Special Events
 Community Christmas Tree Lighting
The lighting of the Christmas trees occurs on the first Sunday of Advent (in November or early December each year). Members of the community and members of Saint Stephen join together to see the trees lit, sing carols, and enjoy refreshments. The trees brighten the neighborhood throughout the Christmas season.
Christmas Eve Worship
- Story and Carols for Children and Families at 4:00 p.m.
- Traditional Candlelight Service at 8:00 p.m.
- Special pre-service music at 7:45 p.m.
 Pancake Supper
Saint Stephen follows a long-standing church tradition and serves a delicious pancake supper the Sunday evening before Ash Wednesday. This signals the beginning of the Lenten season.
Holy Week and Easter
Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion: This Sunday service includes the procession of palms, the reading of the Passion, and Holy Communion.
Maundy Thursday: This service at 7:30 p.m. on the Thursday of Holy Week includes individual absolution, foot washing, Holy Communion, and stripping of the altar.
Good Friday: A Stations of the Cross service at 12 noon marks the events of Jesus’ crucifixion and death.
The Good Friday liturgy, a solemn remembrance and adoration of the cross, concludes with Tenebrae (darkness) and the Seven Last Words. It takes place at 7:30 p.m.
Holy Saturday: The Easter Vigil at 8:00 p.m. provides the first taste of the resurrection celebration!
Easter Sunday: There are two joyous services on Easter Sunday morning, at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. An Easter breakfast between the services, open to all, is hosted by the wonderful cooks of Saint Stephen. An egg hunt and other special events are available for children.
Easter is also celebrated in contemporary style at Godsong, Easter afternoon at 5:00p.m.
Strawberry Concert
In June the Senior and Handbell Choirs present a lively concert that may include tunes from musicals, barbershop quartets, or favorite hymns. The Godsong Praise Team complements these events with a contemporary flair. Strawberries and ice cream are served after the concert.
Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School takes place in July in cooperation with three area congregations – Saint Stephen Lutheran Church, Epiphany Lutheran Church, and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. There are classes for children, youth, and adults each evening during the VBS week. All ages enjoy supper together before the activities begin.
 Blessing of the Animals
Cats, dogs, rabbits, iguanas and other pets are welcomed at Saint Stephen in October for a blessing of the animals. Through this event we remember Saint Francis of Assisi (1182 – 1228) who was known for his love of animals and concern for the environment.
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