This Sunday’s Gospel, Luke 17:11–19, places us once again in Luke’s travel narrative. Jesus is making his way to Jerusalem, and along the way he teaches and trains his disciples often using the scribes and Pharisees as the antithesis of what it means to be people of God.

Today’s teaching comes by way of healing. In this pericope, Jesus encounters ten lepers who cry out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” Following his instructions to go and show themselves to the priests, they went and noticed they were now clean.

One of the ten, upon realizing he was healed, turned back, praised God, and thanked Jesus. The other nine followed Jesus’ directions. To the one, Jesus says, “Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.”

Interestingly, all ten were physically healed, but only one experienced a deeper transformation, being made whole through faith and gratitude. It makes me wonder: What is the distinction here? What’s the difference between being cured of a disease and being made well or whole?

And how does the fact that this one was an outsider, a Samaritan, play into the story? As a leper, he was already cast out. As a Samaritan, he was doubly excluded from society and religious belonging. Yet he is the one who recognizes the holy and receives the fullness of healing.

Could it be that no one is beyond God’s reach?

This story invites us to ask: Do we merely seek healing, or do we pursue wholeness? Do we recognize the holy in unexpected places, in the outsider, in the act of gratitude, in the journey itself?

We joyfully launched our 2026 stewardship season with a beautiful kick-off dinner. Canon Ann Fleming, Canon for Congregational Vitality on the bishop’s staff, inspired us with a powerful message, affirming our journey of perseverance and faithfulness, while also challenging us to reflect more deeply on our story. (Click here to read her full address.)

As we look ahead, we ask: How do we share our story in ways that reveal its connection to God’s story? What does continued faithfulness to God look like here at Saint Francis? These are the questions that will guide us as we shape our future together.

For your convenience, we’ve included electronic copies of both the stewardship letter and pledge card, originally mailed on October 9. We invite you to prayerfully consider your commitment to our shared ministry. Please help us with next year's budget process by returning your pledge card either to the church office or in the collection plate by November 16.

Together, let us continue growing in faith and shaping the future of Saint Francis.

             

What are the short-term goals of the doers task force? 

1. Gain access to the property for use before buildings
2. Bury utilities in preparation of buildings
3. Explore well and septic timing. The property has successfully passed a percolation test for a septic system that could support 200 people.  While our sanctuary may serve a smaller day-to-day community, the system was sized to support larger gatherings such as weddings, funerals, and other special events.
4. Property use in the next few years

Each year, the Edisto community comes together to share a warm Thanksgiving meal at the annual Feeding of the Multitude. This cherished event is a beautiful way to connect with neighbors and celebrate the spirit of gratitude.

This year’s gathering will take place on Saturday, November 1st at Trinity Church, with preparations underway to welcome 350 guests—a number that continues to grow annually.

The event is a collaborative effort among local churches, each contributing in their own way. As in the past two years, Saint Francis will provide Macaroni and Cheese and six volunteers: two for setup, two for serving, and two for cleanup.
     

         Hearts and Hands

What is our Hearts and Hands Ministry? Hearts and Hands is a meals ministry that supports our church family during times of need. Think of it like the "take a penny, leave a penny" tray at a cash register—if you're able to give, we welcome your help; if you're in need, we're here for you.

If you're willing to cook a meal, please reach out to Jean Murray, to be added to the contact list for when the meal chain is activated. And if you’ve been ill, hospitalized, or could simply use a helping hand, contact Jean or Fr. Joseph to receive support through this ministry.