Be Transformed by your Discipleship. Transform Trinity with your Faithful Generosity. Transform the World through Prayer & Action.
Trinity Episcopal Church Annual Meeting J a nua ry 2 8, 2018
Trinity Annual Report for the Year 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS Rector’s Address 1 Warden’s Report 4 Mission: Innovation & Incubation
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Minutes of the Parish Annual Meeting for year 2016
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2016 Baptismal and Pastoral Rites
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Membership and Worship Statistics
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Worship at Trinity 11 Music 12 Taizé 13 Learning & Formation
Adult Learning & Formation
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Children and Youth Education & Formation
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Outreach Ministries 18 Outreach Partnerships 22 Pastoral Care 25 Families & Parents at Trinity
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Parish Life 27 Trinity Guilds 28 St. Richards’ Episcopal School
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2017 Delegates, Diocesan Convention
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Who’s Who at Trinity Church & St. Richard’s Episcopal School
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Annual Meeting Agenda Gather for Worship at 9AM • Call to order following the Welcome • Appointment of Parish Clerk • Appointment of Tellers Elections Vestry: Five members for three-year terms • Introduction of Current Vestry Members • Nominations for 2018-2021 Vestry Class • Nominations from the Floor • Distribution, voting and collection of Ballots Diocesan convention delegation: 6 delegates; and 2 alternates • Nominations from the Floor • Distribution, voting and collection of Ballots After communion, the service and meeting continue in the Fortune Room • Postcommunion Prayer & Hymn • Approve the Minutes from the 2017 Annual Parish Meeting • Rector’s Report • Warden’s Report • Trinity Haven • Explanation of 2017 & 2018 budgets (Budget Q&A to follow on Sunday, February 4 at 11:15 AM) • Appreciation of Wardens & Outgoing Vestry • Election Report • Introduction & Appreciation of Trinity Staff • Stewardship Appreciation • Sung Doxology in thanks for all we have and all we will be • Adjournment Festive Luncheon in celebration of our Abundance
Rector’s Address: the State of the Parish The Rev’d Julia E. Whitworth, Rector
At the end of my first full year as your Rector, I am pleased to say that the energy of transition at Trinity continues to feel life-giving and exciting here. Welcome to the 2018 Trinity Annual Meeting! Liturgy of the Word.” This dedicated, age-appropriate liturgy for ages 4-4th grade occurs most Sundays in the Chapel of the Holy Innocents during the 10am service. Kathleen has also introduced a Family Game Night, service activities, and other opportunities for the youngest in our parish to connect.
I do not need to tell you that transition, in church or in life, is not a one-shot deal. Transition is a season. It is a process and a state of mind. As a parish, Trinity has been living into the anticipations, the possibilities, and the promises of transition for quite some time. At the end of my first full year as your Rector, I am pleased to say that the energy of transition at Trinity continues to feel life-giving and exciting here.
Opportunities to connect have been a significant focus of programming for Trinity in the last year. In our Parish Life we have started Celebration Coffee Hours (organized by Christy Jacobi) to create expanded opportunities for fellowship after church once a month. These, along with the new Epiphany Party, expanded Shrove Tuesday Supper, Newcomers Welcome Sundays and gatherings, and our very successful Feast of St. Francis celebration, are among our efforts to create more opportunities for fun, friendship, and community-building here at Trinity. The fine food of our Guild of Unexceptionable Cuisiniers contribute mightily to that joy-filled work.
When I arrived in 2017, I was impressed by all that you had done already as a parish. Now that I have completed a full year with you, I am thrilled with all that we have accomplished together already, and all we can do in the years ahead. Last year at this time, we were kicking off our Lighting Campaign to renovate the lights in the sanctuary. We achieved our fundraising goal in relatively quick order, and we were able to commence the renovation during the season of Lent. After a season of worshipping in the gym, what a thrill to return to our beautiful sanctuary on Palm Sunday and experience the space anew under elegant, thoughtful, and beautiful lighting. We have benefited from the renovation all year long: at evening liturgies and dedicated chapel services, with better lighting for unusual offerings (like St. Richard’s bell choir) or just more light to read our leaflets and see one another. Many thanks, again, to all of you who donated to our lighting campaign. Your names are listed in the annual report. We will be using that list to create a permanent expression of gratitude: please check it with care to make sure there are no errors.
2017 was a year not only for connecting socially but also for connecting spiritually and vocationally as people of faith. During this year we have added Formation opportunities like the new bi-weekly Men’s Breakfast Group (organized by Peter Sehlinger and Tom Greist), Lenten and Advent Quiet Days, Sunday Bible Studies, and adult forums featuring our campus ministry partners. We have offered Inquirers’ Classes in both Spring and Fall and Lectio Divina/Contemplative Prayer groups in the season of Epiphany. And the Tuesday Rector’s Book Study Group continues to go strong. 2018 will see us continuing to develop this work with the beginning of Discipleship Groups and a parish-wide Lenten book study.
At the end of last Epiphany, we said goodbye to Mother Lea Colvill, who with her lovely family moved to Hailey, Idaho, where she is priest-in-charge at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Many people pitched in to cover Mother Lea’s ministry areas. I took over leadership of St. Richard’s chapels, with tremendous support by the school’s administrators, as well as Michael Messina and Mother Karen. Father Bob Dekker taught 5th-8th grade Divinity Classes at the school. Here at Trinity, vestry member Abby Vincent graciously assumed the scheduling and oversight of the Sunday-School teachers. I am grateful for tremendous collaboration during that time of transition.
