st-philips-parish

CrossTown Update for April 14, 2026

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:25:16 GMT

CrossTown Update for April 14, 2026

Happy Tuesday!

This Sunday, April 19th , CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 5-6:45pm. We hope to see you there!

This Saturday, April 18th, you and your family are invited to join all of our CrossTown churches along with some other faith partners in an Earth Day celebration service. The service will take place at the picnic shelter at Sycamore Flats at 3pm . You are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. The service will take place rain or shine.

You are invited to join us again on Wednesday, April 22nd at 5:30pm , for an Earth Day walk. We will meet at St. Philip's for a short blessing of the new solar panels before walking as a group to Good Shepherd. You are encouraged to make a sign for the walk. Signs made by CrossTown this past Sunday will also be available. A bus will be available to transport you back to your car at St. Philip's.

Parents/adults: This Sunday, April 19th, from 4:30-5pm is an information meeting about our summer service learning trip to Winston-Salem. Both youth and adults are encouraged to attend. During the meeting we will share a little more about the program and answer any questions you may have. One of the high schoolers who participated last year will also be available to answer questions and share about her experience.

High schoolers: Our next dinner club will be Thursday, April 16th at 6:30pm at Waffle House. You are invited to bring $5 to help cover the cost of dinner and invite a friend.

Middle schoolers : We would love for you to join us for our next Middle School Meet up on Friday, April 17th . We will be bowling at Tarheel Lanes in Hendersonville. You are encouraged to bring $5 to help cover the cost. If you can participate, please sign up here by Wednesday afternoon.

6th-12th graders: If you are interested in joining us for our summer service learning trip, please make sure to sign up by May 1. Even if you cannot pay in full at the time of registration, please make sure to go ahead and register so we can turn our numbers in on time. This year we are going to Winston-Samel to participate in Spark'Dwell. During the week, we will participate in relationship-building, education, story-telling, and service alongside formerly or currently homeless individuals. The trip will take place June 10-14. The cost is $250/person with scholarships available. You can register here .

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Auction Fundraiser April 25

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:35:07 GMT

All God's Children: The Cornerstone of Our Future

See a sampling of the items available for auction here!

St. Philip's will offer a Live & Silent Auction on Saturday, April 25 from 3:00-6:00 pm to benefit two camps for children: Camp Henry at Lake Logan, and Bound for Glory Camp in Brevard. Admission is free and the public is invited!

The event will be held at Deerwoode Reserve, 395 Riversedge Rd. in Brevard. It begins at 3:00 pm with a preview of the many exciting auction items. Bidding starts at 4:00 pm.

Along with the chance to take home some great deals, the event will include live music and refreshments.

The fundraiser is called "All God's Children: The Cornerstone of Our Future" and is part of St. Philip's Cornerstone Centennial celebration, marking the 100th anniversary of the laying of the church's cornerstone in 1926.

Proceeds will benefit Camp Henry , an Episcopal camp at Lake Logan, and Bound for Glory Camp , a free Christian literacy and adventure camp for children ages 9-12 in Transylvania County.

Look below for a sampling of what will be on offer at the Auction!

Handmade Sweetgrass Basket by Margaret Jefferson of Charleston County, SC.

CrossTown Update for April 9, 2026

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:30:14 GMT

CrossTown Update for April 9, 2026

Happy Thursday!

We hope you had a wonderful Easter!

This Sunday, April 12, CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. We hope to see you there!

High schoolers: Our next dinner club will be Thursday, April 16th at 6pm at Waffle House. You are invited to bring $5 to help cover the cost of dinner and invite a friend.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for April 1, 2026

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:27:54 GMT

CrossTown Update for April 1, 2026

Happy Wednesday!

This Sunday, CrossTown will not meet. We hope you have a wonderful Easter! Our next Sunday night meeting will be April 12 at Good Shepherd.

6th-12th graders : If you are interested in joining us for our summer service learning trip, please make sure to sign up by May 1. Even if you cannot pay in full at the time of registration, please make sure to go ahead and register so we can turn our numbers in on time. This year we are going to Winston-Samel to participate in Spark'Dwell. During the week, we will participate in relationship-building, education, story-telling, and service alongside formerly or currently homeless individuals. The trip will take place June 10-14. The cost is $250/person with scholarships available. You can register here .

Middle schoolers : Please mark your calendar for April 17th for our next middle school meet up. More information will be shared after Easter.

High schoolers : Our next dinner club will be April 16th at 6pm. You are invited to bring $5 to help cover the cost of dinner and invite a friend.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for March 26, 2026

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:18:36 GMT

CrossTown Update for March 26, 2026

Happy Thursday morning!

We hope everyone had a fun and safe spring break! There will be no regular CrossTown meeting this week (March 29) or on Easter Sunday (April 5). Our next Sunday night meeting will be April 12 at Good Shepherd.

Everyone : Our mini retreat/lock-in is happening this Friday and Saturday ! We’ll meet at St. Philip’s from 7:30pm on Friday until 4pm on Saturday. If you haven’t registered yet but would like to join, please sign up by 5pm tonight using this link . If you’re already registered, keep an eye out for another email with more details. It’s going to be a great weekend!

Summer Trip: Save the date for our summer service learning trip to Winston-Salem, June 10–14. The cost is $250 with scholarships available. More information and a registration link will be included in next week’s email.

We hope you all have a meaningful Holy Week and a joyful Easter!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Holy Week and Easter 2026

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:01:57 GMT

Join us as we journey through Holy Week and celebrate the Resurrection

Services marked with an asterisk will be livestreamed on our Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Throughout Lent & Holy Week: Stations of the Cross

In the church: W alk the Way of the Cross with the 14 bronze Stations of the Cross at any time the church is open during the week. You will find a booklet on the table at the font as you enter.

A video version of the Stations of the Cross can be found here.

On the Contemplative Path: W alk eight Stations of the Cross marked by wooden crosses along the Contemplative Path (behind the picnic tables along Rice Street, behind the church). Laminated sheets with meditations for each Station are available at the start of the Path.

Monday, March 30 at 11:45 am

Holy Week Moment of Prayer and Lament

Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe has invited dioceses and congregations across The Episcopal Church to take part in a public witness of prayer during Holy Week. Bishop José McLoughlin will join us by Zoom as well as others from the Diocese of Western North Carolina. We will gather in Miller Hall. If you cannot attend in person, you can join from elsewhere via Zoom - the link will be shared later.

Wednesday, April 1 at 5:30 pm

Contemplative Anointing Service

A liturgy of simple music, readings, silence, and anointing of one another as we recall the Biblical story of Jesus' anointing before his Passion, as recalled in the Holy Week gospel stories. Join us in Miller Hall.

Thursday, April 2 at 5:30 pm

Maundy Thursday Service *

We gather to recall Jesus' institution of Holy Eucharist and his command to love and serve one another. The liturgy offers everyone the option of participating in the Washing of Feet, followed by Holy Eucharist. At the conclusion of the service the altar is stripped in preparation for Good Friday. Our choir will join us.

Friday, April 3 at 12:00 noon

Liturgy for Good Friday *

This solemn one-hour service retells the story of Christ's Passion through reading, music, prayer, and contemplation of the Cross. Afterward, the church will remain open until 3 pm for anyone who wishes to come and pray. The Labyrinth and Contemplative Path also will be available throughout the day.

EASTER SERVICES

Saturday, April 4 at 3:00 pm

Family Easter Eve Service

Modeled after the ancient tradition of the Great Vigil of Easter, this is a family-friendly service that will share the story God's plan for salvation and let us joyfully begin our celebration of the Resurrection! The choir will be with us for special music.

Sunday, April 5 (Easter Day)

Please note the special service times for this Sunday only

7:30 am Outdoor Eucharist at the Labyrinth

Bring a lawn chair and join us for this festive spoken service of Holy Eucharist.

8:30 am Festival Eucharist

This will be one of two identical services of Holy Eucharist offered on Easter morning, with choir, brass and timpani joining us.

10:15 am Children's Egg Hunt

Infants through Grade 5 are invited to the playground area for an Egg Hunt starting at 10:15 am. Please bring your baskets!

11:00 am Festival Eucharist *

The second of two identical services of Holy Eucharist offered on Easter morning, with choir, brass and timpani joining us.

CrossTown Update for March 11, 2026

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:20:46 GMT

CrossTown Update for March 11, 2026

Happy Wednesday!

This Sunday, March 15, CrossTown will not meet. We hope everyone has a fun and safe spring break!

Our next meeting will be on March 22 at St. Philip's.

Everyone: Please mark your calendars for our mini retreat and lock in, happening March 27-28th at St. Philip's (please note the location change). We will spend time together focused on spiritual growth and fellowship. Please let us know if you can come by registering here .

High schoolers: You are invited to join the community wide Voice of the Students pottery paint night this Thursday, March 12 . We will meet at Brevard Clay from 6-8pm. While this is a free event, registration is required. If you can attend, please rsvp by texting (828)393-5964. For more information please see the attached flyer.

11-16 year olds: Do you like to babysit or hope to one day be a babysitter? You are invited to a babysitter and first aid training led by the Red Cross. The training will take place on April 11 , from 9am - 5pm at FUMC. The cost is $60. Be sure to register and pay through Ridgeline Beats Training (link in flyer) if you want to participate in the Babysitter training. For more information, please see the attached flyer or reach out to Sarah Grace with any questions.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for March 4, 2026

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:58:16 GMT

CrossTown Update for March 4, 2026

This Sunday, March 8, CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 4:30-7pm. Adults are invited to join us for the evening. During the first part of the evening, youth who participated in our recent resiliency training will share some of the resources they learned. During the second part of the evening, a resiliency trainer will meet with the adults while the youth break off for a normal CrossTown meeting. Nursery will be provided for younger siblings. If youth was unable to participate in the resilience training on February 15th, we hope they will be able to join us this week.

Please note that CrossTown will not meet on March 15 . We hope everyone has a wonderful spring break!

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us this afternoon , March 4th for art club. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. All supplies are provided. You are encouraged to invite a friend. We hope to see you there!

High schoolers: Mark your calendars for our next high school dinner on Tuesday, March 10 (please note the date change). We will meet at Pisgah Social (at the old Pisgah Fish Camp) at 6:30pm.

Spring break camp: We are excited to offer a free spring break camp for all K-5th graders this year. The camp will take place at Good Shepherd, March 16-20 , from 8:30am-12pm. Each day will include a short Bible lesson, lots of games, and snacks. All middle and high school students are invited to serve as youth volunteers. If your middle or high schooler would like to participate, please note this on the registration form. If you are able to participate, please let us know by signing up here .

Middle and high schoolers: Please mark your calendars for our mini retreat and lock in, happening March 27-28th at St. Philip's (please note the location change). We will spend time together focused on spiritual growth and fellowship. Please let us know if you can come by registering here .

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Lent Wednesdays, Easter Vigil, VBS, and Other Fun Events!

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:30:27 GMT

Lent Wednesdays, Easter Vigil, VBS, and Other Fun Events

Hi everyone!

I hope your week is off to a great start! I wanted to share a list of children's ministry event dates for the next few months. We hope your family can join us for as many of these events as you can. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Lent Wednesdays: Starting tomorrow, February 25, and every Wednesday in Lent , Good Shepherd and St. Philip's are offering a combined Lent program. This year the program will take place at Good Shepherd. Dinner will begin at 5:30pm, and the program will begin at 6:15pm. I will provide a short lesson and activities for the children during the program time.

Parents night out: Our rescheduled parent's night out is coming up quickly. We will meet at St. Philip's on Friday, March 7, from 4:30-7pm. Dinner will be provided. If you are able to join us, please let us know by signing up here .

Easter Vigil: This year, St. Philip's is offering a no stress Easter Vigil. Like the Christmas pageant, all children are invited to participate in helping us tell the story of Easter. There is no prep. The vigil will take place at 3pm on Saturday, April 4 . If your children would like to participate, please arrive between 2:15 and 2:30 p.m. to pick out a costume. The Easter Vigil is the historical time for baptisms and this year, we will have two baptisms as part of the service (yay!!).

VBS: As you start planning summer activities, please mark your calendars for Vacation Bible School. This year, VBS will take place at St. Philip's from June 22-26 . We will meet from 9am-noon each day. More information and a sign up link will be shared in the next few weeks. All middle and high school students are invited to participate as youth volunteers.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for February 25, 2026

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:56:41 GMT

CrossTown Update for February 25, 2026

This Sunday, March 1 , CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. During our meeting, we will participate in the Brevard Jewish Community's Purim celebration. Youth who would like to participate in a skit will practice at 5pm. At 5:30, we will all go into the service and participate as congregation members. After the service, we will share a meal of pizza, salad, and hamantaschen (a special Purim dessert).

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us on Wednesday, March 4th for art club. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. All supplies are provided. You are encouraged to invite a friend. We hope to see you there!

Grown ups: On March 8 , you are invited to join us from 4:30-7pm for a resiliency training for parents. During the first part of the evening, the youth who participated in the recent resiliency training will share some of the facts and techniques they learned. During the second part of the evening, a trainer will meet with you to discuss ways to support your youth during difficult times. We are working to offer childcare during the program so you can participate.

High schoolers: Mark your calendars for our next high school dinner on Tuesday, March 10 (please note the date change). We will meet at Pisgah Social (at the old Pisgah Fish Camp) at 6:30pm.

11-16 year olds: Do you like to babysit or hope to one day be a babysitter? You are invited to a babysitter and first aid training led by the Red Cross. The training will take place on April 11 , from 9am - 5pm at FUMC. The cost is $60. Be sure to register and pay through through Ridgeline Beats Training (link in flyer) if you want to participate in the Babysitter training. For more information, please see the attached flyer or reach out to Sarah Grace with any questions.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for February 18, 2026

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:15:51 GMT

CrossTown Update for February 18, 2026

This Sunday, February 22 , CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm. We will play games, have dinner, and practice our skit for Purim.

On March 1 , during our normal meeting time, CrossTown will present a Purim skit as part of the Brevard Jewish Community's service. The service will be at Good Shepherd. After the service, we will share a meal with the Jewish Community.

Parents: On March 8 , you are invited to join us from 4:30-7pm for a resiliency training for parents. During the first part of the evening, the youth who participated in the resiliency training last week will share some of the facts and techniques they learned. During the second part of the evening, a trainer will meet with parents to discuss ways to support their youth during difficult times.

High schoolers: We hope to see you tomorrow, March 19 , for high school dinner club. We will meet at Zaxby's at 6pm. You are encouraged to bring $5 and a friend.

Middle schoolers: Please mark your calendar for our next afterschool art club meeting on March 4. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. All snacks and art supplies are provided. We hope to see you there!

11-16 year olds: Do you like to babysit or hope to one day be a babysitter? You are invited to a babysitter and first aid training led by the Red Cross. The training will take place on April 11 , from 9am - 5pm at FUMC. The cost is $60. For more information, please see the attached flyer or reach out to Sarah Grace with any questions.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Hi everyone!

A couple of notes:

1 - We are working on childcare for younger siblings on March 8 in case both parents want to attend.

2 - Be sure to register and pay through through Ridgeline Beats Training (link in flyer) if you want to participate in the Babysitter training.

Hope you have a wonderful rest of your week.

Peace,

Sarah Grace

CrossTown Update for February 11, 2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:44:27 GMT

CrossTown Update for February 11, 2026

I hope everyone is enjoying the warmer weather and blue sky! This Sunday, February 15, CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 4:30-7pm (please note the new time for this week) . During our meeting, staff from Crossnore will lead us in a youth resiliency training. Our hope is that youth will walk away with practical tools to help them navigate hard times. For dinner we will have meatball sliders.

Adults: Please mark your calendars to join us for our meeting on March 8 . We will meet again at FUMC from 4:30-7pm. During this time, the youth who participate in the resiliency training this week will lead a resiliency training for parents. This is meant to both reinforce what they have learned and equip you with the same tools to help support them when challenges arise.

Middle schoolers: There are still a few spaces left for skating this Friday, February 13 , . If you are available and would like to join us, please let us know by signing up here by tomorrow.

High schoolers: You are invited to join other high schoolers from across the county at our first community wide Voice of the Student's club event. Tomorrow, Thursday, February 12 , you are invited to join us at the Mary C Jenkins Center from 6-8pm for food, crafts, games, prizes, and more. This is a free event. Please see the attached flyer for more information. I will be there and hope you will be too. Please mark your calendars for Thursday, February 19 , for our next high school dinner. We will meet at Zaxby's at 6:30pm. See you there!

Middle and high schoolers: Please mark your calendar for our mini retreat and lock in, happening March 27-28th at FUMC. We will spend time together focused on spiritual growth and fellowship. Please let us know if you can come by registering here .

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for February 5, 2026

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:44:41 GMT

CrossTown Update for February 5, 2026

We hope everyone has enjoyed the extra days off school and have stayed safe and warm. This Sunday, February 8 , CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm. In honor of the super bowl, we will have lots of appetizers for dinner. We hope you can join us for a lesson, games, and dinner.

Middle schoolers: There is still space available for roller skating on February 13th . The cost of skating is covered but we ask you bring your own money for dinner/snacks at the skating rink. We will meet at Carolina Dance Collective at 5:30pm and ride the church bus together. Pick up will be between 9 and 9:30pm at FUMC. You are encouraged to invite a friend. If you are able to join us, please let us know by signing up here .

High schoolers: Please mark your calendar for our next high school on Thursday, February 19th . We will meet at Zaxby's at 6:30pm. We hope to see you there!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Nuggets: Sharing our history

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 14:56:08 GMT

Cornerstone Centennial "Nuggets"

Come and dig into some "Nuggets" as we mark the 100th anniversary of the laying of our cornerstone! Our volunteers have been mining our parish history and sharing some of the riches they've uncovered in our weekly E-pistle email newsletter and in church bulletins. As they're posted, we'll also share them in the space below.

Learn more about all the Cornerstone Centennial celebrations here.

Nugget for January 18, 2026

Getting Started with the Building

In early January 1926, vestry decided to erect a grey stone structure, which, including the furnishings and all expenses, would not exceed $25,000. There was $5,250 insurance money, Bishop Horner gave $3,300, the rectory was mortgaged, and a campaign was launched immediately to raise the balance.

According to an article in the Brevard News (1/14/1926), “It is the understanding that all contributions given by members of the church be voluntary and not raised through the means of bazaars, church suppers, etc.” Stone masons were Joe and "Doc" Wright from Hendersonville who then trained several local men including Fred Mills, a Brevard native and African American, who later became a stone mason for projects in the Rosenwald Community and the stone wall around Brevard College.

Three members of the 1926 vestry have descendants who are current members of our parish: William Breese (great-uncle of Peggy Bridges) donated the stone from his quarry; Royal Morrow (grandfather of Mac Morrow, David Morrow, and Mary Rose) served as chair of the building committee and on-the-job supervisor; and A.H. Kizer (father of Dottie Marcinko and great grandfather of Marty Kizer and Melanie McKague).

Nugget for January 30, 2026

The St. Philip's Rectory

The Rev. Harry Perry became rector on June 1, 1925, during a period of growth for both the town and church. He, his wife Dorothy, and their three daughters arrived just 6½ months before the fire that destroyed the Victorian wooden St. Philip's church. The rectory became the temporary home for services, Sunday School, and the Perry family.

The first services in the new stone church were held February 14-15, 1928, when the Convocation of Asheville met in St. Philip's chapel, the only part of the church that was completed. That June, St. Philip's moved from mission to parish status with the vestry holding the property deed. Even with the ongoing construction, parish business was conducted and during this time parish membership approached 100, offerings were good, and the congregation accepted the proposed 1928 Book of Common Prayer—though they were less enthusiastic about Perry's introduction of red cassocks for acolytes.

Then the Depression hit. The rectory mortgage was foreclosed, forcing the Perry family into modest rentals, including one where the church negotiated rent from $25 to $15 monthly. At times, Senior Warden Smedberg paid the rector's salary from personal funds. Despite these hardships, the parish—especially its women—persevered. On May 7, 1939, the new stone church was consecrated, debt free.

Nugget for February 13

St. Philip's Women in the Depression Years

Photo: "Miss Molly" Allison dressed in traditional choir vestments including the required choir hat.

The women of St. Philip’s were not allowed to serve on vestry until 1936, but that did not stop the Women’s Auxiliary and Guild from providing leadership of the church’s financial, spiritual, and outreach efforts.

They ignored the vestry’s ban on using bazaars and church suppers to raise money for the new building, choosing to host numerous fundraising events that were regularly featured in the Brevard News between 1926-1939. These included Christmas and July Bazaars held at various businesses in town and the Franklin Hotel across the street; a series of Salmagundi Parties (a dish with everything thrown in) with 35-cent admission; Wednesday night church suppers that provided food and fellowship; and sponsorship of “Heaven Bound,” a popular African American folk drama presented by 30 Sylva singers and advertised as a fundraiser for the church. Mrs. R.I. Gash even sold copies of her personal cake recipe!

Simultaneously, they served the broader community by sending clothing boxes to Episcopal missions across the country and sponsoring Miss Rennie, a missionary to China. Members cooked and served lunches to underprivileged school children in March of 1933. They taught Sunday School and led the choir. They visited the sick and newcomers and held all-day prayer vigils on holy days. They truly “carried the freight” during these difficult years, and we are indebted to these women for their perseverance, stewardship, and service to others.

