Communications, News & Events
Communications
News
Sunday Services
The Sunday service starts at 9:30 AM. Masks are optional. Masks are provided for those who would like to wear them. Click here for further information on protocols to maintain the well-being of our parishioners. Click here for information on each Sunday's service. Daycare service is provided every Sunday through June 8th.
A "Kids' Corner" is available in the back of the sanctuary. Click here for more information on our Youth Program.
The Sunday service starts at 9:30 AM. Masks are optional. Masks are provided for those who would like to wear them. Click here for further information on protocols to maintain the well-being of our parishioners. Click here for information on each Sunday's service. Daycare service is provided every Sunday through June 8th.
A "Kids' Corner" is available in the back of the sanctuary. Click here for more information on our Youth Program.
Adult Education
--Weekly Bible Study: Looking for ways to grow more deeply in faith this fall? Our weekly Bible Study meets every Wednesday at 10 AM in the upstairs conference room. We are reading Judges - the stories of the early days of God's people in God's promised land. Click here for more information on this and other Adult Education programming.
--Our Book of Two Months Club just finished reading "Not Too Late: Changing the Climate Story from Despair to Possibility" edited by Rebecca Solnit and Thelma Young Lutunatabua. The next book to be announced. Click here for more information.
--Weekly Bible Study: Looking for ways to grow more deeply in faith this fall? Our weekly Bible Study meets every Wednesday at 10 AM in the upstairs conference room. We are reading Judges - the stories of the early days of God's people in God's promised land. Click here for more information on this and other Adult Education programming.
--Our Book of Two Months Club just finished reading "Not Too Late: Changing the Climate Story from Despair to Possibility" edited by Rebecca Solnit and Thelma Young Lutunatabua. The next book to be announced. Click here for more information.
Upcoming Events
St. Elizabeth’s Annual Coat and Boot Drive--October 1st to December 1st
St. Elizabeth’s is launching its annual coat and boot drive. Many of our neighbors come from warmer climates and don’t have the necessary clothing for Fall and Winter in Maine. Let’s join together to help them keep warm and feel welcome! Men’s and Women’s coats and boots in all sizes are accepted. Large and Extra-Large sized coats are most needed. Items should be clean and in good condition. Hats, gloves/mittens, and scarves are also needed and much appreciated.
A coat rack has been set up in the sanctuary for people to leave donated coats, boots, etc.
Monetary donations may also be made for the purchase of new coats and boots. Financial contributions can be mailed to: St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center PO Box 4036 Portland, ME 04101 or visit us at https://stelizabethsmaine.org/give/.
A coat rack has been set up in the sanctuary for people to leave donated coats, boots, etc.
Monetary donations may also be made for the purchase of new coats and boots. Financial contributions can be mailed to: St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center PO Box 4036 Portland, ME 04101 or visit us at https://stelizabethsmaine.org/give/.
Storytellers Has Started Up Again through November 23rd
Join us for an opportunity to hear stories from other members of the community, and perhaps tell a story of your own. This program ran through the 2023-24 year and after a year off, it's back. Each week there is a prompt to tell a story about something that happened in your life. This is a chance to get to know other folks in the congregation in a different way. Many of those who joined us before are enthusiastically joining us again. There is no long term commitment and you don't need to tell a story. Remember, story tellers need story listeners, so there is a place in the group for everyone.
Storytellers begins on Sunday, October 19th and will run for six weeks. We will meet in the Chapel about 15 minutes after coffee time starts so you can visit and refresh.
Join us for an opportunity to hear stories from other members of the community, and perhaps tell a story of your own. This program ran through the 2023-24 year and after a year off, it's back. Each week there is a prompt to tell a story about something that happened in your life. This is a chance to get to know other folks in the congregation in a different way. Many of those who joined us before are enthusiastically joining us again. There is no long term commitment and you don't need to tell a story. Remember, story tellers need story listeners, so there is a place in the group for everyone.
Storytellers begins on Sunday, October 19th and will run for six weeks. We will meet in the Chapel about 15 minutes after coffee time starts so you can visit and refresh.
