***POSTPONED*** Healing Prayer Quiet Day - Saturday, September 30 from 9am to 12pm
UPDATE: As of September 23, 2023 this event is being postponed until early 2024.
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One of our most vital ministries at Holy Spirit is our Healing Prayer ministry. Whether offering hands-on prayer at our services or serving as “prayer warriors” for those on our prayer list, our team provides a vital function. On Saturday, September 30, we will offer a morning retreat from 9am to 12pm at the church for those serving in this ministry or those interested in learning more about it. For details, contact Fr. Jerry or Rev. Katherine.
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One of our most vital ministries at Holy Spirit is our Healing Prayer ministry. Whether offering hands-on prayer at our services or serving as “prayer warriors” for those on our prayer list, our team provides a vital function. On Saturday, September 30, we will offer a morning retreat from 9am to 12pm at the church for those serving in this ministry or those interested in learning more about it. For details, contact Fr. Jerry or Rev. Katherine.
Loaves & Fishes (Food Pantry) Committee Meeting - Sunday, September 24 at 11:45am
Our Food Pantry (Loaves and Fishes) Committee will reconvene after many years of being on hiatus. If you would like to help with our Food Pantry -- volunteer, solicit donations, get supporters, fund raise, help with logistics, etc. -- please attend this meeting on Sunday, September 24, 2023 at 11:45am in our Lower Level Kitchen.
The Episcopal Church AND Holy Spirit Verona Celebrate Social Media Sunday - September 24
Often worshipers are asked to put away their devices during worship service, but you won’t hear that on Social Media Sunday, September 24. Why? Because Jesus said so. Jesus reminds us to not "stand idle all day;" so therefore, use the tools we have in 2023 to connect Holy Spirit with the world outside our four walls -- via Social Media! People need to be told the Good News multiple times in multiple ways: in person, Facebook, Instagram, website, letter, etc. Each of us must share the Good News! In 2023, our communication options include social media. With over 2.3 billion users of social media* around the globe and 1 million new social mobile users added each day*, going into the world to share good news requires using new tools to reach people where they are.
*Social Media statistics found here: http://bit.ly/2c9F6wR
*Social Media statistics found here: http://bit.ly/2c9F6wR
Creative Beginnings Preschool Has Fall Openings
Our lower level tenant, Creative Beginnings Preschool (CBP), in operation since 1994, has openings for the upcoming Fall Semester. For pricing and additional information, visit https://creativebeginningspreschool36.com/
Be sure to mention "Church of the Holy Spirit" and the registration fee will be waived if before September.
Be sure to mention "Church of the Holy Spirit" and the registration fee will be waived if before September.
Blessing of the Backpacks - Sunday, September 10, 2023 During 10am Service
During our 10am Worship on Sunday, September 10, 2023, students of all ages are encouraged to bring their backpacks to Church. A special blessing will be offered as a new academic year commences.
Gathering Sunday is September 10, 2023 - Outdoor Potluck after 10am Service
Gathering Sunday is Sunday, September 10, 2023. An interactive activity for the kids will be offered during the first half of worship, and then children join their parents during the second half of worship. Join us for our special outdoor potluck coffee hour! Sign up sheet for potluck in Fellowship Hall or forms in pews to place into Collection Plate three weeks prior.
Verona Clergy Council - Interfaith Educational Series
The Verona Clergy Council will be hosting a two part Interfaith Educational Series on two consecutive Mondays, July 31 and August 7 both at 6:45pm. Attend either workshop or both as your schedule allows.
Monday, July 31 - "Jesus, Hillel and Shammai: The Sermon on the Mount as a Contemporary Debate " will be held in the Sanctuary at Church of the Holy Spirit, 36 Gould Street, Verona.
Monday, August 7 - "Eve, the Snake and the Fruit" will be held at B'nai Shalom, 300 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange.
Holy Baptism of Scanlon Child - Sunday, August 6 at 10am
On Sunday, August 6, 2023 at 10am we will celebrate the Holy Baptism of the child of Erin and Dan Scanlon. The service will be in-person and available via Zoom using our regular Sunday Virch information. If you do not already have the passcode, email Father Jerry.