Nugget for February 27

We're Still Using the Same Altar

Harry Perry served as rector of St. Philip’s for 23 years, from 1925 to 1948, and helped lead the church through times of growth, economic challenges, and change. During his ministry, Mary Lock Sledge and Sherril B. Verner became the first women to serve on the vestry in 1936 and The St. Philip’s Young Peoples Society (later EYC) began in 1938. In 1939, the new stone church was consecrated, a milestone in the life of the parish.

In the photo, you see the Rev. Perry standing before the altar built by local woodworker Felix Norton. The altar frontal has three arched panels echoing the sanctuary windows, with the Greek letters Alpha and Omega, reminding us that Christ is the beginning and the end. The center panel is a Christogram, with a cross and the letter “S,” representing the name of Jesus and reminding worshipers of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist. The processional cross beside the altar is still carried today, and the light fixtures now hang in Miller Hall.

You will notice the altar is against the back wall of the sanctuary; it was moved to its present location during renovations completed in 2006. The Rev. Perry retired in 1948 and died in 1956. In remembering him, Bishop Horner said “It was during his rectorship that the present church in Brevard was built, and it will ever stand in testimonial to his leadership.” The Perrys are buried at St. Paul’s-in-the-Valley cemetery.

Nugget for March 6

The Red Doors

On March 14, 1954, a called Vestry meeting was held to discuss the red paint that had been placed on the Church and Chapel doors. Objections were raised by Mr. David Ward. The color red, while meant to represent Christ’s blood, might also be interpreted as “shedding of blood,” or violence which some might find unwelcoming.

Miss Elizabeth Davis gave a brief explanation for the red paint. The color was selected to harmonize with the church’s structure and had no religious significance. The doors were badly in need of repair and varnish or paint was needed. Traditionally, red doors signified the church as a place of safety and open to all. In some Episcopal churches, it might also indicate the mortgage had been paid in full.

In this case, only a few Vestry members had been made aware of the red paint. Although the painters were allowed to finish their work, any further decisions concerning the doors would be heard by the entire Vestry. Seventy-two years later, the red paint is still on the Church and Chapel doors.

Nugget for March 20

1940s-1950s – The Women of the Church

Photos: Cover of the Women's Auxiliary and Guilds' Handbook, and Table of Contents for the Women's Auxiliary and Guilds Handbook

During the 1940s and early 1950s, St. Philip’s supported a Women’s Auxiliary (later known as the Episcopal Church Women—ECW) and three Guilds—St. Anne’s, St. Elizabeth’s, and the Altar Guild.

The Auxiliary’s purpose was to support the Parish’s mission and outreach. Besides promoting spiritual growth of its members, the auxiliary provided educational resources for women and children. St. Philip’s Auxiliary had 69 active members. Twenty members were paid.

St. Anne’s Guild, a fellowship group, focused on service and community support. They often participated in charitable activities. St. Elizabeth’s Guild was traditionally for older women who could sew, cook and tend to the sick. They engaged in volunteer opportunities within the church and community. The Altar Guild was charged with preparing the altar and worship space for services. They were responsible for keeping liturgical items clean (at times making/sewing the church’s linens). St. Philip’s Altar Guild had forty-two (42) members. Within the three guilds, seven (7) members were paid.

Among the St. Philip’s Women’s activities, they: paid the coal bill, reorganized and ran Sunday School classes, hosted bridge and canasta parties to raise funds for a new Parish House, painted and hung wallpaper, made clothes for needy children in Brevard, paid $20 per year for lunches for needy children, called on the sick, hosted Coffee Hour during the summer, served coffee and dessert to the Men’s Club, and purchased dishes and tableware for a complete church set.

Nugget for March 27

1940s-1950s – The Men of the Church

Photo: Bromfield Property and Little Rectory, built 1951.

During this time, the men of the church were involved in financial and legal matters as well as church repairs. They led, with the Rector, the Every Member Canvass. The Rector distributed pledge cards at the campaign’s beginning. The men visited those who had not pledged or were behind in their pledges. It was the Treasurer’s responsibility to account for all expenditures. The men of the Vestry worked to balance the budget. The first full financial statement was included in the April 4, 1948, Vestry Notes, written and submitted by Mr. Alex Kizer, Treasurer.

The first major financial and legal matter occurred in 1950. The Vestry received a letter from Mr. J. S. Bromfield offering a lot for a rectory site, to be an Easter offering from the Bromfield family, whose property bordered the church. The letter stated the lot deed would be executed when $10,000 was obtained in a Rectory Fund. The letter also stated the property should be used for church purposes or the title would revert to the Bromfield heirs or Thompson Orphanage. A campaign was initiated which included the congregation, friends of St. Philip’s, summer visitors and August loose plate collections. By December 1950, the $10,000 sum had been reached. Building began in January 1951.

Church repairs were an ongoing job for the men. The coal furnace was inefficient, requiring much attention. The furnace grates failed. During wartime, parts were difficult to obtain. After two years consideration (price and parts’ availability), an oil furnace was purchased. Shrubbery and ivy had to be trimmed and trees cut. The Men’s Church Repair Committee built a walkway for the choir in 1947.

In 1954, Deacon Paul Ritch, serving as Rector, organized a St. Philip’s Men’s Club. The church women prepared dessert and coffee for their regular meetings. They began by cutting trees on the church property. A men’s “Welcoming Group” greeted visitors. They planned stew suppers. It might be noted that only men served as ushers and lay readers. Although a few women were elected after 1936, all men communicants were eligible for Vestry election.

Nugget for April 17

Stained Glass in St. Philip's Church

Photo: Altar windows in St. Philip's

The stained-glass windows at the altar were given in 1957 as a memorial to Elizabeth Mount Silversteen by her husband Joseph Silversteen and three daughters. Mr. Silversteen was generous in his contributions during a time when the parish needed his financial assistance.

The central panel is the Nativity; the Gospel side panel honors the parish patron St. Philip; and the epistle side panel honors St. Elizabeth, the namesake of Elizabeth Silversteen. St. Elizabeth was the mother of John the Baptist. She conceived at a very old age, and her greeting to her cousin Mary—‘Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb’—has become one of the great salutations of the Christian church. The fish emblem reminds us of St. Philip’s role in feeding the multitudes. Dominating the whole window is the deep blue glass and symbol of the circle. In religious symbolism, blue signifies heavenly love and truth. The circle is the emblem of eternity, without beginning or end. These windows are a great introduction to our Cornerstone Centennial Evensong on April 19, to be presented by the St. Philip’s Chancel Choir.

Do you want to know more about these beautiful stained-glass windows? Please join us for the Cornerstone Centennial Celebration event on May 8th from 5-7 p.m. for “A Fresh Look,” highlighting our art collection introducing a brief description on the stained-glass windows. A variety of art will be displayed, followed by a reception in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

CrossTown Update for January 28, 2026

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:26:54 GMT

CrossTown Update for January 28, 2026

This Sunday, February 1, CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 5-6:45pm. For dinner we will have meatball sliders, chips, and fruit. A member of the Brevard Jewish community will talk to us about Purim. We hope to see you there!

Middle schoolers: See you next Wednesday, February 4 , for our monthly art club meetings. All middle schoolers are invited to Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm for an art project led by the Arts Council. All snacks and supplies are provided. We hope you can join us for roller skating on February 13 for our first middle school meet up of 2026. The cost of skating is covered but we ask you bring your own money for dinner/snacks at the skating rink. We will meet at Carolina Dance Collective at 5:30pm and ride the church bus together. Pick up will be between 9 and 9:30pm at FUMC. You are encouraged to invite a friend. If you are able to join us, please let us know by signing up here .

High schoolers: There is still space left for our pilgrimage to Montgomery, AL on February 26-28 . All High schoolers are invited to join us as we explore the intersection of Racial Justice and faith. During the trip, we will visit several social justice museums with the college students before breaking into our own group for discussion. Please see the attached flyer for more information about the trip and a FAQ sheet. Please don't hesitate to reach out to Sarah Grace, Abby, or the Rev Elizabeth Roles with any questions. If you would like to join us for this pilgrimage, please let us know by signing up here.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

This Sunday at St. Philip's, January 18, 2026

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:21:42 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (January 18, 2026)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy the beautiful traditional language of Holy Eucharist, Rite 1, in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service. For this service, we will be using The Book of Common Prayer, so bring your own (or use one of our pew copies)! We will enjoy music voluntaries at the prelude, communion, and postlude.
Adult Formation at 9:15 a.m. – Please see our three opportunities described below.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

· Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, JANUARY 11

Exploring The Episcopal Way: A 5-Week Class On History, Worship, And Faith – Curious about the Episcopal Church—or ready to go a little deeper? Join us as for a warm, welcoming 5-week class led by Brad Wilson, designed for newcomers, seekers, and longtime Episcopalians who want to explore (or refresh) what shapes us as a community of faith. Dates: Sundays, January 11 – February 15, 2026 (5 weeks) at 9:15 a.m. in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room)

What we’ll cover:

The History of the Episcopal Church—where we came from and why it matters
Worship—“Why we do what we do” in the service, from prayers to sacraments
What We Believe—how Episcopalians live our faith together in community

Come with questions. Bring a friend. All are welcome.

Coffee & Conversation – Beginning January 11, up to the beginning of Lent, the Coffee & Conversation Team will continue to facilitate group discussion and connection. For this period the focus will be on "Living in Oneness" and will be prompted by reflections on the Gospel of John and other works of spirit. Coffee & Conversation meets Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

Lectio Divina – How does relaxing for a few minutes and dropping into beautiful Biblical passages sound to you? You hear them. You let them shimmer within. Then share what was especially moving to you. That is Lectio Divina. We will be offering a 5-week opportunity to not only hear, but to use the process of Lectio to involve all three of your wisdom centers (head, heart, body). Please join us during the Sunday School hour at 9:15 a.m. in the Library (across from the parish office) January 11, January 18, February 1, February 8, and February 15. Linda Oxford, the Rev. Bill McCleery, and Paula Benton will be your guides. We would love to have you! Please email Paula Benton at cocoondesign@comporium.net , if you’d like to sign up.

CrossTown Update for January 14, 2026

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:34:46 GMT

CrossTown Update for January 14, 2026

This Sunday, January 18 , CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm. We hope you can join us for games, a lesson, and dinner. See you there! Please see the attached flyer for all meeting dates (Sundays, middle school meet ups, and high school dinners).

High schoolers: We hope to see you tonight, January 14 at 6pm for high school dinner. We will meet at Sarah Grace's house for pizza and to watch Wicked. Sarah Grace's address is 55 Cardinal Dr. We have the exciting opportunity to partner with Brevard College to offer a pilgrimage to Montgomery, AL on February 26-28 . High schoolers are invited to join us as we explore the intersection of Racial Justice and faith. During the trip, we will visit several social justice museums with the college students before breaking into our own group for discussion. Please see the attached flyer for more information about the trip and a FAQ sheet. Please don't hesitate to reach out to Sarah Grace, Abby, or the Rev Elizabeth Roles with any questions. There are a limited number of spots available. If you would like to join us for this pilgrimage, please let us know by signing up here.

Middle schoolers: On February 4 , we will kick off our monthly art club meetings. All middle schoolers are invited to Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm for an art project led by the Arts Council. All snacks and supplies are provided. We hope you can join us for roller skating on February 13 for our first middle school meet up of 2026. The cost of skating is covered but we ask you bring your own money for dinner/snacks at the skating rink. We will meet at Carolina Dance Collective at 5:30pm and ride the church bus together. Pick up will be between 9 and 9:30pm at FUMC. You are encouraged to invite a friend. If you are able to join us, please let us know by signing up here .

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Celtic Gathering January 17, 2026

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:56:28 GMT

Celtic Gathering January 17, 2026

You are invited to a Celtic Gathering on Saturday, January 17 at 5:00 p.m. at St. Philip’s in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room). Celtic tradition recognizes the first revelation of God through creation. Our Celtic Gathering will be contemplative as we nurture our community through quiet reflection, meditation, and sharing. We will offer poetry, music, and story in the Celtic Gathering.

The Celtic Gathering: A new opportunity but an ancient path

The Celtic Gathering will begin a monthly service on Saturday, January 17 at 5pm using Miller Hall or Outdoors (weather dependent). This service is an experiment to gather in an ancient way but in today’s world and at St. Phillip’s facility. We will begin on time and end on time for an hour shared experience. Future dates will be announced soon.

Celtic —a form of experiencing the sacred rooted in the Celtic peoples of the world and practice. Celtic values include seeing the earth as sacred, original blessing, spiritual practices, wisdom, and the kindred relationship of creation and Creator.

Contemplative —a way of slowing the heart and connecting the mind. Silence and solitude, reflection and quiet frame the ancient practices of being and sharing together.

Contemporary —a way of using our vernacular language and current expressions of worship which is focused on poems, readings and music that is relevant to today.

Community —a way of connecting with others in conversation and story to build relationships and foster a shared life together.

Creation —a way of honoring our sacred Earth by always using the Cathedral of Earth, Sky and Sea for engagement and experience of the Holy.

Families are welcomed but no child care is provided.

For questions, see Stephen Smith, Angela Emerson, or Layne Racht for more information.

This Sunday at St. Philip's, January 11, 2026

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:49:16 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (January 11, 2026)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy the beautiful traditional language of Holy Eucharist, Rite 1, in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service. For this service, we will be using The Book of Common Prayer, so bring your own (or use one of our pew copies)! We will enjoy music voluntaries at the prelude, communion, and postlude.
Adult Formation at 9:15 a.m. – Please see our three opportunities described below.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

· Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, JANUARY 11

Exploring The Episcopal Way: A 5-Week Class On History, Worship, And Faith – Curious about the Episcopal Church—or ready to go a little deeper? Join us as for a warm, welcoming 5-week class led by Brad Wilson, designed for newcomers, seekers, and longtime Episcopalians who want to explore (or refresh) what shapes us as a community of faith. The Rev. Elizabeth Roles will lead our first class on January 11. Dates: Sundays, January 11 – February 15, 2026 (5 weeks) at 9:15 a.m. in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room)

What we’ll cover:

The History of the Episcopal Church—where we came from and why it matters
Worship—“Why we do what we do” in the service, from prayers to sacraments
What We Believe—how Episcopalians live our faith together in community

Come with questions. Bring a friend. All are welcome.

Coffee & Conversation – Beginning January 11, up to the beginning of Lent, the Coffee & Conversation Team will continue to facilitate group discussion and connection. For this period the focus will be on "Living in Oneness" and will be prompted by reflections on the Gospel of John and other works of spirit. Coffee & Conversation meets Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

Lectio Divina – How does relaxing for a few minutes and dropping into beautiful Biblical passages sound to you? You hear them. You let them shimmer within. Then share what was especially moving to you. That is Lectio Divina. We will be offering a 5-week opportunity to not only hear, but to use the process of Lectio to involve all three of your wisdom centers (head, heart, body). Please join us during the Sunday School hour at 9:15 a.m. in the Library (across from the parish office) January 11, January 18, February 1, February 8, and February 15. Linda Oxford, the Rev. Bill McCleery, and Paula Benton will be your guides. We would love to have you! Please email Paula Benton at cocoondesign@comporium.net , if you’d like to sign up.

CrossTown Update for January 8, 2026

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:00:18 GMT

CrossTown Update for January 8, 2026

Happy Thursday!

We hope you have had a wonderful first week of 2026!

This Sunday, January 11, CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. We look forward to seeing everyone then!

High schoolers: We hope to see you on Wednesday, January 14, at 6:30pm for dinner club. Make sure to check the group chat for more information.

Middle schoolers: Mark your calendar for February 13th for our first middle school meet up of 2026. We will go roller skating! Stay tuned over the next couple weeks for more details.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Cornerstone Centennial celebrations

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:30:37 GMT

Welcome!

Please join St. Philip's in 2026 as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone for our historic church building! Details are below... watch this space for more to come.

Nuggets: Sharing our History

A team of volunteers has found some treasures of history that we're sharing throughout this centennial year. Check them out here!

Cornerstone Centennial Evensong

Sunday, April 19 at 5:00 pm

A musical celebration of the 100th anniversary of the laying of our church's cornerstone!

Auction! "All God's Children: The Cornerstone of Our Future"

Saturday, April 25, 3:00-6:00 pm

A Fresh Look: The Visual History of St. Philip's

May 8-17

Past events pf the Cornerstone Centennial

50s Potluck Dinner and Family Game Night

February 6, 5:30-8:30 pm

CrossTown Update for December 26, 2025 - January 4, 2026

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 21:47:41 GMT

CrossTown Update for December 26, 2025 - January 4, 2026

Our Winter Lights Trip is rescheduled for January 4 from 4:00-8:00PM! This will be our first CrossTown meeting of 2026. All are welcome! Please RSVP using this link: Winter Lights RSVP

Please mark your calendar for June 10-14, 2026 for our service learning trip to Winston-Salem. More information and registration will be sent out the first week of January.

High schoolers: Please consider joining us for a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside Brevard College Students. We will be participating in a Civil Rights Pilgrimage Trip to Montgomery, Alabama in February. Limited to 5 High School participants. A registration application will be sent to all High School youth in the next few weeks!

We hope everyone has a wonderful, meaningful, and safe Christmas. We are so grateful for all of you!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

This Sunday at St. Philip's, December 21, 2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:38:47 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (December 21, 2025)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy the beautiful traditional language of Holy Eucharist, Rite 1, in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service. For this service, we will be using The Book of Common Prayer, so bring your own (or use one of our pew copies)! We will enjoy music voluntaries at the prelude, communion, and postlude.
“Poetry of Christmas III: True Believers” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

· Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21

“Poetry of Christmas III: True Believers” at 9:15 a.m. – Poems by Auden, Eliot, and Rossetti, poets who found in faith means to go beyond doubt to bring the old stories back to life. Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World” at 9:15 a.m. – This autumn, the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

CrossTown Update for December 11, 2025

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:50:26 GMT

CrossTown Update for December 11, 2025

This Sunday, December 14, CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. We will have tacos for dinner and write Christmas cards to people spending the holidays in prison.

We hope you can join us for our CrossTown Christmas party on December 21. We will meet at the White Squirrel Arcade from 5-7pm. We have rented the whole arcade so we encourage you to invite a friend that night. This is a free event but ask that everyone bring a dish to share for dinner. Please let us know what you can bring by signing up here .

Our Winter Lights Trip is rescheduled for January 4 from 4:00-8:00PM!

This is such a BUSY time of year so we are rescheduling our Winter Lights for Sunday, January 4 and inviting both Middle School and High School! This will be our regular Crosstown meeting to kick-off the new year! All are welcome! Please RSVP using this link: Winter Lights RSVP

Please mark your calendar for June 10-14, 2026 for our service learning trip to Winston-Salem. More information and registration will be sent out the first week of January.

High schoolers: Please consider joining us for a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside Brevard College Students. We will be participating in a Civil Rights Pilgrimage Trip to Montgomery, Alabama in February. Limited to 5 High School participants. A registration application will be sent to all High School youth in the next few weeks!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

This Sunday at St. Philip's, December 14, 2025

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:33:25 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (December 14, 2025)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy the beautiful traditional language of Holy Eucharist, Rite 1, in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service. For this service, we will be using The Book of Common Prayer, so bring your own (or use one of our pew copies)! We will enjoy music voluntaries at the prelude, communion, and postlude.
“Poetry of Christmas II: Atheists, Doubters, and Nostalgia” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

· Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

“Poetry of Christmas II: Atheists, Doubters, and Nostalgia” at 9:15 a.m. – Poems by Longfellow, Hardy, and Yeats, poets who disbelieved the Christmas stories but wished they were true. Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World” at 9:15 a.m. – This autumn, the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

A Senior Moment (December 12, 2025)

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:55:48 GMT

A Senior Moment (December 12, 2025)

In 1954 the Supreme Court (SCOTUS) issued the landmark Brown v Board of Education of Topeka ruling regarding school segregation. The Court determined that the then current operational philosophy of “separate but equal” was a myth. That in fact (and in practice), segregated school systems were inherently unequal. Anyone with unimpaired observational ability knew that to be the case, but the myth lived on in order to justify the reigning prejudices of the time. Brown v Board exploded the myth. However, declaring an action unconstitutional is one thing; implementing the corrective action is something else.

In 1964 Matthew and Bertha Carter lived and worked on the Premble Plantation near the Mississippi Delta town of Drew. Bertha decided that her children deserved the best education possible, so she enrolled them in the still segregated Drew High School. Matthew’s and Bertha’s job was on the farm owned by Thomas Premble. The house they lived in was leased to them by Premble. To run afoul of one plantation owner was to run afoul of all of them. So, when the foreman of the Premble estate came to their house demanding that they remove their children from Drew High School, Matthew and Bertha knew that the stakes were high. Despite the foreman’s and Premble’s insistence, the Carters held firm. That is when the intimidation began—the nighttime gunshots through the window, the theft of the Carters’ livestock, and finally the eviction from their house. Premble assumed that as a homeless family the Carters would have to move from the area and consequently remove their children from the school. However, a Quaker charity bought the Carters a house in Drew and their children completed high school and went on to productive and successful careers.

The story of the Carters’ experience puts into focus a truth I need to be reminded of from time to time. And that is, identifying a wrong and working to right a wrong are two totally different things. It is relatively easy to declare something to be wrong. All it takes is an awareness of events and a moral compass that is not demagnetized by personal prejudices. That is not to say that declaring something wrong is without complications. Sometimes declaring an action or an attitude to be wrong meets with an unwillingness to be heard or a communal ennui. This, to be sure, can be frustrating. But these are small potatoes when it comes to trying to change the circumstances so that the wrong is upended. It is when we try to change a wrong that we often meet vehemently entrenched opposition—an opposition with vested interests in maintaining the wrong, and, most often, an opposition that holds more power than we do. And in the face of this overwhelming opposition it is temptingly easy to assume the inevitability (and immutability) of the wrong and make the best of it that we can.

