The Episcopal Church on Edisto Becoming St. Francis Episcopal Church

After becoming a parish at our diocesan convention in November 2022 and then welcoming their first rector last summer, The Episcopal Church on Edisto began exploring the possiblity of changing their church name. With the help of a Naming Task Force, the possibilities were narrowed down to three options. At their congregational meeting in January, members voted overwhelmingly in favor of the name St. Francis Episcopal Church.

When voting for the final choice, the description around the option of St. Francis included the following: 
St. Francis (1181-1226) is one of the best known and most cherished saints in the history of the Christian church...St. Francis can easily represent the past, present, and future of our church. He teaches us to care for and respect animals, all of creation, and each other, including the disadvantaged. We can draw inspiration from him to broaden our outreach to care for our fellow humans and to be good stewards of God's creation as we go forward. St. Francis was able to see the face of Christ in everyone with whom he came in contact. By choosing this name, it clearly communicates our commitment to doing the same.

The new name will become official on Saturday, June 15, when Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley visits to lead the installation of Fr. Joseph Smith as the congregation's rector, and makes official the new name. The service will be held at 11 am, and ALL are welcome and invited to attend! Check out the church's new website at saintfrancisedisto.org!