Last Winter, members of the Adult Formation team inspired the parish to a 9-month set of programs engaging with racism, white privilege and racial reconciliation. This Working Group on Race and Reconciliation brought us films, speakers, book studies and panel discussions, often to packed rooms on midweek nights. I am grateful for their leadership, and for the ways in which we were all invited to ask challenging questions about our own place in systems of racial inequality and injustice. Thank you to Bill Coleman, Jane Stephenson, Nedra Feeley, and all who were part of this leadership. While we have taken a breath since November, the work is not over, and I look forward to continuing the work of becoming Beloved Community with you in 2018.
In April of 2017, Kathleen Strickland joined our staff as Director of Children and Family Ministries. In addition to coordinating Sunday School, Kathleen has developed a “Children’s 1
Last April, the entire Diocese of Indianapolis, and the Episcopal Church at large, celebrated the consecration and installation of our new bishop, the Right Rev’d Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows. Trinity was proud to be deeply involved in the transition process, which was ably led by our own Jeff Brinkmann. The day before Bishop Jennifer’s consecration, Trinity and St. Richard’s hosted a grand luncheon (prepared by the Cuisiniers) for the clergy and clergy spouses of the diocese with the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the Most Rev’d Michael Curry. Trinity shone that day, as the bishops toured our facilities (including the Outreach Center) and held a press conference with the Mayor in our newly lighted sanctuary. Trinity shone again the next day in Clowes Hall at Butler, where we played significant leadership roles in the service of ordination of a bishop (i.e., Consecration). Peter Harding, Head of School, and I represented Trinity and SRES as we presented Bishop Jennifer with the gift of a pectoral cross, a symbol of her office. Our own Michael Messina coordinated the diocesan festival choir, of which our
and so our morning schedule could be simpler to discern for newcomers and visitors. The schedule change seems to be working well, as evidenced by increased numbers at our Sunday services. At our last count for the parochial report (an annual reporting to the diocese and national church), our average Sunday attendance has increased by 50 people. We have also exceeded any other year in pledges and offerings. These numbers testify well to the health and vitality of your parish. The spirit of transformation is expanding us in every way. In October, Trinity celebrated the 10th anniversary of our Sunday Dinner feeding ministry, our weekly ministry that serves a hot meal to up to 150 neighbors in need 52 weeks a year. Over a hundred volunteers, mostly parishioners, prepare food and serve at the Sunday Dinner, which was started by Mother Karen King and parishioner Diana Creasser ten years ago in our Fortune Room. Now it has a beautiful industrial kitchen and a well-appointed dining room in
These are Trinity’s greatest riches, the greatest endowment of God’s abundance here: you and your many gifts. our Outreach Center – especially so after the redecorating efforts of a passionate team of volunteers this past year. The Celebration of the Sunday Dinner occurred in our gym on October 22, with festive food catered by the Cuisiniers. Ten years of dedicated volunteers, community collaborators, and dinner guests were honored in a program of reflections, speeches, and songs. It was a grand day honoring a grand ministry.
choir and choristers were a huge part. Our ushers, acolytes, vergers and MCs assisted to make the tremendous liturgy smooth and glorious. I was grateful in the summer to be able to take a month away off the coast of Maine to vacation and also to direct a play at the Stonington Opera House, a theatre very close to my heart. Many thanks to Mother Karen King and our blessed crew of affiliated clergy— the Rev’ds Gordon Chastain, Jean Smith, Mollie Williams, Jim Knowles, Bob Dekker and Charles Allen—for leading our Sunday services, including the beloved garden service, while I was away. I was also grateful to be able to return, with a full year under my belt at Trinity, for an exciting new program year! The summer brought our newest member of the clergy staff, the Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Anthony. Father Ben is our new St. Richard’s Chaplain, and Associate for Formation and Invitation. This means he has primary responsibility for our welcome ministries and newcomer incorporation, and he shares with me in the planning and implementation of Adult Learning and Formation. Thank you for welcoming Father Ben and his family, Katherine and Frances. They are great additions to our community, and the school is in love with their new chaplain.
A joy of my first year was learning about the amazing outreach/mission initiatives already in place on our campus. In addition to Sunday Dinner, our campus ministry partners Mid-North Food Pantry, Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic, Project Home Indy and Horizons at SRES transform lives on a daily basis. During 2018, I was privileged to witness two new initiatives, begun the year before, grow and flourish. With just over a year under their belt, the progress of St. Nicholas Learning, Inc. has been nothing short of remarkable. Our new Exodus Team welcomed the family of Prosper Bessaguem and Sidonie Noudjounare, a refugee family from Cameroon, last November. Throughout 2018, the Team has companioned them in their transition to life in Indianapolis (and also at Trinity) with extraordinary care, commitment and grace. It was Mother Karen’s and my joy to baptize their four children during Eastertide. In the spring the team began work with another family as well. I particularly commend their report to you, so you can see how the spirit of holy hospitality and joyfilled justice-making is working in the Exodus team.
The biggest transition of this Fall was the change to our new Sunday Schedule. After much conversation among the staff and the Vestry, after Labor Day, Trinity moved the Rite Two service to 10am, allowing Adult Forum and Small Groups, Sunday School, and Youth Groups to align at 11:20. We have added the Children’s Liturgy of the Word during the 10am service, as well as Lectionary Bible Study between the 8 and the 10. I advocated for this change so that parents of schoolaged children could be more involved in Adult Formation
One of the great privileges of my year was working with the 3256 Discernment Team to discern what God is calling Trinity to do with an empty house on our property. In June, after prayerfully and carefully considering over 16 different ideas, 2
At our last count for the parochial report (an annual reporting to the diocese and national church), our average Sunday attendance has increased by 50 people. the team recommended to the vestry that we move forward on a feasibility and implementation study to found Trinity Haven, the first dedicated housing facility for LGBTQ (Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender/Queer or Questioning) Homeless Youth in the state of Indiana. Our sense of Trinity Haven as a deep need and call for Trinity was reaffirmed when we were awarded a $20K “Faith and Action” grant for program development through Christian Theological Seminary. What an exciting affirmation for this very exciting project. Our Junior Warden, Leigh Ann Hirschman, has been leading the subsequent Implementation Team along with vestry member John Craun. Her report follows. Leigh Ann, our community partner Chris Paulsen at Indiana Youth Group, other implementation team members will hold an Adult Forum on February 18 to engage all of your questions.