Here is where the example of the Carters is so powerful. Segregation in public schools was wrong—both morally and legally. Still the wrong persisted. Matthew and Bertha determined that while they were powerless to change the system on the macro-level, they could, nevertheless, make a difference in the small Delta town of Drew. The action of enrolling their children in the local all-white high school was as courageous as it was dangerous, yet they were willing to assume the risks for the benefit of their children and for the sake of doing what was right. Theirs was just a minor act in an insignificant town in an obscure part of a backward state. But for their children and those who came after, it was a life-changing, future-altering event.

This is the time of year when we celebrate insignificant beginnings transforming lives and history. During this season of Advent let us recommit ourselves to challenging wrong by doing right and pray that our faithfulness will find a significance for the sake of others.

David Yeager

Sr. Warden

This Sunday at St. Philip's, December 7, 2025

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:16:43 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (December 7, 2025)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy the beautiful traditional language of Holy Eucharist, Rite 1, in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service. For this service, we will be using The Book of Common Prayer, so bring your own (or use one of our pew copies)! We will enjoy music voluntaries at the prelude, communion, and postlude.
“Poetry of Christmas 1: Sacred, Secular, and Santa” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World” at 9:15 a.m. – (see below!)
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

· Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

“Poetry of Christmas I: Sacred, Secular, and Santa” at 9:15 a.m. – Where do our images of Christmas come from? How do we discern meaning and value in poetry? C. C. Moore’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
“Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World ” at 9:15 a.m. – This autumn, the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

Thank You to William Begg

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:10:36 GMT

Thank You to William Begg

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to William Begg, who is stepping down after 13 years of faithful service as our volunteer Treasurer for Receipts. William’s steady dedication, care, and diligence have blessed this parish and me, personally, as he accompanied me in my early years as rector. If you would like to honor William’s service, you may make a donation to the St. Philip’s Foundation for Towel Ministry , another ministry to which he has generously given his time and talent. We are deeply grateful for all that William has offered to St. Philip’s. If you’d like to donate, please add “Towel Ministry – Begg Honor” in the memo line of your check.

A few words about William’s service to Towel Ministry by Don Stubbs:

It is with great honor that we acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contributions of William Begg through his dedicated work with the Towel Ministry. Since his first client visit on April 29, 2004, William has played a pivotal role in enhancing the safety and independence of countless impaired and disabled individuals within our community.

Over the past years, William has worked on a sizeable number of Towel projects such as wheelchair ramps and other improvements for clients. However, several years ago he became a grab bar installation “specialist” and has since installed countless grab bars (over 1,000 since 2012) in individual’s homes. These installations have made a profound impact, allowing residents to more safely bathe, shower, and move around their homes with greater confidence and security. The commitment and care that William has shown in his work reflect not only his technical skill (drilling into ceramic tile without breaking it is not easy), but also his compassion and desire to improve the lives of others.

Through his efforts, the Towel Ministry has been able to reach those who are most in need, providing practical solutions that support dignity, well-being, and independence. William’s work stands as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when service is paired with genuine dedication and empathy.

On behalf of all those whose lives have been touched by his work, we offer our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to William for his remarkable service. His legacy within the Towel Ministry continues to enrich our community and set a standard for others to follow.

St. Philip's Annual Meeting February 8, 2026

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:40:03 GMT

Join us for our Annual Meeting on February 8, 2026

The Annual Parish Meeting and Vestry Elections will take place Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. in the sanctuary, and will be livestreamed on Facebook Live and YouTube *. A nursery / childcare for children 5th grade and under will be available.

For those attending/voting from home: on Sunday, February 8, 2026, an e-mail blast will be e-mailed Sunday morning with a link to our online ballot, where parishioners may vote for three candidates. The ballot link will be available from 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. only. The link will also be posted in the Facebook and YouTube comments and on the website during this time period.

Reports from parish leaders will be offered, and the 2026 ministry funding budget will be presented. Since vestry nominations are closed, we will vote for three of our five candidates: Jeff Ambrose, Frank Duckworth, Mike Dunham, Kiran Mehta, and Kerry Mosher. We will return to our usual Sunday morning schedule on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

In the week following Sunday's Annual Meeting, an e-mail blast will go out with links to all the reports.

Our five candidates have answered the question "Why do you want to serve on the Vestry?"

CrossTown Update for December 3, 2025

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:43:05 GMT

CrossTown Update for December 3, 2025

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! There is a lot happening this month and we hope you will be able to join us!

This Sunday, December 7th, CrossTown will not meet. Our next meeting will be December 14th at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. We will have tacos for dinner and write Christmas cards to be delivered to people in jail.

6-12 graders:

This Thursday, December 4 , is our shopping trip to buy gifts for the angel tree. All gifts we purchase will be donated to Sharing House for their Christmas blessings program. We will meet at FUMC at 4pm and ride the bus to Arden for dinner and shopping. We will return by 8pm. Please let Sarah Grace or Abby know if you plan to join us so we make sure to have enough transportation.

We hope you can join us for our CrossTown Christmas party on December 21. We will meet at the White Squirrel Arcade from 5-7pm. We have rented the whole arcade so we encourage you to invite a friend that night. This is a free event but ask that everyone bring a dish to share for dinner.

Our Winter Lights Trip is rescheduled for January 4 from 4:00-8:00PM! This is such a BUSY time of year so we are rescheduling our Winter Lights for Sunday, January 4 and inviting both Middle School and High School! This will be our regular Crosstown meeting to kick-off the new year! All are welcome! Please RSVP using this link: Winter Lights RSVP

Please mark your calendar for June 10-14, 2026 for our service learning trip to Winston-Salem. More information and registration will be sent out the first week of January.

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us tomorrow, Wednesday, December 3 , for middle school art club. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. Our project this week will be making shrinky dinks. All supplies and snacks will be provided. You are encouraged to invite a friend. We hope to see you tomorrow!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

This Sunday at St. Philip's, November 30, 2025

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 22:26:07 GMT

This Sunday at St. Philip's (November 30, 2025)

Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy sharing the same Holy Eucharist, Rite II liturgy in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service as the 10:30 a.m. service.
No Coffee & Conversation, Adult Forum, Youth Sunday School, or Godly Play November 30 – Sunday School classes for all ages will resume Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.
Nursery at 10:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.
Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.
Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.
Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

CrossTown Update for November 20-30, 2025

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:49:56 GMT

CrossTown Update for November 20-30, 2025

This Sunday, November 23 , CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 5-6:45. We will learn about chrismons and help decorate the Christmas tree in the sanctuary.

Angel tree shopping: our shopping for Christmas blessings gifts for Sharing House is being postponed. Please mark your calendar for December 4 at 4pm . We will go shopping and have dinner in Arden.

High schoolers: See you tomorrow, Thursday November 20 , for dinner at Zaxby's. We will meet at 6:30pm. Please bring $10 and a friend. This year, our annual trip to Winter Lights at the Arboretum will be Saturday, December 6 . We will meet at FUMC at 5pm. Please let us know if you plan to join but signing up here .

Middle schoolers: Please mark your calendar for December 3 for our last art club of 2025. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. All snacks and art supplies will be provided.

Everyone: CrossTown will not have a regular meeting on 11/30 or 12/7 . Please watch your church's newsletter for special events happening those evenings. If you are interested in walking with the FUMC Firewood Ministry in the Christmas parade on December 6, please reach out to Sarah Grace. Please mark your calendars for our CrossTown Christmas party on December 21. We will meet at the White Squirrel Arcade from 5-7pm. We have rented the whole arcade so we encourage you to invite a friend that night. This is a free event but ask that everyone bring a dish to share for dinner.

It is a busy but exciting time of year. We hope you are able to join us for as many of these fun events as you can!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

2025 Christmas Services

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:44:55 GMT

All are welcome - bring your family and friends!

Celebrate Christmas at St. Philip's! Visitors and newcomers are always welcome. If you have young children or grandchildren, we would love to have them participate in the pageant on Christmas Eve, and they're welcome at all the other services, too.

If you can't be with us in person, please join us virtually for the services marked with an asterisk (*). They will be livestreamed on our Facebook page or on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@stphilipsbrevardnc

CHRISTMAS EVE - Wednesday, December 24
3:00 pm "No Stress Pageant" and Holy Eucharist with Carols. All children are invited to participate; we can provide costumes if needed. Read more details below!

5:00 pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols* - Join us for Christmas Lessons and Carols in the tradition of King's College, Cambridge, an intimate hour of short readings, carol singing, and choral anthems to tell the story of the birth of the Christ Child. With the Chancel Choir and special musical guests.

8:00 pm Festival Holy Eucharist* - A Christmas service of Holy Eucharist with the Chancel Choir.

11:00 pm Midnight Candlelight Service - A contemplative service with special music as we greet Christmas with a traditional midnight Holy Eucharist.

CHRISTMAS DAY - Thursday, December 25
10:30 am Holy Eucharist with Carols and Homily*

About the No-Stress Christmas Pageant

"No Stress” means no rehearsals, no lines to memorize and the freedom to wear whatever represents someone’s vision of the Christmas story, be it a Wise Man or dinosaur! Costumes from home may be worn or borrowed from St. Philip’s collection. We have many choices for traditional costumes, including beasts, but sizes are limited.

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 16, 2025

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:21:01 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.

ADULT FORMATION OFFERINGS FOR SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16

• “Everyone Needs Forgiveness” at 9:15 a.m. – Everyone needs forgiveness, but some people and actions test the limits of our ability and willingness to forgive. If you’ve ever struggled with whether or how to forgive someone or something, come join us in exploring myths and misconceptions about forgiveness, barriers to forgiveness, what it means to forgive “from the heart,” and steps in the journey to forgiveness. In Session 3, participants will examine distinctions in the two types of forgiveness, explore ways to assess readiness to forgive, and consider how principles of forgiveness may be applied in real-life situations. The facilitator will provide handouts that will serve as a basis for discussion and activities. Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.

• “Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World ” at 9:15 a.m. – This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

THIS SUNDAY AT ST. PHILIP’S

• Sunday at 8:00 a.m. – During this season, we enjoy sharing the same Holy Eucharist, Rite II liturgy in our Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. spoken service as the 10:30 a.m. service.

• “Everyone Needs Forgiveness” at 9:15 a.m. – (see above!)

• “Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World ” at 9:15 a.m. – (see above!)

• Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.

• Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.

• Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

• Children’s Church at 10:30 a.m. – On Sunday all children (K-5th grade) are invited to Children’s Church during the Liturgy of the Word in the 10:30 a.m. service. Children may be brought to the Sunday School room across from the Godly Play room (the youth classroom) before parents/grandparents go to church. Children will be taken to the church during the Peace and should join their family for communion.

• Sunday at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music) at our 10:30 a.m. service.

• Coffee Hour after the 10:30 a.m. service – All are invited and always welcome to join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service for juice or coffee and fellowship. This is a great chance to mingle, meet new people, or just relax with friends.

CrossTown Update for November 13, 2025

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:08:57 GMT

CrossTown Update for November 13, 2025

This Sunday, November 16, CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 4:30-6:45pm (please note the earlier meeting time) for a movie night. We encourage you to wear comfy clothes and bring a blanket. For dinner we will have soup and grilled cheese and popcorn for dessert.

On Friday, November 21 , everyone is invited to join us for shopping for the angel tree. We will meet at FUMC at 5:30pm.

High schoolers: We hope you can join us on Thursday, November 20 for high school dinner. We will meet at Zaxby's at 6:30pm. Please bring $10 and a friend.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 9, 2025

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:35:01 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – Everyone needs forgiveness, but some people and actions test the limits of our ability and willingness to forgive. If you’ve ever struggled with whether or how to forgive someone or something, come join us in exploring myths and misconceptions about forgiveness, barriers to forgiveness, what it means to forgive “from the heart,” and steps in the journey to forgiveness. In Session 2, participants will explore the relationship between empathy, compassion, and forgiveness, and examine whether forgiveness should always lead to reconciliation. The facilitator will provide handouts that will serve as a basis for discussion and activities. Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We are using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully-animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

CrossTown Update for November 5, 2025

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 17:05:46 GMT

CrossTown Update for November 5, 2025

This Sunday, November 9, CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm. Please note that we are adding a meeting and will also meet at St. Philip's on November 16.

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us tomorrow, Wednesday, November 5 , for middle school art club. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. Then we hope you join us again at Good Shepherd on Friday, November 7 for Middle School Meetup. We will have a glow party and games. We will have breakfast for dinner. We encourage you to bring a flashlight and a friend.

High schoolers: Please mark your calendar for our next dinner club meeting on November 20. We will meet at Zaxby's at 6:30pm.

6-12th graders: If you are able to join us for our Carowinds trip on November 15, please make sure to let us know by signing up here . The cost is $50 and covers your ticket and meals. Please reach out to Sarah Grace and me for scholarship information.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Power Up! A Community Effort to Warm Hearts and Homes

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:57:05 GMT

Power Up! A Community Effort to Warm Hearts and Homes

Volunteers and the Christian Social Concerns Committee are grateful to our parish for hosting another powerful Power Up! Once again, St. Philippians joined the Unitarian Universalists of Transylvania County and Brevard Jewish Community to cook, chop vegetables, set up tents, welcome, supervise CrossTown Youth, and drive through to make generous donations. Power Up! for Sharing House, now in its ninth year, has become a beautiful way for us to help our neighbors keep their homes warm.

Sharing House’s mission is to aid those who live in poverty. According to the Rev. Shelly Webb, executive director, heating is the biggest need the agency encounters. Thanks to St. Philip’s, united with our interfaith community, Power Up! has become Sharing House’s largest fundraising event.

Huge thanks to Self-Help Credit Union for donating to the cost, and to The Square Root Restaurant whose chefs began pre-dawn meal prep, and to our own dear Shawn Ellerton who cooked all day with volunteers. Bands “Paddle Faster” and “Band of the County Down” kept the outside rocking. Together, our volunteers were able to serve delicious homecooked meals and contributions have already risen to over $28,500.

Our Power Up! effort continues, and we can all keep on being part of this community event! If you have not contributed, please make donations by visiting sharinghouse.org or mailing a check to Sharing House (memo line “Power Up”), 164 Duckworth Ave., Brevard, NC 28712 - and thank you!

A Senior Moment (October 31, 2025)

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:43:09 GMT

A Senior Moment (October 31, 2025)

A Reformation Day Meditation

In the late 1520’s Suleiman the Magnificent was the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. His grandfather, Mehmet II, had shocked the Christian world in 1453 by destroying the Eastern Christian kingdom known as Byzantium. Constantinople was renamed Istanbul and the Haggia Sophia (Church of Holy Wisdom) was transformed into a mosque. Upon ascending the throne, Suleiman felt the need to prove himself worthy of the sultanate and so began a conquest of Christian powers in Eastern Europe. Belgrade, Rhodes, and Hungary each fell to the overpowering force of Suleiman’s army. Next up, in the late 1520’s was Vienna itself. To Christendom, it looked like an unstoppable avalanche of evil moving from East to West.

It was in this context, somewhere between 1527 and 1529, that Martin Luther wrote his famous hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott). You can catch the spirit of Luther’s anxiety in the title, A Mighty Fortress . A fortress is a defensive structure. It is something within which one takes safety. It is where one hides and hopes, not an element of offensive warfare. Luther, like his fellow Christians, was worried. What was to become of the Christian faith in the face of this marauding horde of Ottomans? Was any fortress strong enough to withstand their onslaught?

Listen to how Luther describes the crisis in his first stanza:

A mighty fortress is our God,

A mighty shield and weapon;

He helps us free from ev’ry need

That hath us now o’ertaken.

The old evil foe

Now means deadly woe;

Deep guile and great might

Are his dread arms in fight;

On earth is not his equal.

In more modern translations we have tended to sanitize Luther’s fear and dread, but in the late 1520’s things did not look hopeful. Still, Luther is not totally undone. Listen to his second stanza:

Though devils all the world should fill,

All eager to devour us,

We tremble not, we fear no ill;

They shall not overpow’r us.

This world’s prince may still

Scowl fierce as he will,

He can harm us none.

He’s judged; the deed is done;

One little word can fell him.

That Word, of course, was the power of God in the person of Jesus Christ. Luther was confident that come what may (and in the third stanza he makes clear that earthly survival may not be an option), God can be relied upon to carry the day—and more than that, to carry the arc of history.

Life deals all of us dark days from time to time, but Luther reminds us that in the Kingdom of God, darkness never wins.

David Yeager

Sr. Warden

CrossTown Update for October 29, 2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:34:33 GMT

CrossTown Update for November 2, 2025

This Sunday, November 2 , CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. We hope to see you there!

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us next Wednesday, November 5 for art club. You are invited to join us at Good Shepherd right after school until 5pm for a free art class led by members of the Transylvania Arts Council. All supplies and snacks are provided. And then we hope you can join us again on Friday, November 7 for a glow party. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 6:30-8pm. We encourage you to bring a flashlight and a friend.

6-12th graders: We hope you can join us on November 15 for a trip to Carowinds! The cost is $50 with scholarships available. The cost covers your ticket and meals. We will meet at FUMC at 9am and return at 9pm. Please let us know if you can join us by signing up here .

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 2, 2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:26:15 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.

• Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – Everyone needs forgiveness, but some people and actions test the limits of our ability and willingness to forgive. If you’ve ever struggled with whether or how to forgive someone or something, come join us in exploring myths and misconceptions about forgiveness, barriers to forgiveness, what it means to forgive “from the heart,” and steps in the journey to forgiveness. In Session 1, participants will consider how to define forgiveness, identify and challenge common myths and misconceptions about forgiveness, recognize common barriers to forgiveness, and examine the impact of unforgiveness on their own well-being. The facilitator will provide handouts that will serve as a basis for discussion and activities. Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.

• Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

• Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – M iddle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School. We using short videos from bibleproject.com to jump start our discussions; this fully-animated series traces key biblical themes from their first appearance through the entire narrative of the Bible. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.

• Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.

Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

A Senior Moment (October 24, 2025)

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 15:24:43 GMT

A Senior Moment (October 24, 2025)

Friends, this week I want to provide a brief update on the work of your Vestry. As you know from previous announcements, the Vestry has been considering adding solar panels to our facility. The practical effect is to reduce our reliance on fossil fuel energy—the symbolic effect is to demonstrate our attention to Creation Care. At our most recent Vestry meeting the members voted to proceed with the solar project pending a successful application process (engineering study, Duke Energy approval, etc.). We anticipate a start date before the end of the year to ensure that we meet the 30% rebate requirements.

The Vestry members also approved replacing the shingles on the sections of the roof covered by the solar panels. The current roof has about 10 years of life remaining, but we decided to replace those affected sections now rather than incurring the cost of removing and replacing the solar panels at the end of the shingle life. By doing this, the new shingles will last beyond the life of the solar equipment.

In other business, we have been discussing our website presence. After consultation with a website designer, the Vestry members are close to a decision on contracting with a web designer to rework our site. Vestry approval of this project will likely occur in the coming weeks.

The Vestry members are currently gathering the information needed to formulate the 2026 budget. We want to thank all of you who have responded or will soon respond to the “Moving Forward With Grace and Generosity” pledge campaign. Your faithfulness enables us to meet the needs of our growing congregation. Thank you.

Finally, the Nominating Committee is actively soliciting nominees for the new Vestry Class. If you have interest in serving on the Vestry, please reach out to one of the committee members: Paula Benton, Molly Tartt, Denis Bolena, Jann Mellman, Jo Buescher, David Yeager.

Thanks again for all you do to make St. Philip’s such a vibrant witness to our community.

David Yeager,

Sr. Warden

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, October 26, 2025

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:52:43 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – All are invited - especially our newcomers - to our Adult Forum on The Book of Common Prayer on Sunday, October 26. This week's session is "Introduction to the Prayer Book: A Book of Daily Living" Led by the Rev. Angela Emerson, this session takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – Middle and high school youth are invited to join us for Sunday School as we explore the book of Exodus to discover more about the characteristics of God. We meet in the youth classroom located downstairs in the Education wing.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

CrossTown Update for October 22, 2025

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:41:56 GMT

CrossTown Update for October 2, 2025

This Sunday, October 26, CrossTown will meet at FUMC from 5-6:45. We will be doing pumpkin olympics so please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty.

High schoolers: We hope to see you tonight for dinner club. We will meet at Corky's at 6:30pm. Please bring $10 if you can.

Middle schoolers: You are invited to join us on Wednesday, November 5 for middle school art club. We meet at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. This is a free event - all supplies and snacks are provided. Each class is led by members of the Transylvania Arts Council. Art club takes place at Good Shepherd the first Wednesday of each month. Then that Friday, November 7th is our next middle school meetup. We will meet at Good Shepherd from 6:30-8pm for a glow party. We will play games and have a glow stick dance party. Dinner will be provided. We hope to see you there!

Everyone: We know how busy everyone is and heard from many of you that, while you wanted to join the fall retreat, it was hard to commit to the full weekend so we are postponing the retreat until late winter/ early spring. We still want to have some fun together that weekend and are planning a day trip to Carowinds on Saturday, November 15 . The cost is $50, which covers your ticket and meals. We will meet at FUMC at 9am and return around 9pm. Please let us know if you can join us by signing up here by November 1. Please don't hesitate to reach out to Sarah Grace and me with any questions.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

'No Room at the Inn' December 4-6

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:21:41 GMT

A beautiful way for all ages to experience the Nativity story

St. Philip's will open its doors December 4-6 for the annual "No Room at the Inn" exhibit, a display of more than 100 beloved creches collected from around the world on loan from members and friends of the church.

