Updated procedures for attending Mass as of Sept. 5
Beginning September 5, masks are required for everyone attending the 11:30 Mass on Sundays. At the other Masses, the Diocese of Richmond states that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people should wear a mask in areas of the state with high COVID transmission rates (which include both Augusta County and Staunton).
Parish picnic on September 26
The St. Francis parish picnic will take place on Sunday, September 26, at the Frontier Culture Museum. The event begins with Mass at 11:30 a.m. (there will be no Mass in the church at that time), and the picnic follows. Those who would like to help make the picnic a success should contact the office (540-886-2262).
Annual challenge to fund Bob’s Clinic in Haiti
As has been the custom for many years, an anonymous donor has once again begun the Bob’s Clinic challenge by offering to match donations to fund the clinic in Haiti up to the amount of $10,000. The challenge runs from August 25, the feast of St. Louis, King of France (twin parish in Pointe à Raquette), through October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. To contribute, you can put donations in the collection basket or send them to the parish office (marked for “Bob’s Clinic”) or go to the homepage of the parish website and click in the e-Giving link at the top of that page (indicate that the donation is for “Haiti Outreach Clinic”). Your contribution will do an amazing amount of good for people who have very little.
CCD classes begin September 12
CCD classes for grades K through high school begin September 12 at 10 a.m. Registration is now open. Forms can be found in the church vestibule, or you can stop by the parish office to register. If you have any questions please contact Carol in the parish office. First Holy Communion preparation takes place during the second-grade CCD year. November 1 is the cut-off date for late registration into the First Holy Communion class. Confirmation preparation normally takes place during the 10th or 11th grade year. Confirmation preparation is incorporated into the high school curriculum.
RCIA classes to begin
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) classes are scheduled to begin on September 12 at 10 a.m. in the parish conference room. If you want to know more about the Catholic faith or are interested in becoming a Catholic, please contact Carol in the parish office.
Bible study begins September 22
The Light of Saint Francis Bible Study will explore the infinite depth of the Bible each Wednesday from 7:30 to 9 a.m. in Assisi Hall, beginning Sept. 22. Each morning will begin with the potent insights of biblical scholars; followed by generous time to share your perspective and ask questions. Please join us for the endless adventure of discovering and rediscovering the power, grace, and love of the Bible. Call Jill Warner(540-466-6337) or Carol Long in the office for details.
Morning Prayer sung each Wednesday
The St. Francis Schola leads the office of Morning Prayer, including beautiful, contemplative psalm melodies, every Wednesday at 7 a.m. in the church. Parishioners are invited to start the day off with the official prayers of the universal Church.
Livestream of Mass discontinued
Masses are no longer being livestreamed from St. Francis Church. Mass is available from the Richmond Diocese and from EWTN.
Adult Faith Formation meets on Sundays at 10 a.m.
Adult Faith Formation meets at 10 a.m. in Assisi Hall each Sunday. The group is now discussing the Eucharist. All adults are invited.
Formed: Catholic content on the web
With a subscription to “Formed,” every St. Francis parishioner has 24/7 access to the best Catholic content on any device, including your computer, smartphone, and tablet with internet access. “Formed” offers video programs that explain the Catholic faith, explore the deepest meaning of marriage, receive Bible studies on a variety of topics, and listen to inspiring audio talks. Presenters include Dr. Tim Gray, Dr. Edward Sri, Dr. Mary Healey, Chris Stefanick, Dr. Scott Hahn, Bishop Robert Barron, and many more. It is very easy to begin your free subscription to “Formed”: Go to www.formed.org. Under “How would you like to sign up?” select “I belong to a Parish or Organization.” Enter the parish code: VVW3G4. Enter your name and email address, and that’s it.