Dear Saints,

This summer, at the end of our partner visit to the Diocese of Western Tanganyika, Tanzania, a number of our All Saints' group and I went off in search of chimpanzees at Gombe National Park. You can only practically reach Gombe by boat, and as we bobbed along Lake Tanganyika, our guide pointed to a small water's edge bungalow and said, 'there's Jane Goodall's house'. I half expected to see the 91-year-old perched on a rock, taking notes on the primates passing by her home in the water. Later on, as we asked our man in Gombe about the work of the Jane Goodall Institute there, we inquired as to whether or not he had had the opportunity to meet her. 'Oh yes', he said, clearly with great pride, 'several times'. He had just been with her a few weeks earlier. 

Her passing this week offers us a timely reminder of the extent to which just a single life can be a witness to hope.

There is so much to admire about Jane Goodall's life. One of the elements of her story that I love the most is how she held fast to that which she knew to be true. Paleoanthropologist, Louis Leakey, persuaded Goodall to attend Cambridge where the predominantly male field of apparent experts there told her how she had been doing everything wrong in her early work at Gombe. Chimps should be given numbers not names, and they certainly did not have personalities or use tools as humans did. Not for first time in my alma mater's history, the men in academic gowns had underestimated the groundbreaking work that this young woman had done and would continue to dedicate her life to. She stood her ground, got her PhD and promptly headed back to Gombe. Today, we can see how her insights into animal behavior prefigured decades of advancement for science. 

Looking at photographs of Goodall in Gombe it is easy to mistakenly think that her years of research simply saw her sit around the chimps and other wildlife there while they carried on about her. Our own experience of Gombe tells an entirely different story. We walked, and stopped, then scrambled up hills, traversed small streams, then stopped again, craning our necks to try to catch a glimpse of the chimps a hundred and more feet above us. And then we would wait again, sometimes for long stretches, until all of a sudden a troop of chimpanzees came tumbling down the trees and breezed right passed us. Moments of sheer wonder, punctuating hours of expectation - and the only way to see it is to keep on moving forward. That was Jane Goodall's life - from her unrivaled focus on one particular patch of land, to her lifetime's advocacy work that made the case for humans to find a way to embrace the world with care for the earth and the creatures upon it. She kept on moving forward. So too is the life of faith. 

The early followers of Jesus were called people of "the Way". I have always loved the dynamism inherent in that first descriptor of the church. We are not meant for staying still - "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'", as Sinatra once sang. As much as the church since those first days has taken on the guise of an institution, it remains at its essence a movement. 

Often, to check in as to whether or not we are following our operating instructions, all we might need to do is ask ourselves if we are indeed on the move in our lives. Are we growing on the inside? Is anything in us changing? To some extent, if religion makes us feel too comfortable, then there's probably something we need to shake up a bit. Or, as one of my former parishioners used to say in San Diego, 'if somebody's upset with you, Simon, it probably means that you're doing something right'. That doesn't always follow, but the sentiment is sound. Unless we are on the road to our own transformation, then our chances of being an agent of God's transformation in the world are thin. 

There are times, though, when the movement in our lives needs to be visible so that the world around us can be assured that we also are holding fast to what we know to be true. Next weekend's Pride Parade is one such opportunity for you and I to be visible. For all sorts of reasons - political and cultural - the lives of beloved people of God among us in our parish, our city and the nation from the widely diverse LGBTQ+ community are facing tremendous challenges. In recent times, individuals and families whom God loves as God's own have had their identities, orientations, relationships, parenting, statutory rights, and freedom of expression all called into question. The incidence of hateful speech and violent actions visited upon Queer folk has risen at an alarming rate. All of it is contrary to the will of God, and whatever may have changed about the freedom universities and corporations feel they have to use words that refer to the wondrous diversity of human life, nothing has changed for the church. We have been, are and always will be a church that understands what we know to be true: that the all sorts of spouses, all sorts of parents, all sorts of gender identities and sexual orientations are how we as the human family express the boundless diversity of God. That the Episcopal Church is a Christian tradition that affirms the diversity of human sexuality is something we should name, claim and celebrate.

And so, to give you time to find your shoelaces, I want to invite you to join me and your fellow parishioners in making this commitment visible to the city around us by walking with us at this year's pride parade on Sunday, October 12th. I will be wearing my clergy collar and a t-shirt with the All Saints' logo on it that says, 'God takes pride in you' so that all of those people who have heard a preacher condemn who they are can see in us the affirmation that they are exactly what God had in mind when God made them and that we are deeply proud to march, holding them in our hearts. 