Admission is free, and visitors are invited to wander the aisles of the historic church and experience the beauty and variety of the manger scenes. There will be live music throughout the day, and children can participate in a scavenger hunt as they view the displays.

Founded in 2022, the festival has become a Brevard Christmas tradition, welcoming several hundred visitors each year. Exhibit hours have been expanded in 2025 to allow more people to attend. The doors will be open:

Thursday, December 4 - 3:00 to 7:00 pm

Friday, December 5 - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday, December 6 - 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

All are welcome – Come and see!

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, October 19, 2025

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 14:53:31 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – All are invited - especially our newcomers - to our Adult Forum on The Book of Common Prayer on Sunday, October 19. This week's session is "Introduction to the Prayer Book: how does the Holy Spirit inform and infuse worship in a liturgical church (one using a prescribed form of worship)?" Led by the Rev. Angela Emerson, this session takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – All middle and high school youth are invited to Sunday School, where we will brainstorm together about the topics they'd like to explore this fall. This class meets in the Youth Classroom in the Education wing downstairs.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

CrossTown Update for October 15, 2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:55:28 GMT

CrossTown Update for October 15, 2025

This Sunday, October 19th, CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 3:30-6pm . We will help with PowerUp!, a heating assistance fundraiser for Sharing House. Pizza will be provided for the youth. If your family would like to reserve a meal, you can do so by emailing powerupbrevard@gmail.com and indicate how many meals you would like and if you would like chicken and rice or veggie stew. Meals are free and donations can be given at pickup.

6-12 graders: Our fall retreat registration deadline has been extended.Our retreat will be at Camp Grier November 14-16. The cost is $125 with scholarships available. If you plan to join us, please make sure to let us know. Please see the flyer below for the link to register.

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us on Friday, October 17th for Middle School Meetup. We will meet at St. Philip's at 7pm and walk to Silvermont Pumpkin Fest. Please bring $5 for entry.

High schoolers: We hope you can join us on Wednesday, October 22 for dinner club. We will meet at Corky's at 6:30. Please bring $10 if you are able. All 15-18 year olds are invited to a free evening of fun at the White Squirrel Arcade on October 18 . For more information and a link to reserve your spot, please see the attached flyer.

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us on Friday, October 17th for Middle School Meetup. We will meet at St. Philip's at 7pm and walk to Silvermont Pumpkin Fest. Please bring $5 for entry.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Sunday School for All Ages This Week

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:43:02 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages This Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – Angela Emerson facilitates a session on “Introduction to the Prayer Book: Why do we have a Book of Common Prayer but leave it in the pew rack on Sunday?” Adult Forum takes place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – All middle and high school youth are invited to Sunday School, where we will brainstorm together about the topics they'd like to explore this fall. This class meets in the Youth Classroom in the Education wing downstairs.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

"Refuge" Documentary Screening November 9

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 12:52:16 GMT

"Refuge" Documentary Screening November 9

On Sunday, November 9, St. Philip's Christian Social Concerns Committee and the Center for Spiritual Wisdom and will host a public screening of the documentary "Refuge," a film depicting a journey of healing and reconciliation in the foothills of northern Georgia where a Georgia native confronts his fear and loathing of Islam through an acquaintance with a Kurdish immigrant.

From the film's website ( refugemovie.com ): "REFUGE is set in the most diverse square mile in America, Clarkston, Georgia, and follows a Syrian Kurd, a former Klansman, and a town of refugees who seek belonging in an increasingly polarized and isolated America."

"It reveals the urgent need and offers shining hope that we find paths that span the deep fissures of our times, " says Terry Decker, the event's organizer.

Please mark your calendar and gather in Miller Hall by 1:30 pm on November 9. The film runs one hour eighteen minutes, leaving time for reflection and discussion until 4:00 pm.

Please register for this free event so we can account for the volume of seating and popcorn. You can register at the following link: https://ticketstripe.com/tickets/507219280

The Sun Rises at St. Philip's!

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 17:50:00 GMT

The Sun Rises at St. Philip’s!

O ver the past couple months the solar project has been working through a number of steps. In August an online congregational survey found overwhelming support among respondents for installing solar panels on the back roof of Miller Hall and the administration wing. Following the survey an open forum where questions and concerns were addressed was held on August 20. Taking this feedback from the congregation, the vestry decided to have a small subcommittee meet with potential solar companies who had submitted proposals and make a recommendation on the company of choice. At the vestry meeting on September 15, the recommendation of the subcommittee was presented to the full vestry and a motion was passed to enlist Rhino Renewables Solar and Electric in conducting an engineering study. This study examines the building to ensure it is structurally and electrically capable of handling a solar panel system. The study also initiates the interconnection process with Duke Energy to gain their approval of the system. Once the engineering study is completed, the findings will be reviewed by the vestry and they will then discern and vote on whether to enter into a contract with Rhino for the system final design and installation.

For some, the process laid out above may seem very fast. The reason for the urgency is to ensure the church, if it decides to pursue solar, is able to take advantage of the federal investment tax credit, which is 30 percent of the total project cost. This money will come back to the church even though we are a nonprofit organization.

Most important, however, is the role St. Philip’s will play in doing our small part as good stewards of God’s Creation. The proposed solar system will not only supply about half of the church’s electrical needs, over the next 20 years, it will also save over 730 tons of carbon that would be otherwise put into our struggling climate system. The church has always been called upon to be an example to the world. Joining the renewable energy community, allows St. Philip’s to realize God’s call to be faithful stewards of Creation and to serve as an example to the larger community. Pray for the vestry and leadership of St. Philip’s as we discern the path forward.

CrossTown Update for October 8, 2025

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:17:39 GMT

CrossTown Update for October 8, 2025

This Sunday, October 12, CrossTown will meet at Good Shepherd from 5-6:45pm. As part of the evening we will be packing hygiene kits for Lutheran World Relief. See you there!

Please note: On Sunday, October 19th, CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 3:30-6pm . We will help with PowerUp!, a heating assistance fundraiser for Sharing House. Pizza will be provided for the youth. If your family would like to reserve a meal, you can do so by emailing powerupbrevard@gmail.com and indicate how many meals you would like and if you would like chicken and rice or veggie stew. Meals are free and donations can be given at pickup.

Middle schoolers: We hope you can join us on Friday, October 17th for Middle School Meetup. We will meet at St. Philip's at 7pm and walk to Silvermont Pumpkin Fest. Please bring $5 for entry.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Sunday School for All Ages This Week

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:56:31 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages This Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

Combined Adult Formation and Coffee Hour at 9:15 a.m. – The Stewardship Committee invites you to a special coffee hour this Sunday, October 5, at 9:15 a.m. Come enjoy good food and fellowship, and hear a presentation by the Rev. Bill McCleery about the importance of annual giving in moving FORWARD! Please join us in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – All middle and high school youth are invited to Sunday School, where we will brainstorm together about the topics they'd like to explore this fall. This class meets in the Youth Classroom in the Education wing downstairs.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

CrossTown Update for October 1, 2025

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:20:41 GMT

CrossTown Update for October 1, 2025

This Sunday, September 28, CrossTown will meet at First United Methodist Church from 5-6:45pm. Shirts with this year's theme have arrived! If you would like a shirt and to be able to pick your size, please make sure to join us Sunday evening.

High schoolers : See you tomorrow, 9/25, for supper club. We will meet at HomeSlyce at 6:30pm.

Middle schoolers : You are invited to join us on Wednesday, October 1 for middle school art club. We meet at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd from 3:30-5pm. This is a free event - all supplies and snacks are provided. Each class is led by members of the Transylvania Arts Council. Art club takes place at Good Shepherd the first Wednesday of each month. We hope to see you there!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for September 24, 2025

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:09:44 GMT

CrossTown Update for September 24, 2025

High schoolers : See you tomorrow, 9/25, for supper club. We will meet at HomeSlyce at 6:30pm.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

CrossTown Update for September 19, 2025

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 16:04:25 GMT

CrossTown Update for September 12, 2025

Hi everyone!

This Sunday, September 21, CrossTown will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm. We hope you can join us for games, small groups and dinner.

High schoolers: Mark your calendar for our first dinner club of the year. We will meet at Homeslyce pizza on Thursday, September 25 at 6:30pm. After dinner we will walk to the airstream for ice cream. Please bring $10 if you are able. Please see the attached flyer for all dinner club dates.

Middle schoolers: Mark your calendars for our first middle school meet up on Friday, October 17 . We will meet at St. Philip's at 7pm and walk to Silvermont for Pumpkinfest. Please see the attached flyer for more information.

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

PowerUp! 2025 October 19, 2025

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:14:17 GMT

PowerUp! 2025 - October 19, 2025

PowerUp! is coming soon, and our community can make a difference. Our neighbors count on Sharing House for help with heating bills, and Sharing House counts on us! St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, the Unitarian Universalists of Transylvania County, and the Brevard Jewish Community will partner for the ninth year of our annual interfaith PowerUp! Fundraiser.

According to the Rev. Shelly Webb, Executive Director of Sharing House, last year more than 1300 Transylvania County households turned to Sharing House for heating assistance. Thanks to your generosity, PowerUp! raised an incredible $50,000 last year, and with fuel costs expected to rise, we hope to exceed that this year.

On Sunday, October 19, from 4:00-5:30 p.m., you are invited to drive through St. Philip’s parking lot to pick up a delicious meal - chicken and rice casserole or vegetarian black bean and sweet potato stew with rice, challah roll, salad, and brownie - served by our CrossTown youth.

Thanks to volunteers, generous contributions, and support from Self-Help Credit Union, there is no charge for the meal. However, you must reserve your meal by Thursday, October 16 . Please register in Easel Alley (outside the parish office) or by e-mailing powerupbrevard@gmail.com and indicating vegetarian or chicken and how many meals you are requesting.

Donations to PowerUp! (via PayPal, cash, or check made out to Sharing House) will be gratefully accepted as you pick up your meal. You can also send contributions directly to Sharing House, 164 Duckworth Ave, Brevard, NC 28712, indicating PowerUp! on the memo line.

CrossTown Update for September 12, 2025

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 19:28:34 GMT

CrossTown Update for September 12, 2025

CrossTown will meet this Sunday, September 14, at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd (22 Fisher Rd) from 5-6:45pm. We'd love for you to join us for games, small groups, and dinner. This week's dinner will be pasta!

Attached you can find the fall schedule. Be sure to join our GroupMe for updates and reminders. Keep an eye out in the next few weeks for dates for high school dinner and middle school meetup.

Parents: Please make sure to fill out the Student Information Form if you haven't already.

We can't wait to see you Sunday!

Sunday School for All Ages This Week

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:05:30 GMT

Sunday School for All Ages This Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum Book Study at 9:15 a.m. – Bill McCleery facilitates a four-week study on A Faith for the Future, by The Rev. Jesse Zink, and introduces Episcopal theology with the question, “In today’s world of social media saturation where there is constant pressure to communicate in ever shorter sentences and thoughts, can we capture the good news of Jesus Christ in a post on X?” The author thinks so: “You are loved with a love unlike any else, that leads to a life unlike any else – now go, show that love and life to others.” A huge ocean of meaning lies under each word and this book welcomes readers into those depths. Each chapter takes a different aspect of Christian faith – God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Creation and Humanity, Baptism, Church, Eucharist, Mission, and Hope of the World to Come – and links history and tradition with real world experience. Sessions take place in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.
Coffee & Conversation at 9:15 a.m. – Holy Encounters: Exploring Jesus' Way of Being in the World. This autumn the Coffee and Conversation team is facilitating conversation around Jesus’ way of being in the world as we explore the Sermon on the Mount together. Join us as we look to cultivate holy moments of encounter as individuals, in community, and in the world around us. Coffee & Conversation meets in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.
Youth Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. – All middle and high school youth are invited to Sunday School, where we will brainstorm together about the topics they'd like to explore this fall. This class meets in the Youth Classroom in the Education wing downstairs.
Godly Play at 9:15 a.m. – Children ages 4 through 5th grade will be engaged in Godly Play. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder and play. Godly Play meets in the Education wing downstairs.
Nursery at 9:15 a.m. – Nursery for children Kindergarten age and younger is available today beginning at 9:15 a.m.

CrossTown Update for September 7, 2025

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 15:53:49 GMT

CrossTown Update for September 7, 2025

This Sunday, September 7th, is our CrossTown kickoff! We will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm in Miller Hall (the big upstairs room). During the kickoff we will play group games, split into small groups to talk about our hopes for this year, and have a taco bar for dinner. We will also reveal our theme for the year and hand out a calendar with important dates. We encourage you to bring a friend, come ready to play, and get ready to start the year off strong. We can't wait to see everyone there!

A Senior Moment (September 12, 2025)

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:10:42 GMT

A Senior Moment (September 12, 2025)

Taylor Branch, in his book Parting The Waters, relates the story of Barbara Johns, then a Junior at R.R. Morton High School in Farmville, Va., in 1951. A school assembly was called and when students and teachers arrived in the auditorium, they were met not by school administrators, but by Johns. She informed those gathered that the meeting was to discuss the wretched conditions of the school. Here is Branch’s description of the event:

…she reminded the students of the sorry history since 1947, when the county had built three temporary tar-paper shacks to house the overflow at the school—how the students had to sit in the shacks in the cold through the winter; how her history teacher, who doubled as the bus driver, was obliged to gather wood and start fires in the shacks in the morning after driving a bus that was a hand-me-down from the white school and didn’t have much heat either, when it was running; how the county had been promising the Negro principal a new school for a long time, but had discarded those promises like old New Year’s resolutions; and how, because the adult Negroes had been rebuffed in trying to correct these and a host of other injustices, it was time for the students to protest.

Barbara called for a “strike” and her fellow students marched out of the school with her. At first, the school administration and the local NAACP were unsympathetic with the students, but after pressure from the students’ supporters, the NAACP filed suit a month later. This legal action was joined to three other cases in what became Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka.

I found this story a powerful reminder of how, in the absence of fairness and justice, individuals sometimes took bold and risky actions. This is true of our racially divided past as much as of the Sons of Liberty acting against 18 ^th Century Britain. Both events are part of the history of America and need to be remembered and honored if we are to avoid self-delusion.

However, facing that history is difficult for all of us. We all have the urge to erase our unpleasant past—to create a narrative that glosses over our failure to live up to our better selves. This is true for us as individuals as well as for us as a nation. The history we prefer is one that ignores references to racial and gender struggles; that privileges one segment of our communal mosaic to the neglect, even dismissal, of those segments which do not fit the revised narrative wishing to be told; that exchanges reality for mythmaking.

Yet, experience has taught us that we do not make ourselves more important, by making others less important; we do not enhance our own respect when we treat others with disrespect; nor do we make our national portrait more vibrant by painting it in monotone.

In John’s Gospel, Jesus states that “you shall know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This statement has implications both spiritual and cultural. When we embrace the truth, we discover freedom to see our history clearly, to honor the many hands and shoulders upon which we stand, and to live into our true identity as a people. If we welcome the full story, with both its triumphs and its trials, we are strengthened by a collective ethos that binds us together. When we commit ourselves to honesty, to listening deeply, and to lifting every voice, we create the possibility of a future marked not by repetition of the harms of the past, but by renewal and hope. The truth, faced with humility and courage, sets us free to live more fully into the abundant life God intends for us.

Barbara Johns spoke the truth and that truth brought freedom. May her story be our story and may we all work toward that freeing reconciliation that only truth can ensure.

David Yeager,

Sr. Warden

CrossTown Update for August 29, 2025

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:48:54 GMT

CrossTown Update for August 29, 2025

Hello!

We hope the school year is off to a great start for everyone!

For our new friends, CrossTown is our combined youth group made up of middle and high schoolers from Bethel A Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, and St. Philip's Episcopal Church. Every Sunday we come together for fellowship, faith, and food with retreats, service projects, and other fun events throughout the year.

This Friday, August 29, from 7-9pm , your whole family is invited to meet us at Grace Brevard to participate in the community square dance. The cost is $10/person and $5 for children under 12. We would love to see everyone there!

Mark your calendars for our CrossTown kickoff on September 7th . We will meet at St. Philip's from 5-6:45pm in Miller Hall (the big upstairs room). During the kickoff we will play group games, split into small groups to talk about our hopes for this year, and have a taco bar for dinner. During the kickoff we will reveal our theme for the year and hand out a calendar with important dates. We encourage you to bring a friend, come ready to play, and get ready to start the year off strong. We can't wait to see everyone there!

Peace,

Abby (she/her)

Messiah

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:18:05 GMT

A music event for the whole community: Come sing, or just listen and enjoy!

Saturday, December 13

TWO PERFORMANCES: 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm

Click here to purchase tickets

A Christmas masterpiece of community music for all with professional soloists and a historically informed Baroque Orchestra, the 2025 Messiah Sing-Along on December 13 promises to be a highlight of the holiday season! Bring a score and sing along, or simply come and enjoy the music.

Each performance is coordinated by Dr. Brittnee Siemon, St. Philip's Director of Music Ministry, and directed by guest conductor Dr. David Gresham, in collaboration with enthusiastic singers from the St. Philip’s Chancel Choir and the Brevard community.

Need a score? Download it for free here .

Want a poster? Download one by clicking the image below.

Artist Spotlights

In the weeks leading up to the December 13 performances, we will feature each of the artists who will join us for the Messiah Sing-Along. Keep reading below to learn more!

Sign Up for Fall Foyer Groups!

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 17:57:09 GMT

Sign Up for Fall Foyer Groups!

St. Philip's is organizing our next round of Foyer Group gatherings for September through December, and sign-ups are happening now through September 7. Use the sign-up sheet in Easel Alley outside the Parish Office, or sign up online using this link: https://forms.gle/6yDPpaZDC7gL3ZCFA

Foyer Groups are a great way to get to know other church members better by gathering in small groups for meals. When you sign up, you'll be assigned to a group of 6-8 people who will meet 3 or 4 times over the next few months. The meals are usually potluck-style dinners, but the format is up to each group. Some may opt to meet in the daytime, or gather at a restaurant and share the bill. Singles as well as couples are welcome. You don't have to have a partner for Foyers, but if you want to pair up with someone for hosting, carpooling, etc., that's fine, too.

The main purpose is to share fellowship and get to know other church members in a relaxed setting. Please consider being part of Foyer Groups this fall! If you have any questions about Foyers, please contact Mary McGinnis at mary.mcg864@gmail.com .

From Thrift to Chic – The Shop’s volunteers hit the runway!

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:05:12 GMT

From Thrift to Chic – The Shop’s volunteers hit the runway September 4!

You’re invited!

Join us for the quarterly General Meeting

of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) featuring the

Harvest of Style Fashion Show
Fall finds from The Shop of St. Philip’s

The Shop of St. Philip’s is a well-loved destination in our community and is the source of the ECW’s substantial donations to local non-profit organizations. The dedicated volunteers are the backbone of The Shop and are the stars of the fashion show.

Discover the joy of secondhand style as shop volunteers and others strut their stuff in fabulous thrift shop finds, showing how pre-loved treasures can shine anew. Everyone is welcome—bring your family, friends, and neighbors! Join us for fun and refreshments in the celebration of style, sustainability, and The Shop of St. Philip’s.

Please sign up in Easel Alley to attend, bring refreshments, or help with set-up or clean-up. Thanks!

Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 4:00 pm – Brief business meeting
4:30 pm – Fashion Show
Location: Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room)

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
256 E. Main Street, Brevard

A Senior Moment (August 15, 2025)

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:56:56 GMT

A Senior Moment (August 15, 2025)

Last Friday, hiking along the Buckhorn Trail in Pisgah Forest, our hiking group came upon two rather healthy male rattlesnakes in the middle of the trail. We knew to look for them because three other hikers had come from that direction, concluded that the snakes were not going to move, and decided to take the long way around to Avery Creek Road. We ventured on ahead anyway, on the assumption that the snakes had moved on by then. They had not. In fact, these two male snakes were not merely basking in the warmth of the sun, they were engaged in a dominance dance—a challenge to see which one of them would claim territorial rights and the attention of the female snake that went along with the territory.

We watched as the snakes writhed around one another; reared up to half of their body length to intimidate the other; went head-to-head, neck-to-neck until they both flopped back to the ground and then started the dominance dance over again. We guessed that they had been at this routine for at least 45 minutes (based on when we saw the other hikers) and they showed no signs of quitting anytime soon. After another few minutes, however, they disengaged and moved off to the side of the trail where the winner lay in the bushes while the loser slinked off to try his luck elsewhere. We kept close tabs on the snake that remained (after all, it was his territory now) while making our escape through the undergrowth on the opposite side of the trail. It was an amazing, fascinating display of life in the universe of snakes.

I have been thinking a lot about this encounter, and it seems to me that there are a couple of life lessons to be learned from my slithering acquaintances. First, taking a determined stand is sometimes the right thing to do. One might argue that this reptilian bravado was unnecessary—after all, there was plenty of forest around, they really did not have to fight over this specific patch of land. But apparently these guys didn’t see it that way. For them it was a matter of importance, perhaps even a matter of integrity. Unless they wanted to slink their life away, always avoiding confrontation, taking only the unchallenged path, then staking a claim to what they perceived as essential was the honorable thing to do. True, one of them had to come up short, but honor, rightness, integrity, has less to do with guaranteed outcomes than it does with demonstrating one’s willingness to take a firm stand on matters that matter. In this sense, both rattlers are to be commended for caring enough to engage the other.