Commemoration of the 49th Anniversary of the Priestly Ordination of Women - July 30, 2023
July 29, 2023 will mark the 49th Anniversary of the Priestly Ordination of Women in The Episcopal Church. Holy Spirit Verona will commemorate this and celebrate the "Philadelphia Eleven" during both services on Sunday, July 30, 2023. Rev. Katherine Rollo, Curate, will Celebrate Eucharist, and both she and Father Jerry will offer "sermonettes." Special prayers and music will be used to mark this special occasion. We are grateful for those who have gone before to pave the way for all.
Photo on the left is from the 40th Anniversary Celebration which both Father Jerry and Randy attended in 2014.
Photo on the left is from the 40th Anniversary Celebration which both Father Jerry and Randy attended in 2014.
Recognition Sunday - We Say Thank You! - Sunday, June 25 at 10am
At the 10am Worship Service on Sunday, June 25 we will say THANK YOU to our dedicated Sunday School Teachers, Music Ministers and other Worship Leaders. This will be the final Sunday of our formal "program year" as we move into Summer mode. Also the last classes for Sunday School until September are held on this day.
Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop - Final Open Day of the Season is June 20
Our Thrift Shop, located at 94 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue in Livingston is open most Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm. However, during the Summer we discontinue being open to shoppers. If you want to check out the great deals, pass by on a Tuesday on or before June 20. Donated items will still be collected for when we re-open in the Fall. If you would like to learn more about the Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop visit heavenlyfinds.org.
Holy Spirit Verona Celebrates Fathers' Day - Sunday, June 18
On Sunday,June 18, at the 10am Worship, Holy Spirit Verona will celebrate all male role-models in our lives. Names may be listed at the front of the church (near the pulpit) "In Honor of" or "In Memory of", and a special prayer will be offered.
Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop Next Saturday Open Day is June 3
Our Thrift Shop, located at 94 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 June the date will be Saturday, June 3. Pass by and check out their great deals! If you would like to learn more about the Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop visit heavenlyfinds.org.
Celebrating our High School Seniors - The Class of 2023 - Sunday, June 4
On Sunday, June 4 at our 8am and 10am Worship Services we will celebrate our graduating high school seniors. We will have them tell us about their future plans, congratulate them on their achievements and bless them in their future endeavors. Go class of 2023!
Wear Orange Sunday - National Gun Violence Awareness Weekend - June 4
On Sunday, June 4 at both our 8am and 10am worship services we will wear orange for National Gun Violence Awareness Day/Weekend (June 2-4, 2023). For more information, visit wearorange.org. There is much work to be done around this topic, and the voice of the Church has much to offer -- love conquers fear.
Verona Progress Pride Flag Raising - Saturday, June 3 at 11am
The Township of Verona will once again be raising the Progress Pride Flag in the Civic Center, 600 Bloomfield Avenue, this year on Saturday, June 3 at 11am. Reverend Katherine will be offering a prayer as a part of the ceremony. Join to kick off Gay Pride Month.
Join us **IN** the Verona Memorial Day Parade - Monday, May 29
On Monday, May 29, 2023, we will once again participate in the Township's Annual Memorial Day Parade. If you're interested in walking or riding, please sign up in the Fellowship Hall and then meet at Everett Field at 9:45 am.
Also, there is usually a contingent of Holy Spirit folks in front of Chase Bank (or former Terry's Drugs) to watch the parade. If you have any questions, please speak with Father Jerry.
Also, there is usually a contingent of Holy Spirit folks in front of Chase Bank (or former Terry's Drugs) to watch the parade. If you have any questions, please speak with Father Jerry.
Pentecost Sunday (our feast day) is Sunday, May 28
Church of the Holy Spirit's patron feast day is Pentecost Sunday, May 28 this year; wear RED and invite a friend!
On this festival day we hear scripture in several languages and celebrate the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the disciples. Time to conclude the 50 Days of Easter!
After service, we share in our famous RED Coffee Hour. Bring something to share!
Invite others to join in the celebration!
On this festival day we hear scripture in several languages and celebrate the arrival of the Holy Spirit to the disciples. Time to conclude the 50 Days of Easter!
After service, we share in our famous RED Coffee Hour. Bring something to share!
Invite others to join in the celebration!
Guest Preacher - Scott Chesney, motivational speaker, Verona resident, VHS Class of 1988
On Sunday, May 21 at both the 8am and the 10am services, we will have a Guest Preacher: Scott Chesney. Scott Chesney is a motivational speaker, life coach, and consultant who has spoken to over 1.5 million people in 43 countries. Since awakening to paralysis at the age of 15, Scott has lived an extraordinary life full of passion, purpose, and service to others that is captured in “Ride the Wave,” a documentary about Scott’s life that was released worldwide in 2020. Currently, Scott resides in Verona, NJ with his wife and two children. For additional information on Scott, visit scottchesney.com.
