North Branford Small Business Spotlight: Zion Episcopal Church

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Organization: Zion Episcopal Church
Ministers: All the people of Zion, Vicar: the Rev. Lucy LaRocca
Website: www.zionepiscopalchurch.net
Address: 326 Notch Hill Rd, North Branford, 203-488-7395

How did you come up with the name?

Zion Episcopal Church was founded in 1812. In 1819, the people of Zion built their wood frame church. The name Zion refers to the New Jerusalem, the Church, or a safe, spiritual homeland.

Why open in this town?

Zion has become known as ‘the little church with a big heart.’ In this way, Zion reflects the wider North Branford community. The people of this area have a genuine concern for the well being of their neighbors. Zion started because the other Episcopal churches in the area were far away. (Far, that is, when you need to drive a horse and cart to church!) These days, we happily collaborate with our neighbors in faith with our joint Youth Group and other events.

What business are you in?

Zion is the community business! We are a church that welcomes ALL people who seek the healing love of God and desire to serve Christ in all people.

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced?

By the 1950’s the widening of Route 80 and a growing congregation had made the location and our building inadequate. Funds were raised to move the building to its current location on Notch Hill Rd and add on the Parish Hall.

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

For over 200 years, Zion has been a community dedicated to worship and service.

How does Zion give back to the community?

Zion has long supported the Food Pantries of North Branford. We collect food each week to be distributed in town and each year share the proceeds of our participation in CROPWALK to alleviate hunger in North Branford. We participate in Midnight Run in New Haven and other programs and events that serve those in need; locally, regionally, and globally. We welcome all to our beautiful worship every Sunday morning and offer Christian Formation for all ages. Our sanctuary is open for prayer most weekdays for anyone who wishes to just drop in for some quiet time with God. We have opened up Zion Park to honor those who gave their live in Iraq and Afghanistan when we hosted Field of Flags, and every October as we Bless the Animals in honor of St. Francis, and provide interment for the ashes of beloved pets. Zion has provided quality early childhood education in North Branford for over 45 years with our Nursery on Notch Hill.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.