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Our Mission...
The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany is an inclusive community called to seek and follow Jesus Christ. We welcome all people in the Eucharistic fellowship of Christ's Body. We receive strength and encouragement at the common table to carry out Christ's work of reconciliation in our broken world. Nourished by worship and witness, learning and teaching, fellowship and service, we strive to live out the Gospel's radical values with gladness of heart.
A Brief History...
Epiphany was founded in 1898, in the Little Five Points neighborhood of Atlanta. Bishop Mikell suggested the name because this locale was the easternmost suburb of Atlanta.The original building, made of Stone Mountain granite, was on a triangle of land at the intersection of McLendon and Euclid Avenues. In 1927, the property was sold to the Gulf Oil Corporation for a service station.
New property was acquired a few blocks away, on Seminole Avenue. A large worship space, (under which was a large parish hall) was accompanied by a three story classroom wing. Property behind the building was put to use as a neighborhood play area for the children of the community. The parish flourished in its new location.
In the early fifties, The Rev. Dr. Norman Gore was called as Epiphany's sixth rector, to help the congregation make its third move to the current location on Ponce de Leon Avenue at East Lake Road. Several members each pledged $1,000 towards purchase of the property and the first building was completed in 1957. An expansion in 1962 increased the length of the nave and added the current parish hall wing.
In 1989, under the leadership of our ninth rector, The Rev. E. Claiborne Jones, the nave and narthex were completely renovated and expanded, with the addition of side aisles, a new organ and chancel, and additional (and paved) parking. The congregation and its mission and ministries have grown considerably since then, with the addition of a second major Sunday service, the employment of a full-time musician, full-time Associate Rector, and part-time Special Events Coordinator, in addition to the parish administrator and sexton.
Epiphany finished another major renovation and expansion in 2003. This time, it is the Sunday School Rooms and meeting places.In February 2005, Epiphany called The Rev. Benno D. Pattison to be its tenth rector. Benno has an infectious and exuberant enthusiasm for the work God calls
We believe that his leadership and our shared vision will galvanize Epiphany
to strive to live out the Gospels radical values with gladness of heart.
What does the term "Epiphany" mean?
Epiphany means "manifestation," and refers to the Glory of God in sending Christ to the Gentiles. The Feast of the Epiphany (January 6) is the oldest Christian holy day, except for Easter. The star is a symbol of the Magi who journeyed long and sacrificed much to honor Jesus, the newborn savior and king.
- You'll see in the Sunday bulletin many announcements ending, "Sign up in the Crossing Hall," and we mean it. Please do!
- Once we receive your visitor card, we will begin sending you our newsletter, The Epiphany Star: A Word to the Wise. You'll see that Epiphany is a very active congregation.
- Our outreach includes shelter work, meals for the homeless, refugee resettlement, and work with children in distress.
- New voices are welcome to join our volunteer choirs. Ushers, acolytes, and the Altar Guild need helpers to prepare for our worship.
- Social activities abound, from potlucks and supper groups to seasonal parties and weekend retreats. "All hands" workdays are a fun way to meet other parishioners.
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What happens on Sundays?
On Sundays we gather for worship, education and fellowship.
Our Worship Children's Sunday School Sunday Adult Classes Our common bond is weekly worship. We hear the word of God proclaimed and preached with thoughtfulness, we celebrate the Holy Eucharist, the Lord's Supper, which nourishes us into one body of love and service, and we praise God in music and in prayer. In classrooms above the Parish Hall and in the lower level, teachers work in teams with an Episcopal curriculum. Our aim is to enrich the knowledge, faith and joy of our students.
A variety of classes taught by clergy and parishioners is held in the Parish Hall. Please feel free to drop in on any one of interest to you. Details on upcoming classes are printed weekly in the Sunday bulletin.
How can I learn more about Epiphany & the Episcopal Church?
A s k Q u e s t i o n s !
- Most of us were once newcomers to Epiphany and the Episcopal Church. Please ask the clergy or greeters any questions which might help you feel more at home in this parish.
- If you desire, an usher will seat you next to a friendly "old timer" so our worship does not become too "book heavy" for you. (The red book is The Hymnal 1982. The blue is The Book of Common Prayer.)
- We can direct you to pamphlets in the tract rack, books in the library and our annual Inquirers' Class (usually begun in the Fall), to learn more about the Episcopal Church. Adult classes, coffee hour and breakfast (in the summer) are also good times to ask questions.
- Quarterly newcomers' desserts, held at the rector's home, combine good food and camaraderie with previews of upcoming events. You're always welcome to meet with the clergy and staff privately. It's best to call the office to set up a visit at your home or here at Epiphany.
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Founded in 1898, Epiphany is a parish in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, The Right Reverend J. Neil Alexander, Bishop.
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