Holy Spirit Verona Celebrates Mothers' Day - Sunday, May 14
Sunday, May 14, 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 (and the Prayer Shawl Ministry) 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 (and the Prayer Shawl Ministry) will have a surprise in store for all women in attendance at the 10am service.
Diocesan Confirmation Service - Saturday, May 13 at 10am
On Saturday, May 13 at 10pm at Trinity/St' Philip's Cathedral Newark we will have three high school students confirmed. This will be a Diocesan-wide service, and we ask that you pray for these four individuals as they began yet another chapter on their spiritual journey.
To reduce the amount of risk for COVID-19 infection, all Confirmation services are limited to a maximum of 25 candidates each and 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.
To reduce the amount of risk for COVID-19 infection, all Confirmation services are limited to a maximum of 25 candidates each and 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.
Youth Confirmation Class - Sunday, April 30 at 1:30pm
Our Confirmation students will gather with Father Jerry in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, April 30 from 1:30 to 3pm to prepare for their Spring 2023 Confirmation. For further information, speak with Father Jerry.
Commission Confirmation Students - Sunday, April 30 at 10am
On Sunday, April 30 during our 10am service we will commission our three high school students who are to be confirmed during the Saturday, May 13th Diocesan Confirmation Service at Trinity and St. Philip's Cathedral in Newark. Please pray for these three Confirmands as they began yet another chapter on their spiritual journey. For further information, speak with Father Jerry.
Good Shepard Sunday - Sunday, April 30
Join us on Sunday, April 30 as we join the greater Christian Church in celebrating The Feast of the Good Shepherd. Jesus is given the title in the Gospel of John, and we celebrate this on the Fourth Sunday of Easter. You might also see some sheep (you know the ones from our Christmas Pageant) around the Sanctuary. How many will you find?
Celebration of Life of David John Riley - Tuesday, April 25 at 11am
A Celebration of Life of David J. Riley, active Zoom worship attendee here at Holy Spirit and father of parishioner Danielle Mueller will take place on Tuesday, April 25 at 11am in the Sanctuary. As it is a school day, parking will prove challenging; please plan accordingly.
The service will be in-person and available via Zoom.
-to join via laptop/PC/smartphone: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87670039239
-to join via telephone [audio only]: (646) 876-9923, Meeting ID: 876 7003 9239
To receive the Zoom Passcode, please email office@holyspiritverona.org.
For David's Obituary, click here. For the worship booklet, click here.
The service will be in-person and available via Zoom.
-to join via laptop/PC/smartphone: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87670039239
-to join via telephone [audio only]: (646) 876-9923, Meeting ID: 876 7003 9239
To receive the Zoom Passcode, please email office@holyspiritverona.org.
For David's Obituary, click here. For the worship booklet, click here.
7th Anniversary of our Food Pantry - Sunday, April 23
This photo was taken on Sunday, April 17, 2016; the Sunday School students helped Father Jerry and parishioner/benefactor Cardie Mortimer bless the pantry and it's contents in preparation for our first Distribution Day on Saturday, April 23, 2016. On that day we provided assistance to 18 families. Today, seven years later, we help over 140 families each month.
This Sunday, April 23, during our worship services (at both 8am and 10am), we will mark and celebrate the seventh anniversary of this life giving ministry.
This Sunday, April 23, during our worship services (at both 8am and 10am), we will mark and celebrate the seventh anniversary of this life giving ministry.
Flowering the Cross - Second Sunday of Easter, April 16 at 10am Service
Join us on Sunday, April 16 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!
Easter Egg Hunt - Easter Sunday, April 9 after 10am Service
After our Easter Sunday (April 9) Worship, we'll gather outside to watch the children gather up the Easter eggs that have been placed around for their discovery and enjoyment (eggs are filled with candy).
Easter Sunday - April 9, 20233 at 10am
Jesus Christ is risen! Alleluia! On this festival day, we will have one Worship Service at 10am; there will be no 8am Worship Service on Easter Sunday. You may attend in-person or online. Logon information is listed below. The Alleluia Banner will also be dug up (which was buried on Ash Wednesday) at 9:50am with Father Jerry; kids should arrive early. We will celebrate Eucharist and the Choir will sing.