So, my friends, dig out those walkin' shoes. It's time for us to be a witness to hope.

Peace,

Pride Sunday at All Saints' | Sunday, October 12


Pride Sunday Celebration
10:00 a.m., Ellis Hall

Please join All Sorts, the LGBTQ+ ministry of All Saints', for a reception of light refreshments between services to celebrate Pride Sunday.


Pop-Up Love Shop

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Front of Church 
Stop by our Love Shop and get some free goodies to spread the love of God for all people. The kids have been learning about how God's love is freely given to everyone and want to share that message.


Pride Parade

12:30 p.m., Front of the Church 
Our church's participation in the Pride parade is more important this year than ever. Join us in front of the church after the 11:15 a.m. service to go together to enter the parade. Signs will be provided or bring your own. Festive attire welcomed. 

This Sunday

The Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Sunday, October 3

Weekly Service Times

• 8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite I (Traditional language, no music)
• 9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II (Contemporary language, choral music, livestream, nursery available)
• 9:00 a.m. in Ellis Hall Holy Eucharist Rite II, Blessing of the Animals (Contemporary Language, children’s music)
• See you at 10! (Gather in the courtyard from 10:00 -10:25 a.m. to be in community together - have a doughnut, get some coffee, learn about that week's ministry spotlight, meet someone new, etc.)
• 11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II (Contemporary language, choral music, livestream, nursery available)
• 5:00 p.m. The Welcome Table (Contemporary language, jazz trio) 

WORSHIP ONLINE: Please worship with us online! Our 9:00 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. services will be available live at allsaintsatlanta.org/live and on youtube.com/@AllSaintsATL. Recordings will no longer be available on Facebook, but will still be immediately available on our YouTube channel.

PARKING: Overflow parking is available at the Bank of America—please enter on North Ave. Get a validation ticket upon entry. Please request an additional validation ticket from an usher in the church narthex upon arrival or exit. Use both validation tickets upon exiting the Bank of America parking deck to park free of charge. The lot at The Varsity is under new management and is no longer available for parking. Ticketing and towing are being enforced. On Sundays, street parking is free. 

NURSERY: Our nursery is open for children, ages birth through Pre-K, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sunday Morning Breakfast back in Ellis Hall!

Sundays, 7:45 a.m. – 8:45 a.m., Ellis Hall

Meet new families, reconnect with friends, and enjoy a delicious meal together.

Cost: $12 for adults & $7 for children.

The Vocation of Faith Series: Accepting God’s Call... To See Beauty, with Parishioner Andrew Westover

Sundays, October 5, 10:30 a.m. - 11:05 a.m., Ellis Hall

The Sunday morning Vocation of Faith Series focuses on the various ways God calls us to be more fully human, as we accept God’s call to work, to see beauty, to sing, to plant, and to dream. Especially in times of crisis, it is vital that we connect with the deepest parts of our humanity. In this series, parishioner-presenters will share how the practice helps us grow closer to God or helps us be the people God intends us to be. For more information contact Jenny McBride at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Jesus on the Front Page 

Sundays, 10:30 a.m. - 11:10 a.m., Parish Hall 307 

In this weekly Sunday morning discussion of a current news story, participants reflect on how we are called to live as faithful people. In a nonpartisan reflection, we explore how we might be called to pray differently, think differently or act differently in our private and public lives. We ask where God might be found in this story and learn to name our lament as well as our hope. Email Clark Lemons (clemons@emory.edu) if you have questions! 

The Welcome Table: Sunday Evening Worship Service and Dinner  

Sundays at 5:00 p.m., In the Chapel and Ellis Hall  

Before your busy week begins, the Welcome Table is a place to join with others and find rest and refreshment. Come to the Welcome Table: a service with contemplative music, singing, communion and prayer (together and in ways that speak to us individually). A community dinner for all participants follows the service. 

Shining in the City: Why your pledge matters

Because our children are growing up in a church that teaches love, service, and faith—and your pledge nurtures their future. 

Pledge now at allsaintsatlanta.org/pledge. Thank you for helping us shine more brightly by making your pledge today!

