Fall 2026
A New Season of Faith, Formation, and Fellowship
As we begin the 2026-2027 programming year, we are excited to gather, serve, and grow together. From formation for children, youth, and adults to outreach opportunities and fellowship events, there are many ways to grow in deeper relationship with God and one another this season.
This fall, our parish-wide focus is vocation—exploring God’s call in our lives and discovering the deep joy that comes from living faithfully into that call. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Explore the opportunities and programming below!
Fall 2026 Events & Programming
Our fall offerings are designed to meet you where you are. Come for a service, a meal, a reflection—or all of the above. Whether you are looking to deepen your faith, build relationships, serve others, or share your gifts, there is a place for you at St. Mary's. Scroll further to see more details for each event!
Welcoming the New Season
Welcome Back Sunday
Sunday, August 23
Blessing of the Keys & Backpacks
During the 10 a.m. Service
Ministry Fair in the Parish Hall
Following the 10 a.m. Service
Meet ministry leaders, explore opportunities to get involved, and receive a blessing as we begin a new school year and program season together.
Kick-Off Sunday
Sunday, September 13
Return to Our Fall Service Schedule
9 a.m. Livestreamed Service in Little St. Mary’s
11 a.m. Service in New St. Mary’s
Adult Forum
A Look at the Year Ahead led by Rev. Daniel
Join us for worship as we kick off the year of formation and fellowship before us.
Explore Offerings By Ministry
Explore the many ways to grow in faith and live out your calling through the ministries of St. Mary's.
Explore Fall 2026 Programming
Select which area you are interested in learning more about.
Adult Formation
St. Mary's offers opportunities for adults to learn, discuss, and grow in faith. Whether you're new to the Episcopal Church, seeking deeper spiritual formation, or simply looking for meaningful conversation, we invite you to walk with us.
Adult Forums
Sundays at 10:15 a.m. | Parish Hall
Led by clergy, staff, and guest speakers, Adult Forum sessions explore topics that enrich our faith and strengthen our life together as a parish. Adult Forums occur every Sunday except the second Sunday of each month. Join as you can!
- September 13: A Look at the Year Ahead | Rev. Daniel
- September 20: Meet Allison | Rev. Allison
- September 27: The Joy of God’s Call | Rev. Paul
- October Topics Coming Soon!
Lectionary Bible Study
Wednesdays at 10 a.m. | Library in the Edu. Building
Join us each week as we explore the lectionary readings appointed for the coming Sunday. Facilitated by a rotating group of clergy and lay staff leaders, this welcoming discussion group offers an opportunity to engage more deeply with Scripture, ask questions, and prepare for worship. No need to attend every week—stop by as you can!
Episcopal 101: Exploring Our Faith and Tradition
Sundays at 9 a.m. | October 4, 11, 18, & 25 | Library in Edu. Building
Whether you’re new to St. Mary’s, new to the Episcopal Church, or simply looking to revisit the foundations of your faith, Episcopal 101 offers a welcoming space for learning and conversation. Join Daniel and Paul for a four-week course as we explore Christian faith, Episcopal tradition, and more. This class is for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of our shared faith. Adults who participate will be eligible for Confirmation, Reception, or Reaffirmation in the Episcopal Church this spring, should they wish to pursue these sacraments. Contact Paul to learn more.
St. Mary's Family Prayer Cycle
Wednesdays at 11 a.m. | East Transept of New St. Mary’s
This fall, St. Mary’s is launching a new weekly prayer practice centered on one of the greatest gifts we can offer one another: prayer. Each Wednesday beginning September 16, we will gather for a brief midday service to pray by name for a group of families from our parish and preschool, so every family is remembered in prayer throughout the year. More than another commitment, the Family Prayer Cycle is a simple reminder that we belong to one another in Christ and that every family is known, loved, and held in prayer by St. Mary’s.
Men's Spiritual Practice
Tuesdays at 8 a.m. | Zoom
Open to men of all ages, Men’s Spiritual Practice is a weekly opportunity to deepen faith, strengthen spiritual habits, and grow in community. Through prayer, reflection, and conversation, participants support one another in their journeys of discipleship. Contact us to learn more and receive the Zoom invitation info.
Fall Book Groups
Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. | September 22, 29, & October 6 | Parish Hall
Fridays at 10:30 a.m. | September 25, October 2, 9, 16, & 23 | Library in the Edu. Building
Read, reflect, and connect with fellow parishioners through our seasonal book groups.
Tuesday Group: Gift of the Sea by Ann Morrow Lindbergh
Friday Group: Life Worth Living by Miroslav Volf, Matthew Coasmun, and Ryan McAnnally-Linz
Children & Youth Formation
From our youngest children to high school students, St. Mary's provides engaging opportunities for formation, friendship, service, and worship designed to nurture faith in every stage of life.
Sunday School
Sundays at 10 a.m. | Nature Trails or Block Room for Children & Youth Room for 6th Graders
Children and youth ages four through 6th grade gather each Sunday for faith formation, Bible stories, hands-on activities, and community. New this year, we’re excited to extend Sunday School to 6th graders with a dedicated formation time in the Youth Room, offering them support as they transition from Children’s Ministry to Youth Ministry. Drop by any Sunday!
