Trinity Episcopal Church Staunton, VA

To welcome and encourage all in our journey with Christ

A note from Father AJ

“See, I am making all things new!” – Revelation 21:5
August 6, 2026

As an adult—and especially as a priest—I LOVE the back-to-school season.  It’s a return to a rhythm as well as an opportunity to renew connections and make new commitments.  I love every bit of it now, but that wasn’t always the case.

As a student at St. Mary Magdalen Elementary School and Brother Martin High School, back-to-school meant new uniforms:  khaki pants and shirts, web belt, and black shoes.  And a haircut! I dreaded the initial weeks when those new uniforms were stiff and “scratchy” (and probably a size too big in hopes they would last the entire school year).  I resented the military shortness of my hair. My ears looked huge! So, while I loved the promise of a fresh start and the smell of new crayons and notebooks, I didn’t love everything that came along with it. 

As school begins again…as another church program year begins again, what excites you?  What challenges you?  What are you looking forward to resuming?  What might make you slightly uncomfortable, but you know you need to try it on? (Yes, I may be referring to name tags!)  

In the coming Sundays you’ll get the chance to find your place and learn new ways to deepen your faith.  We’ll start this Sunday, August 9th, with the “blessing of the backpacks” and the collection of school supplies for Bessie Weller Elementary.  Then on the next three “Discovery Sundays,” we’ll use the Christian Formation Hour (9:15 to 10:15) to highlight the various programs, events, and committees available to you and your family.  Come see where and how we care for the liturgical vessels.  Try lifting the processional cross.  Get an up-close look at the kitchen.  Check out the Gooch Room. These are designed to be “ambulatory learning experiences” so that you can see and be “in the rooms where it happens!”  And on August 23rd, you’ll also get pancakes!

Back-to-school isn’t always comfortable, but it is one more opportunity for us to experience the life-giving, world-saving Love of God who is always making things new.  Come and see!