General Convention.

Why does the General Convention matter?

The Episcopal Diocese of Washington has a fantastic breakdown of the General Convention’s structure and it’s impact on churches. Click here for more information.

What are the legislative issues being discussed?

Well, quite a few resolutions have been submitted. The General Convention has created a “virtual binder” detailing everything. Click here to view the binder.

What is the most exciting action happening at General Convention?

This year there will be an election for a new presiding bishop. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry comes to the end of his term this year and the General Convention will elect our next presiding bishop. Click here to see the nominees.

Who from the Diocese of Florida is attending?

The Right Reverend Scott Benhase will be attending, along with clergy and laity deputies. Click here to see the full list.

How can I keep up to date with the General Convention?

The General Convention has newsletters you can sign up to receive and the convention will also be livestreamed.

To livestream the House of Bishops – click here.
To livestream the House of Deputies – click here.

The post The 81st General Convention and why it matters appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Jesus says to us, “Serve one another as I have served you.” As a part of our faith, we are called to serve with the talents that God has given us. Each summer, St. John’s Youth Ministry provides opportunities for middle and high schoolers to learn about service, guided by adults who have vowed to love and support them along their faith journey.

Consider joining St. John’s this summer for one of our youth service opportunities. We hope participating youth will then take what they have learned and apply it to their everyday lives: serving others in their schools, at church, and even in their own homes.

Every summer since 2014, St. John’s has offered a way for youth to come together and serve in our community. Youth B.E.A.T, which stands for Youth Being Extraordinary Around Tallahassee, has sent young people to a variety of partnering organizations over the years, ranging from homeless shelters and food banks to nursing homes and schools. This summer, we will be offering Youth B.E.A.T. service opportunities. Follow the link for more detailed descriptions. More opportunities are on the way!

ST. JOHN’S VBS

WEEK OF JUNE 24-28
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

St. John’s Vacation Bible School is headed to Camp Firelight… and we need volunteers! This year, VBS will be held in the evening, for rising PK4 through rising 5th graders, and will feature discovery, arts & crafts, stories, and mission projects. However, this week is not possible without adult volunteers and our amazing youth helpers. Share your contact information on our volunteer form (link below), and we’ll put you to work helping our adult volunteers shepherd groups of children around campus or assisting with activities during VBS week.

Volunteer Age: Rising grades 6-12
Time: 5 to 8 PM
Service Hours: 15 hours

SECOND HARVEST

TUESDAY, JULY 2 & TUESDAY, JULY 9
SERVING AT SECOND HARVEST
Join us to help Second Harvest pack produce that will be distributed to the many food insecure families in our area. Second Harvest is doing all they can to help families have regular, healthy meals. Let’s help them out!

We’ll meet at St. John’s at 11:30 AM for lunch, then head to Second Harvest to start serving at 1 PM. When our shift is finished, we’ll head back to St. John’s for snacks and chance to talk about our afternoon. Youth can be picked up at 4 PM from St. John’s. Transportation from St. John’s to Second Harvest will be provided. If you would like to help volunteer to transport youth, please tick yes in the additional questions below.

NOTE: Second Harvest will need everyone attending (adults & children) to sign up beforehand for whichever date they will be attending via the link found in your confirmation email. Once you click the link, you will be directed to create an account (or sign into an existing account) and then you will be able to view the calendar and sign up for the shift (Tuesday, July 2, 1-3 PM AND/OR Tuesday, July 9, 1-3 PM) and see more details. Your accounts will also include Second Harvest’s online waivers. Everyone volunteering must have an account and sign up ahead of time. Closed-toed shoes are required and comfortable clothing is encouraged.

Volunteer Age: Rising grades 6-12 (youth must be at least 13 years old)
Time: 11:30 AM to 4 PM
Service Hours: 3 hours

KEARNEY CENTER

THURSDAY, JULY 25
SERVING AT THE KEARNEY CENTER
Join us for an evening of serving meals to our neighbors at Tallahassee’s homeless shelter. St. John’s assists with dinner service twice a month at The Kearney Center, where those experiencing homelessness can come for daily meals, shelter, and comprehensive emergency services. Our team will relieve the parishioners who typically volunteer on the 4th Thursday. We’ll serve meals, fill beverage cups, distribute cutlery, bus tables, and get to know the guests. Drop-off will take place at The Kearney Center, where we will meet as a group before heading in to serve. Pick-up at the same spot.

Volunteer Age: Rising grades 6-12 (youth must be at least 13 years old)
Time: 5 to 7:30 PM
Service Hours: 2.5 hours

GRACE MISSION

TUESDAY, JULY 30
SERVING AT GRACE MISSION

Join us to help Grace Mission with some cleaning, organizing, and gardening. Grace Mission is doing all they can to help feed the hungry, clothe the needy, and heal the sick. Let’s help them out!

We’ll meet at St. John’s at 11:30 AM for lunch, then head to Grace Mission to start serving at 1 PM. When our shift is finished, we’ll head back to St. John’s for snacks and chance to talk about our afternoon. Youth can be picked up at 4 PM from St. John’s. Transportation from St. John’s to Grace Mission will be provided. If you would like to help volunteer to transport youth, please tick yes in the additional questions below.

Volunteer Age: Rising grades 6-12 (youth must be at least 13 years old)
Time: 11:30 AM to 4 PM
Service Hours: 3 hours

ST. JOHN’S CEMETERY

MONDAY, AUGUST 5
HELP TIDY THE ST. JOHN’S CEMETERY

Volunteer with the Diggers for our final BEAT activity of the summer. This is an opportunity to experience how some amazing Tallahassee history connects to our lives today and help preserve this story as the future unfolds. Wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a water bottle and a snack, too!

Volunteer Age: Rising grades 6-12 (youth must be at least 13 years old)
Time: 8:30 TO 11:30 AM
Service Hours: 3 hours

The post 2024 Summer Youth Service Opportunities appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Dear St. John’s,

I am pleased to announce that after a long and thorough search, we have called a new Director of Youth & Family Ministries.

Tyree Jordan comes to us with a wealth of experience with young people and a deep, abiding faith. Having spent most of his career as a middle school educator, he truly understands the complexity of what young people face in today’s world and what it means to mentor and form them in positive ways as they grow. Creative, insightful, relatable, and kind, Tyree will be a wonderful addition to our St. John’s team.

Tyree begins at St. John’s on June 1.

The Director of Youth & Family Ministries is more than a “youth minister.” This role is meant to oversee, organize, and support the many ministries we offer our young people at St. John’s, from birth to graduation. While Tyree will work directly with our teens to build faith and community, he will also recruit, organize, and support the many adult volunteers and programs it takes to love our children and form them spiritually.

Our rigorous discernment process included two applicants; was overseen by Corinna Strayer, Steve Rogers, Kelly Kibbey Smith, and Mtr. Leslie;  and included multiple interviews with several other adults and youth from St. John’s. Thank you so much to all who dedicated your time to this process!

Grace and peace,

The Rev. Lonnie Lacy

ABOUT TYREE: Tyree and his wife, Heather, were married right here at St. John’s almost exactly 16 years ago. They have two wonderful kids, Carolina and Tiago. The whole family is excited to be back in their hometown surrounded by relatives and friends.

Tyree has been a teacher for 15 years (mostly middle school science and math) in and around Tallahassee but also New Orleans, Nashville, and Luanda. He considers himself a lifelong learner and has studied philosophy at Florida State and education at Vanderbilt. Tyree believes that we are all on a sacred journey and that St. John’s is a fantastic place to experience what it means to be a follower of Jesus. He looks forward to deepening his relationships with the youth and families of our community and working together to support our growth in faith, hope, and love. In his free time, Tyree enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time outside. (You might remember he received a Chef’s Choice Honorable Mention at this year’s Chili Cook-Off!)

Tyree invites everyone to participate in this ministry so we can all benefit from each other’s experience.

The post Welcome, Tyree Jordan! appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

St. John’s Vacation Bible School is up and ready to go!

This year, VBS will be held in the evening from 5:30-8:00 PM at St. John’s. Our 2024 theme, “Camp Firelight,” centers around God’s presence in the lives of children. Through arts & crafts, stories, discovery, and mission, camp leaders will serve rising PK4 through rising 5th graders. There is NO charge for children to attend VBS!

If you have children or grandchildren who would like to participate, you can register them through our online portal. However, we need helpers to bring VBS to life!

We need VOLUNTEERS to make this year’s VBS a success!

Vacation Bible School is made possible by the service of adult volunteers (of all ages!) and our amazing St. John’s Youth (rising grades 6-12). If you are willing to share your time all week (five evenings from 5-8 PM) or even if you’re available only on select evenings, we need your help. Please share your availability in the form below.

If you have any questions, please email Jay Lacy.

NOTE: We will be happy to award Bright Futures and community service hours to youth volunteers!

The post Volunteer for VBS 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

When someone in our life dies, it affects our entire being. Twice a year, St. John’s offers “Walking the Mourner’s Path,” a six- to eight-week grief support program that is grounded in prayer and reminds us that we are not alone in our grief. In spring 2024, we will once again be offering this program in partnership with Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.

If you have lost a loved one and have walked the path of grief over the past year or years, “Walking the Mourner’s Path” may be what you need. Open to St. John’s and Holy Comforter members and the community alike, the program gathers participants for a series of small-group workshops. It’s different than a Sunday morning faith formation program, but the format allows time for being still together, sharing stories, and seeing where God is in our grief and in our hope.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS:

REGISTRATION INFORMATION (fall 2023):

The spring 2024 series of workshops will be held on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 – 4:30 PM. Gatherings will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Gatherings begin on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 and will be held weekly through Wednesday, June 12, 2024. There is a $65 fee* to cover the cost of the workbook.

You will receive more information after you register, but please feel free to contact Melanie Salsgiver with additional questions or for more details.

*Please note that this cost should not prohibit you from attending. Scholarships are available as needed.

The post Walking the Mourner’s Path – Spring 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

A journey through Holy Week is one that encompasses an entire spectrum of emotions. Our music and liturgy will invite you into moments of both prayerful listening and glorious participation.

Many at St. John’s say that taking part in Holy Week has changed their lives. Easter means more when you’ve made the way of the cross with our Lord. Set this week aside as we experience the full story of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. To help guide you through each of the services offered, we invite you to download our Guide to Holy Week. This guide outlines every step along the way to The Great Vigil of Easter.

The schedule below includes notes about services that will be offered digitally as well as in person, and those that will feature incense as part of the liturgies.