Via computer/smartphone (ideally with a camera and microphone): https://zoom.us/j/2010208686
Telephone (for audio only): 1 (646) 876 9923 - Meeting ID: 201 020 8686
Email office@holyspiritverona.org for the required password. For a copy of our Easter Worship Booklet, click here.
This worship service will also be live-streamed via our Facebook page.
Via computer/smartphone (ideally with a camera and microphone): https://zoom.us/j/2010208686
Telephone (for audio only): 1 (646) 876 9923 - Meeting ID: 201 020 8686
Email office@holyspiritverona.org for the required password. For a copy of our Easter Worship Booklet, click here.
This worship service will also be live-streamed via our Facebook page.
Holy Saturday - Easter Vigil - April 8 at 7:30pm
Join us for our Vigil Celebration of Easter on the eve before (Saturday, April 8) at 7:30pm when we light the new fire and experience the move from darkness into light. The service begins in the center of our outdoor labyrinth, and then we process into the darkened church where each attendee lights a candle from the new flame.
Stories of the church through modern times are heard, and we celebrate Eucharist once more. After the service join us for some breads and champagne in our Fellowship Hall. Jesus Christ is risen today! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! This service is only being offered in-person.
Stories of the church through modern times are heard, and we celebrate Eucharist once more. After the service join us for some breads and champagne in our Fellowship Hall. Jesus Christ is risen today! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! This service is only being offered in-person.
Good Friday Stations of the Cross - April 7 at 12pm
On Good Friday (April 7) at 12pm (noon) we will gather in our Sanctuary to share in a reflection of the Stations of the Cross with additional prayers.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link. There is no online booklet for this service.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link. There is no online booklet for this service.
Good Friday Sunday School Meet-Up: Stations of the Cross - April 7 at 10am
On Good Friday (April 7) at 10am we will offer an in-person Sunday School Meet-Up which will include walking an interactive Stations of the Cross around Holy Spirit's campus. The gathering will begin in the Fellowship Hall (second floor).
This event is being offered in-person only.
This event is being offered in-person only.
Good Friday Morning Prayer - April 7 at 8am
On Good Friday (April 7) we share bread from the"reserve sacrament" which was blessed at the Maundy Thursday worship. At 8am we conclude our over-night vigil with Morning Prayer in our Chapel.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link.
Maundy Thursday Worship Service - April 6 at 7:30pm
The most dramatic worship service of the year! Join us on Thursday, April 6 at 7:30pm for our Maundy Thursday worship service. The word maundy is derived from the Latin mandatum which means commandment. Jesus' commandment was to love one another, and we do this by washing of feet and sharing a Eucharistic meal. The conclusion of the service is the dramatic stripping of the altar and the procession of the reserved sacrament into our historic Chapel. We also keep vigil all night during our night watch which concludes on the morning of Good Friday.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link.
This service is being offered in-person or via Zoom using our Sunday Worship Link.
Lent Madness 2023 - Vote For Your Favorite Saint
What is it? Lent Madness began in 2010 as the brainchild of the Rev. Tim Schenck (Rector at St. John the Evangelist in Hingham, MA). In seeking a fun, engaging way for people to learn about the men and women comprising the Church’s Calendar of Saints, Tim came up with this unique Lenten devotion.
How do I vote? go to: www.lentmadness.org. There are celebrity bloggers who write information through this Lenten Journey. You vote online and everything you need is there.
How does it work? The format is straightforward: 32 saints are placed into a tournament-like single elimination bracket. Each pairing remains open for a set period of time and people vote for their favorite saint. 16 saints make it to the Round of the Saintly Sixteen; eight advance to the Round of the Elate Eight; four make it to the Faithful Four; two to the Championship; and the winner is awarded the coveted Golden Halo. The first round consists of basic biographical information about each of the 32 saints. Things get a bit more interesting in the subsequent rounds as we offer quotes and quirks, explore legends, and even move into the area of saintly kitsch.
How do I learn about the saints? https://www.episcopalchurch.org/lectionary/
How do I vote? go to: www.lentmadness.org. There are celebrity bloggers who write information through this Lenten Journey. You vote online and everything you need is there.
