Saint Luke's schedule includes a number of regularly scheduled special annual 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.
Barbecue
The Parish Barbecue was initiated as both a fellowship opportunity and a fund raiser. It begins on the first Friday evening in May 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. May 6, 2023 is the next Barbecue.
Craft Fair
Our annual craft fair provides 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. Vendors: click here for the vendor registration form; payment can be made online here.
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 on the Saturday before Christmas.
Parish Picnic
The Parish Picnic traditionally takes place following the 10 a.m. service on the first Sunday in June on the grounds of the Mount Vernon Park Association, a few blocks from the church. This year the Parish Picnic will be held on June 4, 2023.
Parish Retreat
The Parish Retreat takes place at Shrine Mont, typically the last weekend in September. Shrine Mont, the diocesan conference center, is located about a two-hour drive from Alexandria 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. We are looking forward to our 2023 Retreat on September 29 - October 1.
PUMPKIN PATCH
The Pumpkin Patch opens up on October 7, 2023. This event usually sells out fast and allows our parish families to share St. Luke’s with our church community, but also with the surrounding neighborhood communities.
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.