See our online calendar for more information. If you would like to sign up for an hour-long slot during the Gethsemane Watch, click here.

Festive receptions will once again follow the Easter Vigil and all morning offerings on Easter Day. If you would like to assist our Parish Life Reception Committee, please sign up here.

Please join us! Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, St. John’s welcomes you!

The post Holy Week & Easter 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Whether on the road or at home on our church campus, The Saint John’s Bible has been bringing beauty and inspiration to our community since September 2023. The Acts and Gospels volume of The Saint John’s Bible is on loan to St. John’s until late 2024. We can’t wait to share this work of art with more groups, both in our parish and beyond, as we start this new year!

In January and February, our docents were busy sharing the Bible with schools, churches, community groups, book clubs, the State Capitol, plus a two-day visit with Tim Ternes, the Director of The Saint john’s Bible. We love that our brothers and sisters in Christ are enjoying hearing about the Bible’s history and seeing the beautiful illuminations up close.

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We continue to hold docent training sessions, so we are equipped to share The Saint John’s Bible with as many groups as possible. Requests have been coming in and connections are being made with area churches and local organizations like schools, civic groups, and more!

To reserve a date to experience The Saint John’s Bible, with your family, small group, class, or community organization, please fill out the form to “Request the Bible.”

The post Where Has the Bible Been (Jan/Feb 2024) appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Have you ever seen a problem and felt like someone should do something about it?  Well, when it was discovered that 1 in 5 children in Leon County struggles with food insecurity, an initiative was submitted to St. John’s Strategic Planning Visioning Day in 2012 and A FULL SUMMER was born!

A FULL SUMMER’s mission is to help local food insecure children.  What started as a meal assembly in Alfriend Hall in 2013 has evolved into a Snack Pack at Godby High School and a mechanism to help sponsor 9 Leon County School food pantries, and underwrite the Hope 24/7 Food Locker monitoring fee at Sabal Palm Elementary.

A FULL SUMMER Snack Pack takes place on Saturday, June 1, at Godby High School from 10 AM – 12 PM. For two hours volunteers from all parts of our community come together to pack nutritious snacks for our local children. Second Harvest of the Big Bend then takes our snacks and distributes them to agencies that provide services to food-insecure children during the summer. You can sign up below to be part of this year’s event!

St. John’s has supported A FULL SUMMER with donations and volunteers since the beginning.  A FULL SUMMER would not exist without the church.  So, we invite you to join us again!

Slots fill up fast, so don’t wait to register!  Get your friends, small groups, Bible study, or anyone you’d like to spend a couple of hours with doing good while having fun!

No child should go hungry.  Together let’s do something to help children who struggle with hunger.

For more information, please visit email Laurye Messer at lauryemesser@gmail.com.

The post A Full Summer 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Easter is a wonderful time to honor loved ones you’ve lost or special people in your life today.

Easter lilies displayed in the church on Easter and music dedications that support our music program are wonderful ways to honor these individuals. All dedications are listed in our Easter bulletins.

Again this year, dedications and donations will be handled digitally through the site that we use to coordinate weekly altar flower dedications. Contribution envelopes are also available in the pews so checks can be dropped in the offering plate. To make your flower or music dedication online, click the button below.

In order to allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Monday, March 18.

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received. 

Need assistance? Contact Deborah Dugger with questions at (850) 222-2636 or deborah@saint-john.org.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

A few helpful tips:

• Click on the Easter flower or music boxes to add the item to your cart.
• If you are dedicating each lily to a separate individual, you add them to your cart and enter the dedication language separately.
• Where prompted, enter the dedication language (“In Memory of” or “In Thanksgiving For”) and the person’s name.
• Add to cart and follow the payment prompts to place your order.

The post Easter Lily & Music Dedications appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

What is Lent?
Lent is the 40-day season of fasting and prayer leading to Easter. The word “Lent” comes from the Old English “lencten,” referring to Spring and the “lengthening” of days that occurs at this time of year. Why 40 days? Because that’s how long our Lord fasted and prayed in the wilderness after his baptism. During this season, our worship adopts a uniquely reflective tone.

What is your role?
This Lent, we invite you to make a pilgrimage of penitence, reflection, silence, and stillness. Lent is a 40 day journey that cannot be rushed. Take your time. Pray with intention. Set your own pace. Pause often. Recognize where Lent is leading you. The destination is the same for us all: Christ’s glorious resurrection. This season is led by Christ’s deep and abiding love for us. We hope during this time you will rediscover the great love that is Jesus Christ. Our pilgrimage will ring with joy when we come together to celebrate at the Great Vigil of Easter.

Lenten Guide 2024

We invite you to download our Lenten Guide by clicking on the image above. Inside we hope you will find ways to engage with prayer and penitence during this season. It is a pilgrimage with many possible stops along the way. A few are listed below.

• WORSHIP: During this season, our worship adopts a uniquely reflective and penitential tone. In place of our typically festive approach to worship, these changes allow us to experience a different side of the Christian life as we journey with Christ to the cross, the grave, and ultimately to resurrection. For other changes you will see and hear, check out this article from Fr. Lonnie.
• PRAY: Lent is a season to devote yourself to prayer. Whether it is following the Daily Office in the Book of Common Prayer, praying for your Lenten Prayer Partner, or simply sitting in reverent silence, set aside time every day this season to pray. Try a different place to pray than usual, like Eve’s Garden or other spaces around the church. For your convenience, there’s even an online version (written or audio format) of The Daily Office.
• DEVOTIONALS: Establish a set time during Lent to read and then sit in silence or prayer. Find Episcopal Relief & Development’s Lenten Meditation Guide online.
• FAST: Fasting is a spiritual discipline that many have practiced throughout the millennia. “Fasting was part and parcel of a communal call on God to act when the odds seemed overwhelming. Fasting was not merely a rite used to ask for forgiveness but a plea to God to help those who couldn’t help themselves.” The Rev. Canon Dana Colley Corsello. If you have health issues, please consult a doctor before fasting.
• RECONCILE: This is a season to stop for self-examination and introspection. It is a time to nourish the yearning to come closer to God. This practice can lead to a need for penitence. The Episcopal Church offers the sacramental rite called Reconciliation of a Penitent, the practice of 1:1 personal confession with a priest. You can read about this in the Book of Common Prayer, p. 861. If you feel the need for personal confession, please consult with our clergy.
• ENGAGE: As we clear our hearts and minds of focusing on ourselves and grow closer to God, we remember those in our community who are in need. Consider giving of yourself to a local non-profit or helping in a new area at St.John’s. Be the hands and feet of Christ for others.
• MAKE SPACE: The tradition of self-denial during Lent is a way to say “no” to what we want and say “yes” to the will of God. The purpose of this self-denial isn’t misery for misery’s sake. It’s for the sake of clearing space for prayer and making our hearts more in tune to the suffering of Christ. People often give up favorite foods, drinks, or bad habits. When you give something up on your Lenten pilgrimage, with what do you fill that space?
• ATTEND COMPLINE: Join us for our weekly Sung Compline service, on Sundays at 7:30 PM. This ancient monastic service is held in the candlelit church, led by clergy and the St. John’s Compline Choir.
• LENTEN EVENTS: St. John’s will have the benefit of special guest speaker Tim Ternes on Feb. 28-29. Tim is a gifted tour guide. His intimate knowledge and enthusiasm for the Bible is both amazing and inspiring. As the Director of The Saint John’s Bible, he travels extensively throughout the year (over 150,000 air miles annually!). Come and let him open your mind and see the Bible with fresh eyes. Tim will join us for four special events during Lent. Additionally, there are several special series and events being offered during Lent. See the list below and check out our calendar for details.
  

Lenten Events

“GET OVER YOURSELF; GOD’S HERE!: A FORTY DAY JOURNEY OF REPENTENCE”: FRIDAY BOOK STUDY
JOIN WEEKLY BY ZOOM | BEGINS FEBRUARY 16
Meets Fridays at 12 PM on Zoom. During Lent, we’ll journey through Lent guided by Dean Kate Moorehead in her book. No registration is required.

A LENTEN MORNING RETREAT
FEBRUARY 28 | 9 AM- 12 PM | REGISTER ONLINE
Join us for a special Lenten mini-retreat entitled: “For She is a Reflection of Eternal Light: Women and Wisdom in The Saint John’s Bible,” led by Tim Ternes. We will travel through the Wisdom books and reflect upon women in the Bible.

EVENSONG & DINNER FOR ALL AGES
FEBRUARY 28 | 5:30 PM
Led by the St. John‘s Choir School, Fr. Lonnie, Mtr. Leslie, and Tim Ternes, this Choral Evensong for children and families will celebrate the feast day of Anna Julia Haywood Cooper, a writer, teacher, and activist. We will focus on the love of learning and how that leads us all to God‘s wisdom. All are welcome to stay for supper!

JOHN’S PROLOGUE
FEBRUARY 29 | 7 AM
Hosted by the Men‘s Bible Study, all are welcome to examine John‘s prologue with guest speaker, Tim Ternes.

AN EVENING OF WORD & IMAGE: GOD’S LOVE STORY FOR HUMANITY
FEBRUARY 29 | 10 AM-12 PM | REGISTER ONLINE
Following a light reception, special guest speaker Tim Ternes will lead us through Visio Divina (a “sacred seeing”) of The Saint John’s Bible as we consider the Bible as God’s never-ending love story for all of humanity.

A LENTEN EVENING OF SOUND & STILLNESS
MARCH 22 | 6 – 8:30 pm | REGISTER ONLINE
Toward the end of your Lenten pilgrimage, The Front Porch invites you to an evening of sound and stillness with a sound bath. Enjoy an oasis of communal peace and quiet as we approach Holy Week.

The post Lenten Guide 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

(Emailed to the parish on 2/5/24. If you are not receiving the weekly eChimes or special parish emails, we invite you to update your information or join the list.)

Thank you all for braving the wind and the rain to attend our Parish Meeting yesterday morning!

Despite the weather, St. John’s celebrated all we accomplished in 2023, and looked forward to what promises to be an amazing 2024. It was also Youth Sunday and we are so grateful to all the youth who helped usher, greet, serve, and so much more.

New Vestry members were also elected. Those election results have now been certified.  

New Vestry members elected for a three-year term are:  

Kathy Bye
Jen Garretson
Chuck Hinson
Sara Beth Shippen
Kelly Kibbey Smith   

Thank you to everyone who agreed to stand for our Vestry slate this year. St. John’s looks forward to 2024 and all the blessings to come.