How does it work? The format is straightforward: 32 saints are placed into a tournament-like single elimination bracket. Each pairing remains open for a set period of time and people vote for their favorite saint. 16 saints make it to the Round of the Saintly Sixteen; eight advance to the Round of the Elate Eight; four make it to the Faithful Four; two to the Championship; and the winner is awarded the coveted Golden Halo. The first round consists of basic biographical information about each of the 32 saints. Things get a bit more interesting in the subsequent rounds as we offer quotes and quirks, explore legends, and even move into the area of saintly kitsch.
How do I learn about the saints? https://www.episcopalchurch.org/lectionary/
Lenten Food Drive - "Forty Days, Forty Items"
Do something special this Lent: help fight hunger one day at a time! Place one non-perishable food or toiletry item into a box each day during Lent (40 days = 40 items). Return the box and its contents to Holy Spirit Verona by Palm Sunday, April 2. If you would like to pick up a box, email us to make arrangements, or download two flyers to make your own box. All items will be blessed during the 10am Worship Service (on April 2) and used to stock the shelves of the Holy Spirit Verona Food Pantry.
Here are some suggested items:
tuna, macaroni and cheese, 2lb bags of rice, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruit, toothpaste, bar soap, shampoo, lotion, granola type bars, crackers, cookies, coffee, boxed milk, juice, pasta sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pet food, cleaning products, non-bulk sized detergents.
PLEASE, NO soup, beans, canned veggies or pasta at this time. Thank you for walking this Lenten journey with us, and helping to feed a neighbor!
Here are some suggested items:
tuna, macaroni and cheese, 2lb bags of rice, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruit, toothpaste, bar soap, shampoo, lotion, granola type bars, crackers, cookies, coffee, boxed milk, juice, pasta sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pet food, cleaning products, non-bulk sized detergents.
PLEASE, NO soup, beans, canned veggies or pasta at this time. Thank you for walking this Lenten journey with us, and helping to feed a neighbor!
"Soup for the Soul" for Lent -- Mostly Meatless
You have probably heard of Holy Spirit Verona selling "Soup for the Soul" at Verona's Fair in the Square in December, well this year we will offer a second round for the Season of Lent -- **mostly** meatless.
If you can make quarts of soup, 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. Containers will be stored in our lower-level freezer until Pancake Supper on Tuesday, February 21 where the containers will be sold $8 each or 2 for $15.
If you can make quarts of soup, 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. Containers will be stored in our lower-level freezer until Pancake Supper on Tuesday, February 21 where the containers will be sold $8 each or 2 for $15.
Holy Week 2023 Schedule - Join us for the Journey
he following is our schedule for Holy Week 2023:
Palm Sunday - April 2
Palm Sunday - April 2
- 8am* - Quiet Eucharist, reading of the The Passion and Stripping of the Chapel Altar
- 10am* - Palm Procession, Eucharist and reading of The Passion
- return "Lent: 40 Days, 40 Items" Food Drive boxes to be blessed during worship
- 7:30pm - experience what women of the Bible might have said to Jesus while standing at the foot of the cross
- 7:30pm* - Traditional Foot Washing, Final Eucharist and Stripping of Altar
- 9pm - Over-Night Watch until 8am next morning
- 8am* - Morning Service (concluding the Over-Night Watch) with Communion from the reserve sacrament
- 9am-3pm - Church open for personal prayer and private reflection
- 10am - Children's Workshop and Kids' Stations of the Cross
- 12pm* - Noonday Service and Stations of the Cross
- 7:30pm - kindling of new fire in parking lot, procession into the Sanctuary in the darkness, telling of the family story and Celebration of First Eucharist
Women of the Cross - Monday, April 3 at 7:30pm
Join us on Monday, April 3 at 7:30pm in our Sanctuary as we listen to what the women of the Bible might have said to Jesus as they stood at the foot of the cross on Good Friday.
Presented by the Interfaith Women’s Group:
Presented by the Interfaith Women’s Group:
- American National Catholic Church of St. Francis, Glen Ridge
- Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit, Verona
- First Presbyterian Church, Verona
- Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic Church, Verona
Spiritual Enrichment Group Meets Sundays in Lent at 11:45am - "Bless the Lent We Actually Have"
Our Spiritual Enrichment Group will be meeting via Zoom starting Sunday, February 19 and all the Sundays of Lent (through April 2). We gather at 11:45am and will use Kate Bowler's "Bless the Lent We Actually Have" Lenten Program with downloadable booklet; for more information click here.
