Special Events
Grief 101: An Introduction to Loss, Grief, and Transition
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Sunday, August 17th
at 11:00am
in the Celebration Center
Every day we experience LOSS. Some of the losses are small—mini; some are role losses-midi; and some, like death, divorce, chronic illness, community losses, maxi losses, change the meaning of our lives.
And with EVERY loss there is grief, “the normal multi-faceted response to any loss.”
When we lose someone or something of value, we go through a journey of grief. It is often an unpredictable journey, rough and difficult; like a roller-coaster, full of ups and downs, highs and lows, or like a wilderness from which there seems to be no way out.
Grief is a journey with many pathways, each unique, each one-of-a-kind, distinctive to every individual. It is a highly personal response to loss and it will take many different and personal forms. Grief is not an illness. It is a normal process of loss—the body, mind, and spirit’s normal response to loss.
In this two part workshop we will share our experiences of loss and understand how grief affects us. In the second part we will discuss the Journey of grief and how we can navigate it. The workshop will share both information and involve participants in the journey.
Presented by Reverend Dr. Frank Williams and Cydne Bolton
Community Conversation
Tuesday, August 19th
at 4:00pm
in the Celebration Center
Our church has been shaped by the faith, care, and commitment of longtime members, and enriched by the gifts, talents, and perspectives of those who have joined more recently. A recent pastoral transition brought meaningful change as well, and as we look ahead with hope, we want to reflect together on what makes this church feel like home, how we can deepen our sense of connection, and what it means to truly belong here, together. These upcoming Community Conversations are open to all—whether you’re a member or simply part of our wider community. In a small group setting, we’ll share stories, listen deeply, and begin co-creating a vision for our future using an appreciative inquiry approach. Whether you’ve been closely involved or feeling a little on the edge, your voice matters, and we hope you’ll join us for this important and heartfelt conversation.
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Please contact the office to RSVP at 520-299-9063
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, August 21st
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
Grief 101: An Introduction to Loss, Grief, and Transition
Sunday, August 24th
at 11:00am
in the Celebration Center
Every day we experience LOSS. Some of the losses are small—mini; some are role losses-midi; and some, like death, divorce, chronic illness, community losses, maxi losses, change the meaning of our lives.
And with EVERY loss there is grief, “the normal multi-faceted response to any loss.”
When we lose someone or something of value, we go through a journey of grief. It is often an unpredictable journey, rough and difficult; like a roller-coaster, full of ups and downs, highs and lows, or like a wilderness from which there seems to be no way out.
Grief is a journey with many pathways, each unique, each one-of-a-kind, distinctive to every individual. It is a highly personal response to loss and it will take many different and personal forms. Grief is not an illness. It is a normal process of loss—the body, mind, and spirit’s normal response to loss.
In this two part workshop we will share our experiences of loss and understand how grief affects us. In the second part we will discuss the Journey of grief and how we can navigate it. The workshop will share both information and involve participants in the journey.
Presented by Reverend Dr. Frank Williams and Cydne Bolton
Reader's Theater Performance
Sunday, August 24th
at 12:30pm
in the Community Center
Join us for a special surprise performance where words take center stage and imagination fills in the rest. Reader’s Theater invites audiences into the heart of storytelling; no sets, no costumes, just powerful voices bringing characters and scenes to life. Whether humorous, heartfelt, or thought-provoking, this unique performance promises an experience that connects us through the shared joy of story. Come curious and leave inspired.
Wonderful Wednesday Potluck
Wednesday, August 27th
at 5:30pm
in the Community Center
Come hungry and leave with more than just a full plate. The Wonderful Wednesday Potluck is a chance to gather in good company, swap stories, and enjoy a meal made from many hands and hearts. Whether you bring a family favorite or something simple, there’s always room at the table and someone eager to meet you. This is where warmth is shared, laughter lingers, and the spirit of community comes alive, one bite at a time. Everyone is welcome, come as you are.
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, August 28th
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
Multigenerational Sunday School
Sunday, August 31st
at 11:00am
in the Community Center
From the changing colors of our celebrations to the stories that shape each season, our journey through the liturgical calendar continues. Multigenerational Sunday School is a space for all ages to come together in curiosity and conversation, exploring the rhythms of the church year through storytelling, hands-on activities, and shared reflection. Whether you're learning it for the first time or seeing it with fresh eyes, come discover how the seasons of faith connect us all.
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, September 4th
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
Fine Arts Exhibit
Sunday, September 7th
at 11:00am
in the Community Center
Experience the vibrant creativity of the St. Francis community through a fine arts exhibit that celebrates the many ways beauty takes shape. Featuring work from our own gifted artists, this collection reflects the depth, diversity, and spirit of our congregation; from bold, expressive pieces to delicate studies in light and form. Each creation carries its own story, inviting you to see the world through a new lens and to share in the joy of artistic expression. Come walk among the colors, textures, and visions that together reveal the heart of our community.
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, September 11th
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
Connect & Renew: Energy Workers Gathering
Sunday, September 11th
at 6:00pm
in Room 50
Connect and Renew is a welcoming gathering for energy workers of all paths to come together in a spirit of restoration and exchange. In this supportive circle, we share practices, insights, and presence; strengthening the flow of light, compassion, and healing that moves through us and into the world. It’s a space to replenish your own reserves, deepen your connection to the work you love, and learn from the unique gifts of others. Whether you are experienced in energy work or simply curious about the ways energy shapes our lives, you’ll find an open invitation to connect, grow, and renew alongside kindred spirits.
