Special Events
Our schedule includes a number of regularly scheduled special events and programs in which a large number of parishioners are involved. Some of the activities are social in nature, others are educational, and still others provide an opportunity for service. We have something to suit every interest and skill. The following list is a sample of these activities.
Barbeque
The Parish Barbecue was initiated as both a fellowship opportunity and a fund raiser. It begins on a Friday evening with the preparation of the meat and setting up of the charcoal smokers, continues through the late–night and early–morning vigil over the smokers, and concludes mid–afternoon on Saturday.
Baseball Pilgrimage
Our annual baseball pilgrimage to see the Bowie Baysox is the hightlight of our social calendar. Each summer fifty St. Lukers travel to Bowie to eat a hot dog, drink a tall cold one, and cheer the Baysox to victory.
Craft Fair
We hold our annual Craft Fair on our grounds to provide an opportunity for local crafters to display and sell their work and for parishioners and members of the community to purchase lovely hand made treasures. A silent auction, bake sale, and refreshment stand add to the festive atmosphere. See a registration form and directions.
Hanging of the Greens
The Hanging of the Greens brings us together to decorate the church for the Christmas season. Parishioners cut greens and bring them to the church to weave into wreaths. We hang roping and decorate the Christmas tree while the children bake Christmas cookies in the parish hall.
Ice Cream Social
We end our Lenten fast following the Easter Vigil with yummy ice cream sundaes served in the Parish Hall.
Lenten Programs
We hold weekly educational programs in the Parish Hall on Wednesdays during Lent.
Ministry Fair
The Ministry Fair is an opportunity to inform the Parish about the programs and activities offered at St. Luke's. The congregation is encouraged to peruse the many creative displays and consider participating in St. Luke's diverse community.
Newcomer Luncheons
We hold periodic luncheons for newcomers in the church library to give newcomers an opportunity to meet members of the Vestry and other members of the congregation.
Parish Picnic
The Parish Picnic traditionally takes place following the 10:00 a.m. service on Pentecost on the grounds of the Mount Vernon Park Association, a few blocks from the church. On Pentecost, as we celebrate the birthday of the church, it is traditional to wear something red, the liturgical color of the day. Then we adjourn to the park for lunch.
Parish Retreat
The Parish Retreat takes place at Shrine Mont, the diocesan conference center located in Orkney Springs, Virginia. The weekend is organized around a theme, a children's program is planned, and child care is provided during program time. Our parish family comes together for program, worship, fun, and fellowship in a rustic setting with bountiful meals served family style.
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
The Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper takes place on the eve of Ash Wednesday. This traditional event has its roots in the old–world tradition of using up the fats on Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday before beginning the fast of Lent. It's an opportunity for food and fellowship before marking the beginning of Lent on the following day with solemn services and the imposition of ashes.
Work Days
Parish Work Days are scheduled in both spring and fall. On these days the parish family accomplishes some of the housekeeping tasks that are better done jointly and are not covered by our contract cleaners. It's an opportunity to pledge our time and talent to the upkeep of God's house. We conclude with lunch in the parish hall.