Parish Activities

BINGO is held on THE SECOND FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH  in the Parish Hall at 5:00 p.m. There are door prizes and a raffle. Food and beverages are available for purchase at 5:00 p.m. 


NEXT BINGO – Friday, April 10th

Every month we collect for one of our supported charities*  Everyone participating in supporting the monthly charity (TBA) will receive one free Early Bird bingo card with the purchase of one or more.

There will be no BINGO in March due to Stations of the Cross, but will resume on  April 10th.


Dinner can be purchased at 5:00 p.m.

Early Bird Bingo begins at 6:00 p.m. at $1 per card

Regular Bingo begins at 6:30 p.m. at $25 per booklet of 6 games on 8 sheets, or $15 per booklet of 3 games on 8 sheets

There will be door prizes throughout the night

50/50 Raffle

Must be 18 or older to attend and Cash only


*We collect items and products for Gracie’s Kitchen, Micah’s Place, Senior Center, Animal Rescue in Yulee, Toys For Tots, School Supplies, and Soldiers. Contact Cathy for details.


For more information, contact Cathy McKnight at events@stfrancisyulee.org

 

The Prayer Shawl Ministry would like to invite all women of St. Francis to join us.  Meetings are on Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. No experience is necessary – beginner lessons will be given. We create homemade “comfort” items that are provided to members of our parish who are homebound or residing in assisted living facilities. We also knit and crochet items that can be utilized by Human Life & Dignity. Everyone is welcome! We also always appreciate yarn donations for our projects! If you would like more information or know of anyone who would benefit from one of the beautiful shawls or baby blankets, please email Wendy Edwards at caloiboy@att.net or call (904) 583-5540

The Women’s Activities Ministry is involved in numerous activities, charities, and events. It partners with and helps other ministries and sponsors several of its own events, such as bake sales, dinner clubs, Angel Tree, and craft fairs. For more information, email Georgia Capobianco at women’s activities or visit the Women’s Activity Ministry Page.


 The next meeting: Thursday, March 5th, at 10:45 in the kitchen quad.

Topic: Quilting
Speaker: Pat Deacon


“Make us know the shortness of our life/ that we may gain wisdom of heart.” (Ps 90:12)

We open our arms to any family who would like to join our ministry, where we focus on family events such as serving the community, fun activities, or simply spending quality time together. If you would be interested in leading the Family Ministry, please contact Jackie Sanchez at bookkeeper@stfrancisyulee.org


 

The SFA Youth Group meets on the third Thursday of the month. Come join us for a night of laughter and fellowship.  All youth, and their friends ages 13 and up are welcome. Refreshments will be provided.  Please email Ms. Jackie Sanchez at youth@stfrancisyulee.org for more information, and visit the YOUTH page.

Meetings will be on the third Friday of every month at 6:00 p.m.

Next meeting: TBA

St Francis of Assisi Young Adult Ministry is open to everyone ages 18-25. It is a place where you can build authentic relationships centered on following Jesus. Come as you are. You belong here! For more information, please get in touch with Jackie Sanchez at youth@stfrancisyulee.org

Young Adults

St. Francis Adult, Youth, and Children’s choirs welcome all parishioners to participate in and enjoy them. For more information on this joyful ministry, email Andy Wallace at music@stfrancisyulee.org and check out the Music Page.

Collections for Yulee Methodist Church (YUM) Food Bank will be held the weekend of February 21st & 22nd, 2026, at the 4:00 & 6:00 p.m.  Masses and the 8:00 & 9:45 a.m. Masses.


St. Francis of Assisi enjoys its partnership with the Yulee United Methodist Church food bank. Our food and monetary donations help serve needy families in our area. Contributions from St. Francis of Assisi, both in terms of food and cash, are integral to providing food to so many people in our community. Collection drives are held periodically.  More information will be posted as available. Pastor Abigail Fields and the Food Pantry Team are so grateful for our help and for the generous food and monetary donations made by St. Francis Parishioners! They could not meet the needs of those they serve without our help and partnership! 

