St. Francis Episcopal Church Awarded Grant to Launch Community Healing Ministry

By Kim Giryluk

St. Francis Episcopal Church is pleased to announce it has been awarded an $8,500 Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship to launch a new community initiative, Healing for Your Mind, Body, and Spirit: Come and Be Loved. This funding will support a year-long series of monthly healing services designed to foster spiritual renewal, emotional well-being, and meaningful community connection.

Building on St. Francis Episcopal Church's ongoing commitment to serving the Gulf Breeze community through its Senior Center and no-cost mental health services, this new ministry offers a welcoming space where individuals can find hope, encouragement, and fellowship.

A Ministry of Healing and Hope

Beginning this fall, the church will host a monthly Community Healing Service led by its priest. Each gathering is designed to nurture the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through prayer, reflection, music, and shared fellowship.

Each service will include:

• A light, nourishing lunch to encourage fellowship and connection

• Live meditative music to create an atmosphere of peace and reflection

• An inspiring reading from one of Jesus' healing miracles

• Guided prayer and opportunities for communal support

The program seeks to provide a sacred and compassionate environment where participants can deepen their spiritual lives while finding encouragement alongside others. Whether someone is seeking healing, spiritual connection, or simply a peaceful place to reflect, all are welcome.

Serving the Community

The Healing for Your Mind, Body, and Spirit ministry is open to:

• Residents of Gulf Breeze and the surrounding communities

• Members of the Gulf Breeze Senior Center

• Participants of Pensacola Mental Health's no-cost counseling services

• Members of St. Francis Episcopal Church

• Anyone seeking a welcoming, supportive community grounded in faith, compassion, and hope

Service Schedule

All services will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will be held on the first Wednesday of each month:

• October 7, 2026

• November 4, 2026

• December 2, 2026

• January 6, 2027

• February 3, 2027

• March 3, 2027

• April 7, 2027

• May 5, 2027

• June 2, 2027

• July 7, 2027

As communities continue to seek meaningful opportunities for connection, healing, and hope, St. Francis Episcopal Church invites everyone to join in this new ministry of renewal and restoration—all are welcome!