October 24, 2025 Newsletter
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
October 26, 2025
You are welcome to the
8:00 a.m. Service of Holy Eucharist Rite I
the Rev. Joy Y. Warburton, Celebrant
the Rev. E. Weston Mathews, Assisting Priest
the Rev. Dr. Nancy Searby, Deacon
Ms. Sandra Loucks, Preacher
10:00 a.m. Service of Holy Eucharist Rite II
with the St. Francis Choir
the Rev. E. Weston Mathews, Celebrant
the Rev. Joy Y. Warburton, Assisting Priest
the Rev. Dr. Nancy Searby, Deacon
Ms. Sandra Loucks, Preacher
The 10:00 a.m. Service is also Livestreamed on YouTube.
View this Sunday's 10:00 a.m. Worship Bulletin
11:30 a.m. Forum: Mutual Ministry Review Open Discussion in Millen Hall
presented by Vestry and Priest-in-Charge.
All are welcome.
The Liturgy of the Word
The First Reading | Joel 2:23-32
The Response | Psalm 84:1-6
The Second Reading | 2 Timothy 4:6-8,16-18
The Gospel Reading | Luke 18:9-14
Parish Prayer List
We pray especially for Anne, Maeve, Travis, Pete, Pepin, Barbara & Bill, Jennifer, Helen, Dan, Park, Ken, Andy, Nick & Gina, Randy, Jeff Sr., David, Jessica,
Clara Sue, and Dut.
We give thanks for the Altar Flowers, given to the glory of God by Elizabeth & Joshua Kim in thanksgiving for their wedding anniversary.
We pray also for Franciscans who are preparing for Holy Baptism, including
Parker Robinson, son of Amber & Matt Robinson;
Grace Czekaj, daughter of Katie Cjekaj;
Jaclyn Chappell, daughter of Alexandra & Scott Chappell;
Judy Fitzgerald and Brice Fitzgerald, children of Kristin Weston.
A Special Invitation From The Altar Guild
The Altar Guild is having a meeting on Saturday, October 25th, 10:00 am in the Sanctuary and you are invited to attend. Please come and meet the members of the Altar Guild who take turns setting up the Altar/Church for Sunday Services and special services like Christmas, Easter, Baptisms, Funerals and Weddings. You will have a chance to ask questions about their very important contributions to St. Francis. In addition, there will be a quick tour of the sacristy where everything Altar Guild originates. Refreshments will be provided by the very talented Altar Guild members.
If you are planning to attend the meeting or have any questions, please contact Candy Burt candice.burt@gmail.com
This Sunday, October 26th at 11:30 am:
Mutual Ministry Review
Father Weston and the Vestry welcome you to join them at the forum on Mutual Ministry Review (MMR) after the 10am service this Sunday.
MMR is a process of reflection that is required as part of our agreement with the Dioceses and our Priest In Charge (PIC), It is directed by the Canon to the Ordinary, coordinated by the Senior Warden, and involves a certified facilitator.
Using the MMR questions as a guide (see below*), we will have an opportunity to review, reflect and look forward as a faith community. Our goal being to build on our shared foundational covenant of baptism and further our response to Christ’s call to listen to, land love, one another.
We will discuss:
“key questions* from the MMR process about our past year together as a parish family.
what we do well in the areas of our church life (e.g. worship and study, music, outreach and giving, education of children and youth, pastoral care) and give thanks for the gifts of our fellowship and mutual service
open our minds and hearts to one another in gratitude for our strength
ways to increase our listening engagement with one another and our trust for sharing information and insights among us.
jointly consider how we can share even more of our selves in the spirit of Christs loving community.
If you are unable to attend this Sunday, please so reach out to Fr. Weston, Rev. Joy, and/or our Vestry members to share your responses to these questions, as well as any concerns and always complements. Your involvement is critical to realizing our commitment to open dialogue, trust, and a strong partnership between all of us as we love and serve in Christ’s name at St. Francis.
* Key questions:
1. What is working well and how do we know?
2. What could be improved and how do we know?
3. What is our mission and what are our goals; how are they being achieved and how do we know!?
4. What are the expectations and goals or the coming year and who set them and how?
5. What specific steps can be taken to foster greater mutual support and accomplish God's mission?
6. Do we have the people, policy, practices in place to address all of the issues in #1-5 above?
Have Fun and Dinner at the
Chili Cook-off this Sunday at 5:00 pm!
The St. Francis annual Chili Cook-Off will be on Sunday, October 26, at 5:00 pm in Millen Hall. EVERYONE is welcome to participate in one or more of the following ways:
Cook chili and bring it in a crockpot. The winning chili chef receives a trophy!
Come and taste the different chilis and vote for your favorite.
Bring a side dish or dessert or beverages.
