Our Mission

As a Christian community, we seek to share the Gospel by welcoming all people, nurturing them through Word and Sacrament, and equipping God's people to serve others in Christ's name.

THE HISTORY OF ST. FRANCIS PARISH

St. Francis Episcopal Church was a dream of the Rt. Rev. Thomas Wright, IV, Bishop of East Carolina, when he initiated plans for a new church in Goldsboro in April 1961. Population and businesses were moving rapidly from downtown Goldsboro toward the east and northeast. In an effort to establish a new Episcopal Church, the vestry of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church (established in 1853 and located in downtown Goldsboro) began a search for property and subsequently purchased 11 acres in the Forest Hills subdivision.

Eighteen families agreed to form the new mission under the leadership of the Rev. James Wilson, Vicar. The first worship service was November 29, 1964 in the administration building of an abandoned prison camp. After one year, the services were moved to a bowling alley. On November 20, 1966, the congregation relocated to its present location in Forest Hills. And, on February 10, 1973, St. Francis became recognized as a full parish (no longer financially aided by the Diocese of East Carolina). Since that time St. Francis has enjoyed the leadership of various priests, most recently (November 2019) calling the Rev. Kate Byrd as the Priest in Charge. With involved and dedicated parish leaders and volunteers St. Francis continues to grow and empower it’s members to serve God in our congregation and community.