Harvest Dinner Friendsgiving on November 21st
The Fellowship Committee invites you to share a meal and to celebrate Friendsgiving on Friday, November 21 at 5:30 pm. This will be a potluck dinner; please sign up to bring a dish on the sign up sheet on the bulletin board in the front entrance of the church. We are looking for side dishes; vegetarian entrees; salads; bread; drinks; and desserts. Jay and Basil will provide the turkey. (If you are not going to be at the church to sign the sheet, please email Jay Souderwith the dish you plan on bringing.)
We are looking for people who can help set up, assist during the meal, and break down after. If you would like to help out, please email Jay Souder. Bring your whole family, your friends and neighbors, and those who are alone. We look forward to the fellowship and community that bring us together.
The Fellowship Committee invites you to share a meal and to celebrate Friendsgiving on Friday, November 21 at 5:30 pm. This will be a potluck dinner; please sign up to bring a dish on the sign up sheet on the bulletin board in the front entrance of the church. We are looking for side dishes; vegetarian entrees; salads; bread; drinks; and desserts. Jay and Basil will provide the turkey. (If you are not going to be at the church to sign the sheet, please email Jay Souderwith the dish you plan on bringing.)
We are looking for people who can help set up, assist during the meal, and break down after. If you would like to help out, please email Jay Souder. Bring your whole family, your friends and neighbors, and those who are alone. We look forward to the fellowship and community that bring us together.
Click here for a full event calendar.
Have an event coming up? Please fill out the program planning event form and send to Teri in the office. Questions? Email Teri.
Recent Events
The Bishop of Maine affirms Rev. Amanda as Episcopal Priest and presides over Baptism
On October 26th, the Rt. Rev. Thomas J. Brown celebrated the Baptism of Iris Covie, and the Reaffirmation of Ordination Vows and Declaration of Conformity of Rev. Amanda. We were so fortunate to have Bishop Brown with us to officiate and celebrate on this very special Sunday. Some photos of the joyful day below.
On October 26th, the Rt. Rev. Thomas J. Brown celebrated the Baptism of Iris Covie, and the Reaffirmation of Ordination Vows and Declaration of Conformity of Rev. Amanda. We were so fortunate to have Bishop Brown with us to officiate and celebrate on this very special Sunday. Some photos of the joyful day below.
17th Yarmouth Art Festival brings in record number of entries and sales!
The in-person phase of the 17th annual Yarmouth Art Festival has wrapped up, with 88 pieces sold, a record for this event. Thanks to the many volunteers, artists and art lovers who participated. The show and sale now moves online through Nov. 1. See the Show Catalog for items still available for purchase.
For this year's show, jurors selected 169 pieces by 140 artists. Submissions totaled 698, a new record, presenting a challenge to the jury to choose from a great many quality pieces. Portland Press Herald staff writer Sophie Burchell wrote a very nice piece about opening day, interviewing artists and art lovers on the scene.
We expect the total net funds raised will exceed the $15,000 raised last year and will support the following local community nonprofits: Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maine, Equality Maine, and New Mainers Assistance Program.
The in-person phase of the 17th annual Yarmouth Art Festival has wrapped up, with 88 pieces sold, a record for this event. Thanks to the many volunteers, artists and art lovers who participated. The show and sale now moves online through Nov. 1. See the Show Catalog for items still available for purchase.
For this year's show, jurors selected 169 pieces by 140 artists. Submissions totaled 698, a new record, presenting a challenge to the jury to choose from a great many quality pieces. Portland Press Herald staff writer Sophie Burchell wrote a very nice piece about opening day, interviewing artists and art lovers on the scene.
We expect the total net funds raised will exceed the $15,000 raised last year and will support the following local community nonprofits: Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maine, Equality Maine, and New Mainers Assistance Program.
New Member Sunday held October 19th
Rev. Amanda welcomed 12 new members and their children during the Sunday morning service.
It is not a requirement to participate in our New Member Service or the ministries of St Bart's to become a member of our church. Membership status, though, signifies a commitment to the vitality and sustainability of our ministries through thoughtful engagement, participation in decision-making, and contributions of time, talents, and treasure.
Rev. Amanda welcomed 12 new members and their children during the Sunday morning service.
It is not a requirement to participate in our New Member Service or the ministries of St Bart's to become a member of our church. Membership status, though, signifies a commitment to the vitality and sustainability of our ministries through thoughtful engagement, participation in decision-making, and contributions of time, talents, and treasure.
Lobster Dinners-To-Go Annual Fundraiser 2025 – A record for lobsters and donations!