Financial Working Group. Faithful members of these teams are hard at work discerning how we can best use, sustain and grow our abundance towards growing our Mission: to accept, nourish and send disciples at Trinity Church. More details about that work will be provided by our Treasurer and at the Financial Q&A on February 4. I’m particularly eager in 2018 to renew a conversation about planned giving at Trinity and will ask you to join me in prayerfully considering including Trinity in your estate planning. More on that very soon. 2018 will also allow us to begin the work of looking to our founding in April of 1919 and celebrating the abundance of 100 years of life together in this holy place. Stay tuned for an exciting year of centennial celebration, beginning in the spring. We are blessed with many gifts at Trinity. You are the greatest of these. Your intelligence. Your compassion. Your incredible work ethic. Your appetite to learn, to grow, to welcome, to stretch… to be transformed. I’m continually struck by your unbelievable leadership skills and professional gifts, your capacity to imagine new ways to be the Church and then put them into action. I adore your desire to be the hands and feet of Christ— feeding, housing, clothing, welcoming, loving others as Jesus loves them. I respect your ability to be in community across a range of differences and live into love and relationship despite of them, or maybe because of them.
So here we are: well into our season of transition, and God-willing, never done. Our Fall theme this year was “Be Transformed. Transform the World.” Thus, we continue to transform – personally, spiritually, and institutionally – as we seek to be a transformative presence, a beacon of light, on the corner of 33rd and Meridian. As your leader I have goals for the year to come, which will continue to transform us so we might better transform the world. I hope to continue to raise the visibility of Trinity, right now the “best kept secret in Indianapolis.” We can accomplish that through better signage, lighting, increased media and social media presence, and greater engagement with the community at large. And evangelism! Tell the story about your terrific church. Invite your friends to come with you to church. You will be amazed at how you are transformed when you take on the commission of evangelism, not just to Trinity, but to Jesus Christ, outside of these walls.
These are Trinity’s greatest riches, the greatest endowment of God’s abundance here: you and your many gifts. Thank you for sharing them with me during this season of incredible transition and transformation, and with the world in our days together ahead.
With the growth in our number of worshipers, we need to continue to grow our Newcomer Welcome and Incorporation ministries, so that the spirit of connection and the collaboration will spread and grow here at Trinity. We will examine how we care for one another pastorally, including with a new Meal Train ministry which outgoing vestry member Abby Vincent will be organizing. Additionally, I am excited to begin working with the Liturgy team on the creation of a third service year-round (not just in summer), hopefully to be rolled out in the next program year. And as we are growing, we will begin discerning about capital campaigns and space expansion as well … more on that in the year to come. Other goals include continued careful examination of our financial stewardship and sustainability in bodies like the Trustees of the Endowment, the Finance Committee, the Stewardship Team, Tree of Life Society, and the combined 3
Warden’s Report John Bridge, Senior Warden The year 2017 at Trinity was filled with high energy and activity. We saw growth in attendance, membership, evangelism, stewardship, outreach, and formation, as well as continued upgrades to our facilities. In addition to improving, celebrating, and developing our own outreach missions, we continued to enhance relationships with our important outreach partners. Many parishioners noted that Trinity seemed more vital than at any time in recent memory. All in all, it was an excellent year.
siastic response from our dinner guests. Other real property-related initiatives during the year included upgrades to the church’s bathrooms and a capital reserve study to help with planning property maintenance. Trinity Haven. The commission working on the future of the St. Edward’s House at 3526 N. Pennsylvania Street conceived and started the implementation of the house as Trinity Haven, a shelter for homeless LBGTQ youth. The commission worked closely with Indiana Youth Group, which has years of experience working with LBGTQ youth and is now based on Meridian Street a short distance from Trinity.
Annual Parish Meeting. At the Annual Parish Meeting in January, we said “thank you” to the retiring vestry members of the class of 2017. We elected the new vestry class of 2020 and lay delegates and alternates to the Annual Convention of the Diocese of Indianapolis. At the March vestry meeting, the vestry elected Leigh Ann Hirschman as Junior Warden.
Grants Awarded. Trinity’s outreach and music programs were successful in obtaining grants from outside sources. With help from Trinity parishioners, St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc., received a grant from Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Project Home Indy received a grant from The Mary Alphonse Bradley Fund, and Trinity Haven received a grant from Christian Theological Seminary. In addition, Trinity received a grant from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation for improvements to Trinity’s organ.
CEEP Convention. Once again, in February a group from the parish attended the Annual Convention of the Consortium of Endowed Episcopal Parishes (CEEP) in Washington, D.C. Our group participated in numerous workshops covering topics of interest for clergy, vestries, wardens, endowment trustees, and administrators.
Good Samaritan Episcopal Church. In September, the vestry committed financial support for Good Samaritan Episcopal Church in Brownsburg, a recently established but vibrant and growing “church without walls” in Hendricks County, which previously had no Episcopal church.
