Fellowship

Fellowship — both formal and informal — is an important part of almost every aspect of our program. St. John’s sponsors numerous opportunities for parishioners to gather and enjoy fellowship. Below is a sample of the potential opportunities.  If you wish to assist in any of the them, please contact the Parish Office.

Weekly Events

Coffee Hours:  Coffee is available Sundays at 9 a.m. and again after the 10:15 a.m. Eucharist. This is a great opportunity to meet and chat with friends and clergy.  We recruit volunteer hosts to replenish cups, cream, etc. and to clean-up about 11:45 a.m. 

Eight O’clock Breakfast: Members of the eight o’clock congregation as well as some from the later service gather informally at a local café for breakfast and fellowship at about 9 a.m. each Sunday.

Monthly Meetings

Men’s Prayer Breakfast: Men of the parish gather at 8:00 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month from September through May for hearty food, great fellowship and prayer.

Women at the Well: Parish women gather at 9:00 a.m. for fellowship, a program, and discussion on the second Saturday of each month.  The topics vary from month to month, and they always offer interesting opportunities to learn and to discuss something meaningful among a thoughtful group of women.

The Shawl Ministry: This new ministry is a combination of pastoral care, outreach and fellowship.  The “Shawl Ministry” creates comforting shawls which are given to those experiencing health and personal challenges.  This group meets every fourth Tuesday at 7:00 pm in the Parish Hall. If you wish to help, please contact Mother Robin Szoke.

Special Events

Receptions and Dinners: Each year brings a number of opportunities for us to share dinner or a special reception together.  For example, we have a reception following Confirmation and after special events. Prior to Christmas, several generations come together for the “Greening of the Church”.  In 2006, we offered a special Seder meal to understand an ancient Jewish tradition.

Parish Breakfasts: Each year there are 3-4 special occasions where the parish hosts breakfasts after both the 8 and 10:15 a.m. Eucharists. Mother’s Day and Shrove Tuesday are prime examples.

Funeral Receptions: The occasion of the death of one of our parish family is a special and important time and one where we feel a special responsibility to bereaved family and friends.  We feel called to be available at these important times and we often prepare a luncheon or a stand up reception after the funeral. 

Kitchen and Parish Hall Maintenance: While this may not seem like “fellowship” and it is sometimes hard work, even clean-up can be fun when many people are involved.   If you believe that you are called to a ministry of cleaning, you are invited to bring your energy and cheerful outlook and join us in this labor of love the next time we call for help.