EPIPHANY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
January 6
Along with the Great Vigil of Easter this annual service on Epiphany (January 6) has become an important event in the church year at Grace Church as we welcome the Magi and celebrate the conclusion of the Christmas season. The first observance of this celebration was held in 1985, the year the “new” church was completed.
SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER
(Tuesday before Ash Wednesday)
The Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper has been hosted by the Men’s Group of Grace Church each spring since 1953. Thanks to its lengthy tradition and wonderful food, this event typically attracts around 500 people from the congregation and the larger community. Carry-out meals are a popular option for those who wish to avoid the crowd. In addition to an endless supply of delicious pancakes cooked on a remarkable griddle the meal includes approximately 200 lbs. of homemade sausage that is ground, seasoned and cooked on-site. Proceeds from this event are used to assist a variety of charitable endeavors in the community, including an emergency assistance fund donated to local assistance organizations.
J2A CHILI COOK-OFF
Since 2004 the Journey to Adulthood (J2A) youth have hosted a Chili Cook-off. Parish members bring their best pot of chili and everyone gets to taste and then vote (with money) for their favorite. Winners are awarded the coveted “Wooden Spoon” Award. Money raised is used for Mission Trips, Pilgrimage Trip and some fun activities throughout the year.
PISGAH CAMPING TRIP
June 18-25, 2023
Upper Cove Creek
The first camping trip to Pisgah National Forest was a 1969 outing for teenage boys and their sponsors. Soon the group was expanded to include families, and the summer of 2021 marks the 54th consecutive summer for this event. Individuals, couples, families, parishioners and friends, and a wide assortment of dogs make this annual trek to camp in tents and pop-up campers in a beautiful setting. Activities include tubing, swimming, hiking, fishing, relaxing and great conversation. This one to seven-night outing provides many opportunities for building friendship and community.
OUTDOOR SERVICE
On the first Sunday after Memorial Day the congregation gathers for an informal worship service, led by the Youth of the church, in one of several nearby outdoor settings, followed by a picnic. This event, a tradition of more than 30 years, typically marks the change from the school-year schedule to a modified schedule of worship and education during the summer months. In 2022 we met on the church grounds in our new Stage area off of 5th Avenue.
SENIOR LADIES LUNCHEON
Every December the Senior Ladies of Grace Church are invited to a Luncheon in their honor. This tradition has been happening for over 20 years. The Ladies truly enjoy their time together.
Grace Episcopal Church 