Welcome to Church of the Holy Spirit!
36 Gould Street, Verona, NJ 07044 • Phone: (973) 239-2850
Via Venmo:
Holy Spirit Verona @Jerry-Racioppi-2 [6663] 
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The red door on an Episcopal (Anglican) Church is traditionally a sign of welcome. Come through the door, and you'll discover that we are a multi-generational, family-centered church.
Our congregation worships together, supports each other in times of trouble, celebrates together, and does God’s work in the world. We are open, welcoming, and inclusive. We invite you to join us! |
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Worship Schedule
Sunday Mornings
8am Quiet Eucharist - Also available via Zoom. 9am Choir Rehearsal (September - June) 10am Choral Eucharist and Sunday School (September - June) - Also available via Zoom and Facebook. Email our office for the Zoom logon passcode information. |
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
"Soup for the Soul" for Easter -- Mostly Meatless -- Simmering in March, On Sale in April
You have heard of Holy Spirit Verona selling "Soup for the Soul" at Verona's Fair in the Square in December, well this year, like previous years, we will offer a second round for the Season of Lent -- **mostly** meatless.
If you can make quarts of soup in March, please sign-up in the Fellowship Hall. We'll provide the containers. The soup can be placed in the Fellowship Hall refrigerator. Labels with ingredients should be added BEFORE freezing. Please write down the ingredients so our office can print up labels for the containers. Soups will be stored in our lower-level freezer (deadline is Sunday, April 12) and go on sale on Sunday, April 19. Containers will be sold for $10 each.
If you can make quarts of soup in March, please sign-up in the Fellowship Hall. We'll provide the containers. The soup can be placed in the Fellowship Hall refrigerator. Labels with ingredients should be added BEFORE freezing. Please write down the ingredients so our office can print up labels for the containers. Soups will be stored in our lower-level freezer (deadline is Sunday, April 12) and go on sale on Sunday, April 19. Containers will be sold for $10 each.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Next Meets on Wednesdays: April 15 and 29
For the month of April, our Prayer Shawl Ministry will gather to meditate and knit on Wednesday, April 1, Wednesday, April 15 and Wednesday, April 29 in our Fellowship Room at 1pm. This is a spiritual practice that benefits the practitioner and those gifted with these sacred mantles. This ministry is nondenominational and open to anyone who is seeking to step away from their daily stresses with an alternative form of meditation. Our dedicated knitters have made shawls, blankets for Baptisms, hats/scarfs for our Food Pantry, prayer patches for Memorial Day and so much more. Please email Rev. Katherine for additional information.
Flowering the Cross - Second Sunday of Easter, April 12 at 10am Service
Join us on Sunday, April 12 as we "flower the cross," turning a symbol of pain and suffering into one of rebirth and renewal. Please bring any type of flower or greenery.
While some churches "flower the cross" on Easter Sunday, it's been a long tradition at Holy Spirit (which we return to since Pandemic) to embrace this tradition on the Second Sunday of Easter.
At the end of the service, we'll bring the cross outside as further witness that Christ is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
While some churches "flower the cross" on Easter Sunday, it's been a long tradition at Holy Spirit (which we return to since Pandemic) to embrace this tradition on the Second Sunday of Easter.
At the end of the service, we'll bring the cross outside as further witness that Christ is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Next Children's Eucharist is Sunday, April 19 at 10am
We will host another of our Children's Eucharist on Sunday, April 19 at 10am with our Sunday School students assisting Father Jerry at the altar (he needs a lot of help, you know). The 10am Service is sure to be VERY interactive with Father Jerry asking our students questions before the start of the Eucharistic Prayer. It is great fun for children and those young at heart!
Be sure to join us in-person OR via Zoom to participate, pray and probably laugh.
Be sure to join us in-person OR via Zoom to participate, pray and probably laugh.
Climate Justice Action Services - Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 8am & 10am
On Sunday, April 19, we will hold a climate action event. Local sustainability focused architect and parishioner Christine Liaukus along with Father Jerry Racioppi will discuss personal actions residents can take right in their own homes to reduce our climate impact - including programs available to improve the efficiency of your home and a ways to make a difference for climate justice. Find out: What does the Bible say about Climate Change? All are welcome at this event: 8am Service or 10am Service. Be the change you want to see in the world!
Commission Confirmation Adult - Sunday, April 19 at 10am
On Sunday, April 19 during our 10am service we will commission four youth members who will be confirmed during the Saturday, May 16 Diocesan Confirmation Service at St. George's Maplewood. Please pray for these Confirmands as they begins yet another chapter on their spiritual journeys. For further information, speak with Father Jerry.
Youth Confirmation Class - Sunday, April 19 at 3pm
Our youth Confirmation students will gather with Father Jerry, Mrs. Cynthia Holland and Reverend Katherine in the Fellowship Room on Sunday, April 19 from 3 to 5pm to prepare for their Spring 2026 Confirmation. For further information, speak with Father Jerry. To learn more about Confirmation in the Diocese of Newark, click here.