And that brings me to the second life lesson—respectful disagreement. Both snakes thought that they were, by rights, king of this particular domain. Both were willing to stand their ground. Both wanted to prove their superiority, especially to the female snake waiting patiently nearby for her knight in scaley armor to collect his reward. Yet, both snakes abided by a rattlesnake code of honor. Either one could have bitten the other, poisoned his opponent, utterly destroyed the “enemy," used his advantage to debase and humiliate the other—but that’s not what happened. They wrestled, they writhed, they sought to intimidate, they maintained their positions, but when all was hissed and done each left with his snake-ness intact.

I am grateful to have seen this dominance dance—it was a once-in-a lifetime-experience. But I am equally grateful to be reminded that there are times when taking a stand is the honorable thing to do, and that one can do so honorably.

David Yeager,

Sr. Warden

2025-2026 Music at St.Philip's

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:38:41 GMT

Sunday, September 14 at 5:00 pm

An Appalachian Evensong with The Harrows and Friends

This blend of Appalachian music and the centuries-old tradition of sung prayers and psalms will celebrate the Feast of the Holy Cross, featuring favorites including I’ll Fly Away, Down to the River to Pray, and Abide with Me .

Saturday, December 13 at 2:00 and 5:00 pm

Handel's Messiah Sing-Along

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

A Christmas masterpiece of community music for all with professional soloists and a historically informed Baroque Orchestra. Two performances are offered. You can choose to bring a score and sing along, or simply come and enjoy the music. Tickets are now on sale! More details here .

Would you like to be a reserved-seat singer for this event? Watch for announcements later this fall!

Wednesday, December 24 at 5:00 pm

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

As part of our Christmas Eve celebrations, St. Philip's presents Christmas Lessons and Carols, an intimate hour of short readings, carol singing, and choral anthems.

This will be in addition to our full lineup of Christmas Eve Services, which include the Children’s Pageant at 3:00 pm, Festival Eucharist with Choir at 8:00 pm, and Candlelight Eucharist with Cantor and Harp at 11:00 pm.

Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 5:00 pm

Cornerstone Centennial Evensong

A service of Choral Evensong for the 100th anniversary of the laying of the church’s cornerstone, with special new music by composers Thomas Rex Harrison and Jesse Kaiser.

A Summer of Faith, Service, and Growth

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:56:56 GMT

A Summer of Faith, Service, and Growth

It has been a very busy but wonderful summer!

We kicked off the summer with our CrossTown trip to Winston-Salem to participate in SparkDwell, a service-learning program hosted by The Dwelling—a congregation primarily made up of individuals who are currently or have experienced homelessness. Each CrossTown youth was placed in a small group alongside youth from other churches and paired with a counselor who is part of The Dwelling. Each day started with breakfast and worship before heading out for our service or learning opportunities.

One of the most impactful experiences was our pilgrimage through the margins. Each group was given a real-life task—like picking up a prescription, finding shelter, applying for permanent housing, or retrieving important documents. No group was able to complete their task, which was the point. The experience was meant to help us see the overwhelming obstacles people face to meet even their basic needs.

On the second day, we participated in service projects around the city—working in community gardens, renovating a house recently given to the Dwelling, and painting a mural designed by one of the counselors. On the third day, we visited the International Civil Rights Museum in Greensboro. The visit sparked deep conversations with our youth about the ways our systems often work against so many people in our community. One youth expressed how sad it is that our systems are so broken. A counselor replied, “They’re not broken—they’re working exactly how they were designed to.” That comment invited us to continue to learn about the systems in place in our community and the ways Jesus calls us to love others.

In the evenings, we relaxed and bonded through karaoke, card games, and lots of laughter before ending the night with worship. Gwen Andrews shared that the pilgrimage was her favorite part of the trip. “I never knew how much work an unsheltered person needs to do just for basic survival,” she said. Gwen also appreciated the friendships formed with youth from other churches through games and conversation, and especially loved the Sunday worship service at The Dwelling, which felt more like a welcoming living room than a traditional sanctuary.

After we returned from Winston-Salem, I went straight into Vacation Bible School. This year, Good Shepherd hosted 23 children from Good Shepherd, St. Philip’s, and the wider Brevard community for a week of fun and faith. Our theme, "Brick by Brick: Building Our Faith," focused on daily messages of being designed with purpose, trusting God’s plan, building community, repairing what’s broken, and building for the future. Each morning began with a youth-led skit before breaking into groups for crafts, games, and discussions tied to the daily theme. Thank you to every adult and youth volunteer - we would not be able to do it without you!

In between trips and VBS, CrossTown has also had a blast at our Wanka Wednesdays, traveling around town in search of the best sweet treats. So far, we’ve visited Pisgah Bakehouse, 99’ Ice Cream Bar, Downtown Chocolates, and Bracken Mountain Bakery. Our final stop will be at Rocky’s on August 20. These weekly meet-ups have been a great way to stay connected, share lots of laughs, and cool off with a delicious treat.

Along with all the activities, I’ve been working with Claire Teuber, Rik Emaus, and Pastor Ken on plans to expand our use of the youth room at Good Shepherd. In addition to our monthly Middle School Art Club, we hope to offer more regular programming this school year to engage an even larger group of youth. I’m excited to see this space come to life in new ways.

I’ve also had a lot of conversations with families from both churches as we look ahead to Sunday School this fall. I’m so looking forward to having our children and youth gathered again! If you’re interested in helping with children’s Sunday School, please let me know—it’s such an amazing way to be a part of the children’s lives and faith formation.

In the midst of all the busyness, I was grateful to have two weeks off to rest and renew. I spent time camping in Montreat with family and friends, visited Chattanooga, and enjoyed a silent mini-retreat at home in Brevard. It was a gift to slow down, breathe, and prepare for the school year ahead.

This summer has been a beautiful reminder of how faith is built - through service, community, laughter, and rest. I’m so thankful for the moments we’ve shared and the ways God continues to be at work in our community. As we step into the fall, I look forward to all the ways we will keep growing together.

Abby Glass

Children, Youth, and Family Minister

Adult Forum Book Study Begins September 7

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:10:26 GMT

Adult Forum Book Study Begins September 7

What: Sunday Adult Formation Book Study – A Faith for the Future

Where: Youth Activity Center (downstairs)

When: 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. on September 7, 14, 21, 28

Cost: Book is $10 and available from the parish office after

you've signed up. Please read the Introduction and chapters 1 and 2, and be

prepared to discuss on September 7th. (Due to Amazon delays, we are expecting

the books, but they may arrive near the end of the month.)

Sign-up: Easel Alley (in hallway outside parish office)

Facilitator : Bill McCleery (bill.mccleery@yahoo.com)

A Faith for the Future, by The Rev. Jesse Zink, introduces Episcopal theology

with the question, “In today’s world of social media saturation where there is

constant pressure to communicate in ever shorter sentences and thoughts, can we

capture the good news of Jesus Christ in a post on X?” The author thinks so:

“You are loved with a love unlike any else, that leads to a life unlike any

else – now go, show that love and life to others.” A huge ocean of meaning lies

under each word and this book welcomes readers into those depths. Each

chapter takes a different aspect of Christian faith – God, Jesus, Holy Spirit,

Creation and Humanity, Baptism, Church, Eucharist, Mission, and Hope of the

World to Come – and links history and tradition with real world experience.

Solar Panels at St. Philip's?

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 12:53:52 GMT

Solar Panels at St. Philip's?

Dear People of St. Philip’s,

Dating back to at least the early 2000’s there has been interest in exploring the use of solar panels at St. Philip’s. In March of this year interest was renewed by members of the vestry beginning their new term and preliminary work began in soliciting input and proposals from solar companies in our area.

With the passage of the recent federal funding bill that will remove previously existing incentives for renewable energy, what began as a longer term effort has suddenly become a more timely project if we are to take advantage of a 30% savings on the total cost of a solar system if it is installed within the incentive window that will be closing.

Here are some basic facts:

Given the position of our existing buildings, the best placement for maximum sun exposure is on the back roof of Miller Hall and the roof of the administration wing facing neighboring houses on Woodside Drive. Bottom line, no panels will be placed on the sanctuary roof, which are slate tiles, and no panels will be visible from either Main Street or the paved parking lot. Therefore, minimal to no impact on the building aesthetics.
The possible systems that have been proposed will pay for themselves in 10-13 years, depending on the size of the system. We would realize an immediate decrease in the cost of electricity, which currently costs St. Philip’s over $9600 a year and we will be partially protected from the increased cost of future electricity from Duke.
With the addition of a solar system, St. Philip’s makes a real step towards being better stewards of God’s Creation and we significantly decrease our carbon footprint. The current proposals predict our reduced carbon impact over the next 20 years would equal the planting of 8,000 to 10,000 trees, or well over 1.5 million car miles not being driven.
Even though St. Philip’s is a non-profit we would still receive back from the federal government 30% of the total cost of the system, which (with the current proposals) equals $20,000 to $36,000 (depending on the system we select), resulting in a net cost to the church similar to the average cost of a new automobile.
Our treasurers have identified a way to pay the up-front costs for this with reserves.

The Vestry of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church

St. Philip's Sponsors 40 Children to Attend Camp Henry

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:50:15 GMT

St. Philip's Sponsors 40 Children to Attend St. Philip's

Thanks to scholarships provided by ECW, Christian Social Concerns, generous St. Philippians, and Camp Henry supplements, a record forty children from Brevard El Centro have been able to attend Camp Henry this summer.

With big smiles and eyes sparkling, the children share their favorite experiences: the lake, swimming, and canoeing; campfires at night; story reading; winning the cleanest cabin award; quiet time; making new friends; and “really nice, peaceful counselors who make you feel better if you’re not doing well.” They can’t wait to go again next summer and want to become Camp Henry counselors when they are older.

Bishop José, who will never turn away a child that wants to go to camp, is very proud of our parish’s sponsorship of children from El Centro. The numbers we help send reflect growing enthusiasm and assure bilingual camp sessions will continue.

For children living in unsettled times, Camp Henry is life changing. It gives them the opportunity to experience hope, new possibility and peaceful time with God, nature, and loving community. As one parishioner said, “This is beyond wonderful!”

Choral Evensong May 2

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 15:52:28 GMT

Celebrating the Feast of St. Philip with Choral Evensong

The “Sounds at St. Philip’s” music series will premiere two new musical works on Friday, May 2 at 5:00 pm in a service of Choral Evensong at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 256 E. Main St. in Brevard. Admission is free and all are welcome.

This peaceful hour of Evening Prayer will commemorate the feast day of the church’s patron saint, Philip, and will be sung by the church’s Chancel Choir with organist Kate Murray under the direction of Dr. Brittnee Siemon.

Two new works commissioned for St. Philip’s by composer Jesse Kaiser will be offered for the first time: a setting of the Magnificat dedicated to the Reverend Elizabeth Roles, Rector of St. Philip’s, and an anthem called “Great Egret, the Sentinel” dedicated to the Reverend Judith A. Davis, Ph.D, who serves as adjunct clergy at the church and who wrote the poem that serves as the text for the anthem.

The May 2 service is the final Evensong in the “Sounds at St. Philip’s” music series for 2024-2025. These free community events are supported by generous gifts, and offerings received at the service will go to support the music ministry of St. Philip’s.

A Report from Our Children, Youth, and Family Minister Abby Glass

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:00:24 GMT

A Report from Our Children, Youth, and Family Minister Abby Glass (April 4, 2025)

The past few months have been incredibly busy! CrossTown continues to meet every Sunday, providing a space for our middle and high schoolers to come together for laughter and learning. This school year—and especially the last few weeks—have been tough, making our time together even more meaningful for both our youth and us as leaders.

Our high school dinners continue to be popular, with great participation each time. Last week, we took over Waffle House and shared lots of food and laughter. Our middle schoolers eagerly wait for our regular Middle School Mystery Nights. This past weekend, we hosted a middle school lock-in at FUMC, where we made “candy salad,” played lots of games, and stayed up talking until 4 am.

In these past few weeks, many of our youth and adults have faced many challenges. The loss of three youth and the uncertainty surrounding the fires that followed right after have brought a lot of grief and anxiety. At CrossTown, we’ve spent time each week discussing how to care for ourselves while also supporting our friends and classmates through this difficult time. I’ve also had the opportunity of connecting one-on-one with several youth who have been especially impacted.

A huge thank you to Kathy King and the Arts Council for their continued support in making our monthly middle school art club happen. At our last meeting, two youth separately asked if we could meet more than once a month. We are exploring ways to expand our after-school programming to offer this creative and welcoming space more regularly.

It’s hard to believe April is already here! As we look ahead to summer, we have a lot to be excited about. In early June, CrossTown will head to Winston-Salem for Spark Dwell, a five-day experience dedicated to serving and learning alongside people experiencing homelessness. Then, in the last week of June, Good Shepherd will host our third combined GoodPhilip Vacation Bible School. This year’s theme "Brick by Brick: Building Our Faith" allows us to learn and play with legos.

Through all of the joys and challenges, I am so grateful to be able to share in this ministry. Thank you for the love, encouragement, and support that you continually offer to both our youth and me. It is a gift to walk alongside such a caring and faithful community. I am so grateful for the ways we continue to grow and serve together.

The Way of Love - Part 2: An Eastertide Formation Series

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:25:31 GMT

The Way of Love - Part 2: An Eastertide Formation Series

Over a year ago, a dedicated group of St. Philippians engaged in an inspirational four-week Sunday adult formation series, made popular by former Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, titled The Way of Love: Seven Practices for Living a Jesus-Centered Life . Participants were encouraged to incorporate the seven practices – Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest – into a personal “rule of life” to help guide their personal spiritual journeys. As a requested follow-up, we will be offering a series during Eastertide titled, The Way of Love: A Fifty-Day Bible Challenge . It is uniquely designed to examine each of the seven spiritual practices through the lens of scripture. Over the course of the fifty days of Easter, a passage from the Bible is paired daily with a brief reflection, a few questions, and a prayer written by faith leaders from across the Episcopal Church. A full week is devoted to each practice.

Participants begin daily reading on Easter Sunday, April 20 ^th (please ask in the parish office about acquiring a book; you can still participate if you don’t have a copy of the book!) We will meet as a group in the YAC on Sunday, April 27 ^th , at 9:15 a.m., and every Sunday through Pentecost, June 8 ^th . During the week, participants are on their own to do the daily readings, or they may choose to pair up and read in each other’s homes. Please note: Participants in this series need not have been part of the initial series. Everyone is welcome!

Holy Week and Easter 2025

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 18:38:21 GMT

Please join us for Holy Week and Easter, in person or via livestream

St. Philip's welcomes everyone to journey through Holy Week and celebrate our Lord's Resurrection! All these services are held at 256 E. Main St. in Brevard, NC. Those marked with an asterisk (*) are also livestreamed on our Facebook page and YouTube channel .

Palm Sunday, April 13

8:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Palms and Holy Eucharist. The service begins inside the church.

* 10:30 a.m. Liturgy of the Palms and Holy Eucharist, with the Chancel Choir. The service begins in front of the parish hall doors on Main Street with the Liturgy of the Palms, and then moves inside the church.

Wednesday in Holy Week, April 16

10:30 a.m. Spoken Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

5:30 p.m. Contemplative Anointing Service with wisdom chant, readings, silence, and anointing of one another in Miller Hall, our large upstairs meeting room.

Maundy Thursday, April 17

* 5:30 p.m. Liturgy for Maundy Thursday with Holy Communion and the Washing of Feet. Includes music with the Chancel Choir.

Good Friday, April 18

* 12:00 p.m. Liturgy for Good Friday, with the Chancel Choir.

T he church, labyrinth, and contemplative path will be open for private prayer until 3:00 pm.

Easter Eve, Saturday, April 19

7:30 p.m. The Great Vigil of Easter. In this beautiful service, one of the oldest liturgies in the Christian church, we move from Holy Week into our first celebration of Easter with candles, prayers, readings and music. The service begins in front of the parish hall doors on Main Street with the Lighting of the New Fire, and moves into the church.

EASTER DAY, Sunday, April 20

(Note that these service times are different from our usual Sunday schedule!)

7:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist at the Labyrinth, located outdoors behind the church. B ring your lawnchairs!

8:30 a.m. Easter Festival Eucharist with Choir and Brass

10:00 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt - All children through 5th grade are invited. Bring your own basket and meet in the back parking lot at the gate to the playground. (There will be separate areas for younger and older children, and extra baskets for children who need them.)

* 11:00 a.m. Easter Festival Eucharist with Choir and Brass.

Contemplative Anointing Service Wednesday, April 16, 2025

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:59:02 GMT

Contemplative Anointing Service Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Join us on Wednesday of Holy Week at 5:30 p.m. in Miller Hall as we remember Mary Magdalene’s loving anointing of Jesus. The liturgy includes wisdom chant, readings, silence, and anointing of one another. All are welcome.

The Rev. Cynthia Bourgeault, who developed this contemplative liturgy invites us to anoint one another, “as the sacramental seal upon all our human passages through those things which would appear to destroy or separate us, but in fact draws us more deeply toward the heart of divine love.”

Bourgeault writes of the impact of adding this service to our Holy Week commemoration: “With the anointing ceremony repositioned as the opening act in the Holy Week drama, the entire shape of Holy Week shifts subtly but decisively…. Thematically, this restoration of the central place of Mary Magdalene in the Holy Week cycle also shifts the emphasis away from the traditional liturgical presentation that Jesus died alone and abandoned, to the scripturally attested witness of Mary Magdalene’s loving accompaniment at every stage in his journey: crucifixion, entombment, resurrection…. The theme shifts from abandonment…to sacrificial love…a course of action voluntarily chosen as the consummation of all that Jesus had lived and taught.”

Senior Moment

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:07:33 GMT

Senior Moment March 14, 2025

When I was a kid, my Saturday morning entertainment consisted of cartoons (which introduced me to classical music) and cowboy movies. The westerns were rather formulaic—the formula being one or more desperados riding into town to intimidate and harass the townsfolk; the impotency of the local law enforcement and citizens to address the problem; the appearance of a non-local good guy (always in a white hat); the good guy teetering on the brink of failure; and a turn of events in which the good guy wins and the desperados are vanquished. (There was also the oddity that the good guy never lost his hat in a fist-fight—not sure what that was all about). Throw in a heroine or love interest and you have all the ingredients you needed for 99.9% of the westerns.

These early cowboy shows were, in fact, morality plays. Just as the cartoons attuned me to the Poet and Peasant Overture and the Hungarian Dances, so the westerns sought to reinforce the idea that there was, indeed, evil in the world, but that in the end, good would always overcome evil. I cannot recall a single western in which the “bad guy” won. I suspect that my fragile, pre-pubescent psyche would have recoiled at the thought that evil might, in fact, conquer good.

I was an adult before it registered with me that (a) evil is a persistent and unrelenting force in the world; (b) there are times (more frequent than I care to think about) when no “good guy” in a white hat comes to the rescue; and (c) the disrupters are often (rightly) confident of their ability to intimidate and harass with impunity. My early western-watching days did not adequately prepare me for the world I was to inherit and inhabit.

There was at least one western, however, that altered the basic formula of the white-hatted hero. It was the 1970 movie, Barquero, starring the ubiquitous cowboy, Lee Van Cleef. This movie had its harassing intimidators, its heroine, its suspenseful near-success of the desperados, and its good conquers evil ending. What it did not have was a deus-ex-machina type hero coming to the rescue. Rather, the hero (or heroes) was the townsfolk banding together as ordinary citizens to resist the intrusion of fear, injustice, and intimidation. When the character played by Van Cleef, a ferry operator providing the only means to cross the border river in the town, refused the demands of the desperados, the townsfolk supported his principled stand and worked with him to confound the bullying of the intruders.

This movie probably did not gain much traction at the box office, but it does seem to me to be a parable for our time. The symptoms of evil are always with us—mean-spiritedness, divisiveness, injustice. And the likelihood of a white-hatted hero riding to our rescue is about the same as evil having a change of heart. That leaves us with choices. We can, like the citizens of most westerns, cower in the perception of powerlessness and capitulate to the demands of injustice. Or we can come together, in small ways and large, to support the principled stands of each other—to bear witness in opposition to those forces that work against Christlikeness. There is no guarantee that our efforts will be successful in thwarting the devices of wrong-doing (evil does have its short-term victories), but our actions are not guided by success—rather, they are guided by faithful adherence to God revealed to us in Jesus. As the writer of the letter to the Ephesians encourages us, remain faithful to your calling as people of God, “so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

David Yeager,

Sr. Warden

We Welcome Brad Wilson!

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:31:36 GMT

We Welcome Brad Wilson as Our Ministry Intern

We welcome Brad Wilson, who will serve St. Philip’s as a ministry intern in the discernment process for priesthood in the Episcopal Church. Brad’s first Sunday worshiping with us was March 9, 2025, and he will serve through mid May. Read more about Brad below.

I am a native of Western North Carolina, born and raised in Weaverville. I hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Carolina University and a master's degree in nursing from Clemson University. I will celebrate my 22 ^nd year as a Nurse Practitioner this May. Currently, I work at Asheville Pulmonary and Critical Care Associates where I provide care to adults suffering from a variety of sleeping disorders.

Outside of my professional life, I have been married for 12 years to my husband, Corey, who works as the Director of Music and Organist at Central United Methodist Church in downtown Asheville. We have one rambunctious chocolate labrador retriever, named Flossie Mae.