All Saints' offers easy ways to pay your pledge or to make a gift:

Give online: allsaintsatlanta.org/give

Mail a check: to All Saints’ Church, 634 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30308

Text to Give: text AllSaintsAtlanta to 73256

Put a check or cash into the offering plate during the services, gift stocks or securities

Have You Moved Recently? Let the church know your new address and contact information! To update these details, contact our Membership Coordinator, Betsey Gibbs, at bgibbs@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Discover more ways to give at: allsaintsatlanta.org/give. 



If you have questions, please e-mail them to:

Julie Lockhart, Director of Development, jlockhart@allsaintsatlanta.org. 

WORSHIP & MUSIC

Composer of the Week

Jean Berger (1909-2002) was a German-born American composer, conductor, and musicologist best known for his large body of choral works. Forced to flee Nazi Germany in the 1930s, Berger’s compositions reflect his varied background, blending European folk traditions with South American rhythms and American influences. This week’s offertory anthem, “The eyes of all,” is noted for its rich harmonies and expressive, mixed-meter phrases.

ADULT FORMATION

Prayer in Motion with Erik Thurmond

Wednesdays, 5:30p.m. - 6:20 p.m., The Attic 

Prayer in Motion is a 50-minute spiritual exercise that helps participants become more aware of God’s presence in our bodies, particularly as we move with intention. Accessible to all ages and abilities, this form of prayer integrates guided meditation, visualization, and breathing exercises with stretching, shaking, and strengthening exercises. For more info contact Jenny McBride at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org. 

Abundance in Community: A Course on Faith and Money

Wednesdays, October 8, 15, 22, and 29, Hybrid P305/306 or Zoom

Join parishioner and Chartered Financial Analyst Emilie Hill, Director of Stewardship Julie Lockhart, priest Jenny McBride (and, for one session, New Testament professor Jennifer Quigley) for a course on faith and money. While acknowledging a common scarcity mindset, we will reflect on the biblical truth that abundance comes with community. We’ll examine our early experiences and personal patterns around money, learn from the practical wisdom of financial planning and behavioral science, and draw insight from scripture and the practices of the early church. All are welcome — no prior knowledge required! To join by Zoom, contact Jenny McBride for the link: jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org.

The Journey Bible Study

Mondays,11:00 a.m., Zoom

Chapter by chapter, book by book, we are learning together about what the Scripture really says according to the best scholarship of today. Currently, we are reading Second Kings, with a side glance at the writings of the prophets of the time. All are welcome. To join the group, email The Rev. Karen Evans at kevans@allsaintsatlanta.org. 

Join the New Sacred Ground Dialogue Circle

Every other Monday, starting October 13, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Zoom

Wondering what you can do in these turbulent times? Join Sacred Ground, a film- and readings-based dialogue series on race, grounded in faith. This nonpartisan, 11-session curriculum, developed by the national Episcopal Church offers an opportunity to explore our history while bonding with a confidential small group over six months. The Circle kicks off with an in-person lunch on Sunday, October 12th. For more information and to sign up, please contact Ann Stuart Pearce at sacredground@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Novel Theology: Who gets to tell their story?

Wednesday, October 15, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Ross Room or Zoom

In October, Simon Mainwaring will lead the group in a discussion of Zadie Smith’s historical novel, The Fraud. Transporting the reader from Victorian England amidst the

real-life trial of the Tichborne Claimant to the sugarcane plantations of Jamaica, Smith weaves a story linking the rich and the poor, the free and the enslaved, and the comic and the tragic. Contact Laura Trott for more info at lmtrott@gmail.com.

Adult Inquirers Class-Fall Session

Wednesdays, October 29, 2025 – November 19, 2025; 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Zoom and In-Person Dinner

Adult Inquirer’s Class is a four-part introduction to the life of faith at All Saints’. The first three meetings are on Zoom with the final session in person over dinner at the church. Participants are asked to commit to all four sessions. Additional adult inquirers classes will be held in winter and spring 2026. Upon completion of classes, confirmation and membership will be available. For more details contact Tracey Sage tsage@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Bonhoeffer for Today? Columbia Theological Seminary

Thursday October 23, 2:00 pm – 8:45 pm

During complicated political times, few theologians get weaponized more fiercely or misread more easily than pastor-theologian and Nazi resister, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. But who was Bonhoeffer? What did he say and do? And how might we interpret him thoughtfully, accurately, and usefully for our present political moment?