Transitions. Trinity, St. Richard’s, and the Diocese of Indianapolis continued to experience transition. At Trinity, in March Kathleen Strickland became the new Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries, and in June Kevin Deprey announced that he would retire as Parish Administrator in 2018. At Trinity and St. Richard’s, the Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Anthony began his roles as Associate Rector for Formation and Invitation of Trinity and Chaplain of St. Richard’s in July and was installed as Chaplain in October.
Trinity Sunday Dinner 10th Anniversary. A milestone in Trinity’s outreach history was celebrated in October with presentations and a lunch in honor of the tenth anniversary of Trinity’s Sunday dinner feeding ministry. Mother Karen King and others instrumental in the formation of Trinity’s first significant outreach program received congratulations from, among others, the office of the Mayor of Indianapolis and Second Helpings, our outreach partner in this ministry. Food again was prepared and served to the large number of guests by the redoubtable Unexceptionable Cuisiniers.
New Bishop. At the Diocese, the Rev’d Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows was consecrated as the eleventh Bishop of Indianapolis in April. Trinity was very involved in the ceremony. Jeff Brinkmann chaired the Bishop’s Transition Committee that organized the ceremony, Michael Messina lead the music, Eric Baiz oversaw the ushers, and Mother Julia Whitworth emceed the ceremony. A lunch for all visiting bishops and other clergy, including Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, was hosted by Trinity with food prepared by our jolly band, the Guild of Unexceptionable Cuisiniers.
St. Nicholas Early Learning. Another milestone was the completion of St. Nicholas Early Learning’s first full year in operation. St. Nicholas came close to being fully enrolled, hired and retained a strong teaching staff, and achieved an Indiana Paths to Quality Level 2 designation. It provided a wonderful environment for its children while balancing its budget and incurring no debt.
Sanctuary Lighting. Major improvements to Trinity’s space continued with new lighting in the sanctuary. The new lights illuminated our worship space to an extent never seen before, and the change was dramatic. The cost of the lighting was paid for in part by a mini-capital campaign similar that used to pay for the windows in the sanctuary. The lights were dedicated at a ceremony in May.
Race & Reconciliation Programming. Trinity parishioners and people from outside the parish confronted the realities of racism in two programs. In the winter, a documentary about Indianapolis’ Crispus Attucks High School produced by WFYI-TV was shown and discussed on two evenings. In the fall, a documentary by Tim Wise, “White Privilege”, was shown and discussions were had over the course of three evenings.
Trinity Outreach Center. In the spring, work was done to freshen up the feeding ministry space in the Trinity Outreach Center. The redecorating included lovely photos of our church building and other works of art received an enthu4
Teen Pilgrimage to Calgary. Trinity’s J2A teens and their leaders and chaperones made their bi-annual pilgrimage in June, this time to Calgary and Banff, Alberta, Canada. They explored God’s beauty in Banff National park, worked with the local homeless shelter, spent a day working in a community farm that provides healthy food for the hungry, and they spent a day as if they were homeless in downtown Calgary. They lived in community, prayed the daily office, and cooked their own meals. New Investment Advisor. After working with Morgan Stanley as the investment advisor for ten years, the Trustees of Trinity’s Endowment initiated a request-for-proposal (RFP) process to determine whether Morgan Stanley or some other investment advisor should work with the Trustees in succeeding years. The Trustees reviewed eight proposals in response to their RFP and narrowed the finalists down to three. After interviewing those three in person, the Trustees selected Church Investment Group/Hirtle Callaghan & Co., an Episcopal-related investment manager group, as its new investment advisor and announced their decision at the January 2018 vestry meeting. The Trustees also discussed possible changes to investment strategies for the Endowment that could be implemented with the new investment advisor. Vestry Planning. The vestry attended a one-day strategic planning session in late August that was led by the national consulting firm, CCS. Prior to the session, certain members of the vestry were interviewed by CCS, and all members of the vestry responded to a series of questions asked by CCS. The focus of the strategic planning session was outreach. Afterwards, the vestry engaged in a series of discussions about the ideas raised at the session.
Diocesan Convention. The Diocesan Convention was held in New Albany and Jeffersonville, Indiana, in October. Bishop Jennifer Baskerville-Burroughs led a joyful and uplifting meeting. Our delegates represented Trinity well and net-worked with other leaders from the Diocese. Sally Hardgrove was elected to the Standing Committee of the Diocese, and Jeff Brinkmann was elected to the Executive Council of the Diocese. George Plews again served as Chancellor at the meeting, and Xander Koponen made a presentation to the assembly on behalf of the youth of the Diocese. Recognitions. As do all of you, I look forward to 2018 and the completion of Trinity’s first one hundred years of history at 33rd and Meridian. I want to tell the members of the vestry with whom I have served over the past years how much I have enjoyed working with you and how much I value all that you do for Trinity. I also once again want to recognize the hard work of Trinity’s clergy and lay staff during the last three years. All of you all have my sincere thanks for what you do for all of us. I want to give special thanks to Kevin Deprey, who was hired sixteen years ago during my first term on the vestry, with whom I worked side-by-side during my subsequent terms as a warden and vestry member, and who will be leaving us in May. Kevin, you always made it fun and, yet, very productive. Your retirement is well deserved, my friend.
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Mission: Innovation & Incubation At Trinity, you’ll discover ever-expanding outreach and justice advocacy ministries. We actively collaborate with city and neighborhood organizations. We sustain our vital campus partnerships while creating new initiatives that respond to critical social needs. With imagination, joy, and faithful purpose, we live into our call to accept, nourish, and send disciples in the name of Jesus Christ. Trinity Haven
Submitted by Leigh Ann Hirschman You probably know that youth homelessness is a grave problem here in Indianapolis. But did you know that 40 percent of homeless young people identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender? All homelessness is tragic, but homeless LGBTQ youth are in deep and immediate peril.