If you would like to join the group or have any questions, please speak with Patti Walsh, Rev. Katherine or Father Jerry.
If you would like to join the group or have any questions, please speak with Patti Walsh, Rev. Katherine or Father Jerry.
A Conversation on Race using "Resurrection Hope" - Six Mondays
Members and friends of Holy Spirit Verona will gather online via Zoom for a Conversation on Race using the book "Resurrection Hope: A Future Where Black Lives Matter" by The Rev. Canon Kelly Brown Douglas. The meetings will be held on Mondays at 7pm beginning on February 6 and going through March 20, 2023. If you would like to join the group, email Father Jerry.
Previous conversations on race at Holy Spirit Verona have included reading "The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness" by Michele Alexander, watching and discussing "Race the Power of An Illusion," hosted a 10-week series entitled Sacred Ground sponsored by The Episcopal Church, and read "White Fragility: Why Is It So Hard for White People to Talk About Race" by Robin DiAngelo. The work continues.
Previous conversations on race at Holy Spirit Verona have included reading "The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness" by Michele Alexander, watching and discussing "Race the Power of An Illusion," hosted a 10-week series entitled Sacred Ground sponsored by The Episcopal Church, and read "White Fragility: Why Is It So Hard for White People to Talk About Race" by Robin DiAngelo. The work continues.
Commission New Vestry Members & Leaders
On Sunday, March 12 during the 10am worship services, we will install the newly elected Vestry Members who were nominated and approved at the February 12 Annual Meeting. We are thankful to Rosemary Gabbe, Peggy Valentino and Patti Walsh for saying YES to this call to leadership on Vestry.
TIME TO SPRING AHEAD... Don't Forget!
Don't forget to turn you clocks AHEAD ONE HOUR before you go to sleep on Saturday, March 11... otherwise you will be LATE for Church (which would be absolutely terrible).
Ash Wednesday Services and Ashes To Go - February 22
On Ash Wednesday, February 22 we will offer the following services:
Unable to attend one of our Ash Wednesday Services? Stop by Gould Street (between our parking lot and HB Whitehorne Middle School) to receive ashes to begin your Lenten journey. "Ashes To Go" will be available from 7:30-9am and 2-3:30pm. The Church of the Holy Spirit Verona will once again join other Episcopal Churches in taking worship to the streets. For more information see: ashestogo.org.
- Holy Eucharist at noon (12pm) in our Historic Chapel; in-person or online (using Sunday's Zoom logon).
- Sunday School Meet-Up at 3:30pm in our Fellowship Hall -- we'll also bury the Alleluia banner!
- Evening Prayer at 7pm in our Historic Chapel; in-person or online (using Sunday's Zoom logon).
Unable to attend one of our Ash Wednesday Services? Stop by Gould Street (between our parking lot and HB Whitehorne Middle School) to receive ashes to begin your Lenten journey. "Ashes To Go" will be available from 7:30-9am and 2-3:30pm. The Church of the Holy Spirit Verona will once again join other Episcopal Churches in taking worship to the streets. For more information see: ashestogo.org.
Mike Carlucci Memorial Pancake Supper - Tuesday, February 21 at 5:30pm
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023 from 5:30-7pm we will host the Mike Carlucci Memorial Pancake Supper. All are invited. We have not hosted an open-to-the-public pancake supper since 2020. This year we name this annual event after a long-time parishioner who was the pancake-making chef at this event for years and passed away in September 2022. In addition, in his time at Holy Spirit, Mike was a Sunday School Teacher, he preached on several Sundays during worship, was on Vestry, mowed the lawn, volunteered in our Food Pantry, shopped for inventory for the Food Pantry, and the list goes on and on.
The cost for the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12; under age six is free. Proceeds from this event will be earmarked for youth activities, possibly a Mission Trip. You may pay at the door or pre-pay on our website or via Venmo: Holy Spirit Verona @Jerry-Racioppi-2 [6663]. For more information email office@holyspiritverona.org.
The cost for the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12; under age six is free. Proceeds from this event will be earmarked for youth activities, possibly a Mission Trip. You may pay at the door or pre-pay on our website or via Venmo: Holy Spirit Verona @Jerry-Racioppi-2 [6663]. For more information email office@holyspiritverona.org.