Click below if you missed the parish meeting or Fr. Lonnie’s state-of-the-parish sermon. Additionally, we invite you to download St. John’s 2023 Annual Report for recaps, shared by ministry leaders.

The post 2024 Vestry Election Results appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Based upon requests from many of our parishioners, this February, your St. John’s Pastoral Care Team will begin offering four support groups. These Phoenix Groups are here to provide support and community during some of the tougher times in our lives. These small groups will meet at St. John’s gathered to support and encourage one another.

Here are the groups to be offered at this time:

Caregivers for Loved Ones with Dementia

Divorce Recovery

Caregivers for Aging Parents

Those Experiencing Recent or Fresh Grief

Please take this quick survey to tell us what days of the week and times of day work best for you. The survey also gives you an opportunity to let us know of other areas of support you’re seeking. While we can’t promise to be able to address those areas this spring, we’d love to incorporate your needs in the future.

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During the 40 days of Lent, we ask that you:

1. Pray for your Lenten Prayer Partner daily.
2. Mail them a card or letter each week – signed “Your Lenten Prayer Partner.” Use St. John’s address as the return address, not your own.
3. On Easter Sunday (3/31), you’ll reveal yourself to your Prayer Partner by leaving a small gift or card for them. These gift tables will be set up in Alfriend Hall at each Easter Sunday service (7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:15 AM). If you’re unable to attend service on, you’re welcome to leave your gift in the front office the week prior. Gifts should cost no more than $10.

This practice is to provide everyone with a sense of comfort and support as well as instill a prayerful practice in ourselves. This is open to everyone of ALL ages, from 3 to 103. Let’s create a community of prayer this Lent as we pray for each other.

If you are interested in being a secret Prayer Partner for someone at St. John’s, please fill out the form below (or fill out a hard copy of the form in the church office) by Friday, February 9. You’ll know your form was successfully submitted when you see a confirmation message. We will be in touch with details about your Lenten Prayer Partner!

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Scholarship amount grows and expands to college students at all levels!

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024 Martha Lee Kuersteiner Scholarship, a $2,000 need- and merit-based award. Members of St. John’s who have successfully completed at least one semester (or equivalent) of college and are known to have participated in worship are eligible to apply. To be considered for this year’s scholarship, completed application packets must be received by April 22, 2024.

Read on for information about the 2024 scholarship award, a list of past recipients, and the story of how St. Mary’s Circle established this scholarship, which is now in its 26th year!

The post St. Mary’s Circle Scholarship – 2024 appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

St. John’s would like to extend a big “Thank you” to our team of market volunteers who baked, knitted, curated, donated, organized, and more! You helped make 2023’s St. John’s Market a wonderful success. The 2023 St. John’s Market took in $27.5K after expenses, which enabled us to award $14.5K in grants to local organizations. The remaining $12.9K will help support St. John’s mission, programs, and ministries.

Congratulations to the 2023 grant recipients, whose projects were selected to receive funding from the St. John’s Market Grants committee, and approved by the church Vestry.

2023 GRANT RECIPIENTS:

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will go towards funding 400 lunches to be served at their Respite Lunch which aims to enhance social interactions and nutritious food.

Visit their website to learn how the Alzheimer’s Project provides comfort, support, and assistance to persons with memory disorders and their caregivers across the Big Bend area.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will go towards helping people access government required documents and identification, employment, and all the essentials needed to assist in their re-entry into the community.

Visit the Big Bend AFTER (A Fight To End Recidivism) Reentry Coalition website to learn more about how they are working to increase public safety and reduce recidivism through collaborating and establishing community partnerships, identifying and providing services to currently and formerly incarcerated people, empowering them to become proactive, self-sufficient members of the community.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help furnish the chapel in their new in-patient hospice program at TMH.

Visit the Big Bend Hospice website to learn how they are positively impacting the way our community experiences serious illness or grief, by supporting individuals and their loved ones in the Big Bend.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help establish a recreational fund for their family home campus which encompasses 28 families.

Visit the Boys Town North Florida website to learn how they help children and families heal and grow in mind, body, and spirit.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund the Blended Lives Project which will help over 3000 Leon County School students learn about ethnic and racial harmony.

Visit the Goodwood Museum & Garden website to learn more about this historical site in Tallahassee.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help fund their first printed yearbooks.

Visit the Havana Magnet School website to learn how they are working to achieve a legacy of developing young minds that utilize critical thinking skills to creatively approach challenges and embrace diversity.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help support school field trips to the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg, FL.

Visit the Holocaust Education Resource Council website to learn how they provide instructional guidance, support and resources for educators who teach the history of the Holocaust, and educational programs that engage the community at-large.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund the KidSafe Look Before You Lock program.

Visit the Lutheran Social Services of North Florida, Inc. website to learn how they operate five very different community outreach programs that share an important commonality… the ability to help those facing hardships stabilize their lives and earn a fresh start.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help replenish the Oasis Center’s emergency closet (clothing, personal items, etc.) to assist single mothers experiencing financial crisis.

Visit the Oasis Center for Women & Girls to learn how their community resource center brings women and girls together to dream, achieve, and thrive.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund their weekly market program which helps supply their students with clothing, backpacks, and self-care items.

Visit the Augusta Raa Arts Magnet Middle School website to learn how they provide an educational setting designed to prepare students to be successful lifelong learners.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund metal enclosures to help quarantine and keep the wild animals safe from disease.

Visit the St. Francis Wildlife Association website to learn how they provide humane care and rehabilitation for orphaned, injured and sick wildlife in North Florida and public education for our community.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help with food distribution of no-cost meals to low-income and food insecure children and families throughout the Big Bend.

Visit the Second Harvest of the Big Bend website to learn how this nonprofit food bank collects and distributes food to hunger-relief charities, and also through specialized programs and mobile food distributions undertaken with community partners.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund the KONG Project which gives each animal specialized attention and enrichment.

Visit the Tallahassee Animal Shelter Foundation website to learn how, through the help of community events and donations, to make a positive difference in the lives of homeless animals.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will help expand the organization’s sheet music library and source instrument part replacements.

Visit the Tallahassee Bach Parley website to learn more about this organization that provides concerts to the community and music education through the Bach Parley String Academy.

The grant awarded by the St. John’s Market will fund 20 post-release care packages designed for those who have limited financial resources, housing instability, and health issues.

Visit the Tallahassee Bail Fund website to learn about their mission to pay bail for those who cannot afford it.

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Whether on the road or at home on our church campus, The Saint John’s Bible has been bringing beauty and inspiration to our community since September 2023. The Acts and Gospels volume of The Saint John’s Bible has been is on loan to St. John’s until late 2024. We can’t wait to share this work of art with more groups, both in our parish and beyond, as we start this new year!

In November and December, our docents were busy sharing the Bible with schools, churches, community groups, and even visitors to St. John’s Lively Cafe. We love that our brothers and sisters in Christ are enjoying hearing about the Bible’s history and seeing the beautiful illuminations up close.

We continue to hold docent training sessions, so we are equipped to share The Saint John’s Bible with as many groups as possible. Requests have been coming in and connections are being made with area churches and local organizations like schools, civic groups, and more! We’ve even calendared several special events inspired by The Saint John’s Bible.

To reserve a date to experience The Saint John’s Bible, with your family, small group, class, or community organization, please fill out the form to “Request the Bible.”

The post Where Has the Bible Been (Nov/Dec 2023) appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

St. John’s will be hold our Parish Meeting on Sunday, February 4, following our 10 AM Holy Eucharist. Children’s activities will be provided for PreK-5th graders. If you are joining us online, simply stay on the worship feed. Those attending in person are invited to enjoy fellowship at a parish lunch after the meeting. / We also invite you to download St. John’s 2023 Annual Report so you can follow along at our parish meeting.

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED.

We invite you to get to know the candidates who have been nominated this year for our St. John’s Vestry. We appreciate their ongoing commitment to our parish and are grateful for the time and talent they regularly share through ministry. See below our 2024 slate of nominees.

Please vote for five candidates. Remember, only “members in good standing” (see definition below) are invited to vote on the 2024 slate.

2024 SLATE OF CANDIDATES:

BRIAN ARSENAULT

Brian Arsenault was raised Roman Catholic in Massachusetts and moved to Tallahassee in 1998 to attend FSU. In 2015, after 22 years of not attending any church, he joined the St. John’s Choir in search of community. His wife Valerie joined St. John’s that same year, and they were both received into the Episcopal Church in 2016.

At St. John’s, in addition to choir, Brian has been involved as Welcome Committee Chair, Compline Choir member, Evensong Officiant, member of the Discernment Committee for a candidate seeking Holy Orders, Communications Advisory Board member, Parish Profile Committee member, and member of the 2021-22 Rector Search Committee. This Fall he began attending the Education for Ministry program.

Brian is a Faculty Librarian at FSU’s Strozier Library where he is the lead developer for a National Institutes of Health-funded online repository of learning and development research data. Outside of work, he performs on viola and sings with the Tallahassee Bach Parley and other groups in the area. He is also a regular retreatant to the Society of Saint John the Evangelist monastery in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

In his service at St. John’s as well as at the university, he strives, with God’s help, for justice and peace among all people and to respect the dignity of every human being. If chosen for the Vestry, Brian will prayerfully serve this church community that he loves.

LISA ASKINS

Lisa Askins was raised in Winter Park, Florida and moved to Tallahassee in 2010. Lisa was raised a United Methodist until she and her husband, Jeff, decided to move their membership to St. John’s in 2019. Lisa’s home church in Winter Park was much more formal, and with time was beginning to miss the formal liturgy which is part of what brought them to St. John’s as well as the welcoming community.

Lisa serves as the chair of the Angel Food Ministry. She and Jeff are past chairs of the Stewardship Campaign. They both enjoy participating in the SPUDS ministry and various activities within the life of the church.

Lisa’s husband Jeff is a Financial Advisor with Synovus Bank and she has the unique job of being his assistant. Lisa and Jeff both love the St. John’s community and are so grateful to be here. Lisa has always been involved in her local church as well as the church at large, she believes being a member of a church community is the giving of your gifts as well as the giving of your time and talents.

KATHY BYE

Kathy Bye has been a lifelong Episcopalian and has been a member of St. John’s since 1996. She has served on St. John’s vestry and served as senior warden in 2011. In 2016, Kathy served on the leadership team for the most recent capital campaign. She has served as chair of two discernment committees for parishioners seeking to understand and respond to God’s calling to the ministry. She has helped with the wedding committee and served as director for 10 years. She is a regular volunteer in the Lively Café and served on the grant committee for the Market. Kathy is a member of St. Mary’s Circle.