For more information, email Mary Flanagan at charities@stfrancisyulee.org

Soles4Souls (located in Gracie’s Dining Room) collects shoes and socks for those in need. This was started when one of our volunteers observed children without shoes and socks coming in to eat in Gracie’s dining room. Soon after, we collected donations of all sizes and genders for those in need. Men’s work socks are always needed. We also need flip-flops, sunscreen, face and hand lotion, and chapstick.

Seeking a few volunteers to help with cleaning tasks around the church. We meet at 10:00 a.m. Mondays. Please contact Kim for more details (904) 335-0096 or  kimbeamont79@yahoo.com.

New Senior Social Ministry that gathers on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month after the 9:00 am Mass. Meet some new people or connect with friends as we share one another’s company and expand our horizons over a cup of coffee or tea, and sample some homemade treats. Feel free to bring a friend who might not get out and about much. See you by the kitchen quadrant!

As the new year begins, we may be overwhelmed by the varied serious situations facing the world and our church today, but God’s Word always offers hope, peace, comfort, and a way out of the dilemmas we encounter.

In our new bible study, First Corinthians: The Church and the Christian Community, our presenter, Dr. Tim Gray, examines St. Paul’s advice for living an authentic Christian life in a pagan culture, then and now, which struggles with divisions, scandals, immorality, persecutions and other trials. We’ll learn about his teachings regarding the nature of grace, the Church as the body of Christ, and the most powerful gift of all—the Eucharist.

Choose a Monday session beginning on January 12th from 6:30 – 8 pm, or a Wednesday session beginning on January 14th from 9:45 – 11:15 am. The 11-week course ends the week before Holy Week.                        

Before each session, you will answer questions in the workbook and view an online video which will be discussed within our groups. The cost of materials and video access is $37. Checks to St. Francis of Assisi or cash can be paid at the first session. Scholarships are available. More info can be found at www.ascensionpress.com. Register by email to asukotsky13@gmail.com no later than Sunday, December 28th.

For those who have lost a loved one

He is Risen and in Him is all our Hope.

The next gathering: TBA  You MUST RSVP  for meetings to  jesuswept@stfrancisyulee.org as space is limited. Drinks will be provided, but you must bring your own lunch.

NEW – SEASONS OF HOPE: MORE INFORMATION


The “Jesus Wept” Honoring Your Grief”  program was offered for the first time on May 20th, 2022.  It was so well received and considered to be such a wonderful blessing, that it has evolved into the “Jesus Wept Consolation Ministry at St. Francis.”

For over a year now this ministry has been evolving under the wings of the Holy Spirit,  Jesus, the comforter, and the Father who supports and welcomes us all, especially those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

After much prayer and guidance from the Diocese of St. Augustine and our Pastor, Father Slawek, we are now a full-fledged support group for our brothers and sisters in the frightening stages of grief.  Sometimes, that even includes comfort with anticipatory grief.  A strong faith team guides and presents each program. Jesus Wept meets on the third Friday of each month from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. One need only contact Tom Sintes at jesuswept@stfrancisyulee.org or leave a contact number with the office and we will connect with you.

The Jesus Wept Ministry (our short endearing name for it) welcomes anyone who has lost a loved one such as those losses that occur before birth and all through childhood and onward. Our children are always our children, no matter their age. Loss of a spouse, loss of a sibling or a precious friend, loss of a parent-all are losses that often find us in need of the support of those who have walked this path as well as the need to be consoled through faith.  Jesus Wept can do that.

       The Jesus Wept Consolation Ministry at St. Francis  is Christ-Centered and has at its heart the hope of the Resurrection.

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PARISH  PRAYER WATCH

If you have a prayer request- especially an urgent one, e-mail us at prayerwatch@stfrancisyulee.org. Prayers by a growing number of parishioners will cover your need. Currently, there are almost 100 prayer warriors. There is no set time to pray for these intentions. You may pray at any time. To be part of this expanded beloved ministry, BECOME A PRAYER PARTNER by sending your e-mail address to Prayer Watch and you will be added to our list and receive intention requests via email. No matter where any of us roam, or the difficulty before us – reach out, your parish is here for you. For more information, contact Tom Sintes at prayerwatch@stfrancisyulee.org

The more we pray together the more powerful our prayer!