I am an active member at Trinity Episcopal Church where I serve on the Altar Guild and have served on various committees including Trinity’s Vestry. I am also active at the Church of the Advocate. I became involved there in 2019 when I was asked to be the Vestry liaison on the church’s advisory board. In 2022, I assumed the role of the advisory board’s chair, a role that I continue to this day.

In August, I plan to start seminary at General Theological Seminary in New York City, NY.

United Thank Offering Blue Boxes Are Here!

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:20:14 GMT

United Thank Offering Blue Boxes Are Here!

The United Thank Offering began in 1889 when the women of the Episcopal church took up an offering to support innovative mission and ministry in the church that the budget could not cover. Today UTO’s focus is still on promoting gratitude and supporting projects that address compelling needs around the world.

UTO invites individuals to embrace and deepen a personal daily spiritual discipline of gratitude, and the organization distributes 100% of offerings made to the Ingathering to ministries throughout the church.

The total of grants in 2024 are $1,003,283.78, and since 1889 UTO has awarded grants for a total of $144,238,763.76.

The UTO invites every Episcopalian to Notice the good things that happen each day. Give thanks to God for your blessings, and make an offering for each blessing, so that your blessings become blessings for others.

The Blue Boxes will be distributed on Sunday, March 9th and the Ingathering for the United Thank Offering will be Sunday, March 16 ^th . Click here to read a biography of Julia Chester Emery, the woman who started UTO; next week in the E-pistle, look for some trivia questions about her. (Hint: the answers are in the biography!)

In difficult times there are opportunities for gratitude; you might need to look more closely or deeper. Individuals CAN make a difference!

"Listening to God – An Exploration of the Creative Act" on April 5

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 17:03:58 GMT

Artist and educator Peggy Parker to lead program on creativity at St.Philip's

Liturgical artist and theological educator Margaret (Peggy) Adams Parker will present “Listening to God – An Exploration of the Creative Act” at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Brevard on Saturday, April 5 from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm.

The program will include a discussion of creativity, a hands-on exercise (no art experience is necessary!), and a concluding session where we reflect on our individual experiences of creativity in our work, our lives, and our journeys as Christians.

While we examine creativity primarily through the work of the visual artist, the program will argue that all work of any significance is open to the creative act, and that creativity is also significant to each of us in our spiritual journeys.

The program is sponsored by the Reverend Anne Bridgers Contagious With Love Symposium at St. Philip’s. Registration is free and includes a light breakfast and all art supplies. Space is limited to the first 30 people. Register online here , or in person using the signup in Easel Alley outside the St. Philip’s Parish Office during business hours.

Ms. Parker will also be at St. Philip’s on Sunday, April 6 to offer the sermon at the 8:00 am and 10:30 am services. She will lead a Sunday Forum on “Sight as a Holy Act” at 9:15 am in the parish hall. The program will explore a range of images: sights of small beauties that we often overlook; scenes of suffering and sorrow from which we instinctively avert our eyes. We will share our own experiences of seeing and ponder the implications of sight as a holy act, one that is crucial to the Christian life. The public is welcome to attend the services and the forum.

St. Philip’s is located at 256 E. Main St. in downtown Brevard. For questions or assistance in registering, contact the Parish Office at 828-884-3666.

Our Guest Speaker

Contagious With Love

ECW Quarterly Meeting

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:48:49 GMT

Join Us for our Quarterly ECW Meeting on Thursday, March 6, at 10:00 a.m.

Bring a can (or 2) of food for those less fortunate! We’ll build a tower!

Please join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 6 for our first Quarterly Meeting of 2025! After a brief but important business meeting, we’ll welcome representatives from three key recipients of our Outreach Grants who all focus on food insecurity in Transylvania County. The Bread of Life, Hunger Coalition and Sharing House will share with us what they individually focus on, but more importantly, how they are working together to address the needs of the underserved in our community. There are truly exciting things happening and the Program Committee is pleased to be able to provide this forum for our membership to hear what is happening, how we are supporting these efforts and what we can do to expand the work of these amazing organizations. There will be a presentation component to the session, but then plenty of time for your questions, discussions and input on how we all move forward. We’ll finish with some social time together! Please join us and support these critical organizations! If you don’t want to lug a can of food, we’ll have a donation basket!

Ash Wednesday Services at St. Philip's

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:11:27 GMT

Join Us for Ash Wednesday Services March 5, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness: through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (The Book of Common Prayer, page 264)

The season of Lent may be likened to our annual spiritual check-up when we as individuals and as a Christian community consider our spiritual health. The ultimate purpose of Lent is to strengthen our spiritual lives and St. Philip’s offers many ways for us to do so. Begin your Lenten journey this year by attending one of our two Ash Wednesday services- 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. The profoundly meaningful liturgy of Ash Wednesday invites us “to come clean” before Almighty God by having a cross of ash smudged upon our foreheads. Join us as we begin our Lenten journey! A nursery will be provided at the 5:30 p.m. service.

(Want a brief 2-minute video overview of Ash Wednesday and Lent? Click here !)

Our 2025 Wednesday Night Lenten Dinner/Program

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:41:49 GMT

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church and Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd Offer a Wednesday Night Lenten Supper/Program

The Lazarus Life

Presenter – Stephen Smith

This 5-week Wednesday nights in Lent series is based on Steve’s book by the same title. The life of Lazarus is one of the most profound stories in the Bible. The chronicle of an ordinary man who found himself at the center of an extraordinary miracle. A divine moment that fully revealed Christ’s power through a resurrection that preceded Jesus’ own. Yet the story of Lazarus also holds a powerful parallel for us today. It tells of a life filled with hope and heartbreak, expectancy and disappointment, death and life. Simply, it is a story of every person walking the way of the cross and resurrection.

Our series continues through Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

Schedule:

5:00 p.m. – Stations of the Cross in the nave of St. Philip’s

5:15 p.m. – Dinner service begins (soup, salad, and bread)

6:00 – 7:00 p.m. – Program

A children’s program from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. will be led by Abby Glass. The program will provide plenty of free play and a lesson will touch on similar themes to the adults.

Stephen W. Smith is a cofounder and spiritual director of The Potter’s Inn Ministry, a resource to churches, organizations, and individuals in their spiritual growth and soul care. He is the author of Embracing Soul Care and the editor and compiler for The Transformation of a Man’s Heart series. Stephen lives with his wife, Gwen, in Brevard and is a member of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church.

Adult Formation This Week

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:47:04 GMT

Adult Formation This Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

Adult Forum at 9:15 a.m. – Our 6-week Eastertide series on The Way of Love: A Fifty-Day Bible Challenge concludes on Sunday, June 8, 2025. It is uniquely designed to examine each of the seven spiritual practices through the lens of scripture. On June 8, Bill McCleery will conclude the series with “Putting It All Together.” All Sunday sessions are in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m. All are welcome!

An Urgent Appeal from Christian Social Concerns

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 17:27:25 GMT

Christian Social Concerns Committee Needs You!

You are invited (and urgently needed) to come check out Christian Social Concerns. We are a devoted little group and promise never to bore you or waste your time. CSC is one of three outreach wings at St. Philip’s. We focus on lending a hand to neighbors in need, building a stronger interfaith community, and working in cooperation with local service providers.

Many of you already help with some of our initiatives, all of which are carefully designed to provide maximum impact with bursts of hard work and minimum long-term requirements, including Laundry Day, Power Up!, red wagon donations, school closets, emergency relief following local crises, as well as support for Habitat for Humanity, the Haven, Sharing House, Camp Henry, Justice Ministry, and El Centro, to name a few!

Our members individually stay engaged throughout the local service community. We welcome your ideas, experience, connections, and commitment. Please come join us on the fourth Thursday of each month, 1:00-2:30 p.m. in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room). We look forward to sharing your energy and participation!

Choral Evensong on February 16

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:16:31 GMT

Celebrating the Feast of St. Absalom Jones

St. Philip's will offer Choral Evensong for the Feast of Absalom Jones on Sunday, February 16 at 5:00 pm. The service is part of the Sounds at St. Philip's Series; admission is free and all are welcome.

Guest artist Blue Ghost Quartet will join the St. Philip’s Chancel Choir and organist Kate Murray under the direction of Dr. Brittnee Siemon for a special Jazz Evensong in celebration of St. Absalom Jones, the first black priest ordained in the Episcopal Church.

This peaceful hour of evening music and prayers will feature jazz-inspired works by David Maslanka, the Magnificat and Nunc Dimitis by Kathryn Rose, Preces and Responses by David Hurd, and anthems by Samuel Coleridge Taylor and Christian Forshaw.

Blue Ghost Quartet

The Blue Ghost Quartet assembled in 2024 in Western North Carolina to provide their community with the beauty of live saxophone ensemble music. Blue Ghost comprises WNC-educated members Dr. Nick Stow and Nicolo Iorio from Appalachian State University, and Ryan Hargis and Erik Rhodes from Western Carolina University.

Absalom Jones (1746-1818)

Father-daughter piano concert

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:41:23 GMT

Father-Daughter Piano Concert January 19, 2025

Father-Daughter Piano Concert January 19

Join father-daughter piano duo Bruce and Kate Murray for an afternoon of exhilarating music for two pianos at the Porter Center on Sunday, January 19th at 3:00 p.m.! The program will include Brevard’s first-ever performance of living American composer John Adams's "Hallelujah Junction," a spiritually transcendent masterwork for two pianos that takes its name from a truck stop on the California-Nevada border. The recital culminates with Rachmaninoff's magnificent Suite No. 2, a masterpiece that showcases the composer's signature emotional depth and virtuosic brilliance across its four movements. Don't miss this unique opportunity to hear these classics of the two-piano repertoire in the Porter Center's outstanding acoustic environment.

St. Philip's Annual Meeting January 21, 2024

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:54:11 GMT

Join us for our Annual Meeting January 26, 2025

The Annual Parish Meeting and Vestry Elections will take place Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 9:15 a.m. in the sanctuary (and will be live-streamed on Facebook Live and YouTube *). (A nursery / childcare for children 5th grade and under will be available.) Reports from parish leaders will be offered, and the 2024 ministry funding budget will be presented. As vestry nominations are closed, we will vote by acclamation for our slate of three candidates: Lynn Adams, Fred Brown, and Mike Wallace. We will return to our usual Sunday morning schedule on Sunday, February 2, 2025.

*If you are attending the Annual Meeting on Facebook Live and YouTube, please make sure to comment telling us all who are watching (first and last names, please!) so that we can verify a quorum.

Fred H. Brown, Jr.

I was born and raised in the Episcopal church: baptized in Salem, Massachusetts; confirmed at St. Anne’s in Lowell, Massachusetts and in the military, was a member of parishes in the US and Germany. My mom was the church secretary for many years and my dad served as treasurer and on the vestry during my childhood. My wife, Dolores, and I met in our youth group in the 1970s. Over the years I have been fortunate to serve on the vestry, diocesan committees, building committee, in the choir and as a lay reader, lay eucharistic minister and visitor, and adult formation facilitator. I even played Jesus in an amateur production of Godspell in the 1990s, which was quite a stretch for me. My Masters in Divinity (Duke, 2012) helped deepen my faith and understanding. Taking part in a pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece last year grounded my faith in ways I am still discovering but ultimately, my faith is rooted in worship and especially, the Eucharist. I pray that these experiences continue to equip me to serve this little part of the body of Christ we call St. Philip’s.

Michael Wallace

Michael Wallace is a retired certified golf course superintendent. He and his wife Josephine (Jo) purchased property in Brevard in 2016 and retired there in 2020. Mike has a degree in Turf Management from the University of Massachusetts and has maintained golf courses in Connecticut for 50 years. A golf superintendent wears many hats: managing and training staff; operating heavy equipment to remodel course features; obtaining permits and overseeing contractors; drainage installation; the preparation and implementation of million-dollar budgets. In retirement Mike enjoys volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and is now working his tenth home build. He supervised the building of ramps for the Towel Ministry, works with the Tuesday Morning Volunteer Group which completed the playground and installation of drainage. He served as your Junior Warden for 2024 and currently is upgrading the HVAC systems of St. Philip’s. He thanks all volunteers who’ve helped, and God for the talents he has been given—which he tries to use in service to others. Mike and Jo enjoy giving back and their philosophy is, “we intend to wear out, not rust out.”

Lynn Adams

St. Philip’s has been a very important part of our family’s life sine 1990. We’ve celebrated baptisms, confirmations, weddings and said goodbye to loved ones with our church family. I have been involved in many ministries and committees over these thirty-four years and was a member of the vestry class of 2020. Professionally, I’ve been a social worker, managing programs for people with disabilities for twenty-five years and have owned and operated several businesses. I believe these experiences have created a firm background for contributing to the “business” of running our church while keeping the mission thriving.

The 2025 Flower Calendar

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:10:20 GMT

Sign up to give altar flowers

Every Sunday morning as we gather for our worship service, a spectacular arrangement of flowers adorns the worship space. Very often, the flowers are given to the Glory of God and often in memory of or thanksgiving for someone or a milestone event. If you are interested in celebrating or remembering or both, simply sign up on the large chart in the parish office hallway right outside the office door or contact the church office ( office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org / 828-884-3666) to request your date and we will do the rest! A minimum donation of $75 is requested as this ministry relies solely on donations.

Please make sure you fill out this form and submit when you sign up for a particular Sunday.

DoK Morning Retreat March 8, 2025

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:05:43 GMT

Sign Up Now for Our DOK Morning Retreat March 8, 2025

Please sign up in Easel Alley (outside the parish office) so you can join the Daughters of the King’s morning retreat on Saturday, March 8 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m . ALL are welcome. Plan to come wrap yourself in the comfort of scripture from Isaiah 43:10 – “do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God.” Focusing on the theme Be Not Afraid , Pan McCaslin, psychiatric nurse and mental health therapist, will lead prayer and reflection on how God upholds us through anxious times. Shared time together and homemade snacks will be in abundance. Elizabeth will close with Eucharist. Please plan to join us.

Thrive Bible Study

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 21:34:23 GMT

Attention "Messy People"!

The Messy People Women’s Bible Study facilitators are planning a new study called “Thrive: Living Faithfully in Difficult Times," a video series by Jennifer Cowart.

Mark your calendars for every Monday from January 20-March 3rd. The classes will be held in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) from 10:30 AM until noon. A sign up sheet is now posted in Easel Alley (outside the parish office).

Debra Izard and Linda Schieve invite you to attend. Our class size is limited to 25 participants, so sign up now!

Christmas Services 2024

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 21:18:20 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

CHRISTMAS EVE - Tuesday, December 24
3:00 pm "No Stress Pageant" and Holy Eucharist with Carols. All children are invited to participate; we can provide costumes if needed. Read more details below!

4:30 pm Choir Concert of Carols
5:00 pm Festival Holy Eucharist
7:30 pm Choir Concert of Carols *
8:00 pm Festival Holy Eucharist*
11:00 pm Midnight Candlelight Service

CHRISTMAS DAY - Wednesday, December 25
10:30 am Holy Eucharist with Carols and Homily*

About the No-Stress Christmas Pageant

This year we are inviting individuals and families to sign up for costume selection and fitting. If this is done far enough in advance, alterations and additions are possible. Costumes will be displayed and helpers available in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service on December 15 ^th and 22 ^nd , or by appointment. To sign up for a time to try on costumes, please contact Lynn Adams ( lynnpadams@gmail.com or 828-388-0192) or Abby Glass ( abby@goodphilip.com ).

Embracing the Divine Flow - a 5-part Adult Formation Series

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 20:07:03 GMT

Embracing the Divine Flow - a 5-part adult formation study

December 8, 15, 22, 2024, and January 5 and 12, 2025

What does is it look like for us to live into a life informed by or exemplified by the God who is Three-In-One? So often when the subject of the Trinity comes up we enter into a head space where we’re trying to understand the history of the Trinity as laid out in our creeds, our understanding of Trinitarian doctrine in the Church or how God is manifest in three persons. Rarely, if ever, do we in the Church explore what it means to live into a life formed by the Trinity, the One God in Three. Beginning Sunday, December 8, 2024, Fred Brown will facilitate a 5-part series titled “Embracing the Divine Flow,” featuring the Franciscan friar Richard Rohr as our virtual guide. Each session will begin with a brief video (about 15 minutes) of Richard Rohr talking about Trinitarian Spirituality, followed by a guided discussion of our reactions, reflections and experiences of living a life formed by the Trinity. The program is described as follows: “Richard invites us to consider a worldview framed and informed by the power of the Trinity, and through its dynamic flow, embrace and participate in the living, continuous relationship with the divine, and God's ongoing work of transformation and redemption.” Join us in Miller Hall (our large upstairs meeting room) at 9:15 a.m.

Christmas Blessing Tree

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:13:22 GMT

Help our neighbors shop for Christmas

Thank you, dear parish family, for quickly responding and giving generously every time there are critical needs. In such a multitude of ways, St. Philippians have been helping neighbors get through crisis after crisis.

It always seems way too early to see a Christmas tree beside the red wagon in the parish hall foyer. With the tree, St. Philip’s Christian Social Concerns Committee (CSC) is again turning to our parish family. Early plans are necessary for Sharing House, El Centro, and other ministries to be ready for families who turn to them to help brighten young lives on Christmas morning.

This year, because hurricane damage has resulted in a 50% drop in regional business, CSC is asking that we try to shop locally for items to be placed under our Christmas Blessing tree. Our local toy stores, bookstore, local Walmart, and other shops are desperately working to keep neighbors employed. As much as possible, please help the local economy recover by supporting local business.

So, although early, Merry Christmas, heartfelt blessings, and much love from CSC to our entire parish family!

It's Time to Choose a Costume for Our No-Stress Christmas Pageant!

office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org (Jill Stewart) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 17:56:03 GMT

Choose a costume for our No-Stress Pageant!

It is hard to believe, but it’s time to prepare for our “No-Stress Christmas Pageant” at 3:00 p.m. on December 24th! “No Stress” means no rehearsals, no lines to memorize and the freedom to wear whatever represents someone’s vision of the Christmas story, be it a Wise Man or dinosaur! Costumes from home may be worn or borrowed from St. Philip’s collection. We have many choices for traditional costumes, including beasts, but sizes are limited.

This year we are inviting individuals and families to sign up for costume selection and fitting. If this is done far enough in advance, alterations and additions are possible. Costumes will be displayed and helpers available in the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) after the 10:30 a.m. service on December 15th and 22nd, or by appointment. To sign up for a time to try on costumes, please contact Lynn Adams (lynnpadams@gmail.com or 828-388-0192) or Abby Glass (abby@goodphilip.com ).

Instructions for No-Stress Christmas Pageant on Christmas Eve

Join us for our “No-Stress Christmas Pageant” + Holy Eucharist on Tuesday, December 24th, at 3:00 p.m. All children are welcome to join; they have the freedom to come dressed in whatever represents someone’s vision of the Christmas story, be it a Wise Man or dinosaur! Our “No Stress” means no rehearsals and no lines to memorize. For those participating in the pageant:

Arrive no later than 2:30 p.m. and proceed to the YAC (our large downstairs meeting room) to get costumes.
At least one adult is encouraged to sit with their child(ren) in the designated pews.

We look forward to seeing you at this retelling of the Christmas story!

St. Nicholas visits on December 8

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:25:45 GMT

A celebration of St. Nicholas for all ages

Join us on Sunday, December 8, for a celebration of the Feast of St. Nicholas! We’ll meet in Miller Hall at 5:00 p.m. for a delicious dinner and fellowship - all ages are encouraged to attend (you’re asked for a donation to help cover food costs, if you are able).

At 5:30 p.m., we’ll move to the church for a brief service to celebrate St. Nicholas - and we have it on good report that the good Bishop Nicholas will join us! We should finish by 6:15 p.m.

To join the list for dinner, sign up here in Realm , in Easel Alley outside the parish office, or contact the parish office: 828-884-3666 or office@stphilipsbrevardnc.org .

Make an Advent Wreath on December 1

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:21:27 GMT

Advent begins on December 1!

Advent is a special time of waiting and preparing our hearts for the birth of the Christ child. Join your parish family on the First Sunday of Advent, December 1, in Miller Hall between services to make an Advent wreath to take home or share with a friend.

Sign up online here , or in Easel Alley outside the parish office to reserve your spot. Materials will be supplied. Please bring fresh evergreens and garden clippers if you can.

Day of Service November 9, 2024 at Bread of Life

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:59:57 GMT

30 dedicated St. Philippians transformed the Bread of Life

On Saturday, November 9th, over 30 dedicated St. Philippians transformed The Bread of Life, a vital resource providing daily hot meals to those in need. Our volunteers brightened the dining room with a fresh coat of paint, a much-needed update after over a decade. We also tackled other improvements, including painting the office, removing an old sink, creating a new dining room entrance, repairing the front door, installing a new gate for the dumpster fence, and relocating the scrap food container for a more aesthetically pleasing environment.

A heartfelt thank you to Ed Nezelek, Bill Mellman, and Jann Mellman for recognizing these crucial needs at The Bread of Life, for rallying volunteers, and for coordinating this effort with such passion. We are also incredibly grateful to St. Philip's for generously providing paint, materials, and lunch, making this day possible. Thank you to each and every volunteer who participated in this St. Philip’s Day of Service – your dedication and hard work will make a real difference in the lives of those who rely on The Bread of Life.

Sergio Fernandez, Executive Director of Bread of Life, responded:

Dear St. Philip’s Volunteers,

I am still in awe of the dedication and generosity you showed on Saturday. In all the years I’ve worked with nonprofits, I have never seen a volunteer effort of such magnitude. What you accomplished for Bread of Life is truly exceptional, and words cannot fully express how thankful I am. Your hard work and generosity mean the world, not only to our guests, who rely on us for comfort and support, but also to me personally.