Kathy and her husband, Ray, and two children moved to Tallahassee from Washington, DC in 1995. Before moving to Tallahassee, she worked for the US House of Representatives for 23 years. Once in Tallahassee, she worked for the Florida Legislature and Senator Bob Graham. She retired in 2000. Kathy currently serves on the boards of the Tallahassee Symphony and Capital City Country Club. She has served on the boards of the Institute for Nonprofit Innovation and Excellence (INIE), the Oasis Center for Women & Girls, Refuge House, Oleander Garden Circle, and Leadership Tallahassee.

She and Ray, both retired, love to travel, play golf and visit their two children and five grandchildren, all living in the DC area.

Kathy would be honored to serve on the vestry as St. John’s continues to grow in faith and fellowship. She understands the challenges St. John’s faces in the coming years and is committed to supporting the mission and vision of St. John’s in whatever way she can.

GRADY ENLOW

Having grown up in Orlando, Grady Enlow moved to Tallahassee in 1984 to attend graduate school at FSU. He married June Dollar in 2001 and they attended another church in downtown Tallahassee. After living for some years in Sarasota and Thomasville, GA, they returned to Tallahassee in 2018, began attending St. John’s in 2019, and joined in the summer of 2020.

Grady and June sing in the choir and volunteer in other ways, including June teaching yoga and Grady joining a home group for the Capital Area Justice Ministry. Over the years in other churches, Grady has taught Sunday School, delivered sermons, led retreats, and served in music ministry. Currently, June and Grady also assist with the Coffee and Conversation time following the 10:00 service.

Grady has a B.A. in Biblical Studies, an M.B.A., and a doctorate in education. After 25 years in higher education administration, he now serves as Deputy Director for Administration for the Florida Department of Corrections Office of Health Services.

Grady and June feel welcome and loved at St. John’s and look forward to continuing to contribute to this faith community. Grady would be honored to serve his spiritual family at St. John’s by serving on the Vestry.

JEN GARRETSON

Jen Garretson has been a member of St. John’s since April 2017. She moved from Rome, Georgia where she was confirmed at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. She was highly involved at St. Peters and knew she wanted to be a part of a similar community in Tallahassee. She would describe her time at St. Johns as a wonderful experience of creating community with her church family and growing in her faith. She has had the pleasure to serve in a plethora of areas at St. John’s, but she most enjoys the New Baby Ministry, Stewardship Committee, Small Groups, and the Usher Ministry.

Jen is an accountant and a lover of all things spreadsheets. She works as a Business Analyst with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection where her love for numbers and the environment collides. Outside of work, Jen loves creating and learning new things! Always jumping at the opportunity to bake something, start a woodworking project, or travel somewhere new. Jen is excited about the possibility of bringing a different perspective to the St. John’s Vestry and would be honored to serve St. John’s in this role.

CHARLES O. HINSON (CHUCK)

Chuck was born in Thomasville, GA, and raised in Tallahassee where he was a lifelong member of Trinty United Methodist Church. In 2017, Chuck and his wife, Jen, began considering other churches and, after attending a wedding at St. John’s, started attending services. They became members in 2020, and Chuck and Jen joined the Episcopal Church in 2021, with Chuck being confirmed and Jen being received at the beautiful outdoor service at Holy Comforter.

Chuck and Jen soon found ways to serve together by hosting Growing In Grace retreats and acting as small group facilitators. Together, Chuck and Jen are members of the Flower Ministry and, bi-weekly, they make PBJ sandwiches for Grace Mission. Chuck serves as an Usher/Greeter for worship services, weddings, and funerals, and is a member of the St. John’s Diggers team which maintains the church cemetery. He also serves as a docent for The Saint John’s Bible and is a member of the Men’s Bible Study group.

Now retired from a career in government relations, Chuck is ready to give more in service to the St. John’s community. He would be honored to serve on the Vestry.

SARA BETH SHIPPEN

Sara Beth Shippen is honored and thrilled to be considered as a candidate for the Vestry. Sara Beth and her husband, Bo, have raised their four children in the church, spending time with several denominations before settling permanently here at St. John’s. Sara Beth enjoyed visiting St. John’s with her grandparents when she was a child and especially loved the candlelit service on Christmas Eve.

The Shippens have been actively participating in St. John’s worship and fellowship for several years and officially joined the church a little over a year ago. At St. John’s, Sara Beth has served in many capacities including being a volunteer with the youth, a cashier in the Cafe, a member of EfM, and co-chair of the 2022 St. John’s Market. Sara Beth is currently serving on the Stewardship Committee, The Saint John’s Bible steering committee, and is a member of St. Mary’s Circle.

Sara Beth has had the privilege of serving her previous church in various capacities. She has formed two prayer groups, been the moderator of her previous church’s women’s organization, led Bible studies, and chaired a Thanksgiving food drive.

Sara Beth looks forward to serving St. John’s for years to come.

KELLY KIBBEY SMITH

Kelly Kibbey Smith came to Tallahassee to attend FSU in 2009 and never left. She and her husband, Ryan, had visited St. John’s through the years but decided to make it their spiritual home when they got engaged in 2019. In 2020, Mother Abi performed not one, but two wedding ceremonies for them! Kelly and Ryan are co-chairs of the Stewardship Committee this year. Kelly has also been active in the Flower Guild, Small Groups, and Children’s Ministry.

Kelly is a board-certified health care attorney. She serves on the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Board of Governors and is Chair of the Florida Bar’s Government Advocacy Committee. Her greatest achievement is her almost 2-year-old Lawrence Lee (who many of y’all have heard at the 10 AM service). She and Ryan look forward to building their family at St. John’s. In her spare time, she loves hiking with their dogs and experimental baking.

Kelly was born and raised in an Episcopal Church in Fort Myers. She watched her parents, Keith and Lorna Kibbey (now St. John’s members), contribute their time, talents, and treasures to the church. Keith served on the Vestry and Lorna volunteered for seemingly everything else. The parish merged with another and became the nation’s second Lutheran Episcopal congregation. The parish struggled and without several dedicated parishioners, would not have survived. Being a part of the thriving St. John’s community often feels surreal to the Kibbeys. Kelly would be honored to contribute to St. John’s by serving on the Vestry.

MICHAEL STEWART-MEZA

Michael moved from South Florida to Tallahassee in 2011. Coming from a conservative evangelical tradition, he deeply appreciated the welcoming and loving embrace that the Episcopal tradition and St. John’s offered. He visited St. John’s for several years before finally joining as a member in 2018 and was confirmed in 2019. His husband, Enmanuel, joined St. John’s in 2022. The two of them can usually be easily spotted on Sundays because of their matching outfits. They do this as a way to make others smile and to be a visible testimony to visitors that St. John’s is an inclusive church home for all to worship and serve.

At Sunday morning worship services, Michael enjoys serving as a greeter, usher, and Eucharistic Minister. He loves ending his week by attending the Sunday evening Compline service. He serves as a small-group leader and is a student in St. John’s EfM class.

Outside of St. John’s, Michael works for FSU’s Medical Response Unit providing emergency medical training and mentorship to student-responders. Before working at FSU, he worked as a paramedic. Serving the community as a paramedic allowed Michael to comfort and care for people at the most delicate and difficult times in their lives. In addition to working at FSU, he continues to serve as an adjunct EMS instructor at TCC.

Michael has experienced God’s grace, love, and acceptance at St. John’s. He would be honored to now have the opportunity to serve his church family through the Vestry.

ANDREW WIGGINS

Andrew Wiggins moved to Tallahassee from Jacksonville, in 1998, after graduate school at the University of Florida to begin working in public policy. Raised a Southern Baptist, he was drawn to the grace and community offered by the Episcopal tradition. Andrew and his girlfriend Jenni Henderson, a lifelong St. John’s member found their spiritual home at St. John’s. In 2022, Andrew joined St. John’s and further explored his faith and what it means to be Episcopal, he was confirmed by the Bishop in May 2023.

Andrew enjoys serving as a Small Group leader with the purpose of fully exploring our blessed faith and delving into why we believe what we believe and living our faith out daily.

Andrew is the Political Director for the Florida Chamber of Commerce and has more than 25 years of experience in public policy.

His family has truly found a home at St. John’s, and Andrew would be honored to support a faith community that means so much to him through serving on the Vestry.

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Growing in Grace is a spiritual renewal course for adults seeking to become part of the Episcopal Church through confirmation or reception, or for those who simply want to publicly reaffirm their faith. This year, Fr. Lonnie will lead us through “Episcopal 101” over six weeks.

This course will mean something different to each individual. Even if you’ve taken Growing in Grace before, consider joining us again, as this edition will be a unique experience (see schedule below).

Join us on Sunday, January 21, 2024, in Killeen Hall at 12:30 PM for an Open House. Clergy and lay leaders will explain the series further and answer any questions you have about confirmation, reception, and reaffirmation.

Growing in Grace takes place on Sunday afternoons from 2:30-4 PM in Killeen Hall, beginning with an off-campus retreat on Saturday, February 3 from 9 AM to 2 PM. Classes are clergy and lay leader led with small group discussion. We will provide light refreshments.

Registration has now ended, but there is always room in the classes. If you have questions about the confirmation process or would like to join this year’s class, contact Claire Dodd, Director of Communications & Membership.

JANUARY 21:
Growing in Grace Open House | 12:30 PM

February 3:
Growing in Grace Retreat | 9 AM to 2 PM

FEBRUARY 4:
NO CLASS

FEBRUARY 11:
The Episcopal Way | 2:30 to 4 PM
A brief crash-course in church history

FEBRUARY 18:
People of the Book | 2:30 to 4 PM
How we read, believe, and use Scripture

FEBRUARY 25:
NO CLASS

MARCH 3:
Worship | 2:30 to 4 PM
A discussion about sacraments, seasons, and Sundays

MARCH 10:
The Trinitarian Life | 2:30 to 4 PM
What we mean when we talk about the Trinity and why it matters

MARCH 17:
The Apostolate | 2:30 to 4 PM
The next steps for living your faith, plus a behind-the-scenes tour of St. John’s

The post Growing in Grace 2024 and “Episcopal 101” appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Every year, we print poinsettia and music dedications in our Christmas Eve service bulletins. This is a beautiful way to honor friends, family, and loved ones who are living or deceased.