Wear a Halloween costume to celebrate the season. Children are especially encouraged to come in costume!
Make a donation to support St. Francis hosting the hypothermia shelter for a week in December.
Invite your friends and neighbors to this fun and casual event.
Have questions or need more information? Contact Leslie Siegmund at lesiegmund@aol.com or 703-282-2878.
Growing
Stronger Together
Pledging for 2026
IT IS TIME TO TAKE OFF THE BLINDERS and SEE THE LIGHT!
This Sunday is Pledge Sunday
October 26th
From 2 Corinthians 9:7, we know that "God loves a cheerful giver.”
We are very grateful that each of you gives what you have decided in your heart to give.
Help us reach the goal of $630,000
As of October 20, we have received 55 pledges totaling
$352,815 – 56% of the goal
You can deposit your pledge form in the church offering basket or by email to
We are very thankful to these parishioners who have turned in their pledge:
Sunday School Continues Every Sunday
10:00 - 10:30 am
Ages 3 - 10
Join us every Sunday during the 10:00 a.m. service for Sunday School!
Children are invited to gather for stories, prayer, and activities that help them grow in faith and friendship. Children will return to worship during the sharing of the Peace.
Classes meet in the Red classroom upstairs next to the Nursery.
For more information or to volunteer, please email Rev. Joy at familyministry@stfrancisgreatfalls.org.
Sunday School Teacher this Sunday: Rev. Joy
Family Ministry Open House
Mark your calendars! Family Ministry will host an Open House on Saturday, November 8, at 4:30 pm, in Millen Hall. All members and their families are invited for a conversation on our Family Ministry programs and discover ways to get involved.
More details will be shared soon — we look forward to seeing you there!
Youth Group Gathering
All teens are invited to our next Youth Group meeting on Saturday, November 15, at 5:00 p.m. in the Conference Room downstairs, across from Rev. Weston’s office.
Join us for food, fellowship, and faith-filled conversation as we grow together in Christ and plan activities for the coming months. Bring a friend — everyone is welcome!
For more information, or to RSVP (required), please email Rev. Joy at familyministry@stfrancisgreatfalls.org.
ALL SAINTS’ SUNDAY is November 2nd
In preparation for our All Saints’ Sunday service at 10 a.m. this day, we ask for high-resolution digital photos of your dearly departed along with their full name, to be submitted to the parish administrator by no later than Thursday, October 30th. Thank you. admin@stfrancisgreatfalls.org
Sunday, November 2nd
Baptism for Parker Noah Robinson
at the 10:00 a.m. service
All are welcome to attend and celebrate.
Crèche Happenings!
We have had a very busy couple of weeks at the Creche! We had a special visit from the Great Falls Fire Department, and we hosted our annual “Donuts with Dads” events! It was wonderful to have so many dads, granddads and even moms join their little ones at school!
Crèche Sunday – Sunday, November 9th at the 10:00 a.m. service
Join us for our 3rd joyful celebration of Crèche Sunday on November 9, as we celebrate the youngest among us! The children of our St. Francis Crèche will lift their voices in song, reminding us of Jesus’ words: “Let the little children come to me," during our 10:00 am regular worship.
This special service will highlight the gifts and faith of our children through music — a wonderful opportunity for our church family to encourage, support, and celebrate them as they grow in faith and love.
Come ready to smile, sing along, and be inspired by the simple and beautiful faith of our children!
Everyone is invited—bring your family and friends for this heartwarming Sunday!
Outstanding Partner Award for St. Francis
An Outstanding Partner Award from Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington for”remarkable contributions and steadfast commitment to SMGW” will be given to St. Francis Church, and accepted on behalf by the Rev. E. Weston Mathews, Scott Perkins and Ginger Roll on Saturday, November 8th, 2025 at the Samaritan Ministry of Great Washington Gala. For over two decades, St. Francis remains a proud partner of SMGW.
To learn more about SMGW visit their website here. To get involved with SMGW and St. Francis, please contact Ginger Roll at rollginger@icloud.com
Fall Marketplace Chairs Say
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
We thank all of you who helped us make the Fall Marketplace happen. It took many hands to bake goodies, cook and deliver lunches, make ice cream, fill auction baskets, create crafts, donate and sell plants, display and price rummage, contact and assist vendors, collect money for sales, man tables, charge credit card sales, sell raffle tickets, collect and sort books, make music, set up and clean up, take away donations to be reused, make signs, publicize the event and donate toward sponsorships. It was a beautiful day not only weather wise but also witnessing the camaraderie of St. Francis' congregation. Our reported net income is over $8,500.