Annual Parish Meeting and Return of our Potluck - Sunday, February 12
Our Annual Meeting will once again be held on Super Bowl Sunday -- February 12, 2023 -- this year. Father Jerry and the Churchwardens hope you will participate in-person from 10:45am to 12:30pm in our Fellowship Hall. We will have a shortened Ante-Communion service at 10am, and then talk about the business of the Church -- hear committee reports, updates on events and discuss plans for 2023 and beyond. Also, our Potluck is back for the first time since 2020! So, bring a dish to share.
All ministry/committee heads should email their typed reports to our Office Administrator, Catherine Tamasik by Monday, February 6 in order for it to be included in the distributed report.
All ministry/committee heads should email their typed reports to our Office Administrator, Catherine Tamasik by Monday, February 6 in order for it to be included in the distributed report.
Diocesan Convention - Holy Spirit Verona's Deputation
On Friday, February 3 and Saturday, February 4, the Diocese of Newark will host the 2023 Diocesan Convention at the Hilton Meadowlands. Representing Holy Spirit Verona both days are Ron Mueller, Rev. Katherine and Father Jerry; also representing Holy Spirit on Friday will be Chrystine Gaffney and Christine Liaukus, and on Saturday will be Maria Force and Reggie Mitchell. The theme is "Beginning Anew: Seeking God's Vision Together."
For further information visit the Diocesan Convention website.
For further information visit the Diocesan Convention website.
Holy Spirit Celebrates Religious Life Sunday - January 22, 2023
The General Convention of The Episcopal Church approved resolution 2022-B004, “Foundation of Religious Life Sunday,” to be held each year on the 3rd Sunday of Epiphany. This Sunday focuses efforts to tell all Episcopalians that residential monastic and dispersed Christian communities exist, who we are, and how to connect with us.
We at Holy Spirit Verona will hear from both Rev. Katherine and Father Jerry as a part of the sermon and they will connect Sundays readings to their experiences of religious life.
For more information, visit https://www.religiouslifesunday.org/
We at Holy Spirit Verona will hear from both Rev. Katherine and Father Jerry as a part of the sermon and they will connect Sundays readings to their experiences of religious life.
For more information, visit https://www.religiouslifesunday.org/
Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Sunday, January 15
On Sunday, January 15, 2023 at both the 8am and 10am services we will celebrate the life and legacy of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We will listen to a portion of his August 28, 1963 "I Have A Dream Speech" during both Eucharists. Be inspired by this faithful man who fought hard for civil rights, and is a true saint of our time.
Next Meetings for our Prayer Shawl Ministry are January 11 and 25
For the month of January, our Prayer Shawl Ministry will gather to meditate and knit on Wednesday, January 11 and Wednesday, January 25 at 1pm in our Fellowship Hall. 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.
Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop Reopens on January 10
Our Thrift Shop, located at 94 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue in Livingston will reopen on Tuesday, January 10 from 10am to 2pm. The Shop is typically open on Tuesdays, but is closing for the Christmas and New Year holidays to give our volunteers a rest. If you would like to learn more about the Heavenly Finds Thrift Shop visit heavenlyfinds.org.
Sunday School Classes Resume on January 8
There will be no Sunday School classes on December 25 or January 1. Classes will resume on Sunday, January 8 for the Feast of the Epiphany. Are you ready to talk about Kings, Camels and a Dinosaur? For additional information on our Sunday School program, click here or email Father Jerry.
Quiet Eucharist Returns on January 8
Each Sunday we offer an 8am Quiet Eucharist in our historic Chapel. For Christmas Day (December 25) and New Years' Day (January 1), both Sundays, we will not offer an 8am Service. We encourage you to consider joining the 10am Choral Eucharist in-person or online both of these days.
Christmas Eve Worship Services - 4pm and 10pm
Christmas Eve 2018 by Nick Contento
On Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24, we will offer two worship services. The 4pm Eucharist will include a Children's Sermon where Father Jerry will ask the "young worshipers" to join him at the front of the Church for an interactive discussion. Our 10pm Eucharist will include our Choir, who will also offer pre-service music starting at 9:45pm. Please join us as we welcome the Christ-child into our hearts and home once again. Merry Christmas!
Both services will be in-person and offered via Zoom (see "Worship - Service Times" for complete details. The 10pm Service is also available via Facebook Live. Booklets for the services can be found, here.