Please submit your dedications online or look for envelopes in the pews and place your donations in the offering basket. To allow time for bulletin preparation, please have your information and contributions submitted by Tuesday, December 12 (EXTENDED THROUGH 12/15!!)

We suggest a $20 donation per dedication, but any amount is gratefully received.

Contact Deborah Dugger with questions at (850) 222-2636 or deborah@saint-john.org.

Thank you for your support of our music and flower ministries.

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Las Posadas (Spanish for “Inns” or “Shelters”) is a tradition that is celebrated chiefly in Latin America, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Cuba, Spain, and by Hispanics in the United States to commemorate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph as they walked from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be registered in the Bethlehem census. As the story goes, baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem in a stable as the couple couldn’t find lodging at an inn because they were all full.

Once again this year, parishioners of all ages are invited to join the St. John’s Children’s Ministry and host the Holy Family during Advent. From the first Sunday of Advent, on December 3, all the way until Christmas Eve, parishioners host figures of Mary and Joseph in their homes as they travel along their way to Bethlehem.

As Mary and Joseph’s stay winds down at one host’s home, that host will accommodate Mary and Joseph’s transportation to the next host’s home until the couple reaches Bethlehem (or rather, back to St. John’s for the 1 PM Christmas Eve service). We’ll provide you with a prayer book and more information on Las Posadas to make this a meaningful experience. And we’ll share the journey with our parish along the way!

Thanks in advance for signing up to host Mary and Joseph this year! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or text Stephen Rogers, our annual Posada Chairperson at 850.510.9039.

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November 2023 is the 10th anniversary of the installation of the Living Waters for the World water treatment system at St. John’s companion church, San Pedro Apóstol in Zorrilla, Cuba. Parishioner Tyler Macmillan will lead a team to Zorrilla from November 7 to 14 to celebrate that anniversary. This will be the first St. John’s team to benefit from the reconfiguration of Zorrilla’s water treatment system, a project that has taken several months to complete.

The original steel platform that held the two elevated 1,500-litre tanks for the system has been suffering from serious rust and degradation. During a visit in early 2023, St. John’s parishioners committed funds to upgrade the system. Our awesome partners in Cuba set about making improvements by building a concrete platform that is much more sturdy and durable.

Our companion parish also built and plumbed a beautiful new bottle-filling station located outside the church’s outdoor meeting space. 

Many thanks to all who contributed to this project, prayed for this project and otherwise supported it. And kudos to the talented individuals from our companion parish who worked on the project. Our team cannot wait to see it in person!

In addition to Tyler, the St. John’s Cuba mission team includes Marissa Hall, Heather Jordan, Brad and Kate Kile, Mother Leslie Roraback, and Francine Walker. Marissa Hall recently attended Clean Water University in Johnsonburg, New Jersey, so she will lead the mission team in providing “refresher” training sessions and children’s activities for our companion parishioners during the November trip.

St. John’s will also bring some much-needed humanitarian aid for our Zorrilla family, including over-the-counter medications and food items. Click the button below to see the list of requested items. Contributions can be dropped off at St. John’s by November 1.

As an alternative to sending in medications, you can make a monetary contribution to help our team purchase food items. Please contribute through Realm (selecting “Cuba Mission” from the drop-down menu). 

The post Bringing “Living Waters” Improvements to Life! appeared first on St. John's Episcopal Church.

Due to the fact that the Episcopal Diocese of Florida’s Annual Diocesan Convention was postponed from January 2023 to November 11, 2023, we were unable to post St. John’s slate of convention delegate nominees. During worship on Sunday, November 12, Fr. Lonnie and our current delegates will share news about the convention, which will have been held the day before. Following this update, we will open voting for our new convention delegates who will attend the 2024 and 2025 Annual Diocesan Conventions.

Below is the slate of parishioners prepared by your vestry nominating committee in the fall of 2022. We appreciate these individuals’ ongoing commitment to St. John’s and the time and talent they share through parish ministry.

Stay tuned! St. John’s will still hold a parish meeting in February to elect new church vestry members, and we will most likely elect additional delegates to attend the 2025 and 2026 Annual Diocesan Conventions. That slate of nominees will be published in December.

CONVENTION DELEGATE VOTING:

This fall, you will be asked to vote for two candidates. The individual who receives the most votes will be our new convention delegate, and the nominee who receives the second most votes will serve as an alternate. ONE BALLOT will be accepted per email address. Remember, only “members in good standing” (see definition below) are invited to vote on this slate.

Online voting has closed.

2023 SLATE OF CANDIDATES:

SARAH MICHAEL ANDERSON

Sarah Michael Anderson has been a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church for 24 years. She was baptized as a baby at the Episcopal Church of the Advent – Tallahassee and her family joined St. John’s shortly after. During her youth, she was extremely involved on a Diocesan level with Camp Weed, New Beginnings, and Happening. Within St. John’s, Sarah Michael has been involved in our youth group, as an acolyte, a Club 45 volunteer, a Sunday School teacher, and a Eucharistic Minister in addition to being a member of the Stewardship Committee (2015) and the Renewal Works Committee (2020). Some of her greatest joy has come from serving on the Rev. Gray Hodsdon’s Discernment Committee (2017), the Same-Gender Marriage Consultation (2019), recently on the Rector Search Committee (2022), and on Sundays as a Verger.

Outside of St. John’s, Sarah Michael works as a Program Coordinator for Florida Virtual Campus and as an Adjunct Professor teaching College Success at Tallahassee Community College. Sarah Michael is the daughter of St. John’s members, Pam and Paul Anderson, and she has three siblings who also attend St. John’s. She and her fiancé, Giuseppe Trupiano, are excited to be married at St. John’s this December.

SUSAN CROSS

Susan Cross was baptized, confirmed, and married in the Diocese of Connecticut and became a member of St John’s on moving to Tallahassee in 1984 with her husband, Tim.  They have been choir members since the late 90’s, following their 2 now-grown children who served as choristers from the ages of 6 & 5 till high school graduation.  Susan served once as a convention delegate in the early 2000s and was on the vestry 2014-16.  Since retirement she has worked at the Lively Café, been a booth chair and a knitwear, marmalade, and bread maker for Market, is on the advisory board for the choir school, and was privileged to visit our companion parish in Cuba in 2019.

She is a retired pediatrician, having practiced full time from 1985-2017, primarily at Tallahassee Pediatrics, also serving as assistant and then Medical Director at Children’s Medical Services for the last several years of her practice life, and teaching both family practice residents and FSU medical students till 2012.  She continues to serve on the boards of the Tallahassee Pediatric Foundation and Tallahassee Primary Care Associates.  During the pandemic supply shortage 4/2020-6/2021 she made over 2000 masks, most for donation to Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare (TMH), and volunteered with other retired physicians and nurses giving Covid shots at the drive-by vaccination site in the TMH parking lot during the spring of 2021.

Susan is grateful to St John’s for both the inspiration and the opportunities continue to serve.

KEITH KIBBEY

Keith Kibbey grew up at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension, Middletown OH. serving as an acolyte through high school.  After marrying and settling in Fort Myers FL, he and his wife Lorna became active members of Saint Joseph’s Episcopal, where he served on the vestry as Secretary, Junior Warden, Senior Warden, and convention delegate.  In the early 2000’s St. Joseph’s merged with Lamb of God Lutheran Church forming the second combined Lutheran Episcopal Congregation in the nation, where Keith served on the Board of Trustees. 

Keith a retired chemist, is a graduate of the University of South Florida and spent most of his career in environmental laboratory management and automation.

In 2019, Keith and Lorna moved to be close to their daughter Kelly who had relocated to Tallahassee ten years earlier.  With Kelly already a member, and being familiar with St John’s from multiple visits over the years they quickly became members.  Keith and Lorna now enjoy being able to worship with Kelly, her husband Ryan, and their infant son, Lawrence.

LAUREN SOTO

Lauren Soto has been attending St. John’s since July 2020. Prior to Tallahassee, Lauren was raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she was a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral throughout her childhood and young adult life. Since moving to Tallahassee at the height of the pandemic, St. John’s has been a place of comfort and community through an intense period of transition and adjustment. 

Music has been an integral part of Lauren’s spiritual life for over 20 years. Lauren is currently a member of the St. John’s choir and enjoys helping the choristers during Sunday worship. She has earned her Gold Award from the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM), which is the highest possible level to achieve. In addition to her musical contribution to St. John’s, Lauren is a member of the Junior League of Tallahassee and has chaired Kids’ Boutique since 2022, which focuses on providing back-to-school clothes and supplies to 250 children in the Big Bend area. She has also assisted the youth at B.E.A.T. Week.

Lauren graduated from Sewanee: The University of the South with a double degree in music and chemistry. During her years at Sewanee, Lauren credits the University Choir and the time she spent worshipping in the chapel as critical to her adult spiritual life and formation. Currently, she loves teaching AP Chemistry, Advanced Honors Chemistry, and Honors Physics at Maclay. Lauren and her husband, Israel, have been married for two and a half years. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and traveling.

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In early November, St. John’s will send a team of seven individuals to visit our companion parish, San Pedro Apóstol, in Zorrilla, Cuba. This mission marks the 10-year anniversary of St. John’s first Living Waters for the World water system installation in this area.

Click here to learn about the continued collaboration between St. John’s and San Pedro Apóstol to sustain this purification system and provide health education programs for area residents.

On this November mission, we will bring with us much-needed humanitarian aid for our Zorrilla family, including over-the-counter medications and food items. See the list of requested medications on our online signup (below). Donated items can be brought to the church office by Wednesday, November 1.

Medications should be new, unopened, and unexpired. Shopping from the list will help our missionaries gather the exact medications needed by the people of Zorrilla. After you sign up on the online list,

As an alternative to purchasing medications, you can make a monetary contribution to help our team purchase requested food items. Please contribute through Realm (selecting “Cuba Mission” in the drop-down menu). Our team will use these funds to purchase the requested food items and any medications that have not been purchased as we near the mission date.

Contact Heather Jordan at heatherleila3@gmail.com with any questions about donations.

About our Cuban Partnership:

Since 1999, St. John’s has sent missionaries and support to Episcopal ministries in Cuba and, in particular, to our sister parish, San Pedro Apóstol, in the rural village of Zorrilla. St. John’s adults and youth have participated in dozens of trips to Cuba and have helped San Pedro Apóstol acquire and convert a home into a consecrated church. In partnership with Cuban host churches and other Florida congregations, St. John’s has helped to install and maintain Living Waters for the World water treatment systems in five Cuban churches to provide clean, free water for their parishes and communities.