~ Carmela Condro and Kathy Anderson
The Deacon's Corner with
Deacon Nancy Searby
Sharing the Good News of God's Love at the intersection of community and church
On All Saints’ Sunday…
We welcome representatives from St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Leesburg to present the following event and to share in our common Christian bonds. Some of you may remember members of St. Gabriel’s being here for this same reason last fall. St. Gabriel’s is led by Father Daniel Velez-Rivera.
Vote Faithfully
On November 4, Virginians will elect a governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and all 100 members of the House of Delegates. Some jurisdictions will also vote for local officials and issues.
Early voting began Friday, September 19. Visit Fairfax County’s website for information on locations and hours and other election information.
October 24 is the deadline to register or update your registration if you have moved or changed your name. October 24 is also the deadline to request a ballot by mail.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
In thanksgiving for our many blessings, we are holding our annual Thanksgiving Food Drive for the many needy families served by Second Story (a local organization dedicated to youth and families)
There are three ways to help:
1. Send or bring a $65 check made out to St. Francis Church for a Thanksgiving “basket” of food. Please write “Food Drive“ on your check.
2. Use PayPal-Donate Now on the church website to donate $65. Select Outreach from the optional drop-down list and put “Food Drive” in the memo field.
3. Assemble a food “basket” of all of the items on the list below. Please put the grocery gift card in an envelope marked “Food Drive” and put it in the offering plate or send it to the church office. Food “baskets” should be put in a bin in the hall outside Millen Hall. Questions? Contact Ginger Roll rollginger@icloud.com
Drive ends Sunday, November 2nd
Food List to Feed 6 People (="basket")
o Safeway, Giant, or Aldi grocery gift card for $30 (for meat and milk)
o Macaroni and cheese
o Cooking oil
o 4 cans of vegetables (2 types)
o Dried black beans
o Rice
o Maseca (or other brand) masa flour
o 2 cans of fruit
o Box of dessert mix
Music Notes from Director of Music, Larry Vote
With the program year in full swing, we have seen the return of the Choir to the 10 m service, the resumption of the Contem[lative service with guest violinist Pam Lassell, and a beautiful evening of art song given by Olivia Vote and Sasha Beresovsky. In November we will host programs by Amadeus and the Paragon Orchestra and specialmusic for the celebration of the Feast of All Saints on November 2. I also draw your attention to the Community Messiah Sing on Saturday, December 13, at 5 pm. The announcement and details are given below.
St. Francis Episcopal Church Community Messiah Sing
If you are a lover of G.F. Handel’s Messiah, as a listener or singer, plan to come to the Community Messiah Sing at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 9220 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, Virginia on Saturday, December 13, at 5 pm. At that time Larry Vote, Director of Music, will lead the St. Francis Choir, soloists, players from the Paragon Philharmonic, organist, Sasha Beresovsky and members of the community in Part One, the Christmas Portion, of Handel’s immortal work. Bring your own score or purchase a score at the event itself. Bring a friend to join in mounting a large chorus in the grand style of Messiah readings taking place concurrently around the world. The Messiah Sing is free and open to the public. However, free will donations will be gladly accepted to help defray the cost of this event.
Finally, we look forward to beautiful Advent music and Christmas Eve services that will feature carol singing, and service music with Choir, organ and festal brass.
FOR THE COMMUNITY
Amadeus Concerts Inc., Presents
Max Jacobs Quartet
NOV 2nd 4:00 p.m. at St. Francis
Concerts & Events
Amadeus Concerts offers accessible venues and warm hospitality. Our regular season concerts are on select Sundays at 4pm at a variety of venues around Great Falls and McLean, VA. These events always have a 30-minute pre-concert talk at 3:15pm, led by our Executive and Artistic Director, and are followed by a post-concert reception with the artists.
Our 2025-2026 Season is now live! Head on over to our ticket page to purchase your season pass or individual tickets. Our Season Brochure for 2025-2026 can be viewed here.
In the Millen Hall Theatre Space at St. Francis
NOV 14, 15 @ 7:30pm
NOV 21, 22, @ 7:30 pm; SUN-23 matinee @ 2:00 pm
NOV 28, 29 @ 7:30 pm
About the event
Winner of the 2009 Tony-award for best play.
What begins as a polite meeting between two sets of parents, convened to resolve a playground scuffle between their children, quickly spirals into an evening of accusations, shifting alliances, and brutal honesty. In Yasmina Reza’s God of Carnage, civility is tested as social masks slip, and the refined surface of adulthood cracks to reveal something far more primal.
With biting wit and razor-sharp dialogue, Reza exposes the fragility of manners, the absurdity of self-importance, and the wild chaos lurking just beneath the rules of polite society. Hilarious, unsettling, and uncomfortably relatable, God of Carnage is a comedy of manners without the manners—where the real playground may not belong to the children at all.