This symposium draws together an international group of scholars who will address these questions through workshops, a keynote lecture, a screening of the Journey Films documentary Bonhoeffer, and a panel discussion exploring the legacy and current relevance of this compelling figure at the intersection of faith and politics. Rev. Jenny McBride will lead one of the workshops; contact her with questions at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org. Register here.

PARISH LIFE

The Name Tag Nook: New Name Tag Station in Parish House

Name tags are now stored in a beautiful, custom-built vestibule in the Parish House. You are part of our community, and we want everyone to know your name! Click here to request a nametag.

Celebrating Harry Pritchett

Saturday, October 11, 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Egleston Library

Join Simon and members of the Pritchett family for a celebration of our beloved former rector, Harry Pritchett, on the occasion of what would have been his 90th birthday. A special exhibition of Harry’s time at All Saints’ will be on display. Please RSVP, and send on any photos you have of Harry, or a special memory you want to jot down and share,

by contacting Mary Brennan, brennanmf421@gmail.com.

Pet Blessing on the Beltline

Saturday, October 18, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., New Realm Brewery

We are joining our partners at VCA Pets are People Too (a local vet), Lifeline Animal Project (pet adoption), and New Realm Brewery to celebrate God’s creation with our neighbors on the beltline. Bring your family, friends, and pets, and enjoy a great lunch on the patio.

Out of the Darkness Walk for Suicide Prevention

Sunday, November 2, 2:00 p.m., the Meadow in Piedmont Park

Join All Saints' in a 2-mile walk to support suicide prevention, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. All Saints' will join other faith communities under the banner "Step Out & Speak Up: Faith Communities Uniting for Suicide Prevention." Faith communities play a unique role in prevention by creating spaces of belonging, reducing stigma, offering spiritual support, and equipping leaders to recognize and respond to warning signs. Registration deadline to join our All Saints’ group is October 15. If interested, please contact parishioner Liza Johnston at lizajohnston@comcast.net.  

CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children’s Church (Sundays)

Takes a break for Kanuga. We will see you on Oct. 9.

Children’s Formation (Sundays)

Takes a break for Kanuga. We will see you on Oct. 9.


Youth Formation (Sundays)

Takes a break for Kanuga. We will see you on Oct. 9.

SNL & Y’all Saints (Sundays)

Takes a break for Kanuga. We will see you on Oct. 9.

Children’s Choirs Schedule (Wednesdays)

• Cherub Choir (PK-K, must be 4 by Sept. 1st) 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

• Primary Choir (Grades 1-2): 4:35 p.m. - 5:10 p.m.

• Junior Choir (Grades 3-6): 5:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

• Junior Handbells (Grades 4-6): 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Youth Choir (Grade 7-12) (Sundays)

Takes a break for Kanuga. We will see you on Oct. 9.

YOUNG ADULTS

Young Adult Fellowship Online! 

Are you in your 20s or 30s and interested in fellowship, discipleship and service? Reach out to Piper Shifflett at youngadults@allsaintsatlanta.org to receive our monthly newsletter, get added to the WhatsApp group chat and find out what events we have coming up! 

Covenant Community Leadership Transition

All Saints’ offers its well wishes and deep gratitude to Christine Love, who has served Covenant Community as its executive director for the past five years. Christine guided Covenant with skill through challenging times during the pandemic, and she leaves the organization in a strong position to continue its vital mission. We also offer a warm welcome to Tamika Stewart who, starting October 1, will serve as the interim director. Tamika is currently the Director of Therapeutic Community at Covenant Community and has been in that role for four years.

Threads Needs Thursday Volunteers

Threads desperately need volunteers for Thursdays from 9:45 a.m. -1:00 p.m. We currently do not have enough volunteers to help our families shop on these days. Please consider joining us. Sign up here.

Threads Welcomes Families for Shopping 

Threads welcomes families for in-store shopping Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Interested in volunteering? Contact Marcia Mayfield. Threads needs you!



Threads is having a great summer but we still need your help! Threads is in need of the following:

Boys shorts - size 10, 12, 14, and 16

Boys summer pants - size 12, 14 and 16

You may purchase items via the Threads Amazon Wishlist here: bit.ly/ASECThreadsWishlist 

Faith & Justice Collective

Hot off the presses! Read the October Edition of the Faith & Justice Collective Newsletter.

Share Your Photos! Share Your Expertise!

Did you know that you can submit photographs of All Saints’ events to share with the Communications Team? If you want to make a habit of it, join the Photography Guild! Contact Kathy Powell at communications@allsaintsatlanta.org.