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The Acts and Gospels volume of The Saint John’s Bible has been on loan to St. John’s for just over a month now. During that time, it has been to special programs and events, small-group gatherings and home visits, and even weekly Education for Ministry (EfM) and Sunday School gatherings.

We are so pleased with how our St. John’s community has incorporated this work of art into the “Year of the Bible” at St. John’s.

When not in use, the Bible is displayed in a case right outside our church office, and the Lively Cafe, where hundreds pass by it weekly.

The Bible has become an integral part of weekly worship. It may take two vergers and a crucifer to ensure it gets down into the congregation safely, but we love reading the gospel from our volume of The Saint John’s Bible.

Brad Neary, from the Saint John’s Bible Heritage Program, spoke to parishioners and shared some lesser-known secrets about this work of art at our “Breakfast with the Bible” event (September 16)

Perusing The Saint John’s Bible during Coffee and Connection hour (September 17)

Parishioners brought hugs, prayers, and the Bible to the home of Kathy Hall, who is unable to come to church as she continues cancer treatments. (September 20)

Attendees at the fall SALT luncheon learned about how the Bible will be used for worship, fellowship, faith formation, and more this year. (September 22)

Kate Kile took the Bible to Youth Sunday School (September 24)

The new stand built special for St. John’s by Terry Schneider, so all can see the Bible during worship. (September 29)

The community got to know The Saint John’s Bible at our annual Blessing of the Animals, held once again in Tallahassee’s Cascades Park. (October 1)

No Captionhttps://www.saint-john.org/sjbible/

We continue to hold docent training sessions, so we are equipped to share The Saint John’s Bible with as many groups as possible in the coming year. Requests have been coming in and connections are being made with area churches and local organizations like schools, civic groups, and more! We’ve even calendared several special events inspired by The Saint John’s Bible.

To reserve a date to experience The Saint John’s Bible, with your family, small group, class, or community organization, please fill out the form to “Request the Bible.”

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While this annual holiday bazaar is a popular fellowship and community-building event, it is also one of St. John’s largest outreach projects. Market proceeds support both parish ministries and community organizations. Each year, 50 percent of the money raised at our annual Market is designated for outreach and is awarded to organizations that address a current critical need in the community. The grants can be used for supplies, educational materials, equipment, or infrastructure for non-profit organizations. Past market grants have been awarded to agencies such as the Alzheimer’s Project, Big Bend Hospice, ECHO, Elder Care Services, Bach Parley String Academy, Habitat for Humanity, The Kearney Center, Second Harvest, Grace Mission, Oasis Center for Women & Girls, and more.

This year’s deadline for grant submissions is November 15, 2023. The grant request form and criteria for submissions can be viewed and downloaded below. Notification of grant awards will be made the week before Christmas and checks will be cut and mailed before December 31, 2023.

Please direct all questions about Market Grants to Mark Ascani, Parish Administrator.

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The St. John’s Market—our annual holiday bazaar—is coming up on Saturday, November 18, 2023. While Market always features artisan crafts, baked goods, live plants, jams and jellies, and holiday arrangements that are prepared lovingly by St. John’s parishioners and friends, we DO rely on donations from the community to provide the wares for most of our booths.

Again this year, we’re making it easier than ever to donate by offering three drop-off days! The former St. John’s Bookstore location will serve as our main storage point for Market donations. On our convenient drop-off days (9/30, 10/14, and 10/28, from 8 AM to 12 PM), you can bring treasures directly to the bookstore where volunteers will be on hand to help you unload!

Needed items include books, jewelry, collectibles, housewares, china, and gently-used children’s items, sports memorabilia, camping and fishing gear, and more! Our full booth list and inventory of current needs can be found on the St. John’s Market website.

Please contact the church office during business hours if you are not able to bring your donations on the designated drop-off days. Below is a list of items that the St. John’s Market cannot accept.

• Used board games and puzzles (swallowing hazard and pieces are often missing)
• Baby items including strollers, carriages, high chairs, cribs or play pens and car seats
• Bikes, scooters and other riding toys
• Electronics with missing parts, and/or items that are not compatible with contemporary operating systems (we prefer late-model electronics that are in good working order).
• Adult clothing/shoes
• Broken items (please especially check tools and electric appliances to ensure they work!)
• Gasoline-powered items
• Firearms, ammunition, or any type of explosives
• Flammable items such as lamps with oil
• Furniture (will accept small items that can be carried by one person)
• Window blinds or shades
• Soiled linens or bedspreads
• Soiled stuffed animals

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Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our recent Invite Welcome Connect survey and participate in our summer hospitality series focused on welcoming newcomers. We’re still reviewing your suggestions, but we’ve already put a few of them in motion.

COFFEE & CONNECTION:

In the survey, many of you shared the importance of a warm welcome. The simple act of greeting the person next to you and introducing yourself can be transformative. This fall, we aim to create opportunities where there’s plenty of time for connection and fellowship.

On your way to Sunday School each week, we invite you to stop by Alfriend Hall for our enhanced coffee hour. We’re now brewing Red Eye Coffee, and last week our Invite Welcome Connect team rolled out new St. John’s mugs to enjoy during the “Coffee and Connection” hour. Each week, a different ministry group will be serving as your baristas. Please help them out by leaving your used mugs in the provided bins. We’d also love some help with this new ministry. If you can lend a hand on Sunday mornings (making and serving coffee, helping with cleanup, etc.) please contact David Campbell.

NAME TAGS:

We have so many new and returning members, so please wear your parish name tag regularly for worship and at faith formation and fellowship events! If you don’t have one, or if you need a new nametag, please contact Deborah Dugger in the church office.

JOY & WONDER STATION:

In the survey, you cited the importance of being welcoming to people of all ages, and we want our young children and their parents to know they are welcome and wanted in worship at St. John’s!

On the first Sunday of the program year, we debuted our “Joy and Wonder Station,” currently housed in the north transept. The shelves are filled with quiet imagination items (plastic animals, sewing cards, coloring books, etc.) so little ones can fill a bin as they arrive at church on Sunday mornings. By selecting their favorite items to take with them to the pew, children are given agency in their church morning. At the end of the service, bins can be left in the pews where St. John’s staff will collect them to be cleaned and sanitized.

NURSERY EXPERIENCE:

Please help us welcome Jessica and Genesis, two new St. John’s staff members who will be greeting our youngest children weekly in the nursery. In addition to offering an engaging nursery experience during the 10 AM service, our nursery team will be sharing “Year of the Bible” activities and lessons with children who remain in this space during the Sunday School hour (11:30 AM to 12:30 PM). The Bible truly is God’s love story for all of humanity … and for parishioners of all ages at St. John’s!

The nursery is a beautiful and inviting space, conveniently located just off the courtyard. When it moved to this location in 2020, the walls of Cobb Nursery were decorated with playful murals painted by local artist and St. John’s parishioner Honey Hilliard. We want children to want to come and enjoy this space when you are at St. John’s for faith formation and worship. But, please know that your children are welcome in the Sanctuary too. We recently added a pair of rocking chairs in the nave and south transept to assist parents who are helping soothe our youngest worshippers.

Here’s a sentiment that came up this summer at our Sunday series on Christian Hospitality: Churches that nurture a common life among members can live more easily into the ability to offer hospitality to strangers. Hospitality must be taught and nurtured, learned, and practiced. As we put these new hospitality initiatives into practice this fall, we are broadening our sense of welcome to the church and forming deeper relationships with old and new members!

Thank you again for the wonderful feedback you shared on our newcomer survey. Stay tuned for more exciting enhancements as we work our way through your suggestions.

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Welcome to another great year with St. John’s Episcopal Youth Ministry. If we haven’t met yet, my name is Nic Mandolini and I am the Director of Youth and Family Ministries. Whether you are new to this ministry or one of our returning friends, we are glad that you are here!

This summer, St. John’s Youth built friendships all over the world, and we are excited to build a friendship with you this semester as we begin the “Year of the Bible” at St. John’s. We will be reading through God’s Word, laughing, playing games, and growing closer in our faith.

St. John’s Youth events feature a combination of small- and large-group gatherings that take place on weekdays and weekends. Read on for important information about the fall semester with St. John’s Youth Ministries.

At St. John’s, you are welcome no matter who you are or where you are on your spiritual journey. We can’t wait to see you soon!

FIRST SUNDAY YOUTH GROUP (EYC):

St. John’s will continue Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) gatherings, or Youth Group, on the First Sunday of each month. All youth, grades 6-12 are invited to join us for fun-filled, themed nights with special games and dinner. These gatherings will take place from 5-7 PM in Alfriend Hall at St. Johns. We skipped our September gathering due to Labor Day and our “Slip-n-Slide Kickball” kickoff, so we’ll begin in October. Bring a friend! Dates for the fall are:

• October 1
• November 5
• December 3

THIRD SUNDAY YOUTH GROUP (EYC):

This school year, we are excited to announce that we are adding a second community gathering each month. Youth in grades 6-12 are invited to St. John’s every Third Sunday of the month from 5-7 PM. We will gather in the Youth Room (downstairs), for dinner, games, and a youth-led discussion. This year, St. John’s Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) will dive deeper into God’s Word, discovering what the Bible says and how we can use it in our lives. We won’t meet in November, due to Thanksgiving week. So, dates for the fall are:

• September 17
• October 15
• December 17 (Christmas Caroling)

SMALL GROUP GATHERINGS:

Throughout the month, we have small group gatherings for youth of all ages and stages! Click on the names below for a list of upcoming dates and more details about each offering.

• Whataburger Wednesday – EVERY WEDNESDAY – 2:15 PM – snacks and group discussion.
• Thursday Night Compline – (grades 6-12) – EVERY THURSDAY – 7:30 PM on Instagram Live. Join us live or later in the evening (@stjohnstallyyouth).
• Global Philanthropy Leaders – MONTHLY ON SUNDAYS at St. John’s – high school students gather in a small group setting for lunch and a monthly discussion about sharing in God’s abundance through investment. Applications are accepted in the spring for this September-April program.

SUNDAY MORNINGS:

St. John’s Youth are busy on Sundays – worshipping, serving, and learning at Sunday School.