Next Vestry (lay leaders) Meeting is Monday, April 20 at 7:30pm in-person OR online
The Vestry typically meets on the second Wednesday of the month, and does so via Zoom unless otherwise indicated. For the month of April, we will gather on the third Monday of April -- April 20 at 7:30pm in-person for those who can, otherwise via Zoom to pray together, discuss the business of the church and enjoy each others' company. All relevant materials will be emailed to members several days before the meeting by Ms. Melissa Dat, Churchwarden.
Next Food Pantry Distribution Day is Saturday, April 25
For the month of April, we will open our Food Pantry on Saturday, April 25, the fourth Saturday of the month. The Pantry will accept Essex County residents only (ID required) as shoppers in the lower level from 9 to 11am. Shoppers will remain in their vehicles with a limited number being invited inside at a time. Home deliveries are still available for Verona/Cedar Grove residents who are unable to visit Pantry; contact our Church Office for arrangements.
The first shift of volunteers is from 8:15-9:45am and the second shift is from 9:45-11:15am. The Food Pantry is typically open the 4th Saturday of every month from 9-11am. For more information see: http://holyspiritverona.org/food-pantry.
The first shift of volunteers is from 8:15-9:45am and the second shift is from 9:45-11:15am. The Food Pantry is typically open the 4th Saturday of every month from 9-11am. For more information see: http://holyspiritverona.org/food-pantry.
Food Pantry 10th Anniversary Commemoration - Friday, May 1 at 6pm
Please join us for a pasta dinner commemorating 10 years of the Food Pantry at the Church of the Holy Spirit and recognizing our dedicated volunteers and supporters.
We could not do this important work without you!
Friday, May 1, 2026 at 6pm in our Lower-Level.
RSVP by Wednesday, April 22 by using our evite invitation OR send an email to [email protected].
There is no cost to attend, but if you are so inclined, we will gratefully accept your donation of a bottle of laundry detergent and a can of coffee in a reusable shopping bag.
We could not do this important work without you!
Friday, May 1, 2026 at 6pm in our Lower-Level.
RSVP by Wednesday, April 22 by using our evite invitation OR send an email to [email protected].
There is no cost to attend, but if you are so inclined, we will gratefully accept your donation of a bottle of laundry detergent and a can of coffee in a reusable shopping bag.
Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop Next Saturday Open Day is May 2
Our Thrift Shop, located at 90 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue in Livingston is open most Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm. Once a month the Shop opens on a Saturday from 10am to 1pm -- for May the date will be Saturday, May 2. Pass by and check out their great deals! If you would like to learn more about the Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop visit heavenlyfinds.org.
Holy Communion, Not First - Sunday, May 3 at 10am
On Sunday, May 3 we will celebrate our third "Holy Communion, Not First" during the 10am service in recent memory. Our Sunday School students will be learning more about the Eucharist during classes in the month of April and May. Because the Episcopal Church sees Baptism as the only sacrament of initiation into the Christian Church, children may receive the bread and wine at any time. We typically allow parents to decide the right timing for their children. For some families having a formal "milestone" marking of Holy Eucharist is important; so we will once again celebrate what Father Jerry names "Holy Communion, Not First" last year. At least three students will be participating in this beautiful ritual and will stand at altar on Sunday, May 3 along with our clergy.
Second Friday Fundraiser - Doors Open at 6pm on Friday, May 8
Holy Spirit Verona will host another Friday BINGO Fundraiser on Friday, May 8 at 7pm - our usual second Friday of the month. Doors open and BINGO cards go on sale at 6pm; the first number is called at 7pm. $20 to play 10 Games, which includes $5 Admission and 6 cards per game. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase, and you are welcome to bring your own food. No alcohol is allowed and you must be 18 years old to play BINGO.
Additional set of sheets may be purchased for $15 and extra sheets for our cover-all game (Game #10) can be purchased for $5. It's a fun nigh out: you'll laugh, you'll dance, you'll have fun!
Additional set of sheets may be purchased for $15 and extra sheets for our cover-all game (Game #10) can be purchased for $5. It's a fun nigh out: you'll laugh, you'll dance, you'll have fun!
Centering Prayer Group - Saturday, May 9 from 10 to 11:30am
Our monthly prayer group gathers to check-in, share Lexio Divina (divine reading) of a piece of Scripture and then practice Centering Prayer. The next gathering will be on Saturday, May 9 at 10am.
If you have any questions, contact Reverend Katherine or Father Jerry.
If you have any questions, contact Reverend Katherine or Father Jerry.
The Feast of Julian of Norwich - Sunday, May 10
We will celebrate The Feast of Julian Norwich on Sunday, May 10 (even though her actual feast day is May 8). This fifteenth century Mystic and Theologian lived in an anchorage in Norwich England during the bubonic plaque and has much to teach us today. Here are the scripture readings for her Feast Day and some information about her life. Join us as we hear of her "Revelations" and gifts to the world. #mothersday2026
Holy Spirit Verona Celebrates Mothers' Day - Sunday, May 10
Sunday, May 10, in celebration of all women, we are asking members to bring in photos of any mom, grandma, aunt, female figure, etc. you would like to celebrate for Mothers' Day this year.
