St. Barnabas Episcopal Church: Annual Events in Borrego Springs

Annual Events That Bring Borrego Springs Together

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, at 2680 Country Club Road in Borrego Springs, has been a central part of the community since it was built in 1966. It’s not just a place of worship; it’s where people come together for events that everyone can enjoy.

As a key and founding member of the Borrego Ministers Association—a coalition of local churches and community leaders—St. Barnabas is deeply involved in organizing these gatherings. These events are a collaborative effort, bringing people together and welcoming everyone, whether local or visiting.

Much of the church’s outreach is done in partnership with the BMA, ensuring a unified and coordinated approach to serving the community.

Let’s take a closer look at some of these special traditions:

Ashes-to-Go: Reflecting on Lent

Every Spring, St. Barnabas participates in the community tradition of Ash Wednesday with Ashes-to-Go. On Ash Wednesday, residents and visitors can receive ashes, symbolizing repentance and renewal as Lent begins. This ecumenical practice, supported by the Borrego Ministers Association, is open to all, offering a meaningful reminder of our shared human condition and the hope of renewal during this sacred season.

Bring Your Own Bowl Lunch & Performance Series

Each year during the cooler months, St. Barnabas hosts the BYOB (Bring Your Own Bowl) concert and soup series. This weekly event invites the community to enjoy live performances in the church’s welcoming space, followed by a simple lunch on the patio. It’s a wonderful opportunity to take a break, connect with others, and support the church’s mission in the Borrego Valley.



Blessing of the Animals

The annual Blessing of the Animals, held every October at St. Barnabas and sometimes Christmas Circle, is a beloved event where pets of all shapes and sizes, along with their human companions, receive a special blessing. Rooted in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, this ceremony celebrates the bond between humans and animals while reinforcing the church's commitment to honoring all of God’s creatures.

People gather in the churchyard for this joyous occasion, highlighting the inclusive spirit of Borrego Springs and making it a must-attend event for animal lovers and the community alike.



Thanksgiving Eve Service

As the holiday season approaches, the Thanksgiving Eve Service in Borrego Springs offers a peaceful moment for reflection and gratitude. This annual gathering, supported by the Borrego Ministers Association, rotates among local churches, including St. Barnabas, and brings together people from all walks of life to give thanks for the year's blessings.

Visitors are always welcome to join in this meaningful tradition, connecting with the community and experiencing the warmth and hospitality that define Borrego Springs.



Christmas Services at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church

Join St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Borrego Springs for a meaningful celebration of Christmas. Each year, the church hosts special services that bring the community together to reflect on the spirit of the season.

Christmas Eve Service
An evening service featuring Lessons & Carols, followed by Holy Communion. This traditional gathering offers a blend of scripture readings, carols, and a sense of reverence for the holiday.



Christmas Day Service
A morning service with Holy Communion to celebrate Christmas Day, providing a peaceful and joyful way to honor the birth of Christ.

All are welcome to attend these services at St. Barnabas, located at 2680 Country Club Road in Borrego Springs, CA. Whether you’re a local or visiting, come and experience the warmth and spirit of Christmas with the community.

Note: Service times remain consistent each year, with Christmas Eve services in the evening and Christmas Day services in the morning.

Beyond Yearly Events: St. Barnabas' Ongoing Commitment

These yearly events are just part of what St. Barnabas offers to the community. They don’t even touch on the daily, weekly, and monthly involvement of the church, where St. Barnabas plays a vital role in providing support, worship, and fellowship to Borrego Springs and beyond.

Learn More

To discover more about St. Barnabas Episcopal Church and its events, visit www.stbarnabasborregosprings.com. For additional information on events and activities in Borrego Springs, check out Borrego Events.

You can also follow St. Barnabas on Facebook at St. Barnabas Borrego Springs for the latest updates.

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