Both services will be in-person and offered via Zoom (see "Worship - Service Times" for complete details. The 10pm Service is also available via Facebook Live. Booklets for the services can be found, here.
Advent Angel Tree - Toy Collection for St. Peter's Haven Clifton
The Outreach Committee continues the tradition of the Angel Tree in the Fellowship Hall. This year we are collecting donations for St. Peter's Haven in Clifton. Needed items include new toys ages 8 to 13. Please DO NOT wrap the gifts or use gift bags. The volunteers at St. Peter's Haven will wrap and label them accordingly. Toys are due by Sunday, December 18, and will be delivered to St. Peter's on Monday, December 19.
Any questions, speak with Catherine Tamasik or Mary Garland. For more information on St. Peter's Haven, click here or see below.
Any questions, speak with Catherine Tamasik or Mary Garland. For more information on St. Peter's Haven, click here or see below.
Children's Christmas Pageant
On Sunday, December 18 during our 10am Worship the children of our Sunday School will tell the story of Jesus' birth in our annual Christmas Pageant. We will also have a Children's Eucharist following the Pageant; the kids help Father Jerry set the table and it's a bit of a teaching Eucharist.
Arrive at 9:45am to participate in our Pageant. Parents should drop their child off in the Sunday School Room (lower level) by 9:45am as the students will be joining in the Procession which begins promptly at 10am. After the service all are invited into the Fellowship Hall for Coffee Hour.
Pageant rehearsals are scheduled for Sunday, December 4 and Sunday, December 11 at 11:30am. The final dress rehearsal is Saturday, December 17 at 3pm; a complete run-through with costumes is planned.
Arrive at 9:45am to participate in our Pageant. Parents should drop their child off in the Sunday School Room (lower level) by 9:45am as the students will be joining in the Procession which begins promptly at 10am. After the service all are invited into the Fellowship Hall for Coffee Hour.
Pageant rehearsals are scheduled for Sunday, December 4 and Sunday, December 11 at 11:30am. The final dress rehearsal is Saturday, December 17 at 3pm; a complete run-through with costumes is planned.
Spiritual Enrichment Group: Advent and ee cummings
Beginning Sunday, November 27, our Spiritual Enrichment Group (at 11:45am via Zoom -- same link as Sunday Worship) will be studying a series of poems related to Advent and Christmas by E.E. Cummings, the son of a pastor and a thoughtful theologian in his own right. Cummings’ poems call us to keep awake, watch, and wait for God to arrive on Christmas morning. Week by week, simple candlelight services and weekly practices will help us read, reflect, sing, and prepare – all for the sake of deepening the joys of the season. Join us for all four Sundays of Advent or any that work for your schedule. For more information and/or a copy of the booklet, please contact Rev. Katherine or Patti Walsh.
Verona Fire Department Santa Sunday - Food Pantry Volunteers Sort
The dedicated members of the Verona Fire Department will once again collect donations for the Holy Spirit Verona Food Pantry on Sunday, December 11 throughout the day. We are grateful for their dedication and hard work, as well as the support of Verona residents!
Food Pantry volunteers will be in the lower level to sort and stock the food donations from 1:30 to 3pm and 3 to 4:30pm (two shifts); email our Office Administrator if you can assist.
Food Pantry volunteers will be in the lower level to sort and stock the food donations from 1:30 to 3pm and 3 to 4:30pm (two shifts); email our Office Administrator if you can assist.
Greening of the Church and Potluck Coffee Hour
On Sunday, December 11 after the 10am Worship Service, join us as we decorate the Church for Christmas. Help us green the windows and other parts of the church as we prepare for the Pageant & Christmas Eve services.
In addition, we will have a potluck lunch so bring your favorite dish to share. Sunday School students will rehearse for the Christmas Pageant at 11:30am on this day.
In addition, we will have a potluck lunch so bring your favorite dish to share. Sunday School students will rehearse for the Christmas Pageant at 11:30am on this day.
Holy Spirit Verona will host another second Friday BINGO Fundraiser on Friday, December 9 at 7pm; doors open and BINGO cards go on sale at 6pm. Entrance fee (with sheets for ten games) is $20; the first number is called at 7pm. 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!
Our November 26 Food Pantry will accept shoppers in the lower level from 9 to 11am; masks will be required. 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 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 open the 4th Saturday of every month from 9-11am. For more information see: http://holyspiritverona.org/food-pantry