They’re young people with talents, skills, and dreams. For this reason, we are working in partnership with IYG, whose effective, strengths-based programming will be available in their new headquarters just a few blocks from Trinity Haven. There, the youth who are staying at Trinity Haven will have access to legal services; assistance with education and job placement; classes that teach life skills; and support from IYG staffers and other LGBTQ youth.
Between 75-85 percent of these youth have been forced out by their parents (who often have anti-gay religious beliefs) or have run away, fleeing rejection and abuse at home. Our city’s homeless shelters are unsafe for these kids. They’re sexually, physically, and verbally assaulted; all too often, they are subjected to the cruel practice of conversion therapy.
Through IYG, we will connect young people to additional community partners, such as Goodwill’s Excel Center and Cummins Behavioral Health. The ultimate goal of Trinity Haven is to give youth a stable, nurturing base while connecting them to community resources that build on their abilities and help them achieve their goals.
In the entire state of Indiana, there is not a single shelter for homeless LGBTQ youth. Staffers at Indiana Youth Group (IYG) find themselves driving homeless youth around the city in the evening, hoping to find them a safe public bench on which to sleep. Homeless LGBTQ youth are at vastly increased risk for assault, arrest, survival sex, and mental illness. Without a pathway to education and employment, their state of sudden, acute poverty becomes chronic and entrenched.
As you know, Trinity won a grant from the Faith & Action Project to cover the cost a project planner for the house. The Trinity Haven team is delighted to announce that we have hired Community Solutions to help us determine the house’s program, financial and municipal requirements, and more. In additional good news, the law firm of Ice Miller has offered pro bono legal assistance. The team has held its initial meetings with both organizations, and we’re energized by their positive and generous response.
As you heard from Mother Julia in August, the 3256 Pennsylvania Street discernment team concluded—after a year of prayer, discussion, and reflection--that the vacant house on our campus is perfectly suited to assist these most vulnerable youth.
The Trinity Haven team believes that faith-based organizations have a special obligation to assist LGBTQ homeless youth—because the misapplication of religion itself is a significant reason these youth live in poverty and danger. If Trinity Haven is successful, it could be replicated by faithbased organizations throughout the city, so that no LGBTQ youth in Indianapolis has to spend the night on a park bench ever again. The work of supporting these young people is vital. It is achievable. It is holy. And because of your support, we are getting started.
That’s why Trinity Episcopal Church is launching Trinity Haven, which will offer a safe, welcoming home and support for youth ages 12 to 17. We hope to open Trinity Haven in the 3256 Pennsylvania Street property in the fall of 2018; it will be the latest of several successful community services that we have founded, operated, or housed. Of course, homeless LGBTQ youth aren’t just adolescents in crisis.
“On Wednesday, August 16, Trinity was awarded a grant from the new Faith & Action Project at Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) — funds dedicated to eradicating poverty in Indianapolis in innovative ways. Trinity was one of six organizations selected from a field of 54 applicants. The grant, in the amount of $20K, will be used to hire a part-time project developer for an important new initiative: Trinity House, a safe haven for LGBTQ homeless youth.” Christian Theological Seminary Press Release Trinity House, now named Trinity Haven, will offer a safe environment for teens who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. In addition to getting shelter, the youths staying at Trinity Haven will have access to legal services, life-skills training, assistance with education and job training, and facilitated connections to other community service agencies.
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Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting January 29, 2017
shape due to the care shown to them by the congregation and staff. We have additional abundant sources of richness from our collective imagination and genuine desire to live more fully into our mission of accept, nourish, and send. This Annual Meeting provides us with the opportunity to come together and chart our future course over the coming year.
Submitted by Todd ReLue, Clerk
Call to Order Reverend Julia Whitworth called the meeting to order at 9:45 am in the church. Mother Julia nominated Todd Relue to serve as Clerk for the Annual Meeting, which nomination was approved.
Regarding our mission to accept, we are inviting and engaging newcomers through a set of exciting initiatives. We are also preparing for an expansive lighting project that will make us a more welcoming, hospitable parish. Brightening the church will help it to feel warmer and more user-friendly. We will also be upgrading the restrooms near the Fortune Room to increase their accessibility. Creating a gender neutral bathroom option will help us to live into our mission to accept all newcomers. There is also an ongoing search for an Associate Rector for Formation and Invitation who will act as a part-time school chaplain at St. Richard’s while also leading Trinity’s adult forum and evangelism ministries.
Elections In order to vote in the elections, each duly enrolled member must be 16 years old and have been a worshiper at Trinity as well as a contributor to its support for at least one month preceding the Annual Meeting. All voting is done on the honor system by members meeting the requirements. The slate of nominees for the new vestry class was presented, which includes Michael Arnold, David Bacon, Kelly Bentley, Karen Haley, Leigh Ann Hirschman, Gayle Holtman, Samuel Massaley, III, Shana Stump, Kathy Watson, and Scott Whitaker. Additional nominations from the floor were requested, but none were submitted.
Regarding our mission to nourish, Trinity has many vibrant outreach ministries. These ministries serve vital needs in the community including providing bodily nourishment through the Sunday Dinner program, support for the Mid-North Food Pantry, and other food ministries.
Nominees for delegates to the 180th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis were also presented including John Bridge, Jeff Brinkman, Linda Brown, Bill Coleman, Carol DeCoursey, Heidi Green, Sally Hardgrove, Erik Hembre, Tricia McMath, and Jeannice Shobe. Additional nominations from the floor were requested, but none were submitted.
