NEW HERE CONNECTIONS SERIES

Sundays in September | 10 - 10:45 a.m. | The Commons

It is our great hope that everyone who steps inside the doors of ESUMC finds connection with God and other people as we know, love, and serve God together. The Connections Team is beginning a new series of Connections events for people who are new to the church, considering membership at ESUMC, or who simply want to learn more and connect in new ways. These classes will be held in the Commons during the Discipleship Hour (10:00-10:45 a.m.) and will be co-hosted by a pastor or staff member and a member of the Connections Team. We will hold this series of events on rotation, quarterly. Interested people can choose to come to one or all of the events. Participating in all four events is not a prerequisite for joining the church, but we recommend that those considering membership or those who have recently joined ESUMC attend all four events at some point as they are able. Descriptions of the four Connection events and the dates for the first series offerings are as follows:

Connecting with the United Methodist Church - Sept. 14

Learn about what makes the United Methodist Church distinctive as a denomination.

Connecting with God and Others - Sept. 21

Learn about opportunities to grow in discipleship with God and in Christian community with others.

Connecting with the Church - Sept. 28

Come on a guided tour of the church building to learn what happens where, and how to get there!

RSVP here!

SEPTEMBER STEWARDSHIP SERIES: All Things Bright and Beautiful

Sundays in September during worship

“The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). Since everything belongs to God, we’re called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us. This September, we’re exploring four key areas: how we care for creation (Trees), manage our schedules (Time), handle our resources (Treasure), and how we use our gifts and abilities (Talents). It’s about living with the recognition that we’re stewards, not owners, of God’s good gifts.

Sept. 7 - Trees | Genesis 21:22-34; Luke 13:6-9, 18-19

Sept. 14 - Time | Ephesians 5:15-20; Matthew 6:24-34

Sept. 21 - Talents | 1 Peter 4:7-11; Matthew 25:14-30

Sept. 28 - Treasure | Deuteronomy 8:10-20; Matthew 6:19-29

REFRESH RETREATS AT ST. FRANCIS SPRINGS

September 12, October 10, November 14 | 7:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.

Join us for a spiritual refresh day retreat at St. Francis Springs Prayer Center to renew your soul with connection, prayer, worship, and intentional silence. September 12th, October 10th, November 14th 7:30 AM - 5:15 PM

$15 Per Person, Transportation Provided & Lunch Included

Register here!

Email arigby@esumc.org with questions.

ALL GOD’S CHILDREN: INTERACTIVE LGBTQ+ SEMINAR

Sat., Sept. 13 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Highland UMC - 1901 Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607

Highland United Methodist Church, Fairmont United Methodist Church, and Edenton Street United Methodist Church are excited to co-sponsor a free LGBTQ+ seminar on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Highland United Methodist Church.

This interactive seminar will be led by Angel Collie, Director of Duke’s Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity. It will cover an array of topics, including:

• Welcoming the LBTQ+ community, family, allies, and friends

• LGBTQ+ historical background with key dates and events;

• Understanding key terms and pronouns used in the LGBTQ+ community;

• Current laws passed that impact the LGBTQ+ community;

• Resources that are currently available to support members of the LGBTQ+ community;

• How the church, groups, individuals and community can provide support to members of the LGBTQ+ community.

• Childcare is available and should be noted on the registration form for planning purposes.

Click here to register online!

WAYFARING: A CHRISTIAN APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Sunday, September 21 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM | Kerr Hall

As a theologian and practicing psychiatrist, Dr. Warren Kinghorn will join us at ESUMC to share a Christian vision of accompanying those of all ages who face mental health challenges. The approach he will share affirms four core truths: We are known and loved by God. We are creatures made of earth who are formed in community. We are wayfarers on a journey. We are called not to control, but to wonder, love, praise, and rest. Make plans to attend and learn from his expertise and wisdom.

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL: RALEIGH CLEANUP DAY

Saturday, September 27 | 10:30 AM

Join us as we roll up our sleeves for a hands-on morning of caring for the earth and our community. This event for all ages is part of our September celebration of All Things Bright & Beautiful. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener Raleigh—one piece of litter at a time!

Let us know you're coming so we know how big of a cleanup area we can tackle.

WOMEN OF FAITH BOOK STUDY

Monday, September 29 | 11:00 AM-12:00 PM | Room 251

The United Women of Faith Book Group meets Monday, September 29, in room 251 to discuss Time of the Child by Niall Williams. Niall Williams is a much-acclaimed Irish author. The story of the novel is lovely, and the writing is beautiful. Rev. Joe Mann will introduce the book and lead the group in a discussion. All are invited to attend.

ESUMC MEN’S RETREAT

October 10 - 12 @ Camp Don Lee

Join the men of Edenton Street United Methodist Church for a weekend of connection, worship, and renewal at the 2025 ESUMC Men's Retreat, hosted October 10-12, 2025 at Camp Don Lee in Arapahoe, NC. This retreat offers a chance to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with God and one another. Highlights include inspiring messages, small group discussions, and worship services. There will also be plenty of time for rest and recreation—whether it's kayaking, sailing, fishing, hiking, or diving into spiritual practices through workshops. Come ready to grow in your walk with Christ and build deeper relationships. Mark your calendars!

Register online by clicking here!

PRAYER SHAWL GUILD

2nd Wednesdays, 2:00 - 3:00 pm @ Room 168

The Congregational Care Ministry is excited to announce the re-launching of the ESUMC Prayer Shawl Guild! The Guild knits and crochets shawls, lap robes, baby blankets, neck scarves, and hats to be given to those facing long-term illness, experiencing grief, being baptized, or to those who are a part of the White Flag Ministry. 

Most of the knitting and crocheting will take place at home, but members will gather for an hour beginning at 2:00 pm on the 2nd Wednesday of each month in Room 168. 

The first meeting will be held on April 9. All are welcome! A scarf or a shawl can be a very basic project, crafted with one simple stitch. Even if you have never picked up a needle or a hook, we can teach you the basics in less than an hour. To indicate your interest or for questions, please reach out to Fran Preston at preston.fran@gmail.com

CONNECT WITH OUR PICKLEBALL COMMUNITY

Tuesdays, 5:00 - 6:00 PM @ Bulla Gym

Looking for a new way to connect at Edenton Street? Come and join us every Tuesday evening for Pickleball. Experienced player or never played before? All are welcome and invited to join this exciting sport and enjoy some fellowship with new friends. Bring a family member, a friend or maybe a coworker. Come and join us!