For more information on Spirituality events, click HERE

Are you seeking to deepen your prayer life? Over the past year, the participants of Prayer Share have learned about different methods of prayer, share the stumbling blocks we have encountered, and more. We meet on the first Thursday of each month from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the Chapel.  To join us, RSVP to spirituality@saintfrancisyulee.org. What better time to join us than Lent? A time to dive deeper into our relationship with Jesus? The next meeting will be on September 4th. All are welcome!

Project Isobel for St. Gerard’s was started five years ago in honor of a parishioner’s grandmother.  St. Gerard’s is a non-profit maternity home and Christian high school in St. Augustine for young, unwed girls who have made the decision to have their babies. The facility makes sure they receive the proper medical attention they need as well as making sure they attend classes on campus and receive their high school diploma. For more information, or to become involved with Project Isobel and  Human Life and Dignity, contact Liz Milo at ermfl@att.net

Heart2Heart sends “one of a kind” greeting cards handmade by our own artists to those who are ill, recovering from surgery, needing encouragement or are celebrating a milestone event. If you know of someone who needs a card, please send their name, address (if you have it) along with the general reason for the card to charities@stfrancisyulee.org.

Thanks to our artist, Sandy, for her time and talents in creating these cards. Angela, thank you also for your time and effort providing comforting messages and thank you Angela Sukotsky for following up with those who need our support.

Do you know that we have a Men’s Bible Study group right here at St. Francis?

We meet at 7:30 a.m. every Tuesday morning in the Quiet Room, and spend an hour delving into the gospel writings. All men of St. Francis are invited to join in this interesting and exciting study of our faith.

Fun Activities encourage parishioners to enjoy social get-togethers.  For more information, contact Mary Flanagan or Tony Vellucci at funactivities@stfrancisyulee.org.


Looking ahead, we are targeting April 17th or 24th for another “Not So Newlywed Game”, and a multinational Dinner towards the end of May. Check back for updates!

To Be Rescheduled – The Making Of A Homily By The Three Deacons

We held this event almost three years ago in February 2023 and everyone had a great time.  Each of the three deacons will tell us how they prepare their amazing homilies and where they get their inspiration.

At the last event, everyone could not stop laughing.  Who knew preparing homilies could be so funny as the three deacons shared so many of their stories.

Deacon Brian Campbell has left, but Deacon Bill Gallerizzo will be there along with Deacon Tom Healy and Deacon Ralph LaMacchia.  Join us for this panel discussion with a Q&A session to follow.

Please RSVP to any one or all of the activities above by sending us an email at Fun Activities Ministry <funactivities@stfrancisyulee.org>.


We are targeting April for our next round. Check back for updates!

The first-ever SFA Not So Newlywed Game was held Friday evening, September 15th, thanks to Walt and Vivian Paskowski, who did a great job as the emcees, to Ken Risberg, who provided audio support, to Bob Bell, and Mike and Mary Flanagan, who helped with a host of tasks, including setup.

And of course, thanks to our game contestants and studio audience. In all, about 35 parishioners attended. The Huddaks—Gene and Sandy— won the first game, and after a tie, David and Genny Barker won the second. The game followed the same format as the 1960s game show, including a “soundproof booth” – the quiet room.

PHOTOS

Knights of Columbus 4th Degree


The Knights meet on the third Monday of the month from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. in the Quiet Room. 

Monthly Meetings are on the 2nd Tuesday of Each Month at 6:30 pm. There are no meetings in July or August. All men of the parish are welcome!

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 10th, and feature a presentation by Greg Roland from Nassau County Fire Rescue on Emergency Preparedness.


Come join us for great company, meaningful conversation, and a chance to connect with fellow parishioners. We look forward to seeing you there!