Featuring Tim Byer, Nate Eagle, Samantha Mitchell, Arianne' Warner
Directed by Natasha Parnian
Stage Managed by Katelyn Burton
________________
Doors open 30 min before performance.
PLEASE NOTE: Online ticket sales close 30 min before the show. After that point, tickets can be purchased at the door, while supplies last. This show is recommended for ages 16 and up. A limited number of student tickets (10 per performance) are available online and at the door-first come, first served.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds. Rainchecks and exchanges are considered on a case by case basis.
God of Carnage is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York.
ONGOING WEEKLY ACTIVITIES AT ST. FRANCIS
Morning Prayer offered MON-FRI, at 8:00 a.m. via Zoom
All are invited to immerse themselves in this supportive offering from St. Francis Church where we regularly pray for one another and our mission in the world.
Click here to connect to Morning Prayer via Zoom.
Zoom ID: 968 1679 4908; Passcode: church
Contemplative Prayer: Mondays at 7:30-8:30 p.m.
We hope you can join us via Zoom videoconference.
For more information and any questions, please contact the coordinator for the program: Kathy Anderson, 703-476-9065 or kquinnanderson@gmail.com.
Click here to connect to Contemplative Prayer via Zoom.
Zoom ID: 998 1159 6134; Passcode: church
Men’s Group: Wednesdays 8:35 a.m.
Reading and Discussing the Book of Hebrews
All are welcome. Questions? Contact Stu Edwards elchivogoat@cs.com
Click here to connect to the Men's Group via Zoom.
Zoom ID: 922 8116 0056; Passcode: church
St. Francis Social Hour meets on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
Join us for casual conversation. Grab your favorite beverage and let's reconnect!
Click here to connect to the St. Francis Social Hour.
Zoom ID: 935 2210 0835; Passcode: church
Thursday Afternoon Bible Study at NEW TIME of 3:00 p.m.
Meetings take place via Zoom on Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to join and participate in interesting discussions.
This fall, we will be studying Lord, Teach Us to Pray by John C. Purdy, a Kerygma resource that offers meaningful insights into the power of prayer.
Our group meets weekly via Zoom, creating a welcoming space for learning, reflection, and fellowship. Whether you have joined us before or are new to the group, we would love to have you with us.
The resource book is available here:
https://kerygma.com/products/lord-teach?_pos=2&_sid=013c64283&_ss=r
For further information contact Amelia Logan at ameliavinteriors@gmail.com
Click here to connect to the Thursday Afternoon Bible Study.
Zoom ID: 836 1505 5434; Passcode: TABS24
Women's Group Coffee on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to NOON at Starbucks in Great Falls
The St. Francis Women's Group has an open invitation to meet at the Starbucks in Great Falls every Friday morning. Please join us.
Second Story Dinners: Sundays at 5:15 p.m.
Needed: Volunteers to prepare and deliver Sunday dinners to the Second Story Teen Crisis Center on Gallows Road. Volunteers work solo or in pairs, according to their wishes.
Dinners are made on the first, third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of the month. The count for a meal typically ranges from five to eight persons. It has been as many as twelve. Volunteers receive reminders when their Sundays are coming up.
Please contact Jennifer Murphy at jenniferomurphy@gmail.com if you would like to volunteer for this ministry or if you have any questions.
Do you have a news item you would like to share through the Weekly Franciscan? Or do you have a photo from life at St. Francis you would like to submit? We welcome and rely on your participation.
admin@stfrancisgreatfalls.org
Clergy and Staff
The Rev. E. Weston Mathews, Priest-in-Charge
The Rev. Joy Y. Warburton, Associate for Family Ministry
The Rev. Dr. Nancy Searby, Deacon
Ms. Lynn Fallon, Parish Administrator
Mr. Larry Vote, Music Director
Mr. Sasha Beresovsky, Organist
Ms. Cristi Leslie, Creche Preschool Director
Ms. Carol Withers, Bookkeeper
Mr. Dominic Pelegrin, Sexton
Ms. Rita Arteaga, Nursery Attendant
Ms. Sandra Loucks, VTS Seminarian
2025 Vestry Members
Lynda Davis, Senior Warden
Pepin Tuma, Junior Warden, Christian Formation
Cathryn Lee, Register, Christian Fellowship
Molly Reynolds, Treasurer
Kathy Anderson, Worship & Spiritual Care
Chris Giragosian, Mission & Mission Partnerships
Elizabeth Kim, Evangelism & Communications
Jessica Maxson, St. Francis Music & Arts
Larry Pratt, Stewardship & Fundraising
Steve Riihimaki, Family Ministry & Creche Board
Brice Eldridge, Facilities Manager, Creche Board Chair, Rise Against Hunger Chair
facilities@stfrancisgreatfalls.org