Trinity will also focus on the spiritual nourishment of its congregation through new ministries and offerings. Mother Julia suggested that important spiritual nourishment can come from shared discussion including the upcoming Lenten series entitled “Real Talk: Conversations about Race.” Parish life and fellowship also offers important nourishment and Trinity is exploring opportunities to create more fun times together like the recent Epiphany party. Strong attendance at these gatherings offers opportunities for fun and fellowship as well as deep conversation. The recent newcomer’s coffee hour also brought together many long-time parishioners, suggesting a desire for more opportunities to gather in fellowship. In response, Trinity will be holding expanded coffee hours on the second Sunday of each month with the first one only two weeks away. These coffee hours will provide both the opportunity to actively engage newcomers and for us to reconnect with one another. Everyone is requested to sign up to provide a food of your choice for an upcoming second Sunday coffee hour. Four to five households will work together each month to host the coffee hour. Mother Julia reported that Christy Jacobi has graciously volunteered to organize this effort.
Paper ballots were distributed and members were asked to vote for up to five vestry candidates and six delegates to the diocesan convention. After voting was completed, the ballots were collected. The meeting was reconvened in the Fortune Room after Eucharist. Mother Julia led the congregation in a post-communion prayer. Approval of Meeting Minutes The meeting minutes of the Annual Meeting held on January 31, 2016 were approved as submitted by the members of the congregation. Appreciation for Service to Trinity Mother Julia thanked the Rector Search Committee for their services. She also thanked the Trinity staff and lay leadership for their commitment to the church’s mission. Mother Julia thanked the wardens and executive committee for their wise counsel. Mother Julia stated her appreciation for the services of the vestry and their continued guidance. Mother Julia also shared her appreciation for all of the many other leaders in the church.
How we nourish our youngest members is also critically important. Mother Julia reported that Trinity will be hiring a part-time Director of Children’s and Family Ministries to oversee Sunday School and other spiritual education offerings. The Match Committee has also indicated that it will allow its remaining funds be used in connection with a proposed renovation of the Chapel of the Holy Innocents.
State of the Church Mother Julia reported that Trinity is in a time of great abundance and opportunity. The abundance comes primarily from our people and financial resources. Trinity is trending toward greater financial self-sufficiency. Our physical resources, including the buildings and grounds, are in great
Regarding our mission to send, we are already sending excellent disciples into the world. Mother Julia reported that the church’s members are leaders throughout our community. 7
She also suggested there is more work we can do, especially in times of transition and unrest. There is an opportunity to be a beacon of light in the world. Mother Julia indicated that she will continue her networking efforts and consideration of how our resources might be utilized to amplify justice-making in our community and beyond. Trinity is always seeking good partnership opportunities with community service organizations. We are getting out in the community and doing good work such as though our recent participation in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. There is an interest in discerning whether there is more that we can do to advance social justice. To that end, we have a group of lay leaders exploring whether organizations like IndyCAN may have connections to our ministries. Members of the congregation have also expressed interest in advocating for the civil rights of marginalized populations and opportunities are being actively explored.
John also reported on the promising new initiatives being undertaken at Trinity including helping to launch the St. Nicholas Early Childhood Ministry which provides affordable, quality childcare for area families. On behalf of the congregation, John also thanked Trinity’s staff and clergy for their excellent work throughout the past year. Sanctuary Lighting Project Mother Julia and Junior Warden Leigh Ann Naas presented on the Trinity’s upcoming lighting project. Mother Julia thanked Kevin Deprey and Dirk Edwards for all of their assistance. Leigh Ann Naas presented depictions of how the new lights would improve on the existing lighting system, which is now 30 years old. Leigh Ann reported that due to the difficulty of replacing bulbs in the current system, it is often not operating at its full capacity. The lighting project is important for members of the congregation, especially those with vision issues, and will allow them to more fully participate in the service. Members of the choir will also find it easier to read their music. The planned pendant light will allow us to illuminate the Tower area and present light to passersby on Meridian Street, increasing our welcome. The new lights will also be more energy efficient and effectively reduce Trinity’s carbon footprint. The congregation may commit funds to the project through Trinity’s website or by check.
There is other exciting work that is under way such as the determination of how the St. Edward’s house might be used to advance Trinity’s mission. A talented discernment team comprised of John Craun, Karen Haley, Leigh Ann Hirschman, Rob MacPherson, Erick Ponader, Mother Julia, and Abby Vincent are already investigating several compelling options. Mother Julia reflected on Holy Conversations 4, during which our congregation dreamed together about the future. The results of those conversations showed that we want to take care of each other, our buildings, and resources so that we may support the arts and social justice while continuing to be a positive actor in our community. We desire to grow the size of our congregation, the depth of our giving, and the abundance of our campus facilities. We are working together to determine how we can best achieve those goals and live into our mission. We will continue to explore our shared dreams for the future. 2019 will mark Trinity’s centennial and that milestone will be celebrated in a manner that honors Trinity’s past and plans for its future. Mother Julia indicated that anything is possible through our mutual discernment. We are blessed with abundance and possibility and God is propelling us forward on this journey together. Mother Julia shared that it is an honor to serve as the Rector for this congregation.
