Dear saints,

I once waited twenty-one hours for a train to arrive at a railway station. It was one of those occasions when you are certain that having waited such an awful long time already, then surely the train was at any moment going to burst onto the scene and free you from transit purgatory. It was also one of those occasions when alternative arrangements weren't really an option. And so, I waited, along with several hundred other people. It is hard to describe the mixture of joy and panic that the eventual arrival of the train provoked among us. All of us moved at once, converging on the carriage doors, desperate not to be somehow left behind because we couldn’t get on board on time before it pulled away, and avoid spending what certainly would have been the rest of our earthly years at New Jalpaiguri Train Station, never to see the outside world again. 

You might have had long waits of your own en route from one part of the world to another. Such situations make me think of that wonderful Tom Hanks movie, The Terminal, where an eastern European man is left stranded in an airport after his home country of 'Krakozhia' is taken over by a coup. The movie is based on the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who was stranded at Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris, for 18 years. There's waiting, and there's waiting. 

Having grown up in England where queuing is a national pasttime, I’d like to be able to say that I am good at waiting. Indeed, I'll freely admit that it filled me with an odd sort of national pride after the death of Queen Elizabeth II to see the line of Britons snaking around London as people waited for their chance to file past the late monarch's body lying in state. I had been brought up to wait. I rode a city bus for seven years all the way through middle and high school, waiting for the 144 to round the corner and whisk me away. Like many of you, I grew up before the ubiquity of cell phones or computers, and so I learned to wait for letters to arrive in the mail or phone calls to be returned. Part of me liked waiting. There was something engrained in me about the virtues of ‘putting in your time’. 

All of this should have prepared me, should it not, to wait with a glorious sort of spaciousness for this weekend to arrive, with my wife Monica on the ballot as one of three finalists for the Bishop of Los Angeles. It hasn't. For as much as I have been valiantly focusing on my to do-list at church, beavering away with all things All Saints', the hope that I might glide serenely alongside Monica to the finish line - should that be as the next bishop or not - has been elusive. I have tried, and failed, to ignore the ever-present company of 'the question': will she or won't she? I cannot tell you how glad I am that the question will be leaving us soon.

Living with uncertainty is hard. Perhaps you've had times when 'the question' has come to live with you. Sometimes we can see it coming on the horizon, taking an age to finally arrive in front of us. A big move, a new job, the long journey to a marriage proposal. At other times, uncertainty comes all in a rush, like a sudden and unwelcome medical diagnosis, or a loss we just weren't expecting. All of it has the capacity to rob us of our own sense of power. Uncertainty is by its nature an experience of surrendering control. 

Of course, for these past couple of months, this parish has joined me in living with uncertainty. I cannot express adequately how much it has meant to me, and to our family, for you to have done so with such grace and care. I have only received encouragement and kindness, even if folks have been unsure what it is exactly that they should be encouraging. As a parishioner said leaving church this past Sunday, "I'll pray for you and Monica this week, once I figure out what to pray for”. My feelings exactly. 

With all of this unknowing swirling around, I reminded myself this week of the good counsel a priest once shared when I was a seminarian in Cambridge, namely that he had come to a point in his vocational life where he learned to stop focusing on the calling and focus instead on the One who calls. It was an immensely helpful re-direction at the time and still is. When we focus on the One calling rather than the what of the call, we have the chance to keep our hearts focused on what we love of God rather than lingering too long on what we might love for ourselves.

So, dear saints, I invite your prayers this weekend. Pray that God’s will may be done - whatever it is. Pray that Melissa, Antonio and Monica may know the presence of the Spirit of the living God, whatever news they receive from the election. And pray that we all might know the gracious company of the One who calls each of us onward in our lives, as the deep that calls to deep. 

Peace,

If you haven’t made your 2026 pledge yet - there’s still time!  

This past Sunday was All Saints’ Sunday, the day we committed our pledges and celebrated this beautiful community we are building together. And yes… there were streamers. See the photos below!

We hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on what All Saints’ means to you and if you haven’t already, consider making your pledge for 2026.

Your pledge allows this community to love boldly, serve generously, and keep growing into the church God is calling us to be.

Thank you for being part of the All Saints’ story and 
helping our light shine bright in the city! 

This Sunday

The Twenty-Second Sunday After Pentecost

Sunday, November 7

Happening this Sunday:

• 8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite I (Traditional language, no music)
• 9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II (Service today led by children, Contemporary language, choral music, livestream, nursery available)
• See you at 10 (Gather for coffee, doughnuts, and fellowship in the courtyard)
• 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, along with today's Rector's Forum on Art as Sacred Resistance, 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.