The impact of your kindness and effort is something I deeply value, and it will not be taken lightly. Because of your work, we’ll now be able to serve our guests more efficiently and with a welcoming space that reflects the respect and dignity they deserve. We’ll be letting our guests know that all the updates and improvements were made with their comfort in mind—because we want them to feel valued, respected, and truly part of this community that cares for their well-being.

Your selflessness and the unity of St. Philip’s in coming together with a single goal in mind—serving those who need it most—is exactly why I am so passionate about working in nonprofit organizations. It’s partnerships like this that make this work fulfilling, as we all pull in the same direction, striving to make a difference.

St. Philip’s Church has set a powerful example for our community, one that everyone can aspire to. Every member of the congregation should be immensely proud of what you’ve done. I will be forever grateful for what you’ve contributed to Bread of Life, and I look forward to the day when I can repay this incredible generosity through our work.

With all my appreciation,

Sergio Fernandez

Executive Director

'No Room at the Inn' December 5-7

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 14:42:20 GMT

A beautiful way for all ages to experience the Nativity story

St. Philip's will open its doors December 5-7 for the annual "No Room at the Inn" exhibit, a display of more than 100 beloved creches collected from around the world by members and friends of the church.

This is the third year for the exhibition, which drew several hundred visitors over two days in 2023. Its popularity led the church to add an extra day, and "No Room at the Inn" will open on Thursday, December 5 from 4:00-7:oo pm.

The festival continues Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and continues Saturday from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. Volunteers will then carefully pack and return the creches to their homes and prepare the church for Sunday morning services.

Choral Evensongs 2024-2025

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 13:28:20 GMT

Sounds at St. Philip's offers three Choral Evensongs in 2024-2025

Sounds at St. Philip’s will offer three Choral Evensongs in the 2024-2025 season, beginning on Friday, September 20 at 5:00 pm with a celebration of the Feast of St. Hildegard of Bingen. This beautiful musical liturgy offers a peaceful and inspiring hour of music and contemplation for everyone.

The September 20 Choral Evensong will include works and writings by Hildegard, the saint and mystic who lived from 1098-1179.

Four guests from Asheville Baroque (AB) will come together as a Palladian ensemble, with Gail Ann Schroeder, viola da gamba, Gregory Hamilton, theorbo, and Christof Richter and Daniela Pierson, violins. Together with choir and organ, they will offer hymns, psalms and anthems composed by some of music’s most notable melodists. Featured are Hildegard of Bingen, Claudio Monteverdi, and modern artists Kathryn Rose and Gwyneth Walker.

Recital with Doug Grimm on June 1

Fri, 17 May 2024 11:21:28 GMT

'Consider it all Joy'

Please join Doug Grimm, baritone, and Dr. Vance Reece, piano, as they "Consider it all Joy" on Saturday, June 1 at 5:00 pm at St. Philip's Episcopal Church, 256 E. Main St. in Brevard, NC.

Doug is newly graduated as a Master of Music in Performance and Pedagogy at Ohio University, and is a long-time member of St. Philip's Choir. This recital is a celebration of joy, the completion of his schooling, and what's to come! Donations from this event will help in continuing Doug's education at the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria. During the 6 weeks at this program, Doug will perform operatic repertoire with a full orchestra and study with new teachers and coaches to learn as much as possible.

View the program for the June 1 recital here.

Choral Evensong on May 19

Mon, 06 May 2024 17:11:58 GMT

A Celebration of St. Mary at Pentecost

St. Philip's invites you to join us Sunday, May 19 at 5:00 pm for our final Choral Evensong of the season, sung by our Chancel Choir with guest artists Eclectic Collective of Atlanta.

The Day of Pentecost marks the birth of the Christian Church, when the Spirit came to Jesus's followers gathered in the Upper Room. Among them was his mother Mary, the “Mother of the Church.”

Our Choral Evensong will highlight women in liturgy and in music, featuring Kathryn Rose’s Magnificat, Nunc dimittis , and Psalm setting; Margaret Burk’s Preces and Responses ; and anthems and hymns by Elaine Hagenberg, E.E Hewitt, Mrs. J.J. McClellan, and Florence Price. Admission is free and all are welcome!

Eclectic Collective

Prior to the standardized instrumentation of the modern orchestra, ensembles were usually made up of whomever was available to play or sing. This level of spontaneity allowed for freedom of expression and a wide range of tonal colors. Eclectic Collective members Kelly Brzozowski (harp, early winds), Rosalind Buda (early and modern woodwinds), Sarah Dietrich (percussion), and Jody Miller (early and modern woodwinds) explore combinations of wind, string, and percussion instruments that enjoyed popularity at different times in history. From the Medieval dances popular in the streets of 13th century Italy to the contemporary art music that evolved from these very same rhythms and melodies, the ensemble presents music that is fresh and full of tonal color.

Holy Week and Easter 2024

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:31:33 GMT

All are welcome at these Holy Week and Easter services and events

Palm Sunday, March 24

8:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Palms and Holy Eucharist. The service begins in front of the parish hall doors on Main Street and then move inside the church.

* 10:30 a.m. Liturgy of the Palms and Holy Eucharist. The service begins in front of the parish hall doors on Main Street and then move inside the church.

Wednesday in Holy Week, March 27

10:30 a.m. Spoken Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

Maundy Thursday, March 28

* 5:30 p.m. Liturgy for Maundy Thursday with Holy Communion and the Washing of Feet

Good Friday, March 29

* 12:00 p.m. Liturgy for Good Friday

From 12:00-3:00 pm, the church, labyrinth, and contemplative path will be open for private prayer.

Easter Eve, Saturday, March 30

7:30 p.m. The Easter Vigil. The service begins in front of the parish hall doors on Main Street and moves into the church.

An Alleluia Celebration in Miller Hall will follow the liturgy.

EASTER DAY, Sunday, March 31

(Note the special service times!)

7:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist at the Labyrinth (bring your lawnchairs!)

8:30 a.m. Easter Festival Eucharist with choir and brass

10:00 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt - All children through 5th grade are invited - bring your own basket and meet in the back parking lot at the gate to the playground. (There will be separate areas for younger and older children, and extra baskets for children who need them.)

* 11:00 a.m. Easter Festival Eucharist with choir and brass

Note: The Parish Office will be closed on Monday, April 1.

Choral Evensong for the Feast of Candlemas on February 9

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 14:51:10 GMT

Celebrating Black History Month

What do the Feast of Candlemas, Black History Month, and Groundhog Day have in common? Come and experience the centuries-old tradition of Choral Evensong and find out!

On Friday, February 9 at 5:00 pm, guest artist Jonas McCanless will join the St. Philip’s Chancel Choir for this beautiful offering of sung prayers and psalms, illustrating the rich historical ties of Spirituals in the American South, English Cathedral Music, and the luminous colors of classical guitar.

Featured texts and composer highlights include Precious Lord, Take My Hand, This Little Light of Mine, Great Day! , Samuel Sebastian Wesley’s Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in G Major , Wesley’s setting of Psalm 48, and Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World .

Admission is free and all are welcome.

Christmas Music at St. Philip's

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 14:20:27 GMT

Caroling at 7:30 pm followed by Festival Holy Eucharist at 8:00 and 11:00 pm

St. Philip's invites everyone to celebrate this Christmas Eve with music, starting with a joyous Concert of Carols at 7:30 pm on Sunday, December 24.

With a mix of choral and congregational singing, we'll be transported to Victorian-era England with music from the St. Philip's Chancel Choir, Choral Scholars, and guest musicians under the direction of Dr. Brittnee Siemon, Director of Music Ministry.

Christmas was celebrated in song in the Middle Ages, but most carols fell from favor in England after the Reformation because of their frivolity and were rarely sung in churches until the 1880s. E.W. Benson, Bishop of Truro (and later Archbishop of Canterbury), brought them back to worship, and they have remained in use ever since.

Following the concert, St. Philip's will offer two services of Festival Holy Eucharist, at 8:00 pm and 11:00 pm, featuring several glorious a cappella offerings and many traditional favorites accompanied by the organ, including carol arrangements of John Rutter and David Willcocks, Peter Warlock’s "Bethlehem Down", Morten Lauridsen’s "O Magnum Mysterium", and James MacMillan’s "O Radiant Dawn".

Christmas Eve Musicians

Doug Grimm, Baritone

Doug is pursuing a master’s degree at Ohio University. A graduate of UNC – Greensboro with a dual degree in vocal performance and arts administration, Doug has worked in both theatrical and operatic stage productions for almost 16 years, most recently playing Ben in Giancarlo Menotti’s The Telephone and premiering several smaller one-act opera roles with Greensboro Opera’s outreach, Opera at the Carolina. In the spring of 2023, he will be performing the role of John Brooke in Mark Adamo’s Little Women. He is active with arts nonprofits, including the Brevard Music Center. His foremost love is sharing the beauty and joy of opera with those around him and working towards creating and developing an American culture that values this beautiful art form. Doug is currently a student of Dr. Daniel Stein, a former student of Dr. Robert Bracey, and currently works with legendary coach Dr. Arlene Shrut. When not on stage, Doug can be found on a hike, at the rock wall, or spending time with his family, his girlfriend, or his dear friends.

Carrina Macaluso, Mezzo-Soprano

Carrina is a classically trained mezzo-soprano pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance at UNC-Chapel Hill, where she is studying with Dr. Jeanne Fischer. Carrina is heavily involved in UNC’s opera program. She was most recently seen performing the role of Charity in Hildegard Von Bingen's Ordo Virtutum directed by Dr. Marc Callahan in April, 2022. She was previously seen in Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea portraying the role of Seneca and covering for the role of Arnalta, also under the direction of Dr. Marc Callahan. Carrina serves as a choral scholar at University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill, and works as a voice teacher at Carolina Friends School in Durham, NC. After graduating from UNC, Carrina hopes to continue her studies in vocal performance and vocal pedagogy.

Kate Murray, Soprano

Kate Murray is a Brevard-based pianist and soprano. She grew up studying piano with her father, longtime Brevard Music Center faculty member Bruce Murray. She is a high school graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and received her bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College. She later continued piano and voice studies at New England Conservatory while working as a healthcare policy analyst in Boston. After moving back home to Brevard in 2022, Kate is now a vocal student of Dr. Kathryn Gresham and enjoys actively performing chamber and choral music across the Southeast.

Jamie Gilson, Tenor

Jamie, a Choral Scholar at St. Philip's, is a voice (music) major at Brevard College who grew up singing solos as a boy soprano on Cape Cod. He sang in a Royal School of Church Music Episcopal parish and was a soloist in another Episcopal church as well as a soloist at 13 in the highly auditioned Chatham Chorale, an adult chorale on Cape Cod with two student members and 60 adults. He took voice lessons and drumming lessons for five years on Cape Cod before he moved to Brevard in 2018. He has had starring roles in several musical theatre productions at both Brevard High School and Brevard College. As a senior at Brevard High School, he won the talent show with a self-composed jazz drum solo. As a high schooler he sang with the Transylvania Choral Society and sings with the Brevard College Chamber Singers. He plays drums with the Brevard College Jazz Ensemble. He was on the golf team at Brevard High School and works on weekends as a cart attendant at the Connestee Falls Golf Course. He worked at the Star Island Conference Center off the coast of Portsmouth, NH the summer of 2022 and performed in the weekly music concerts.

Gabriella Lujon, Soprano

Gabriella, a Choral Scholar at St. Philip's, is a classically trained soprano pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education degree at Brevard College, where she is studying with Dr. Brittnee Siemon. Gabriella is a member of two ensembles at the college, one of them being the Brevard College Chamber Singers. She is also a former member of the Carolina Concert Concert Choir in Hendersonville. When not singing, Gabriella enjoys reading or spending time with her dear family and friends.

Scott Coates, Organist

Scott is a native of the Asheville area. He began piano lessons at the age of five and began his organ studies at Asbury University his freshman year of college. He has been a supply organist in western North Carolina since finishing law school in 2014. During the week, he works for the Clerk of Court in Buncombe County. When not on the organ bench, Scott can frequently be found on a trail or a river somewhere in the beautiful mountains that surround us.

Dr. Brittnee Siemon, Mezzo-Soprano and Director of Music Ministry

Brittnee has led the St. Philip's music ministry since 2023, founding the Sounds at St. Philips chamber music series and leading the Choral Scholars Program in addition to the church's choirs and music program. A member of the Brevard College voice faculty, she is president of the North Carolina Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing.

Brittnee is a versatile and engaging musician with diverse talents ranging from performing and recording to directing, teaching and conducting. She has premiered early and modern works including a debut at Jordan Hall in Boston and international appearances in Austria, italy, Germany, Turkey, and Belize. She appeared in the North American premier of Bob Chilcott's Christmas Oratorio and has appeared with the National Conference of the Historical Keyboard Society of North America, distinguished alumni for the Centennial Celebration of Ohio University's School of Music, and the International Muzio Clementi Conference in Lucca, Italy. Her numerous regional solo appearances include Pan Harmonia of Asheville, South Carolina Philharmonic, Augusta Symphony and Choral Society, Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, Brevard Music Center Symphony, Transylvania Choral Society, Asheville Baroque Concerts, and the St. Augustine Music Festival.

Faith Build for Habitat for Humanity

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 19:36:48 GMT

Responding to the need for affordable housing in our community

Over the last two years, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church has been exploring ways to serve families in our community who face a dire need for affordable/workforce housing. In September, St. Philip’s announced its partnership with Transylvania Habitat for Humanity and Brevard-Davidson Presbyterian Church in a project called “Faith Build.”

The Habitat house is in Rosman where 10 houses are going up to create a new neighborhood. Construction is expected to take 5-7 months. Work started Oct. 3. Roof trusses are up and work will continue weekdays until the house is completed, weather and materials permitting. For more information about the build, contact Adam Dewitte at Transylvania Habitat for Humanity at 828-884-3907.

Volunteers interested in construction should contact Bill Mellman from St. Philip’s. Also, there are sign-up sheets for St. Philip’s volunteers in the hallway near the church office.

St. Philip’s and Brevard-Davidson Presbyterian believe this Faith Build project is a way to demonstrate our faith in action and to make a significant difference in the life of one Transylvania County family. Change happens one family at a time, as communities are built to support each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is involved in this Faith Build project?

Transylvania Habitat for Humanity is the lead agency in this home-building project. St. Philip’s is partnering with Brevard-Davidson Presbyterian Church to provide funding, volunteer, and prayer support for the Faith Build over the course of construction, which is expected to take between 5 and 7 months.

When does the construction start?

The foundation has already been laid and initial work to ensure safety of workers is under way. The site is lot #5 in Don Ross Acres near Old Rosman Highway in Rosman.

How is St. Philip’s involved?

The Christian Social Concerns Committee has been exploring housing needs in Transylvania County for more than two years. In June 2023, the Vestry approved a $10,000 grant to Transylvania Habitat for Humanity for this Faith Build project. St. Philip’s commitment to the construction project going forward is through volunteers for help with the construction or in other ways, including prayer for a successful build-out.

Is St. Philip’s asking parishioners to donate to the Faith Build?

No. You’ve already contributed through your annual pledge and giving. The funds are allocated to CSC through the annual budgeting process of those funds. If you, as an individual, would like to contribute, you should do that directly to Transylvania Habitat for Humanity. Make your check payable to Transylvania Habitat for Humanity and in the memo line, write “St. Philip’s Faith Build.” Contribute online or send your check to Transylvania Habitat for Humanity at 692 Ecusta Road, Brevard, NC 28712. To donate online, go to https://transylvaniahabitat.charityproud.org/Donate . Click the box “In Honor of” to make a note that you want your money directed to the Faith Build project. (Please be sure to direct your contributions to the local Habitat for Humanity rather than the National Organization.)

What kind of help can we provide?

A Faith Build display is in the parish hall lobby and will be updated frequently with information about how to be involved. Volunteering will be everything from praying to bringing snacks or drinks to the workers (Monday-Friday) or helping with painting and other construction work or landscaping, if that’s where your talent lies. There will be information about whom to contact about volunteer opportunities and frequent updates in the E-pistle and on the Faith Build display board, including photos and (if possible) video of the progress on the build. Brevard-Davidson Presbyterian also will be providing volunteers, and St. Philip’s will be coordinating with them so all needs are covered jointly.

LATEST UPDATE

Week 2 (October 13, 2023)

The roof is on at the house at Lot #10. Volunteers helped with tasks on the ground while professionals worked on the roof. Exterior walls are up. Once the structure is “dried in,” volunteers start walling up the interior. Contact Bill Mellman if you want to be a construction volunteer. All sign-up sheets are in Easel Alley. Add your name to our growing lists of volunteers for now and in the future.

And gather at St. Philip's at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 21 to carpool to the Faith Build site where we will write our prayers and inspirational messages for the new owners on interior framing. Bring a permanent marker with you.

Week 1 (October 6, 2023)

Volunteers gathered October 3 to bless the work at Lot #5 and share the excitement of getting started. Roof trusses have gone up. If you haven’t already, add your name to the volunteer lists displayed in the lobby for the various ways you can help support Faith Build: construction, bringing snacks, landscaping and praying. Someone will be in touch with you when your help is needed. Or, if you want to donate, give directly to Transylvania Habitat for Humanity (put “Faith Build” in the memo line of your check). The Habitat site is https://transylvaniahabitat.charityproud.org/Donate . Click the box “In Honor of” to make a note that you want your money directed to the Faith Build project. More on Faith Build next week.

PREVIOUS UPDATES:

Starting Soon! (September 29, 2023)

Tuesday, October 3, is the date when work will start on our Faith Build house in Don Ross Acres. Transylvania Habitat for Humanity has informed St. Philip’s and Brevard-Davidson Presbyterian church that the foundation is ready and materials are in place for construction to start on “our house” on Lot #5. Bill Mellman (727-480-5675 / mellmanw@gmail.com) is the point person for volunteers who offered to help with actual construction. He has been at the work site and in touch with Mike Wallace, Adam Dewitte from Habitat, and Mike Stewart from Brevard-Davidson River Presbyterian. He has some volunteers scheduled for this next week. If you are available and interested, let Bill know. The Habitat site is off Old Rosman Highway in Rosman. Driving directions and parking information will be provided for volunteers. It’s starting!

Sounds at St. Philip's 2023-2024 Season

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 18:34:44 GMT

Choral Evensongs begin September 29

The Sounds at St. Philip's music series will present a year-long series of Choral Evensongs in 2023-24, inviting everyone to experience this centuries-old tradition of sung prayers and psalms led by the choirs of St. Philip's and guest chamber artists.

Each event begins at 5:00 pm in the church. It's a beautiful way to conclude the day with a peaceful, intimate offering of evening music. Admission is free and all are welcome.

The series begins Friday, September 29, celebrating Michaelmas (the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels) with guest artists Amethyst Baroque Ensemble of Atlanta.

The remaining season includes:

Sunday, November 5: The Feast of All Saints with ABC Viol Consort

Friday, February 9, 2024: Candlemas (the Feast of the Presentation) with Jonas McCanless, guitar, and music for Black History Month

Sunday, May 19, 2024: A Celebration of St. Mary featuring women composers, with guest artist Eclectic Collective.

World Labyrinth Day May 6

Mon, 01 May 2023 17:41:46 GMT

'Walk as One at 1:00' for world peace

On Saturday, May 6, people all over the globe will walk a labyrinth at 1:00 pm local time on World Labyrinth Day in "a moving meditation for world peace." St. Philip's invites everyone to come walk our labyrinth that day. It's located behind the church, and is open to everyone daily, year-round.

The Transylvania County Farmer’s Market and a Solar Fair will be happening nearby on Saturday morning, but after 12:00 noon or so the area will be more peaceful for those who want to enjoy some quiet time at the labyrinth.

Learn more about labyrinths and World Labyrinth Day in this Episcopal News Service article .

Music for Holy Week and Easter 2023

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:13:44 GMT

Choral Scholars and Guest Musicians join choirs for upcoming services

St. Philip’s will mark Holy Week and celebrate Easter with beautiful brass, organ, and choral traditions April 2-9, 2023.

Vocal offerings include pensive and celebratory works by British masters Samuel Barber, Benjamin Britten, and Theodore Chandler. St. Philip’s Chancel Choir and Folk Choir will present compositions by Paul Manz, John Stainer, and John Rutter from Palm Sunday through Easter Day.

Good Friday services will be led by the choral scholars of St. Philip’s, with tenor Jamie Gilson, portraying the role of Jesus, and baritone Jonas McCannless singing the Narrator.

At the Great Vigil of Easter on the Saturday evening before Easter Day, the Chancel Choir will present John Trotta’s shimmering a cappella setting of Alleluia.

Easter Day choral works for brass, chorus, and organ highlight a stunning arrangement of George Elvey’s Crown Him with Many Crowns by Diane Bish ( dianebish.org ). Other works for brass include an arrangement of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus , Bach’s Ein feste Burg , and many other festive settings for Easter.