Mother Julia thanked Junior Warden Leigh Ann Naas and Trinity’s Properties Committee for their hard work on the Lighting Project and many other capital projects over the preceding year. Budget Report Treasurer Jay Simmons and Mother Julia presented the 2017 Budget. Jay reported that he will lead a conversation on February 5, 2017 at 9:00 am that will allow for longer discussions regarding the 2017 budget. Jay indicated that pledging and donations increased in 2016 while Trinity’s spending remained under budget, resulting in a surplus of $58,900. Jay suggested this is very impressive, especially in a year of transition. Jay presented a pie chart showing Trinity’s actual expenses in 2016. Instead of having one set category on personnel, the pie chart seeks to show how those personnel costs factor into the various elements of Trinity’s upkeep and work. Mother Julia discussed the category of “Support for the Larger Church” as including Trinity’s diocesan apportionment. Jay reported that total parish support is up this year and is continuing to trend in the correct direction.
Senior Warden’s Report Senior Warden John Bridge reported that the past year was an eventful year of transition which including the calling of Mother Julia as Rector, St. Richard’s retaining a new headmaster, and the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis calling a new Bishop. John reported that the vestry worked with the Rector Search Committee to call Mother Julia and facilitate the transition from Interim Rector LaRae Rutenbar. John reported on the success of the Matching Grant program from the Trinity’s endowment, which incentivized increased pledging from members. The vast majority of these members have either continued to pledge at this increased rate or have further increased their annual pledges. John also reflected on the excitement surrounding the election of Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows as the new Bishop of our diocese.
Mother Julia presented the highlights of the 2017 Budget. The goals of the budget included increasing parish giving, reducing the endowment draw, decreasing spending, and hiring a part-time Director of Children’s and Family Ministries. Mother Julia reported that she had issued a challenge to staff and volunteer leaders to limit spending and increase efficiency. The staff and volunteer leaders took the challenge seriously and all areas were decreased by 5% or more with the exception of Facilities, which has a high number of fixed costs, and Outreach, which there was no effort to decrease due to its role in the fulfillment of Trinity’s mission. Jay 8
Stewardship Report Stewardship Chair Joel Harrison reported that the amount pledged for 2017 is the greatest in Trinity’s history. Joel reported that the congregation is also contributing generously to the Lighting Project and Trinity’s ministries. Joel reported that the improved pledging comes from a combination of increased pledges and a significant number of new pledging households. Mother Julia and Joel presented a video that thanked all of the pledging households and provided a snapshot of all of the good work Trinity is able to do as a result.
reported that Mother Julia’s involvement in the budgeting process helped to streamline it. Mother Julia presented a pie chart regarding the 2017 budgeted expenses. The “Sacred Space” category is substantially decreased for 2017 because there will be fewer capital projects than last year. Trinity’s diocesan contribution will be increased for three years due to its higher level of capital expenditures last year. Jay encouraged members of the congregation to consider becoming members of the Tree of Life Society by making planned gifts to Trinity from their estates. Mother Julia reported that the planned endowment draw for 2017 is trending downward from the higher draws in 2015 and 2016, which were higher than usual primarily due to capital improvements. Mother Julia thanked Jay for his continued service as Treasurer.
Chef Appreciation Mother Julia thanked Jim Purucker and the Guild of Unexceptionable Cuisiniers for the wonderful food that has been prepared for the Celebration Feast. There being no further business to be conducted, the Annual Meeting was adjourned at 11:50 am.
Staff Appreciation Mother Julia welcomed the staff of Trinity to the front of the room so that the congregation might show its appreciation. Mother Julia introduced Mother Karen King, Mother Lea Colville, Albie Marko, Julie O’Mara, Missy Roetter, Dr. Michael Messina, Tracey Lemon, Kevin Deprey, Jason King, Chris Johnson, Rita Earls, and Dirk Edwards. The staff received a standing ovation from the congregation in appreciation for their important work. Warden and Vestry Appreciation Mother Julia thanked Senior Warden John Bridge and Junior Warden Leigh Anne Naas for their service. John Bridge will continue on as Senior Warden. Leigh Anne Naas will continue on the vestry and there will be an election for the Junior Warden position. Mother Julia honored the service of retiring vestry members Keenan Buoy, Bill Coleman, Steven Stolen, Christy Jacobi, and George Plews for all of their work on behalf of the parish over the past three years. Election Results Vestry Members Elected: David Bacon Leigh Ann Hirschman Gayle Holtman Samuel Massaley, III Scott Whitaker Delegates to Diocesan Convention: Jeff Brinkman Linda Brown Bill Coleman Sally Hardgrove Erik Hembre Jeannice Shobe Alternates for Diocesan Convention: John Bridge Carol DeCoursey Heidi Green Tricia McMath
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2017 Baptismal and Pastoral Rites Baptism Aaron Ahlemeyer Alex Ngarba Vanessa Djouma Dieudonne Djarabe Giscard Medjeham Vaughn Carson Haley Alice Kathleen Stephens Evelyn Jay Stephens Addis Porter Bernard Mensz Samuel Kandakai III Marriages Aaron Ahlemeyer and Lara Rae Blankenburg Theresa Niles Arness and Michael John Kohtz Meli Barber and Carli Stephenson Burials David Michael Perry James LeGrand Patricia Johnston Amend Margaret Jackson Stephen Sturges Brockmann
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Worship at Trinity The Rev’d Julia E. Whitworth, Rector
Services on Sundays and beyond happen because of the dedicated service of many volunteer leaders. Some define “liturgy” as “work of the people” to the Glory of God. So many wonderful people are part of leading this work at Trinity.
the hugely committed Eric Baiz. Another faithful team leads our readings, prayers and ushering at the 8 a.m. service. They are led by Jeannice Shobe, Michael Cutticchia, and Anne Greist.
The Liturgies are planned by the Rector and the Director of Music, with collaboration with the other clergy. Details are hammered out in weekly Liturgy meetings with that team as well as the Director of Communications, Director of Children’s and Family Ministries, and Parish Life Coordinator.
