News for October 18: Men's Retreat Deadline, and more - Grace Episcopal Church, Gainesville, GA

Date Posted: October 16, 2026

News for October 18: Men’s Retreat Deadline, and more

Men’s Retreat: Arete, Faith, and a Rule of Life for Connection Among Men

Registration for the men’s retreat closes Sunday, October 18, so be sure to reserve your spot before the deadline.

In a time of disconnection and polarization, how do men pursue a life of purpose, virtue, and deep connection? Drawing on the Greek idea of Arete (excellence), Christian faith, and the Benedictine Rule of Life, this retreat invites us to explore a disciplined, life-giving path rooted in wisdom, practice, and community.

Together we’ll look at how excellence, faith, and intentional living shape practical wisdom for everyday life—moving beyond personal achievement toward love, humility, service, and authentic relationships with God and one another. Guided by John 10:10—“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly”—we’ll spend the day together learning, reflecting, building a personal Rule of Life, and enjoying meaningful fellowship, worship, and recreation. Come away, reconnect, and be renewed alongside other men seeking a richer, more grounded life.

Join us at Grace Church on Saturday, October 24 from 9 AM – 3 PM. Come away, reconnect, and be renewed alongside other men seeking a richer, more grounded life.

EYC Gathering

Our Episcopal Youth Community will gather for fun and fellowship on Sunday, October 18 from 5-7 PM in room 115 (youth room) of the Grace Center. And mark your calendar for the annual Friendsgiving on November 8.

Last Writes Book Club

The Last Writes Book Club wraps up on Zoom at 7 PM on Tuesday, October 20. Our current book is In the Absence of the Ordinary: Soul Work for Times of Uncertainty by Francis Weller.

Women’s Salad Suppers: Food, Friendship, and a Good Book

Ladies, grab your favorite salad bowl and join us for Salad Suppers, our women’s gathering in the Parish Hall! We’ll meet on Monday, October 19 and Monday, November 16, from 6 to 7 PM. A large salad will be provided.

Each evening begins the best way possible: sharing a meal and catching up with one another. Once we’ve eaten and visited, we’ll settle in for conversation as we begin our new book study, Mary Magdalene Revealed by Meggan Watterson. (available here) It’s a thought-provoking look at one of the most fascinating and misunderstood women in Scripture, and we can’t wait to explore it together.

To prepare, please read up to page 139. But don’t let that keep you away! Reading is not a requirement. Whether you’ve finished the pages, skimmed a chapter, or haven’t cracked the cover yet, you’ll fit right in. Come for the fellowship, stay for the discussion, and leave with new friends.

All are welcome. Bring a friend, bring an appetite, and we’ll see you at the table!

Acolyte Training

As part of the Christian formation experience, children and youth (age 10+) are encouraged to serve as acolytes to assist clergy and other worship leaders with our worship services—this includes carrying torches, the cross, Gospel book, offering plates, and more. Leading the parish in worship takes teamwork!

We will have acolyte training on Sunday, October 25 at 9:30 AM. Contact Father Brandon if you’d like to participate.

Ava Pakiam & Cole Anderson

Grace Church Friends of Music is delighted to welcome back acclaimed violinist Ava Pakiam and pianist Dr. Cole Anderson for a special concert on Sunday, October 25, at 4 PM. The concert is free and open to the public, and all are invited to stay for a reception in the parish hall following the performance.

Audience members who attended Ava and Cole’s memorable appearance at Grace Church in May 2025 will be especially eager for this return engagement. Their artistry, musical sensitivity, and dynamic stage presence captivated listeners, making this encore performance one not to be missed.

FOM presents Ava Pakiam & Cole Anderson

Share Names for All Saints’ Day

As part of the liturgy on All Saints’ Day, we will read names of all those from our Grace community who have died. If you wish to remember loved ones, please share those names via the online form no later than 9 AM Tuesday, October 27.

Share Names for All Saints Remembrance

Documentary Filming Day & Thanksgiving Potluck

Help us bring GRACE 200 to life!

We’re creating Grace 200, a short documentary film celebrating 200 years of Grace Episcopal Church; our rich history, the people who have shaped it, and the vibrant life of Grace today.

On Saturday, November 14, a professional production crew will be here to film a special worship service. It will be a unique experience, complete with cameras, lighting, music, all-day snacks, our annual potluck Thanksgiving Feast, and a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at documentary filmmaking.

All parishioners are encouraged to participate! We’re hoping to fill the pews with every part of the Grace family, young and old, families and singles alike, so the film truly reflects the full breadth of our parish community. This means that your presence is important.

Get all the details and let us know you are coming!

Get Details and Sign Up

Community Life Fair: Explore, Connect, Participate

Are you looking for ways to participate more fully as part of the Grace community? Perhaps you have gifts and talents you’d like to share, such as helping with hospitality, serving on a guild or in outreach ministries, or lending organizational or administrative skills. Or you may simply be curious about upcoming opportunities for fellowship and spiritual formation. From retreats and educational offerings to concerts and social gatherings, there are many ways to connect and build relationships at Grace!

To help everyone learn more about these opportunities, Fr. Stuart will host a special Community Life Fair during the Forum on Sunday, November 8 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. This forum will provide an overview of ministries, fellowship events, and formation programs, while also giving participants a chance to ask questions, share ideas, and explore where their interests and gifts might best fit within parish life.

Whether you’re curious about getting involved, looking to meet new people, or seeking a deeper connection with the Grace community, we invite you to join us. We hope you’ll come discover the many ways to grow, serve, and belong at Grace.

Women’s Retreat: Walking Inward with Mary Magdalene

The women of Grace Church will enjoy a weekend of rejoicing, reflection, and renewal from Friday, January 15 to Sunday, January 17, 2027 at the Montreat Retreat and Conference Center in Montreat, North Carolina.

Learn More & Register