Potluck Church
4th Sundays at 5 p.m. | September 27, October 25, & November 22 | New St. Mary’s
Potluck Church combines worship, food, and fellowship in a format designed especially for families. We’ll begin with an interactive, child-friendly worship service centered on the week’s readings, followed by a potluck dinner and time together.
Stay tuned for the potluck sign-ups!
Youth Group
Typically 2nd Sundays from 6 – 7:30 p.m. | Edu. Building
Youth Group brings together middle and high school students monthly for evenings of dinner, fellowship, hands-on activities, and conversation. This year’s theme is Awakening Vocation, and we’ll explore how God calls each of us to discover our gifts and use them to serve others.
- September 13: Outdoor & Campfire Skills | Eric Vandagriff
- October 11: Eucharistic Bread Baking | Fay Lohr
- November 8: Clay Nativity Scenes | Mary-Taliaferro Keeney
- December 13: Handbell Workshop | Dena Vandagriff
Youth Bible Study
Typically 4th Sundays from 5 – 5:45 p.m. | Edu. Building
Middle and high school students are invited to a monthly gathering of reflection and discussion centered on Scripture. This year’s theme is Call and Response: Listening For and Living into God’s Love in Our Lives. We’ll explore stories of calling throughout the Bible and discover how God’s story speaks to our own lives.
- September 27: The Call of Abraham | Leader TBD
- October 25: The Call of Hagar | Barklie Zimmerman
- November 22: The Call of Moses | Carrie Schaeffer
Fellowship Ministry
Throughout the year, St. Mary's offers gatherings, celebrations, meals, and special events that bring our parish family together in friendship, joy, and mutual support.
Parish Breakfasts
2nd Sundays at 10 a.m. | October 11 & November 8 | Parish Hall
Join us for a relaxed breakfast and fellowship between Sunday services. Hosted by the Fellowship Committee, Parish Breakfasts offer a delicious spread of breakfast favorites such as eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit, and pastries as well as an opportunity to connect with old and new friends. All are welcome!
Parish Dinners
3rd Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. | October 21 & November 18 | Parish Hall
Take a break from cooking and gather with your parish family for a casual midweek meal. Hosted by the Fellowship Ministry, Parish Dinners feature a variety of cuisines and kid-friendly options. A simple, welcoming meal with no prep and no dishes—just good food and fellowship. All ages are welcome!
Outreach Ministry
Our Outreach Ministry provides opportunities to put faith into action through service, advocacy, generosity, and partnership with organizations making a difference in our community and beyond.
BBQ & Brews
Friday, October 30 | Church Grounds
One of St. Mary’s favorite traditions returns this fall! Enjoy great barbecue, beverages, live music, and an evening of adult-only fellowship, all while supporting the Outreach Ministry and our community partners.
Ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities are coming soon. Contact us to learn more if you’re interested in volunteering at the event.
GoochlandCares Clothes Closet
2nd Sundays at 12:30 p.m. | September 13, October 11, & November 15 | 2229 River Road West
Looking for a simple and meaningful way to serve? Join fellow parishioners at the GoochlandCares Clothes Closet to help sort donations and support neighbors in need.
This flexible, family-friendly volunteer opportunity lasts no more than 2 hours, requires no ongoing commitment, and makes a tangible difference in our community. Contact us to learn more!
More Opportunities to Serve
Stay tuned for additional outreach opportunities throughout Fall 2026. We look forward to partnering with our community and putting our faith into action together.
Music Ministry
From worship services to special concerts and guest ensembles, music plays a vital role in the life of St. Mary's. Join us this fall as we celebrate faith, beauty, and community through music.
Fall Choral Evensong
Sundays at 5 p.m. | October 11 & November 8 | New St. Mary’s
Experience the beauty of Choral Evensong, a contemplative service of scripture, prayer, and music rooted in the Anglican tradition. Join us for an evening of worship as our choir offers this time-honored expression of faith.
Princeton Chapel Choir
Sunday, October 18 at 11 a.m. | New St. Mary’s
We are delighted to welcome the Princeton Chapel Choir as guest musicians during the 11 a.m. service. Mark your calendars to enjoy this choir’s gifted leadership and inspiring music.
Chamber Music Society of Central Virginia Concert
Sunday, October 18 at 4 p.m. | New St. Mary’s
Enjoy an afternoon of exceptional music as the Chamber Music Society of Central Virginia returns to St. Mary’s for a special concert. All are welcome to attend this community event.
Interested in Other Ways to Get Involved?
St. Mary's offers many opportunities to serve and connect beyond our seasonal programs. From worship ministries that assist during services to pastoral care, groundskeeping, and more, there are many ways to share in the life of the parish year-round.
We Hope To See You This Season!
As we explore vocation and the joy of God's call this season, we hope you'll find opportunities to learn, connect, and live out that calling here. Thank you for being part of the St. Mary's community—we can't wait to walk through this season with you.