October, November & December Giving Opportunities

This giving season, Saint Matthew’s invites you to share the joy of the holidays with those in our community. Our Outreach Committee has three special opportunities to give: in October, we’ll collect Thanksgiving meal items for Matthew’s Crossing to provide holiday dinners for families in need; in November, we’ll gather gift cards for Helen’s Hope Chest so teens in foster care feel remembered and celebrated at Christmas; and on the first two Sundays of Advent, we’ll collect new, unwrapped toys to bring laughter, love, and hope to children facing life-threatening medical challenges. Monetary donations are always welcome to support these efforts, and physical items can be brought to our Narthex while each drive is active. Let’s come together to brighten the season for those who need it most.

Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM

You’re invited to a special three-part study and worship series engaging with Dr. Wilda Gafney’s A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church, Year C. Each gathering will offer a unique opportunity to explore scripture, reflect together, and share in worship. You are welcome to attend one, two, or all three sessions—no registration is required.

To accommodate a variety of schedules, we’re offering the following times to gather:

• Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:30 AM

• Wednesday, October 1, 10:00–11:30 AM

• Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM

All sessions will take place in the Parish Hall, with light refreshments available before we begin. In preparation for our first gathering, you are encouraged (though not required) to watch the 45-minute documentary Jesus’ Female Disciples: Do Christians Have to Rethink Their Faith? All study and worship materials will be provided—no book purchase is necessary.

We look forward to learning, reflecting, and worshiping alongside you.

Six Thursdays, 5:30 - 7:00 PM

Have you ever wondered what makes the Episcopal Church unique, or are you looking to deepen your understanding of our traditions and practices? This fall, Saint Matthew’s will be offering a six-session class called Episcopal 101. This class is open to all—whether you are brand new, a long-time Episcopalian, or simply interested in learning more.

The course will be held in-person in the Parish Hall and via Zoom on Thursdays from 5:30–7:00 PM on the following dates:

• October 9

• October 16

• October 23

• October 30

• November 6

• November 13

Those who would like to be Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church when Bishop Reddall visits on Sunday, March 15, 2026, must complete all six sessions or arrange a makeup session with Rev. Monica.

Participants will need a copy of Walk in Love: Episcopal Beliefs and Practices. If you would like the church to order one for you, please let us know by Monday, September 15. The suggested donation is $15–20, and scholarships are available.

We hope you’ll consider joining this journey of faith, learning, and discovery!

Registration is required.

Saturday, October 18, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM - Parish Hall

Join Successful Aging AZ at Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church for a free community conference focused on creative solutions for everyday challenges of memory loss. A complimentary light lunch will be provided. This event is designed for those noticing signs such as confusion, misplaced items, difficulty finding words, or repeated questions. And, and for the loved ones who support them. Featured speakers include dementia care specialists and advocates who will share guidance on: Respectfully supporting loved ones as brain changes happen; Caring for yourself while caring for others; Creating meaningful engagement and connection; Legal planning considerations for families facing memory loss.

Registration Required.

Saturday, October 18, 9:30 - 11:30 AM

Saint Matthew’s Safety & Security Team invites Vestry, Clergy, Staff, Vergers, Ushers, and Greeters and other interested individuals to take part in an Emergency Preparedness Training. Led by Ericka Huston, Emergency Manager for the City of Chandler, Jozeppi “Joey” Morelli, retired New York State police investigator, federal agent, and 9/11 first responder, and Toni Murdock, Finance & Property Coordinator for the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, this session will provide important tools and best practices to help keep ourselves, our parishioners, and our campus safe in everyday situations and in case of an emergency.

More details will be shared as the date approaches.

Saturday, October 18, 1:00 PM

All children, youth, and adults interested in serving are invited to an Acolyte Training Session on Saturday, October 18 at 1:00 PM in the Sanctuary, led by Darlene Abel, Verger, and Amy Trias, Director of Children’s Ministry. Acolytes (ages 9 and up) assist in worship by carrying the Gospel book during the procession and reading, adding beauty and reverence to the service, while Crucifers (7th grade and up, including adults) carry the processional cross, symbolizing the centrality of Christ in our worship. This training is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about these meaningful ministries and begin serving in worship.

Sunday, October 19, 10:15 - 10:55 AM

The Becoming Beloved Community group invites you to join a 40-minute session to get to know others better and explore challenges. Led by a trained facilitator, each session is limited to 6–7 participants. The next session will be held during coffee hour on Sunday, October 19, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM. Contact Larry Dumka to join this or a future session.

Monday, October 20, 6:30 PM

Location: St. Francis Xavier Church, 4715 North Central Ave, Phoenix, 85012

Saint Matthew’s is a member of Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), a non-partisan group of congregations that organizes to urge local officials to make decisions that improve community wellbeing (e.g., increasing affordable housing, mental health services). VIP is holding a county-wide meeting to set its agenda for 2026. Come and see how we can organize for good! Carpools from Saint Matthew’s are available.

Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

You’re invited to a relaxed and informal gathering for Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica! In our recent parish survey, many of you shared that you’d like to feel more connected to her. This will be a small, informal gathering where we can share stories and get to know Rev. Monica a little better outside of Sunday worship.

We will meet in the Living Room (C3) on the following dates:

• Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

• Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 

• Wednesday, December 3, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Space is limited to about 10 people for each date so that everyone has a chance to visit. 

We hope you’ll take this opportunity to connect and enjoy some tea or coffee, good company, and warm conversation.

Register

Wednesday, October 22, 6:00–8:00 PM - The Perch Brewery

All men are welcome—come just as you are. Whatever you may be going through, remember: God meets us where we are. You don’t have to walk through faith and life alone—come walk with us.

Join us for an evening of friendship and fellowship as we get to know one another, talk about what matters most in our lives, and discover how God is present—right here, right now.

Event: Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Date: Wednesday, October 22
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: The Perch Brewery (Downtown Chandler)
Address: 232 S Wall Street, Chandler, AZ 85225

Sunday, October 26, 4:00 - 6:30 PM

Join us for our annual Fall Festival! Our Juggler, James Reid, will be returning. We’ll have music, games, a cake walk, chili cookoff, and more. Don’t forget to wear your costumes for the Trunk or Treat. Dinner will be provided.

Sign up to: Provide cake for the cake walk; Enter the chili cookoff; Include your vehicle in the trunk or treat; Volunteer or donate. Look for our table in the courtyard every Sunday!

Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

You’re invited to a relaxed and informal gathering for Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica! In our recent parish survey, many of you shared that you’d like to feel more connected to her. This will be a small, informal gathering where we can share stories and get to know Rev. Monica a little better outside of Sunday worship.

We will meet in the Living Room (C3) on the following dates:

• Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

• Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 

• Wednesday, December 3, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Space is limited to about 10 people for each date so that everyone has a chance to visit. 

We hope you’ll take this opportunity to connect and enjoy some tea or coffee, good company, and warm conversation.

Register