Youth are invited to experience Holy Eucharist every Sunday at 8 AM or 10 AM. Our middle- and high-schoolers also play an integral role in worship by serving as acolytes, youth lectors, or by singing in the choir. If you are interested in one of these roles, contact Michael Spellman or Nic Mandolini for info. 

Sunday School classes for grades 6-12 will once again start meeting weekly (begins September 10). Join us for the “The Year of The Bible!” We will be reading through God’s Word and discovering how it applies to our lives. Meet in the Youth Room (downstairs) from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM for snacks and fellowship. The teen version of The Story will be provided for all youth participants.

DIOCESAN INVOLVEMENT:

Throughout the year, the Episcopal Diocese of Florida plans to offer a number of Youth Ministry events at Camp Weed. It’s all about gathering as an Episcopal community and bringing the youth of our diocese together for food, community, and spiritual retreats. Please watch our social media, youth emails, and the church website for more information about Happening (high school), New Beginnings (middle school), and more!

That’s the nuts and bolts! But stay tuned for details on more youth fun – confirmation classes, mission signups, and special trips and outings. You can always access a full list of upcoming Youth events from our online calendar.

Contact Nic Mandolini, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, with any questions or concerns!

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It’s hard to believe, but the Lively Café has been serving the Tallahassee community for 25 years! During the month of September, look forward to special menu items and weekly customer drawings marking this special milestone of this thriving outreach ministry.

These specials begin after Labor Day, and include Chef Fran’s favorite sandwich, the “Franwich!” Additionally, each time customers order at the Café in September, they will be invited to fill out a drawing slip. On Fridays (beginning September 8), we’ll draw a winner from the week’s entries!

Join us as we celebrate the Café’s 25th anniversary during worship on Sunday, September 10. If you volunteered with us at any point over the last 25 years, make sure you’re at our 10 AM service so we can recognize your contribution, enjoy some anniversary cake together, and celebrate our amazing Culinary Director Fran Doxsee!

After 25 Years … we’re making a few changes!

As we begin celebrating the Lively Café’s 25th anniversary this month, look for some exciting changes to our menus. All of your favorite items are sticking around, but you will find these items on different weeks! Please bear with us as everyone gets to know the new Lively Café menus. Click the graphic below to view all four menus (blue, yellow, green, and red).

We’ve flip-flopped some items in order to provide you with a more time-efficient lunch experience.

Our new menus take effect after Labor Day! They rotate weekly and feature a delicious mix of salads, sandwiches, and desserts. Have no fear, there will still be amazing weekly specials. On Friday afternoons, our online order site is updated with the next menu in the rotation and the lineup of featured family dinners for takeout, as well as the week’s special soups, desserts, and a unique panini sandwich!

We are so proud of how this ministry has grown since it was established back in 1998. Here’s to another 25 years, Tallahassee!

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The Year of the Bible is happening! How does that fit in with The Saint John’s Bible?

Whether it’s something you read in the eChimes, something you heard in a sermon, or just the excited chatter of your friends, it has been hard to miss the fact that The Saint John’s Bible is coming to our parish for an entire year, a year we’re calling the “Year of the Bible at St. John’s.”

It’s all very exciting! Both activities are part of our parish’s commitment to embracing the lessons of the Bible and living them out in community with each other and with our neighbors all across town. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to satisfy your curiosity…

THE SAINT JOHN’S BIBLE

The Saint John’s Bible is the first Bible to have been hand-written and hand-illuminated in 500 years. The fact that it is called “The Saint John’s Bible” is just a happy (or some may say serendipitous) coincidence. The name actually comes from Saint John’s Abbey and University in Collegeville, Minn., the institution that commissioned the work. We will be hosting the Gospels and Acts volume of The Saint John’s Bible, Heritage Edition at our St. John’s until fall 2024.  

The Saint John’s Bible is a unique work of art, combining ancient monastic traditions with the technology and vision of today.

On our campus, we will use it in worship, study, small groups, special events, and workshops. Several of these events are already on the calendar, including a special “Breakfast with the Bible” (Sept. 16), our next SALT Luncheon (Sept. 22), and a Painting Workshop sponsored by The Front Porch (Oct. 7). Come hear all about the Bible and see it up close and personal.

We are also planning to take The Saint John’s Bible to hospitals, education groups, our area prisons, and more. There will soon be an online form where anyone in the community can request time with the Bible.

THE YEAR OF THE BIBLE

In contrast, the Year of the Bible at St. John’s is about all Bibles (not just The Saint John’s Bible mentioned above).  The Year of the Bible will be our parish theme for the next nine months of faith formation – nearly a year-long engagement with the Bible, and an exploration of God’s love story to all humanity.

Our deep dive into the Bible is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and time commitments. We kicked things off with Miqra, our 72-hour Bible reading marathon. And now, together, we will encounter afresh the ancient writings that provide the road map to a loving, life-giving, and liberating relationship with God.

So, plan to come to worship and join us for Sunday School classes. Offerings for ALL AGES begin on Sunday, September 10. There are weekly readings that you can dive into in advance of each Sunday’s sermon and our Sunday School discussion. If reading the entire Bible sounds daunting, you can get a companion guide to be a part of your studies. Here’s a list of frequently asked questions.

Every Christian—whether liberal or conservative, free-thinking or fundamentalist—has a right to holy scripture, and it is only together that we come to know it best. So, join us for this special and unique year. It is an exciting prospect to consider our whole church family reading the Bible in community – the stories we have read many times before or the complicated parts we’ve never really understood!

Special thanks to St. John’s parishioner Paula Kiger, for helping put this article together.

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When someone in our life dies, it affects our entire being. Twice a year, St. John’s offers “Walking the Mourner’s Path,” a six- to eight-week grief support program that is grounded in prayer and reminds us that we are not alone in our grief. In fall 2023, we will be offering this program in partnership with Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.

If you have lost a loved one and have walked the path of grief over the past year or years, “Walking the Mourner’s Path” may be what you need. Open to St. John’s and Holy Comforter members and the community alike, the program gathers participants for a series of small-group workshops. It’s different than a Sunday morning faith formation program, but the format allows time for being still together, sharing stories, and seeing where God is in our grief and in our hope.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS:

REGISTRATION INFORMATION (fall 2023):

The fall 2023 series of workshops will be held on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-7:30 PM. Gatherings will alternate locations, with some being held at St. John’s Episcopal Church and some at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church. Gatherings begin on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, and will be held weekly through Tuesday, November 7, 2023. There is a $65 fee* to cover the cost of the workbook.

You will receive more information after you register, but please feel free to contact Melanie Salsgiver with additional questions or for more details.

*Please note that this cost should not prohibit you from attending. Scholarships are available as needed.

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Thank you to the Tallahassee Democrat for this wonderful article about Miqra, an ancient tradition of non-stop Bible reading that will kick off St. John’s “deep dive” into the Bible this coming year. We are excited to journey through the Bible in music, word, worship, and art — and by hosting a renowned work of art, The Saint John’s Bible. Join us as we explore God’s love story to all humanity!

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As we ramp up to start the Year of the Bible at St. John’s, Sunday School for all ages, and a new year of Parish Life events, we’d like to take a minute to hear from you about how St. John’s welcomes newcomers. Let us know where we can improve! Our Invite Welcome Connect teams are continuing to work on rejuvenating all things hospitality. We talked about this over the summer during our weekly post-worship conversation series on Christian hospitality.

Please help us by taking a simple survey that addresses everything that might make a newcomer feel welcome (or not!) on Sunday mornings, like adequate signage, clean facilities, and easily accessible information. We want to know your thoughts! We’ll keep this survey open until August 27, and then our Invite Welcome Connect teams will review the answers and get to work ensuring that St. John’s is a friendly, welcoming, safe space for all!

If you’d like to discuss hospitality at St. John’s in more detail, please contact Claire Dodd, Rector’s Assistant and Membership Coordinator.

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The Year of the Bible at St. John’s will be here before we know it! We are looking forward to kicking it off with a marathon Bible reading event called Miqra on August 24-27. Then, after Labor Day, the Bible will become our parish theme across all age groups for the rest of the year.

You can visit the “Year of the Bible” section on our website for more information. And, check your mailbox for a brochure and reading schedule that you can hang on the fridge! We’ve even included a helpful to-do list to get you prepared for our parish’s year-long engagement with the Bible.

Depending on your availability this year, you can choose to read directly from the Bible, which entails reading large portions of scripture each week, or from The Story*, an abridged version of the Bible broken down into short, easy-to-read weekly chapters. Our study guide offers weekly options for both.

Most of us at St. John’s will read from The Story. There are several versions: one for little ones, children, kids, teens, and adults. We encourage everyone to purchase a copy before fall, either online or through your favorite local bookstore. If purchasing a copy is a financial challenge, please speak to Fr. Lonnie. He will have several complimentary copies available.

LITTLE ONES (ages 2-5)

ORDER

CHILDREN (ages 3-7)

ORDER

KIDS (ages 8-12)

ORDER

TEENS (ages 13 and up)

ORDER

ADULTS

ORDER

For those wishing to read the entire Bible, any version will do as long as it’s one you feel comfortable reading. If you are looking for a good plain-spoken translation, we recommend either the New Revised Standard Version, Updated Edition (NRSVue) or the Common English Bible (CEB).

NEW REVISED STANDARD VERSION

ORDER

COMMON ENGLISH BIBLE

ORDER

Whatever you decide to read, remember that you will get the most out of our faith formation classes if you do the reading ahead of time. If you read all the assignments from The Story, you will have read most of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation by the end of the year. If you opt for the fuller Bible readings, you will have read the entire thing.

Get ready for the Year of the Bible at St. John’s!

*Certain editorial content in The Story (introductions, footnotes, summaries) are not always entirely consistent with Episcopal interpretation or theology. Those differences, however, are part of the larger Christian conversation and do not preclude The Story from being a helpful resource for those who wish to experience the Bible but have limited time. St. John’s Episcopal Church does not receive any compensation for the sale of these books.

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Small Groups are back for the 2023-24 program year and it’s time to sign up!

In times of need and times of fun, small groups are a source of friendship and support. They are also a great place for spiritual growth.

• Small Groups are made up of eight to 12 individuals or a few couples, that gather monthly for conversation around a topic, fellowship, and prayer.
• Small group facilitators will guide the group in selecting a meeting time and location once groups are formed.
• We encourage people who have participated before and those who are looking to meet new people to sign up.

If you’re looking for a small group that is focused more on a specific kind of support (parents with young children, coping with aging parents, divorce, etc.), we will be starting our Phoenix Caring Groups in October, so be on the lookout for information around those groups, too!

