Parish Life

St. Mary's provides parishioners with a rich and fulfilling life outside of worship services. Throughout the year, a full slate of Parish Life events give you a chance to form new bonds while strengthening your faith. Below is just a sample of what goes on in our parish during the year.

Upcoming Events

Annual Parish Picnic: Pentecost Sunday, May 19

The entire Parish Family is invited!

Gather in the Garden immediately following the 10:00 AM service

(Approximately 11:00 am)
Fried Chicken, lemonade, water, and iced tea will be provided.
Please bring a side dish of vegetables, salad, or a dessert.
No Charge—No Childcare
Remember to wear red to celebrate Pentecost!

Parish Weekend at Camp McDowell: Friday-Sunday, August 23-25:

St. Mary’s has ALL of Miller Commons and Pradat Hall reserved for our 2013 Parish Weekend. Please mark your calendars and plan to join the fun!
Hiking, Swimming, Social Time, Canoeing, Crafts & Games, Cookouts, Biking, Sunday Worship and more!
Check in begins at 5:00 pm on Friday, August 23. We conclude a fun filled weekend after church and lunch on Sunday, August 25.
Watch for further details and registration forms.

Annual Parish Life Events:

Spring Picnic (May 19, 2013): Hosted each year by a parish family, we celebrate the Holy Eucharist in a relaxed, outdoor service followed by an old-fashioned Sunday picnic. Come as you are and enjoy St. Mary's hospitality at its finest.

Summer Potluck Suppers (June-August): Hosted once monthly during the summer by a parish family, all adults are invited to attend and reconnect. Please bring a dish to serve 8-10 plus your beverage of choice.

     Wednesday, June 12 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Hosted by Brad and Ragan Cain (3031 Canterbury Road, 35223)
     Wednesday, July 10 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Hosts/Location TBA
     Wednesday, August 14 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Hosts/Location TBA

Parish Weekend at Camp McDowell (Friday-Sunday, August 23-25, 2013): Our annual Parish Weekend is eagerly awaited every year as a chance to enjoy one another's company at Camp McDowell. With kids' activities, a relaxed schedule of events, Friday and Saturday social time, and informal Sunday morning worship, the Parish Weekend is one of the most anticipated events on St. Mary's yearly calendar.

Fall Party: (Wednesday, September 11, 2013) This year's event will be held at the Kress Building Penthouse and Rooftop Terrace (3rd Ave. N. & 19th Street, 35203). This annual gathering is always a great fellowship opportunity for the adults of St. Mary's.

Annual Parish Meeting and Luncheon (November 24, 2013): This important annual meeting allows members to get a State of the Parish, with updates on the various ministries and groups of St. Mary's. At the same time, members will also participate in the election of new Vestry members.

Bishop's Visitation and Reception (Sunday, May 11, 2014): Every year the weeks following Easter are marked by two important events in the life of the parish: The visit by Bishop and our welcoming the newest class of confirmands to our parish. Prior to the 10 a.m. service, the Bishop will be available for questions and discussions. Immediately following the Confirmation service, please join us in Randolph Memorial Hall and the Garden for a reception honoring the Bishop and the newly confirmed members of our parish.

For more information on these and other Parish Life events, contact Melanie Barnes (Parish Life Coordinator) via email or at 879-6057.