Welcome to Saint John's Episcopal Church in Hagerstown, Maryland

We are a lively, active community of faith. We strive to be a loving congregation, committed to welcoming ALL and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Deanna Welcoming
Deacon Sue Go in Peace
Pieter and Becca Livestreaming

Second Sunday of Advent

December 7, 2025

On this Second Sunday of Advent, we meet John the Baptist in the wilderness, crying out, “Prepare the way of the Lord.” His words can sound sharp, but beneath them is a deep promise: God is already drawing near, ready to grow new life from what once seemed cut down to the stump. Advent invites us to clear space in our hearts and habits, not out of fear, but so that Christ’s light can reach the places we have avoided or ignored. As we light the second candle today, we remember that repentance is really about turning again toward hope—trusting that Jesus comes with the Holy Spirit and with fire to warm our hearts, refine our priorities, and help our lives bear good fruit for the sake of the world.

Upcoming Events

Journey with us through Advent and into Christmastide.

At Saint John’s

St. Nicholas Day Celebration — Sunday, December 7 (after the 10:15 a.m. service)
Celebrate St. Nicholas with activities for children, youth, and adults—invite family, friends, and neighbors!

Advent Lessons & Carols — Sunday, December 7 at 5:00 p.m.
Scripture, prayer, and beautiful Advent music led by the Saint John’s Parish Choir, followed by a festive reception.

Open House & Caroling at Fr. Rick & Tim’s Home — Sunday, December 14 (after 10:15 a.m. service)
Share Christmas cheer with cookies, wassail, and carols together. 1858 Meridian Drive, Hagerstown.

Tuesday Night Bible Study with Deacon Sue — Tuesdays, 7–8 p.m.
Join online or in Saint Mary’s Chapel for Scripture, reflection, and discussion.
Meeting ID: 827 3456 7853 · Passcode: 175639.

Community & Outreach

Saint John’s Family Shelter — Holiday Gifts
Help provide Walmart gift cards, cookies, fruit, and candy for families at the shelter. Please make checks payable to Saint John’s Family Shelter, noting “holiday gift” in the memo, and mail to P.O. Box 1833, Hagerstown, MD 21742 by December 14.

Reach Cold Weather Shelter — February 1–8, 2026
Our week at the Cold Weather Shelter is February 1–8. It takes many volunteers to cover evening and overnight shifts, provide meals, and support our guests. Watch for sign-up sheets in December Soundings, or contact Missy McCray (717-420-7118) to learn how you can help.

Confirmation for Youth & Young Adults
Bishop Carrie will visit St. John’s on April 19 to confirm candidates. An information meeting will be held Sunday, January 18 after the 10:15 service (Youth Classroom), with classes beginning February 1. If interested, contact Fr. Rick at rector1806@gmail.com or Carol Cox at cacox07@yahoo.com.

Historic Houses of Worship Tour — Friday, December 26 · 12:00–6:00 p.m.
Visit historic churches throughout Hagerstown during this beloved community tradition. For more information, please see or contact Dan Meyers.

Tour Our Church

Tap on the image to walk through our beautiful, historic sanctuary.

Saint John's Church

Location:

101 S. Prospect St., Hagerstown, MD 21740
Parking is available in the church lot at the corner of Walnut and Antietam Streets.

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