Our popular Lobster Dinner fundraiser was a huge success. We fulfilled 115 dinners and received additional donations for a total of over $12,000. As always, all funds raised go to NMAP (New Mainers Assistance Program).
Many thanks to Cap'n Jeff Diggins for catching and supplying the lobsters, as well as the Membership Co-chairs and all the volunteers who helped to make this fundraiser run without a hitch. See photos of the fun below.
We are still accepting donations in support of NMAP. You can send a check made out to St Bart's Church (396 Gilman Rd, Yarmouth, 04096) with a note on the check that says NMAP. You can also drop the check in the Offering plate on Sunday. Or, if you prefer to pay online, please click on THIS LINK and choose "Outreach for NMAP" in the drop-down menu.
Our popular Lobster Dinner fundraiser was a huge success. We fulfilled 115 dinners and received additional donations for a total of over $12,000. As always, all funds raised go to NMAP (New Mainers Assistance Program).
Many thanks to Cap'n Jeff Diggins for catching and supplying the lobsters, as well as the Membership Co-chairs and all the volunteers who helped to make this fundraiser run without a hitch. See photos of the fun below.
We are still accepting donations in support of NMAP. You can send a check made out to St Bart's Church (396 Gilman Rd, Yarmouth, 04096) with a note on the check that says NMAP. You can also drop the check in the Offering plate on Sunday. Or, if you prefer to pay online, please click on THIS LINK and choose "Outreach for NMAP" in the drop-down menu.
A Celebration of May Curlew’s Ministry with St. Bart's
We celebrated Mary's ordination and all that she has brought to St. Bart's over the years at our Sunday, June 15 service. Our gift to Mary was a handmade stole created from fabric donated by our members. Mary's gift to St. Bart's were beautiful gold bells that she offered up to our youth. Our Youth Education leader, LeAnn, offered Mary a prayer written by the children. Mary was ordained to the Transitional Deaconate at the Cathedral Church in Boston last Saturday, June 7.
We celebrated Mary's ordination and all that she has brought to St. Bart's over the years at our Sunday, June 15 service. Our gift to Mary was a handmade stole created from fabric donated by our members. Mary's gift to St. Bart's were beautiful gold bells that she offered up to our youth. Our Youth Education leader, LeAnn, offered Mary a prayer written by the children. Mary was ordained to the Transitional Deaconate at the Cathedral Church in Boston last Saturday, June 7.
Annual Fellowship gathering at the Sea Dogs game on June 7th
Despite gloomy weather, St Bart's parishioners always have fun getting together for a Sea Dogs baseball game. This year was particularly special as one of our young members was selected to throw out the first pitch. Go Grayson! It was also the Sea Dog's annual Pride Day.
Despite gloomy weather, St Bart's parishioners always have fun getting together for a Sea Dogs baseball game. This year was particularly special as one of our young members was selected to throw out the first pitch. Go Grayson! It was also the Sea Dog's annual Pride Day.
Episcopal Clergy and Lay People Fight Anti-Trans Legislation at the State House
The Episcopal Church has taken an unequivocal position in support of trans, non-binary, and two-spirit people. The Diocese of Maine is on record having opposed eight of the bills in the legislature. On the day of the public hearing, May 8, 2025, many clergy and people of faith from our churches were on hand to offer their support for the transgender community in Maine, including our Rector Amanda. None of the anti-trans bills passed.
Photo left (l to r): the Rev. Lauren Kay, the Rev. Gwen Fry, and the Rev. Amanda Gerken-Nelson.
Photo left (l to r): the Rev. Lauren Kay, the Rev. Gwen Fry, and the Rev. Amanda Gerken-Nelson.
St. Elizabeth's Essentials Pantry Diaper Drive a Success
St. Elizabeth's Essential Pantry co-chair said, "St Elizabeth’s has exceeded our Diaper Drive Goal and brought in more than $20,000 specific to the diaper drive. Not included in this number are "in kind" donations which are difficult to track because they flowed in by the armloads, truck loads and trunk loads from individuals, the Youth Group, community organizations and parishes." Thanks to all St Bart’s members who participated and supported the effort.
St. Elizabeth's Essential Pantry co-chair said, "St Elizabeth’s has exceeded our Diaper Drive Goal and brought in more than $20,000 specific to the diaper drive. Not included in this number are "in kind" donations which are difficult to track because they flowed in by the armloads, truck loads and trunk loads from individuals, the Youth Group, community organizations and parishes." Thanks to all St Bart’s members who participated and supported the effort.