We will display the photos of these special women on tables in front of the altar, and hold them in prayer during the 10am Worship.
In addition, the Sunday School students will have a surprise in store for all women in attendance at the 10am service.
We will display the photos of these special women on tables in front of the altar, and hold them in prayer during the 10am Worship.
In addition, the Sunday School students will have a surprise in store for all women in attendance at the 10am service.
Fabulous Fish or Chicken Fry **To-Go** - Friday, May 15
On Friday, May 15 from 5:30-7pm, we will host another TO-GO only Fish (or Chicken) and Chips Dinner (prepared by Argyle Catering of Kearny). For reservations, click here to pay online or pay via Venmo (Holy Spirit Verona @Jerry-Racioppi-2 [6663]) or email [email protected] or call (973) 239-2850. Homemade desserts will be included with each meal. Cost is $22 for adults, $14 for children under age 12. Please make reservations by Wednesday, May 13.
Diocesan Confirmation Service - Saturday, May 16 at 10am
On Saturday, May 2 at 10am at St. George's Maplewood we will have four youth Confirmands receive Confirmation. This will be a Diocesan-wide service, and we ask that you pray for these individuals as they begins yet another chapter on their spiritual journey.
Each Candidate is limited to 6-8 guests, not including their clergy or sponsors/presenters. All others are invited to watch the live streams of the service from home on the diocesan YouTube channel and Facebook page.
Each Candidate is limited to 6-8 guests, not including their clergy or sponsors/presenters. All others are invited to watch the live streams of the service from home on the diocesan YouTube channel and Facebook page.
Sunday Altar Flower Dedications - Who do you want to honor?
Would you like to dedicate the Altar Flowers on an upcoming Sunday?
Dedications can be In Memory of someone In Honor of a Special Event or Person or In Thanksgiving for a Blessing?
Choose a Sunday from the list in the Fellowship Room and fill in your name. Email the parish office at [email protected] with your dedication information.
Make payment ($35 suggested) online (e-giving), via Venmo (put “Altar Flowers” in the memo), or write a check.
Dedications can be In Memory of someone In Honor of a Special Event or Person or In Thanksgiving for a Blessing?
Choose a Sunday from the list in the Fellowship Room and fill in your name. Email the parish office at [email protected] with your dedication information.
Make payment ($35 suggested) online (e-giving), via Venmo (put “Altar Flowers” in the memo), or write a check.
"Here Come The Sun" Solar Panel Capital Campaign
In the Spring of 2022, Holy Spirit Verona joined other churches in the Diocese of Newark in an agreement with Performance Solar of Richmond, Virginia. Through this agreement, 20% of the cost of the solar panels AND roof replacement was paid by Performance Solar.
Our roof was replaced prior to the solar installation as it had been determined that our previous roof was over twenty years old. Both the roof replacement AND the solar panel installation were completed by Azimuth Renewable Energy (azimuthrenew.com) of Manasquan, New Jersey.
The solar panel and roof work have been financed through a 20-year loan with the Diocese at 4.75% interest rate. Our hope with this Capital Campaign is the lower the principal on the loan of which was approximately $67,000 for solar panels and $36,000 for the roof. There are different levels to donate: Mercury - $1,000, Venus - $500, Mars - $400, Jupiter - $200.
Each of these will give you the ability to “name” a particular solar panel in honor or memory of someone OR perhaps a particular group (Spiritual Enrichment Group, Prayer Shawl Ministry, etc.). A memorial frame will be hung in the Fellowship Hall with all the dedications.
Visit the e-payment portion of our website, pay via Venmo, send a check, whatever works best for you. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]. Thank you for helping us make our own energy and make a difference in our environment.
Our roof was replaced prior to the solar installation as it had been determined that our previous roof was over twenty years old. Both the roof replacement AND the solar panel installation were completed by Azimuth Renewable Energy (azimuthrenew.com) of Manasquan, New Jersey.
The solar panel and roof work have been financed through a 20-year loan with the Diocese at 4.75% interest rate. Our hope with this Capital Campaign is the lower the principal on the loan of which was approximately $67,000 for solar panels and $36,000 for the roof. There are different levels to donate: Mercury - $1,000, Venus - $500, Mars - $400, Jupiter - $200.
Each of these will give you the ability to “name” a particular solar panel in honor or memory of someone OR perhaps a particular group (Spiritual Enrichment Group, Prayer Shawl Ministry, etc.). A memorial frame will be hung in the Fellowship Hall with all the dedications.
Visit the e-payment portion of our website, pay via Venmo, send a check, whatever works best for you. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]. Thank you for helping us make our own energy and make a difference in our environment.
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