ARLINGTON - St. James' Episcopal Church has announced its Fall program of services and events at the historic church in the heart of Arlington. There are two celebrations of the Holy Eucharist on Sundays: at 8 a.m., quiet and contemplative; at 10 a.m., with organ, choir and congregational singing. The 10 a.m. liturgy is followed by a coffee hour hosted each week by different members of the congregation. During the week, the Holy Eucharist is celebrated on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. This is an informal service that provides a welcome "refreshing" break during the busy week. All are welcome, regardless of religious affiliation. We are a welcoming community of open hearts and discerning minds and invite all to join us.

On Saturday, Sept. 8 at 2 p.m., join in for an organ and piano recital by Sarah Lenfest, the musician at St. James. A graduate of Williams College, Lenfest will present a varied program of works by noted composers past and present for both organ and piano. Admission is free.

At the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, Sept. 9, there will be a special "Backpack Blessing." Bring your backpacks, tote bags, briefcases, handbags, purses, computer tablets - whatever you carry with you and use in your daily round of activities. The blessing ceremony is open to people of all ages, not simply students. Please join us.

Beginning on Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 6:30 p.m. and continuing each Tuesday through Oct. 23, the St. James' Book Study Group will begin an examination and discussion

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of "Love Wins," the acclaimed book by Rob Bell about "Heaven and Hell, and the fate of every person who ever lived." Rob Bell is the Founding Pastor and Pastor Emeritus of Mars Hill Bible Church. He graduated from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill., and Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. All are welcome to participate in the Book Study Group on "Love Wins". Call the Parish Office at 802-375-9952 or send an e-mail message to stjamesparishoffice@gmail.com to indicate your wish to participate and to obtain a copy of the book.

On Saturday, Oct. 6, there are two major events at St. James'. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Harvest Fair 2012 will be celebrated on the church grounds and the Arlington Village Green. Vendors will offer a diverse assortment of arts, crafts, antiques and collectibles for your browsing and shopping pleasure. The church will be decorated for the harvest season and will be open for visitors. Self-guided tours of the historic cemetery are also available.

Vendor space is still available. Contact the Parish Office for information about reserving a space for this annual event.

Also on Saturday, Oct. 6, join for "A Night in Italy." Relax and enjoy a three-course served meal featuring Antipasto platter; bread with dipping oil; Chicken Piccata with Angel Hair pasta, Salad; Tiramisu; coffee, tea and still and sparkling water. Seatings are at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The cost is $20 per person ($10 for children 12 and under). Seating is limited so reservations are strongly suggested. Call 802-375-9952 for tickets, or purchase them at the door. This is a benefit event; all proceeds support St. James' and its activities for the church and the greater community. You are welcome you to gather with your family at our table for excellent food, lively conversation and fellowship.

On Sunday, Oct. 7, join for the annual observance of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi and the Blessing of the Animals at 4 p.m.

If the weather permits, the brief but lovely service will take place on the church lawn. If not, the celebration will be held in the church.

All pets are welcome. Dogs must be leashed. Cats, birds and other pets must be suitably contained and under owner's control at all times.

For additional information about any of these events or to make reservations, please call 802-375-9952 or send an e-mail message to stjamesparishoffice@gmail.com. Information is also available on our website at www.stjamesarlingtonvt.org.