Great turnout for our Third Annual Day of Service on May 3rd
47 parishioners volunteered at 5 different non-profits and then gathered back at St. Bart’s for a delicious cookout/luncheon. This is a collaborative way of expanding our outreach and generating interest and momentum for serving our communities via local organizations. Click here for more photos of the day.
47 parishioners volunteered at 5 different non-profits and then gathered back at St. Bart’s for a delicious cookout/luncheon. This is a collaborative way of expanding our outreach and generating interest and momentum for serving our communities via local organizations. Click here for more photos of the day.
Supporting the Maine Civil Rights Act
Many St. Bart's members were among the several hundred people who turned out on a cold Maine Sunday morning to support LGBTQIA+ students, neighbors and friends, the Maine Principals Association, and Governor Mills for standing up for state law: the Maine Civil Rights Act.
Many St. Bart's members were among the several hundred people who turned out on a cold Maine Sunday morning to support LGBTQIA+ students, neighbors and friends, the Maine Principals Association, and Governor Mills for standing up for state law: the Maine Civil Rights Act.
Outreach opportunities discussion group
Many St Bart's parishioners gathered after the Sunday church service to hear from the Founder of In Her Presence, a Portland-based non-profit organization supporting immigrant women and families. Language acquisition, career counseling and job placement, and promoting community connections are some of the initiatives this group undertakes. John Hennessy, Director of Public Policy for the Diocese, joined in the discussion to share Episcopal Church initiatives in support of the immigrant community.
St. Bart's Pastors gather at memorial service
All five pastors of St. Bart's were in attendance at Peter Chandler's memorial service in February. From the left: Nina Pooley, David Heald, Sukie Curtis, Amanda Gerken-Nelson, and Gil Birney. It brought special meaning in celebrating the life of a very special parishioner.
All five pastors of St. Bart's were in attendance at Peter Chandler's memorial service in February. From the left: Nina Pooley, David Heald, Sukie Curtis, Amanda Gerken-Nelson, and Gil Birney. It brought special meaning in celebrating the life of a very special parishioner.
Christmas Fair on Saturday, December 7th
Another very successful Christmas Fair was held on December 7th with terrific offerings of gourmet frozen foods, baked goods and jams, homemade fudge, stunning crafts, beautiful tabletop greenery arrangements, jewelry, scarves and handbags, Silent Auction, books and puzzles. Thank you to the a capella group who made the event more festive, singing holiday tunes in the morning. Many thanks to the Co-chairs of the Fair, table chairs and all who helped make this a successful and joyful event.
Another very successful Christmas Fair was held on December 7th with terrific offerings of gourmet frozen foods, baked goods and jams, homemade fudge, stunning crafts, beautiful tabletop greenery arrangements, jewelry, scarves and handbags, Silent Auction, books and puzzles. Thank you to the a capella group who made the event more festive, singing holiday tunes in the morning. Many thanks to the Co-chairs of the Fair, table chairs and all who helped make this a successful and joyful event.
16th Annual Yarmouth Art Festival--$15,000 raised for non-profits
Another successful Art Festival! Funds will support three local nonprofits: St. Elizabeth’s Essentials Pantry; Niweskok, a collaboration of food and medicine providers who are working to rematriate traditional Wabanaki foods and healing practices for Wabanaki people; and Maine Afro Yoga Project, which has a focus on mental health and wellness primarily for people of color and immigrants.
Another successful Art Festival! Funds will support three local nonprofits: St. Elizabeth’s Essentials Pantry; Niweskok, a collaboration of food and medicine providers who are working to rematriate traditional Wabanaki foods and healing practices for Wabanaki people; and Maine Afro Yoga Project, which has a focus on mental health and wellness primarily for people of color and immigrants.
Fellowship Gathering on October 6th--Lunch and Disc Golf at Pineland Farms
A lovely day having lunch at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester followed by a rousing game of disc golf. A beautiful setting to enjoy fellowship and embrace the outdoors. Fun was had by all.
A lovely day having lunch at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester followed by a rousing game of disc golf. A beautiful setting to enjoy fellowship and embrace the outdoors. Fun was had by all.
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