#KellyonMyMind: Reflection on Anti-Death Penalty Advocacy and a Meaningful Life

TOMORROW: Saturday, November 8, 1:00 - 5:30 pm, Candler School of Theology, Room RORB 102

All Saints’ parishioners are invited to an afternoon that marks the 10th anniversary of the execution of Kelly Gissendaner, where we will reflect on her theological studies and the faith-based advocacy done on her behalf. The first panel will focus on anti-death penalty advocacy in Georgia and beyond. The second panel will focus on theologies that ground Christian resistance and will be in conversation with Jenny McBride’s book, You Shall Not Condemn: A Story of Faith and Advocacy on Death Row. Contact Jenny McBride for more information at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org. 

Rector's Forum: Art as Sacred Resistance

Sunday, November 9, 10:30 a.m. - 11:10 a.m., Ellis Hall & via Livestream

Join our rector, Simon, in conversation with our new artist-in-residence, Aysha Pennerman, and parishioner and vocal artist, Virginia Schenck, as they explore how visual and performance art play an essential role in building the Kingdom of God. Contact Simon for more information: smainwaring@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Faith and Justice Collective Luncheon | Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice with Isaac Villegas

Sunday, November 9, 12:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m., Ellis Hall

Join us in November for a presentation by Isaac Villegas, an ordained minister in the Mennonite Church USA who is involved in the work of community organizing and activism for immigrant justice. We will be reading Villegas’s book, Migrant God, for our Advent One Parish One Book discussion, so come get to know the author first! In the book, Villegas weaves together his lived experience as a pastor, organizer, and activist with biblical, theological, and political reflection. He offers a holistic Christian vision of life lived in solidarity with migrants that church-communities might emulate. Please register in advance at https://bit.ly/faithandjustice_nov and contact Rev. Jenny 

McBride with questions at jmcbride@allsaintstalanta.org.

Emergency Food Drive for MAC

Sundays, November 9, 16, Donation Drop off in Ellis Hall Lobby

On November 1, nearly 1.4 million Georgians will lose access to their SNAP benefits. Midtown Assistance Center (MAC) operates a food pantry in the heart of Atlanta, serving hardworking families and vulnerable community members in over ten zip codes. Help MAC respond to the loss of access by donating items listed in this link, https://bit.ly/MACEmergencyFoodDrive. For more information, contact, Wendy Silliman at wendelin.silliman@troutman.com.

Threads Annual Coat Drive

Sundays through November 23, Ellis Foyer

Join us in spreading love and comfort by providing a new or gently used coat for a child in need. Each coat is more than fabric — it’s a hug, a smile, and a reminder that someone cares. Bring coats (sizes newborn to 18) to Threads at All Saints’ Episcopal Church or make a donation and we’ll shop for you. Barrels will be available in the Ellis Hall Foyer for drop off. For more information contact threads@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. 

Join Us for Sunday Breakfast

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

Come join us! Meet new families, reconnect with friends, and enjoy a delicious meal together. Cost: $12 for adults & $7 for children.

Shining in the City: Why your pledge matters

Because generations before us pledged faithfully, and now it’s our turn to ensure All Saints’ continues to shine for those yet to come. 

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

Jazz Vocalist Nnenna Freelon Graces the Next Jazz at All Saints’ Concert

Friday, November 14, 7:00 p.m., Church; Reception to follow in Ellis Hall

Recently named by Downbeat Magazine the standout performer at this year’s Monterey Jazz Festival, vocalist Nnenna Freelon brings her artistry and elegance to our next concert. Her latest album, Beneath the Skin, a master class in quiet wisdom and emotional connection, continues to rank high on jazz charts. Tickets to her concert ($25/adult, $15 student) are selling fast, so get yours now at allsaintsatlanta.org/jazz.

Composer of the Week

During the sixteen years of his professional life, Boëllmann composed about 160 pieces in all genres. Faithful to the style of Franck and an admirer of Saint-Saëns, Boëllmann yet exhibits a turn-of-the-century Post-romantic esthetic, which especially in his organ works, demonstrates “remarkable sonorities.” His best-known composition is Suite gothique (1895), now a staple of the organ repertoire, especially its concluding Toccata, a piece “of moderate difficulty but brilliant effect,” with a dramatic minor theme and a rhythmic emphasis that made it popular even in Boëllmann’s own day. Before his untimely death at age 35, Boëllmann became known as “a dedicated teacher, trenchant critic, gifted composer and successful performer…who coaxed pleasing sounds out of recalcitrant instruments.”