MEETING AGENDA:

6:30–7:00 PM: Dinner and fellowship

7:00–7:30 PM: Service project discussions

7:30–8:30 PM: Guest speaker and discussion


The Men of St. Francis work a great deal behind the scenes, assisting the various ministries and their functions. They organize fundraisers and support numerous charitable endeavors, including the Salvation Army Red Kettle Program.

 All men are welcome! For more information, email Jim Hanekamp at mensactivities@stfrancisyulee.org

We are also part of Gracie’s Kitchen, an interfaith dinner network that provides hot meals to single mothers, senior citizens, military veterans, the disabled, and low-wage workers. Our St. Francis team cleans, cooks, and serves meals to over 200 guests on the 2nd and 3rd Thursdays of each month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.


Our newest endeavor, the Angel’s Unaware Ministry, places nice furniture in homes that have none. For Christmas 2025,  the members of St. Francis gifted us with blankets for homes of those in need, including our homeless community.

Thank you for making it happen. Thank you for being a part of “us”.


Periodically, our parish donation holds a donation drive for Gracie’s Kitchen. The next drive TBA

REQUESTED ITEMS: shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, Dental floss, Chapstick, Soap, hand sanitizer, & Razors.

CLOTHING ITEMS REQUESTED: Caps, hats, scarves, gloves, Men’s/women’s socks & Rain ponchos.

Thank you so much for your continued support!  Many blessings during this beautiful season of giving.


Gracie’sPets

At Gracie’s Kitchen, we also provide supplemental pet foods for dogs and cats. The Pet Corner began to encourage guests to eat their full dinners instead of taking part of their food home to feed their pets. With donations from our congregation, we can provide supplemental pet food for our guests’ dogs and cats. The St. Francis Pet Corner welcomes any donations to our pet food pantry. The pet corner is helping around 200 pets a month. We need pet shampoos if anyone would like to donate. We appreciate our parishioners’ support and are grateful. To make a pet food donation or to arrange pickup/drop off, contact Pat at: jpjanco@bellsouth.net or by phone: (904) 225-9702, or bring your donation to the 4:00 pm Vigil Mass on Saturdays


Meet Gracie’s Team

 


For more information, email Mary Flanagan at charities@stfrancisyulee.org.

 

If you would like to schedule one of our ministers to visit and spend some time with your loved one(s) who are homebound or reside in assisted living facilities to pray the Rosary, read the Bible, or talk and listen, contact Gene Hudak at liturgy@stfrancisyulee.org

Adopt a Soldier collects items for our armed forces and organizes them into gift boxes for our troops. Please join us in showing our appreciation for the selfless service of our troops by donating items for care packages this holiday season. Your generosity is a simple yet meaningful way to let our military know they are remembered and valued every day.


The next collection will be announced at some point in time.

Requested items include:
Protein/Granolabars|Rice Krispies Treats | Peanuts, Beef Jerky/Slim Jims |Candies: Sour/Hard/Gum
DrinkPackets forWater |Tea bags/GroundCoffee/K-cups Oreos/Nutter Butter IndividualCookiePacks
Crackers: Peanut Butter/Cheese| RamenNoodlePacks

Razors: Male/Female | Toothbrush with Paste Deodorant: Male/Female| Female Maxi-Pads Non-Alcohol Baby Wipes


Please do not drop off donations in the Narthex! You may contact Adopt-a-Soldier Sponsor Jo-Ann Pimentel for questions at (904) 583 -0338 or dadpimentel@comcast.net. Thank you!

Jo-Ann M. Pimentel (904) 583-0338

Sacred Environment is in charge of maintaining the plants and flowers inside the church. Volunteers are needed to commit for a month to the weekly watering of plants and removing expired flower arrangements. Help is needed for watering the Altar flowers.


Duties:

1.      Check the soil with the meter to determine if plants should be watered (there is a water dispensing bulb in each plant.

2.      Ensure flowers have enough water in vase(s), pruning may be necessary to keep them alive for a few days during the week.

3.      Dispose of flowers after 9:00 am Mass during the week.

4.      Check the calendar in the Bulletin for any conflicts.

5.      Time commitment: 15 – 30 minutes/week. If you can help contact Sally at sgbrai83@gmail.com