Schedule of services with music

Palm Sunday, April 2 at 10:30 am

Maundy Thursday, April 6 at 5:30 pm

Good Friday, April 7 at 12:00 noon

Easter Vigil: Saturday, April 8 at 7:30 pm

Easter Day: Sunday, April 9 at 8:30 am and 11:00 am

Holy Week and Easter Musicians

Choral Scholars

Jamie Gilson, Tenor

Jamie Gilson, a sophomore voice (music) major at Brevard College, grew up singing solos as a boy soprano on Cape Cod. He sang in a Royal School of Church Music Episcopal parish and was a soloist in another Episcopal church as well as a soloist at 13 in the highly auditioned Chatham Chorale, an adult chorale on Cape Cod with two student members and 60 adults. He took voice lessons and drumming lessons for five years on Cape Cod before he moved to Brevard in 2018. He has had starring roles in several musical theatre productions at both Brevard High School and Brevard College. As a senior at Brevard High School, he won the talent show with a self-composed jazz drum solo. He is a choral scholar at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Brevard. As a high schooler he sang with the Transylvania Choral Society and sings with the Brevard College Chamber Singers. He plays drums with the Brevard College Jazz Ensemble. He was on the golf team at Brevard High School and works on weekends as a cart attendant at the Connestee Falls Golf Course. He worked at the Star Island Conference Center off the coast of Portsmouth, NH the summer of 2022 and performed in the weekly music concerts.

Gabriella Lujon, Soprano

Gabriella Lujon is a classically trained soprano pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education degree at Brevard College, where she is studying with Dr. Brittnee Siemon. Gabriella is a member of two ensembles at the college, one of them being the Brevard College Chamber Singers. She is also a former member of the Carolina Concert Concert Choir in Hendersonville. When not singing, Gabriella enjoys reading or spending time with her dear family and friends.

Jonas McCanless, Baritone

Jonas McCanless is a junior at Brevard College working towards a BA in music with a minor in psychology. He is primarily a classical guitar student, participating in the college’s classical guitar ensemble and playing electric bass in the jazz combo. Additionally, he has taken voice lessons under Dr. Brittnee Siemon, as well as lessons in piano, pipe organ, and composition. Along with singing baritone in the St. Philips Chancel Choir, he participates in the two vocal ensembles at the college. When not studying or playing music, he may be found climbing a tree, riding bikes with friends, or enjoying a nice hot beverage.

Kayleigh Miller (Mezzo Soprano)

Kayleigh Miller is a junior at Brevard College studying voice and psychology. She participates in both of the Brevard College choirs as well as singing with the St. Philip's chancel choir. She also enjoys playing trumpet in the college's wind ensemble. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends and her two beloved cats.

Guest Musicians

Scott Coates, Organist

Linda Davis, Trombone

A native of Chesterfield, SC, Linda Rienette Davis received her B.S. Degree in Music Education from UNC-Pembroke. Her first professional job was the trombonist of the Italian Band at Busch Gardens Theme Park in Williamsburg, VA. She has performed with several artists such as Kenny Rogers, Ray Charles, Allen Vizzutti, Ed Shaughnessy, Katie Lee Gifford, and several others. Rienette is the recipient of many awards such as The John Philip Sousa Award, Outstanding Musician at Richmond Senior H.S. and UNCP, Outstanding Bass Trombonist Soloist at the UNC-CHAPEL Hill Jazz Festival, and Trombone Soloist with the National Community Band. She currently holds positions on tenor and bass trombone with the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, Spartanburg Philharmonic, and the Brevard Philharmonic.

R. Kevin Paul, Trumpet

R. Kevin Paul, a Virginia native born in 1971, earned his Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degree in Education from Radford University in 1993. He earned Virginia Commonwealth University's first Master of Music (M.M.) degree in Conducting Performance in 1996. Kevin served the Richmond Community as a member of several brass quintets, Principal Trumpet of the Richmond Philharmonic, Assistant Principal Trumpet of the Richmond Symphonic Winds, and trumpeter with the Petersburg Symphony and various other chamber ensembles. He founded the Richmond Brass Consort, Richmond’s only large brass & percussion ensemble, and was its Conductor/Music Director until he left Richmond in 2000. He has also performed as a trumpeter with the DuPage Symphony Orchestra (IL) and the Lynchburg Symphony (VA). He currently performs as a trumpeter with the Blue Ridge Orchestra (Asheville), the Toe River Chamber Ensemble (Burnsville), the TRCE Brass Consortium, and substitute with the Biltmore Brass.

Mary Jo Sparrow, Trumpet

Mary Jo Sparrow received her professional music education and performance in Trumpet certifications in 1979 from the University of N. Colorado, Greeley, Co. She earned her Masters in Education certificate from Columbus State University in 1987, Columbus, GA. She has taught music in the public schools of Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma, Ohio, and North Carolina. 1996-2015 she directed the band and jazz band programs at North Buncombe Middle School in Weaverville, NC. She is currently retired but is serving as a Field Supervisor for music student teachers (Interns) through Western Carolina University.

Mrs. Sparrow has performed with Henry Mancini, Dave Brubeck, The O’Jays, The Canadian Brass, Denver Symphony, Lawton Philharmonic, Columbus Symphony, Asheville Symphony Chorus, Hart and Sart Theater Orchestras.

She currently performs with Smoky Mountain Brass Band, The Blue Ridge Symphonic Brass, The Mars Hill Brass Quintet, The Asheville Jazz Orchestra in addition to other free-lance opportunities.

Nathan Tingler, Percussion

Dr. Nathan Tingler currently serves as Instructor of Percussion and Director of the Tornado Drumline at Brevard College in North Carolina. Prior to joining the Brevard faculty in 2019 Tingler taught in several locations around the state of Georgia, including Georgia College and State University, and continues to teach clinics and masterclasses in person and online. Tingler has diverse experience teaching competitive marching ensembles, lecturing in musicology, directing steel bands, composing, performing, and recording.

Dr. Tingler currently serves as Principal Timpanist with the Tallahassee Symphony, the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre, and records with his percussion duo, Mist. His compositions, currently published by Bachovich Music Publications, have been performed across the south by groups including the Arasmas Percussion Group, the University of Georgia Percussion Ensemble, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Percussion Ensemble.

An “in demand” freelancer, Dr. Tingler currently performs regularly with the Charlotte Symphony, the Asheville Symphony, the Charleston Symphony, the Brevard Philharmonic, the Hendersonville Symphony, and has performed with the Chattanooga Symphony, the Alabama Symphony, the Macon Symphony, the Valdosta Symphony, the Lancaster Festival Orchestra, the Albany (GA) Symphony, the Ludwig Symphony, the Russian Folk Instrument Orchestra, the Highlands Playhouse, Arts! Oglethorpe, and the Arasmas Percussion Group. Tingler has also performed on stage with major artists including Bela Fleck, Dave Brubeck, Chris Brubeck and Triple Play, Martina McBride, Ney Rosauro, Kevin Bobo, and Blake Tyson.

Dr. Tingler earned his Doctorate, Masters, and Bachelors from the University of Georgia under the tutelage of Mr. Timothy Adams Jr., former Principal Timpanist of the Pittsburgh Symphony, and Mrs. Kimberly Toscano Adams, former Principal Timpanist of the Tucson Symphony. Tingler also holds a Professional Studies certificate from the Cleveland Institute of Music where he studied with Mr. Richard Weiner and Mr. Paul Yancich of the Cleveland Orchestra. Tingler has also studied with Dr. Thomas McCutchen, Dr. Ryan Smith, and Dr. Todd Mueller. Dr. Tingler proudly endorses Zildjian, Innovative Percussion Inc, and Black Swamp percussion products. Born in Kingsport, TN, he currently lives in Brevard.

Music Sermon from the Rector

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 20:52:14 GMT

Sermon from the Rev. Elizabeth Roles, May 29, 2022

Dear People of St. Philip’s,

This is an edited version of my sermon from the 7th Sunday in Easter, May 29, 2022. I am distributing it so that as many parishioners as possible receive my response to the music discussion groups and survey that we have recently completed at St. Philip’s. I started the sermon with a song, which is also a prayer, from the Community of Taizé in France...

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL SERMON

Feb. 15 speaker begins new season of 'Seeking Shalom'

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:09:34 GMT

'Learning to Recognize Jesus: Dialogue as Christian Practice' with Dr. Elizabeth M. Bounds

Please join us on Wednesday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m. as we welcome guest speaker Dr. Elizabeth M. Bounds to begin a new Lenten season of “Seeking Shalom” with a focus on bridging social divides through dialogue.

“Learning to Recognize Jesus: Dialogue as Christian Practice” will be the topic for Dr. Bounds’ talk, and for the Lenten series, which will continue on Wednesday nights from March 1 through March 29. The series is a continuation of “Seeking Shalom,” the 2022-2023 theme for The Reverend Anne Bridgers Contagious with Love Symposium.

Dr. Bounds is Associate Professor of Christian Ethics at the Candler School of Theology and the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University. Following her visit to St. Philip’s on February 15, she will lead five video presentations on dialogue as a Christian practice.

"Lent is a time of preparation and purification, patterned on Jesus’s desert preparation for ministry and on the time leading to the crucifixion. It is a time when Christians are called to repent and renew their understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Both Jesus’s own ministry and the work of the early church suggest obligations for Christians to connect, to understand, and to engage, especially with those who are unfamiliar to them."

On March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, participants will gather in small groups in Miller Hall to view the videos, followed by discussion time with facilitators for each table group. The programs will start at 6:00 pm, immediately following our 5:00 pm Lenten soup-and-salad suppers in Miller Hall.

Please plan to join us on February 15 to welcome Dr. Bounds and learn more about “Seeking Shalom”! Admission to this event is free and we encourage you to bring a friend. Advance sign-ups are not required.

About our guest speaker

Dr. Elizabeth M. Bounds is Associate Professor of Christian Ethics at the Candler School of Theology and the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University. She teaches courses in conflict transformation, responses to incarceration, restorative justice, and reconciliation, working with a variety of participatory and practical methods. Her current research studies theo-moral understandings of the good life among incarcerated women. She is co-founder/administrator of the Certificate in Theological Studies at Arrendale State Prison for Women in Georgia.

"She Is... Her Story" concert February 10 at noon

holly.votaw@gmail.com (Holly Votaw) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:42:51 GMT

Sounds at St. Philip's concert series

The influence of women in music will be in the spotlight Friday, February 10 as the Sounds at St. Philip’s concert series presents “She Is… Her Story: A Woman’s Love and Life in Her Own Words.” The concert will be at 12:00 noon at the church, 256 E. Main St. in Brevard.

‘She Is… Her Story” is a recital series curated by soprano Teri Bickham that explores female composers, poets, muses, and famous singers, with a focus on American women composers and how they use text and music to present their own version of Frauen-liebe und Leben (German for “a Woman’s Love and Life”). This story tells of a woman’s own hopes, dreams, love, faith, and partnerships through the many emotions that encompass our lives.

Three women will be part of the St. Philip’s concert: Dr. Bickham, soprano; mezzo-soprano Jennifer Luiken; and composer Elaine Ross, piano. Dr. Ross's new cycle of duets for soprano and mezzo-soprano, The Privilege of Being , debuted in September 2022 and will be part of the February 10 concert. The program also includes the premiere of her new duet to the text of Psalm 139, Lead Me in the Way Everlasting .

Admission to the February 10 concert is free. Donations at the door will benefit the Adele Chappell Choral Scholars Fund at St. Philip’s. Season sponsorship for Sounds at St. Philip’s is generously provided by American IRA, LLC (www.americanira.com).

Download a concert poster here

About the artists

Teri Bickham

Dr. Teri Bickham’s singing career has taken her to Italy, Austria, and prestigious houses in the United States, where she has performed operatic roles. She has performed a diverse repertory of operatic roles that include a specialization in Mozart heroines (Donna Anna, La Contessa, Fiordiligi), Italian opera (Adina, Violetta, Musetta), German operetta (Rosalinde, Hanna Glawari), and contemporary American opera. In addition, she has placed in prestigious competitions including The Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, Palm Beach Opera, Shreveport Opera Singer of the Year, and the Concorso Lirico Internazionale per Cantanti lirici Rosa Ponselle. Dr. Bickham regularly performs with orchestras throughout the country and is an avid recitalist and scholar of female composers, poets, and performers. She earned degrees from the University of Maryland College Park (DMA), the University of Houston (MM), and Towson University (BM). Dr. Bickham’s debut album was released by Albany Records in 2021 and she is an Assistant Professor of Voice at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. Her performance experience has culminated in her passion for training young professionals and her students have been recognized for their polished performances and exemplary teaching.

Jennifer Luiken

With a voice described as “voluptuous” and “beautifully clean and radiant,” mezzo-soprano Jennifer Luiken transitions easily between many genres and styles. She has performed throughout the United States, and internationally in England, Scotland, Germany, Bulgaria, Austria, Catalunya Italy, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. She has made multiple appearances with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and other regional orchestras and has performed numerous times at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Known also for her convincing acting skills in both comedic and dramatic roles, Miss Luiken’s operatic credits include the Old Lady in Candide, Madame Flora in The Medium, Katisha in Mikado, the title role in The Rape of Lucretia, the Witch in Hansel and Gretel, the Mother in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Prince Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus, Principessa in Suor Angelica, Zita in Gianni Schicchi, Maddalena in Rigoletto, the Sorceress in Dido and Aeneas, and Third Lady in The Magic Flute. She has been a state winner and regional finalist in the Metropolitan Opera auditions and second runner-up in the Mid-Atlantic region of NATSAA. A native of Iowa, she is a Professor of Music at the Horton School of Music at Charleston Southern University where she teaches studio voice and other vocal performance-related classes and is director of Lyric Theatre.

Dr. Elaine M. Ross

Dr. Ross is the President and CEO of The Southern Atlantic Conservatory of Music, a newly founded higher education institution intending to launch its inaugural curriculum in the Fall of 2026. She also currently serves on the faculty of Charleston Southern University and a freelance artist throughout the greater Charleston area. Dr. Ross recently served on the music theory faculty as head of aural skills and instructor of music theory at Morgan State University. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Ross was on the theory faculty at Towson University and Ohio University, served as the chair of music theory at the Colburn Conservatory in Los Angeles, CA, and as the coordinator of music theory/composition at Central Washington University. Dr. Ross is a recording artist for the Albany label and is an extremely active and sought-after collaborative pianist. She has performed with such artists as Toby Oft, principal trombone of the Boston Symphony, Harry Watters, premiere jazz trombonist of the army blues(ret.), world renowned clarinetist Fred Ormand, and internationally acclaimed hornist Frank Lloyd, to name a few. Dr. Ross’ research interests include both the creative aspect of composition and theory pedagogy, including instructional approaches, the comparison of teaching results for perfect/absolute pitch vs. non-perfect pitch musicians, and the compilation of several pedagogical workbooks. Dr. Ross is published by Southern Music Company, Sisra Press, and Triplo Press and has had performances throughout the United States and in France, Germany, Israel, and has numerous upcoming performances throughout the world. A complete catalogue of works, recordings and sample scores can be found at www.elainemross.com.

Program on dementia offered at March 2 ECW Meeting

holly.votaw@gmail.com (Holly Votaw) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 14:52:55 GMT

'Ministry with the Forgotten: Dementia through a Spiritual Lens' with the Rev. Kerry Purselle

"Ministry with the Forgotten: Dementia through a Spiritual Lens" will be the topic of a program at the March 2 meeting of the Episcopal Church Women at St. Philip's, Brevard. The public is invited to the program, which will follow the ECW's regular meeting starting at 10:00 am.

The Rev. Kerry Purselle of First United Methodist Church in Brevard will explore ways to be in ministry with individuals and families who live with dementia. Her talk will be based on the book by the same title by retired United Methodist Bishop Kenneth Carder.

Light refreshments and social time will follow the program and all are welcome. For more information, call the church office at 828-884-3666.

Christmas Eve Music at St. Philip's

holly.votaw@gmail.com (Holly Votaw) — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 19:10:05 GMT

Come early for a 30-minute concert and carol singing at 7:30 and 10:30 pm

Join us for Christmas Eve at St. Philip’s and experience beautiful music and liturgy intertwined as part of this celebration of our Lord's Nativity!

The two evening services at 8:00 and 11:00 pm will feature St. Philip’s own Chancel Choir and Folk Choir members, guest organist Ted Stewart, and regional vocal artists, including Brevard College and Brevard Music Center student alumni and faculty. Guest singers include Jackson Ray, Doug Grimm, Sydney Windham, and Carrina Macaluso. Gabriella Lujon, a Brevard College student soprano who sings in the Chancel Choir, also will be with us.

A pre-service concert and carol singing will begin about 30 minutes before each service (at 7:30 and 10:30 pm). Congregational singing is welcome. The concert and church service will feature antiphonal a cappella singing and traditional Christmas favorites conducted by our Director of Music, Dr. Brittnee Siemon.

Please plan to come early and enjoy the gift of music on Christmas Eve!

About our guest singers

Doug Grimm , described as a “handsome-voiced” baritone by Voix des Arts , is a baritone in his first year of a master’s degree at Ohio University. A recent graduate of UNC – Greensboro with a dual degree in vocal performance and arts administration, Doug has worked in both theatrical and operatic stage productions for almost 16 years, most recently playing Ben in Giancarlo Menotti’s The Telephone and premiering several smaller one-act opera roles with Greensboro Opera’s outreach, Opera at the Carolina. In the spring of 2023, he will be performing the role of John Brooke in Mark Adamo’s Little Women . He is active with arts nonprofits, including the Brevard Music Center. His foremost love is sharing the beauty and joy of opera with those around him and working towards creating and developing an American culture that values this beautiful art form. Doug is currently a student of Dr. Daniel Stein, a former student of Dr. Robert Bracey, and currently works with legendary coach Dr. Arlene Shrut. When not on stage, Doug can be found on a hike, at the rock wall, or spending time with his family, his girlfriend, or his dear friends.

Carrina Macaluso is a classically trained mezzo-soprano pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance at UNC-Chapel Hill, where she is studying with Dr. Jeanne Fischer. Carrina is heavily involved in UNC’s opera program. She was most recently seen performing the role of Charity in Hildegard Von Bingen's Ordo Virtutum directed by Dr. Marc Callahan in April, 2022. She was previously seen in Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea portraying the role of Seneca and covering for the role of Arnalta, also under the direction of Dr. Marc Callahan. Carrina serves as a choral scholar at University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill, and works as a voice teacher at Carolina Friends School in Durham, NC. After graduating from UNC, Carrina hopes to continue her studies in vocal performance and vocal pedagogy.

Jackson Ray, a native of Asheville, is a tenor who attends the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston Salem, NC studying under tenor faculty member Glenn Siebert. During his first year at UNCSA, Jackson performed as a soloist with the UNCSA Orchestra, singing selections from Bach and Handel. Jackson recently made his professional debut as Giuseppe in Verdi's La Traviata , produced by Piedmont Opera. He also has performed in many other productions produced by the A.J Fletcher Opera Institute, UNCSA Undergraduate Opera Workshop and Piedmont Opera. When not singing, Jackson enjoys cycling, snowboarding, and spending time with his dog Ruby. Jackson is thrilled to be back singing at St. Philip's under the direction of his former teacher, Dr. Brittnee Siemon/

Sydney Windham is a graduate of Brevard College and is currently earning her MM in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from Ohio University. Notable work with Brevard College choirs includes Miserere by Zelenka, Rejoice in the Lamb by Britten, Dixit Dominus by Ignocio de Jerusalem, Missa brevis in F by Haydn, and Messe basse by Faure. She has been a featured soloist with the Transylvania Choral Society and Brevard Philharmonic. Her favorite productions at Brevard College were Into the Woods (Cinderella), Life of Galileo (Andrea), and Mr. Burns, a Post Electric Play (Quincy, Bart Simpson). In 2019, she was a young artist with Harrower Opera and she was also accepted into the Brevard Music Center’s Janiec Opera Company in 2020. At Ohio University, Sydney is a Graduate Teaching Assistant. She teaches private voice lessons to a number of undergraduate and graduate students, and she also teaches Class Voice for undergraduate music majors. At Ohio University, Sydney had the pleasure of performing in Hansel and Gretel as Gretel last April. In 2023, Sydney will be performing in Ohio University’s production of Little Women as Beth March. Sydney is thrilled to be back in the best place in the world making some great music!

'No Room at the Inn' December 2-3

holly.votaw@gmail.com (Holly Votaw) — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 14:27:39 GMT

An exhibit to share with the whole community

"No Room at the Inn," an exhibit of beloved creches on loan from members and friends at St. Philip's, will be on display in the church on Friday, December 2 from 10 am-6 pm and Saturday, December 3 from 9 am-2 pm.

This is the first time St. Philip's has offered this event, sharing nativity scenes from around the world in a loving and joyous presentation. Members of the church will be serving as greeters to welcome the community.

Admission is free and all are welcome – please invite a friend and come and see!

'Reel Baroque' Concert December 9

holly.votaw@gmail.com (Holly Votaw) — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 13:52:45 GMT

Sounds at St. Philip's Concert Series

The Sounds at St. Philip's series returns on December 9 at 12:00 pm with "Reel Baroque," a unique program that brings together musical lines of history from Renaissance and Baroque England and traditional folk music of the British Isles. Admission is free and open to the public; donations will be accepted at the door.

The concert features The Reel Sisters – Rosalind Buda (whistle and Scottish smallpipes) and Kelly Brzozowski (Celtic and Welsh triple harp) – and Gail Ann Schroeder, viola da gamba.

Explore the power of melody and the lush sounds of traditional Scottish and Celtic instruments as well as courtly works for viola da gamba with works by Turlough O’Carolan, James Oswald, and Tobias Hume, as well as traditional tunes from the Celtic lands.

Donations at the door will benefit the Adele Chappell Choral Scholars Fund at St. Philip's. Support for Sounds at St. Philip's is provided by a generous sponsorship by American IRA, LLC.