Holy Cross Episcopal Church and
the Episcopal Education Exploratory Committee
On a beautiful fall afternoon in October, the front lawn of Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Homewood was transformed into a festive Pop-Up Pumpkin Patch, welcoming more than 70 children and their families. Thanks to the generosity of individual friends, volunteers, and neighbors, a total of 77 pumpkins were donated and arranged to create a cheerful, child-friendly patch on the church lawn.
Children selected their perfect pumpkin before heading to the decorating tables, where volunteers offered stickers, paint, markers, and safe carving alternatives for all ages. Families enjoyed free refreshments and a relaxed, joy-filled time of fun and connection.
The event was organized by the Episcopal Education Exploratory Committee (EEE Committee) as part of its ongoing commitment to offer free, developmentally appropriate opportunities for young children and families in the Homewood neighborhood. Over the past couple of years, the committee has hosted or participated in Trunk-or-Treats, Parent/Child Together Time, Parents’ Day Out, Vacation Bible School, Easter egg hunts, and other community-building events designed to strengthen relationships and provide opportunities for connection.
As shared at the November Diocesan Convention, the EEE Committee is now moving from the exploratory phase into the founding phase of launching a tuition-free Episcopal educational program in Homewood. The vision is to begin with one class of four-year-olds, adding a new class or grade level each year, partnering with families and offering a holistic approach that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.
Anyone interested in volunteering, supporting community engagement efforts in Homewood, volunteering with family programs, or learning more about this initiative is warmly invited to contact either:
- The Rev. Charles Fischer III, Priest-in-Charge, Holy Cross Episcopal Church at 412- 242-3209 or frcfischer@gmail.com
- Eileen Sharbaugh, Episcopal Education Exploratory Committee, at sharbaugh@verizon.net
EEE Committee members are also happy to connect with church outreach groups, speak during adult forums, mission minutes, or meet with parishioners who would like to learn more about this emerging educational ministry.