ADULT FORMATION

Growing as a Community of Care: Mental Health 101

Sunday, November 16, 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m., Ellis Hall & via Livestream

Join Skyland Trails Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ben Hunter, for a presentation on how genetic predisposition and environmental stressors contribute to mental health conditions. By increasing awareness and understanding, this session aims to reduce stigma and provide practical tools for supporting mental well-being as a church community. For more information, contact Jenny McBride at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org.

School of the Spirit: The Meaning of Worship
Wednesdays. November 12 & 19, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., CHURCH

Have you ever wondered why we turn toward the street during the closing hymn, make the sign of the cross during the Gospel, or sing different hymns throughout the liturgical year? Explore the signs, symbols, and sounds of Anglican worship in All Saints’ historic church as we learn about the stained glass, altar, instruments, vestments, and sacraments. Contact: Andy Barnett abarnett@allsaintsatlanta.org.

Women’s Health and Spirituality Luncheon 
Sunday, November 16, 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Ellis Hall

We welcome women of all ages and stages of life to join us for the second of this two-part series as we explore the relationship between health and spirituality in our lives. Parishioners and women’s health providers Jenny Lyman MD and Amy Gaynor WHNP will help us explore the mysteries and changes of our bodies throughout our lives. To register for a $16 lunch, please go to https://bit.ly/womens_health_luncheon. For more information, contact Wendy Little at littlewendoo@gmail.com. 

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. 

Novel Theology: Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

Wednesday, November 19, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Ross Room and Zoom

In November, Novel Theology dives into the wild world of Good Omens, where the world is prophesied to end on Saturday. This Saturday. Just before dinner. Everything appears to be going according to divine plan, except for the interference of a fussy angel and a fast-living demon—both of whom have lived amongst Earth’s mortals since The Beginning and have grown rather fond of the lifestyle. Contact Laura Trott for more information at lmtrott@gmail.com.

The Great Music of Advent, with Bob Edge

Sunday, November 23, 10:30 a.m. - 11:05 a.m., Ellis Hall

In anticipation of the Advent season, come hear parishioner Bob Edge lead us through some of the great music of Advent, as well as guide us toward the great musical opportunities happening in and around Atlanta during the season. Contact Jenny McBride for more info at jmcbride@allsaintsatlanta.org.

PARISH LIFE

The Name Tag Nook: Name Tag Station in Parish House

Name tags are 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.

St. Helena’s Hellfire Pepper Jelly Sale

Sundays in November, 10:00 a.m. -11:10 a.m., Ellis Hall Foyer

Saint Helena’s famous Hellfire Pepper Jelly is going on sale between services beginning November 2. Get your stocking stuffers and hostess gifts before it sells out. This annual fundraiser supports women and children in need.

CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children’s Church (Sundays)

The children will serve and lead us as they continue to claim this faith community as their own. The 4th and 5th graders have written the prayers of the people, the Children’s Choirs have prepared songs to accompany the readings, and you will receive a special symbol to take with you to remind you to be their strong roots of faith here at All Saints’.

Children’s Formation (Sundays)

2nd fl Pritchett, 10:30 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. 
Doors open after See You at Ten (10:00 a.m. - 10:25 a.m.) in courtyard.


Youth Formation (Sundays)

3rd fl Pritchett (The Attic), 10:30 a.m. - 11:10 a.m.

Doors open after See You at Ten (10:00 a.m. -10:25 a.m.) in courtyard.

SNL & Y’all Saints (Sundays)

3rd fl Pritchett (The Attic), 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Children’s Choirs Schedule (Wednesdays)

• Cherub Choir (PK-K) 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)

• Handbells: 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

• Choir: 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

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! 

Refugee Ministries Information Sessions

Are you interested in learning about upcoming volunteer opportunities in Refugee Ministries? We will be offering a 30-minute zoom information session on the following dates and times: Wednesday, November 5 at 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 14 at 10:00 a.m. and Thursday, November 20 at 1:00 p.m. Please email Louisa Merchant, louisam@allsaintsatlanta.org, for link.

Threads Welcomes Families for Shopping 

At Threads, every Thursday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., our doors open wide to welcome families for in-store shopping — not just for clothing, but for a sense of comfort, dignity, and a renewed sense of hope and joy. If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful difference, this is your invitation. Whether you can lend a few hours or come regularly, your presence matters. You’ll be part of a beautiful mission that wraps families in love.


There are many ways that you can help Threads Kids:

• Drop off gently warn clean children’s clothes & coats 

• Shop our Amazon wish list.

• Make a financial contribution online - Be sure to click 

 Threads Donation in the drop box here.

Faith & Justice Collective

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.