Friday at the Movies
Friday, September 12th
at 2:00pm
in Ravenscroft Hall
First released in 1974, Mel Brooks’ legendary western satire Blazing Saddles broke new ground with its fearless humor and sharp social commentary. Set in the Old West but brimming with irreverent wit, the film follows the story of an unlikely sheriff and his quick-witted ally as they take on greed, corruption, and prejudice; with a barrage of gags, sight jokes, and memorable one-liners along the way. A bold send-up of Hollywood westerns and the culture of its time, it remains one of the most talked-about comedies ever made, both for its comedic genius and its unapologetic approach to sensitive topics. Blazing Saddles is as outrageous as it is clever, a film that continues to spark laughter, and conversation, decades later.
ISP Spruce Up Day!
Saturday, September 13th
at 8:00am
at the International School for Peace
Join us for a day of community, care, and fresh energy as we come together for the International School for Peace’s Spruce Up Day. This is our chance to tend to the spaces where learning, laughter, and friendship flourish; whether that means planting flowers, organizing classrooms, touching up paint, or simply lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed. Every brushstroke, every swept floor, and every shared moment of effort helps create an environment where children can thrive. Bring your energy, your smile, and your willingness to pitch in as we make the school shine, inside and out.
For more information please contact Cathy DeMers at the International School for Peace at 520-299-8908
Deep Peace: Movement, Meditation & Sound
Saturday, September 13th
at 5:00pm
in the Community Center
Deep Peace is a guided experience that blends gentle movement, mindful meditation, and the resonant tones of healing sound to create a sanctuary for body, mind, and spirit. In this calming space, movement loosens the tension we carry, sound soothes the nervous system, and stillness invites a quiet clarity. Each element flows into the next, offering you the chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel the weight of the day gently release. Whether you come seeking rest, renewal, or simply a moment to pause, Deep Peace welcomes you into a state of balance and calm presence.
Community Conversation
Sunday, September 14th
at 11:00am
in the Celebration Center
Our church has been shaped by the faith, care, and commitment of longtime members, and enriched by the gifts, talents, and perspectives of those who have joined more recently. A recent pastoral transition brought meaningful change as well, and as we look ahead with hope, we want to reflect together on what makes this church feel like home, how we can deepen our sense of connection, and what it means to truly belong here, together. These upcoming Community Conversations are open to all—whether you’re a member or simply part of our wider community. In a small group setting, we’ll share stories, listen deeply, and begin co-creating a vision for our future using an appreciative inquiry approach. Whether you’ve been closely involved or feeling a little on the edge, your voice matters, and we hope you’ll join us for this important and heartfelt conversation.
Please contact the office to RSVP at 520-299-9063
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, September 18th
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
Coffee House
Saturday, September 20th
at 6:00pm
in the Community Center
There’s something about good coffee and good company that makes conversation flow, and no one sparks that better than the “infamous” Seth Allen. Join us for a relaxed Coffee House gathering where laughter, stories, and connection are served alongside your favorite brew. A chance to simply be together, share in the warmth of community, and enjoy the kind of easy camaraderie that turns a simple evening into something memorable.
St. Francis Church Conference
Wednesday, September 24th
at 7:00pm
in the Celebration Center
The St. Francis Church Conference is our annual time to come together as a community to reflect on the past year, celebrate milestones, and look ahead to the future we are building together. In the tradition of United Methodist Church conferences, but focused on the life and ministry of St. Francis, this gathering is a chance to share updates, affirm our mission, and make decisions that guide our path forward. Whether you’ve been part of St. Francis for years or are newer to our community, your presence matters. Join us as we listen, learn, and dream together about what God is calling us to do next.
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace
Thursday, September 25th
at 5:30pm
in Room 50
Join us as we gather in quiet reflection, shared hope, and collective prayer for peace, within ourselves, our communities, and the world. Whether you light a candle, offer a silent intention, or simply sit in stillness, your presence matters. This vigil is open to all, regardless of faith tradition, and serves as a sacred space to hold peace at the center of our hearts and actions.
RAKISH In Concert
Friday, September 26th
at 7:30pm
in the Celebration Center
Rooted in tradition yet tuned to the possibilities of the future, contemporary folk duo Rakish brings a spirit of genuine musical exploration to every performance. Their sound reflects an unbridled love for the traditional music of Celtic and American roots, paired with the seamless unity of two friends who have been making music together for years. With influences ranging from the deep history of Scottish and Irish composition to the precision of classical chamber music and the freedom of improvisation, Rakish creates a listening experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly new. As Strings Magazine notes, “Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles.”
Purchase Tickets Online at: https://tinyurl.com/rakishconcert
*Tickets purchase online are $20 + a $3 fee. Tickets purchased at the door are $25.
Multigenerational Sunday School
Sunday, September 28th
at 11:00am
in the Community Center
From the changing colors of our celebrations to the stories that shape each season, our journey through the liturgical calendar continues. Multigenerational Sunday School is a space for all ages to come together in curiosity and conversation, exploring the rhythms of the church year through storytelling, hands-on activities, and shared reflection. Whether you're learning it for the first time or seeing it with fresh eyes, come discover how the seasons of faith connect us all.