The small groups that are forming now will meet through May 2024. If you prefer online-only gatherings, please indicate that on the sign-up form below. All participants need to fill out a new form for the 2023-24 program year. There is a section on the form for you to list others you would like to be in your small group or to list your partner if you are a couple signing up together.

*After you complete this form, make sure you press “submit” to record your response!

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This past week, Fr. Lonnie introduced the Year of the Bible at St. John’s, our parish’s exploration of God’s love story to all humanity. Every Christian—whether liberal or conservative, free-thinking or fundamentalist—has a right to holy scripture, and it is only together that we come to know it best.

The Year of the Bible at St. John’s begins with Miqra, our 72-hour Bible reading marathon. Enjoy this video and visit our website to learn about Miqra and all the activities that will shape our year.

Our deep-dive into the Bible is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and time commitments. Come journey with us in music, word, worship, and art. Together we will encounter afresh the ancient writings that provide the road map to a loving, life-giving, and liberating relationship with God.

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During announcements at a St. John’s service earlier this summer, a letter was shared with the congregation from Aurora Mederos, Senior Warden of our companion parish San Pedro Apóstol in Zorrilla, Cuba. The letter described the historic economic crisis and hardships facing the people in the community, as well as the work the church is doing with St. John’s support to provide relief and hope where it can. It also offered some reassurance that there is no need to worry because the people of San Pedro Apósto always believe that God’s love is with them. In response to the letter, a number of our parishioners asked how they could help, and within a short period of time, more than $5,000 had been contributed for the needs of San Pedro Apóstol. 

Early in July, more than half of this unsolicited outpouring was sent to Zorrilla to help purchase food for those in need in the church and community and to rebuild the trestle supporting the large tanks used for the Living Waters treatment system. The remainder of these funds will be dedicated to acquiring a commercial-grade seed press, which would enable the church to extract edible oil from sesame seeds. This would create jobs for the unemployed, address hunger in the area, and bring in a source of funds to help the church fulfill its dream of becoming economically self-sustaining. An initiative like this would also allow San Pedro Apóstol to expand its outreach programs, like the parish’s popular children’s music program pictured below.

Heavy-duty seed presses are not available in Cuba, and many steps will be involved with purchasing and shipping the equipment from overseas, as well as obtaining approval from Customs to clear the delivery. For our sisters and brothers in Zorrilla, though, there is no doubt that with God’s help, it can be done.

Special thanks to Sandra and Dennis Howard for their help in preparing this information to share with the parish.

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It’s that time of year again … school is almost back in session! St. John’s Episcopal Church has supported our partner school, Riley Elementary, for years with mentoring, volunteerism, teacher recognition, and more. We plan to do the same this year by helping the student body start the year with all the items they need to learn and succeed!

You can help by purchasing school supplies and dropping them off at church by Monday, August 7. There will be a collection box in the Calhoun Street lobby near the church office.

Riley administrators have identified the most-needed items:

• #2 PENCILS
• BIG PINK ERASERS
• PLASTIC PENCIL BOXES
• DRY ERASE MARKERS & BOARD ERASERS FOR STUDENTS
• HEADPHONES (BIG, STURDY ONES)
• CRAYONS (24 COUNT) OR JUMBO SIZE
• COLORED PENCILS
• HIGHLIGHTERS
• MARKERS
• FOLDERS WITH POCKETS AND PRONGS
• 1/2-INCH BINDERS (WHITE AND BLACK)
• WIDE-RULED NOTEBOOK PAPER
• POST-IT NOTES
• COMPOSITION NOTEBOOKS
• GLUE STICKS
• STAPLES
• PAPER CLIPS
• ROLLS OF TAPE
• INDEX CARDS
• DICTIONARIES
• HAND SANITIZER
• LYSOL SPRAY
• DISINFECTANT WIPES
• KLEENEX BOXES

All items collected will be provided to students at John G. Riley Elementary by coordinators from our “Lend a Hand” program, who will ensure the items are delivered before the start of the school year.

If you wish to make a monetary donation to the program instead, please do so by check, ATTN: Kate Kile (note “Riley” or “school supplies” in the memo line). You can also MAKE A DONATION ONLINE by selecting “pass thru” from the drop-down menu and indicating this is a “Riley/school supplies” donation.

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING OR MENTORING?

Leon County Schools is always looking for new mentors and adult volunteers. On Sunday, August 6, St. John’s has invited Kelli Walker, Director of LCS Volunteer Services, to stop by after services and answer questions about volunteering in our local school system.

St. John’s home school is Riley Elementary, but you can serve at the Leon County school of your choice. If you would like to assist in a classroom, mentor a child for one hour a week, or volunteer in any capacity, please fill out the Leon County Schools Volunteer Application. New volunteers will need to complete background screening and fingerprinting (free of charge) and training IS also available! Whether you are new or whether you volunteer currently, a volunteer application is required annually and will be valid from the date of completion through June 30, 2024.

Questions? Please EMAIL WENDY ERNST our Mentoring Program and “Lend a Hand” Program Co-Chair.

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Centering Prayer is a method of silent prayer that allows us to experience God’s presence within.

At St. John’s, we have a Centering Prayer group that meets weekly to study scripture, discuss writings by contemplative authors, and commune with God. This practice doesn’t replace other prayer methods, but rather it offers an experiential dimension to one’s prayer life.

St. John’s parishioner Nancy Bechard is a big proponent of this practice. “This form of receptive prayer helps us open our hearts to the presence and action of the living God within all of us,” says Nancy. “There you discover that you and God are not separate but flow together in love.”

Nancy started participating in our parish’s Centering Prayer group in 2006 and eventually became one of the group’s facilitators in 2015. She now shares this responsibility with Joe McCann. Both enjoy welcoming new participants to the group and introducing the practice of Centering Prayer to those who have never experienced it before. There are certain guidelines for this practice, so Nancy says she always provides plenty of instruction to newcomers – helping them choose their sacred word and providing guidance on feeling comfortable with sitting in silence. Ultimately, participants can begin letting go of their thoughts and enjoying the contemplative nature of Centering Prayer.

That’s what drew Darla Gale Marsters to Nancy’s group. “With the hustle and bustle of life, I put finding time or making it a priority to ‘be still and know that I am God’ on the back burner.”

Darla took a Centering Prayer workshop offered by The Front Porch in the spring of 2023, and eventually realized the weekly Centering Prayer Group was just what she needed. She’s also met some new friends. “The group participants with all different experiences, the conversations we have, the open dialog allowing folks to share their personal connections to meditations and Bible passages – this strengthens my faith more and more each week. This little community has helped me open my heart and mind in new ways.”

Many Centering Prayer participants cite the group’s camaraderie as one of their primary reasons for involvement. St. John’s weekly Centering Prayer group was initially held in person, but the class moved online when the pandemic hit. Fortunately, the Zoom format actually increased the group’s weekly audience, allowing participation from other cities, states, and even other countries when individuals are traveling. Our Centering Prayer group is also perfect for those who just want to enjoy the comfort of their own home while engaging with others in their community of faith.

Says Darla, “They share online resources, encourage and support one another, and provide a warm and welcoming space to learn about the practice of meditation and contemplative prayer.” Readings are sent on Sunday afternoons, but Nancy and Joe make sure it’s never the same thing.

“I like to think that the group is learning as well as experiencing. I like the discipline of reading materials by different contemplative masters and even mystics to see what I can bring to the group,” said Nancy. “I also enjoy honoring the liturgical seasons or days like Advent, Lent, Pentecost, and Epiphany so I pull together appropriate readings for these times.”

Despite the fact that class preparation can be time-consuming, Nancy says she’s grateful for the opportunity to lead this group. She’s reminded about that every week when class begins. “The best part is interacting on Monday evening with beautiful people,” says Nancy. “This is a gift that St. John’s and the Lord have given me. I think of it as a little ministry.”

The ministry is growing! Thanks to the success of the weekly Centering Prayer group, St. John’s and The Front Porch recently added a second contemplative gathering to the church calendar. And if meeting in person is your preference, this twice-monthly Contemplative Lunch is being held on campus. Everyone gathers everyone around the table for Centering Prayer and after lunch, there’s extra time for sharing and informal discussion.

We hope you will join us at one or both of these regular gatherings. Click on the calendar items below for details, and then on the “event series” to see upcoming dates.

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We are excited to announce that the St. John’s Choir School, beginning this August, is now accepting enrollment applications for this fall! A vision originating more than 10 years ago as an initiative of the 2019-2024 strategic plan, the Choir School is a culmination of years of planning and prayer and an opportunity for the music ministry to broaden its impact in the Tallahassee community and surrounding counties. 

Since the inception of the Junior Choir in 1930, St. John’s has valued the leadership of children and youth in the singing of hymns and anthems in worship, and since 1990, has participated in the music education curriculum of the Royal School of Church Music in the teaching of choristers. The Choir School takes this historical chorister program deeper by offering our resources (dedicated music theory instruction, keyboard lessons, vocal coaching) to all children regardless of means or background, at no cost to families.

We invite you to watch the video above to learn more about the Choir School’s curriculum. Programming will be offered three days a week after school in addition to leading worship on Sunday mornings. The Choir School will call upon the tradition of cathedral-based schools in the Anglican tradition while adapting to the needs of a modern, urban community.

With our parish’s bicentennial on the horizon, this is an exciting time for the church to step forward and offer this wonderful opportunity for area young people – those both in and outside our walls, and financially restricted families who might not even be able to dream of the extracurricular activities the St. John’s Choir School will provide. Save the date for a Choir School Kickoff and Open House on Sunday, August 20 after the 10 AM service!

Please email Marissa Hall, Assistant Director of Music, for enrollment information.

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By Laurye Messer, A FULL SUMMER Board President

In 2012, St. John’s held a Visioning Day as part of the “Visioning the Vineyard” strategic planning process.  One of the initiatives presented for consideration was A FULL SUMMER, a meal assembly event focused on feeding children during the summer months. St. John’s adopted this initiative and the first A FULL SUMMER was held in Alfriend Hall in June 2013. Since then, A FULL SUMMER has grown by leaps and bounds! This annual event now involves hundreds of volunteers from throughout our community, working together with the goal of feeding thousands of local children over the summer.

This year, A FULL SUMMER raised more than $36,000, and on the first Saturday in June more than 250 volunteers—including three teams of St. John’s parishioners—packed 7,000 bags of nutritious snacks for food-insecure children.