The biggest change in our worship life together this year was the change to the Sunday morning service schedule. Beginning in September, our later Rite II Eucharist was moved to 10am, to allow for the Adult Forum to coincide with Childrens and Youth Formation programming. This was a successful transition, which has enhanced our Adult Formation offerings and community life. We have added a Bible Study between the 8am and 10am services, which has also been well received.
Transporting music is executed by Dr. Michael Messina, Organ Associate Lucas Fletcher, and the deeply committed Trinity Choir and Choristers. We are blessed by the breadth and complexity of their repertoire and its execution, and the agility of these artists, as well as their faithful commitment to a very full rehearsal schedule. Every week they raise a glorious noise!
In the last year, in addition to our regular Sunday schedule and feast days, we continued and enhanced the new Feast of St. Francis Sunday with Blessing of the Animals. We also created small, special services in the wake of national disasters and just last week celebrated a special service of the Feast of Martin Luther King. Our summer garden service continues to be quite popular and is growing.
Services on Sundays and beyond happen because of the dedicated service of many volunteer leaders—some visible, many behind the scene. The Altar Guild, led by Anne Throop and Dana Newell, is unfailing in their attention to detail and care for our holy vessels, vestments and linens. They coordinate not only the Sunday services and major feasts, but also the details of the Table for Weddings, Funerals and School Eucharists. Kim Purucker coordinates flowers for all liturgies. The Masters of Ceremonies, Michael Cuticchia, Bill Mirola and Russ Lawson, work with the Rector on every detail of the flow of the service. They keep procession in order, communion running, and the overall pageantry grand.
For twenty-four years we have been among the parishes to offer a weekly Taizé service, ours on the second Sunday of each month. The service provides a different, quieter contour to our worship life, and opens our doors to an ecumenical community from across the city. I am grateful to Jane Root for her steady leadership of this ministry. In April, our Diocese, and much of the wider Episcopal Church, came together to witness and celebrate the Consecration of our new diocesan bishop, the Rt. Rev’d Jennifer Baskerville-Burroughs. Our parish particularly shone as leaders of that enormous liturgy. Michael Messina coordinated the music, in which our choir and choristers took a strong role. The St. Richard’s bell choir played. Our entire usher core served, and did our verger and a team of our acolytes. Mike Cuticchia assisted me in my role as MC, and together we all helped to create a glorious day for the Church. I was so proud.
Again, in 2017 Gretchen Turner faithfully coordinated an impressive roster of youth acolytes: over fifty young people participate as Crucifers, Tapers, Gospel Bearers, and Communion Servers. She is stepping down from that role in 2018—I am grateful that Christy and Jim Jacobi will continue this important work. In June, Ross McKenna retired from his long tenure as Acolyte Co-Leader with our thanks. Alex Pearson continues in this role, joined by new co-leaders Kate Howe and Todd Relue. I am grateful that these adults faithfully mentor our kids as they develop their own leadership in our worship.
It’s been a wonderful year for liturgy at Trinity. By the end of 2017, our annual Sunday attendance had increased by 50 people. I am uplifted by you and very grateful to do the holy work of praising God with you at Trinity.
Every Sunday 2-3 adults serve as Communion Ministers at the 10:15 (now 10) a.m. service, bearing chalices for Communion, while 2-3 Lectors read the lessons and prayers of the people. Jeff Martin and Hugh Resnick coordinate these ministries faithfully and thoroughly. There is a healthy core of Ushers, divided in to Teams as well. They are ably led by
The Rev’d Julia E. Whitworth Rector
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Music at Trinity
Bass: Jeff Brinkmann, *David Hoegberg, Erick Hoegberg, *Matt Hume, Jim Knowles, Kyle Myers, Chuck Schafer, Allan Trinity Choir & Choristers Williams In addition to their rehearsal duties and weekly and holiday We are grateful for the expertise, inspiration, and support of liturgies, the Trinity Choir and Choristers presented Bob Chil- our section-leaders, enabling our choir to sing its very best! cott’s St John Passion with orchestra and soloists on March Trinity Choristers 19 and sang the service of Choral Evensong for the feasts Hollis Carbrey, Rose Cooney, Bailey Garverick, Malcolm of St Francis (October 1) and All Saints (November 5); our Hembre, Soren Hembre, Cate Hirschman, Joseph Naas, Abiannual Festival Lessons and Carols for Advent was on December 17. In place of our usual choir festival, the Choir and gail Resnick, Liam Whitworth-Neufeld, Keagan Williams Choristers joined with singers from throughout the diocese The Choristers had fun playing laser tag in February, and in to sing for the consecration of our new bishop in Clowes Hall December, they went caroling with Trinity members living at on April 29. Marquette Manor and Robin Run Village. The Music at Trinity series presented the two time GramThe Cabaret returned on February 11; this is the major fundmy-nominated ensemble New York Polyphony on October raising event for the Choir and Music at Trinity. Many thanks 7. The Director of Music played Olivier Messiaen’s landmark go to Jeff Brinkmann, Matt Hume, Missy Roetter, Chuck organ work, La Nativité du Seigneur, on the composer’s Schafer, and all who performed. birthday (December 10) with projected artwork compiled by We welcomed the Yuletide on December 1 with the madrigal Holly Day, IMA Curator emerita of contemporary art. Steven dinner and concert in the church. Many thanks go to Tricia Stolen and his Meridian Song Project presented concerts on McMath, Christy Jacobi, Jolene and Michael Moffatt, Missy February 26, May 26, and November 19. Trinity again took Roetter, Michael Arnold, and Patty Gotway, for their talents part in the citywide Taizé service at Christian Theological and hard work. Seminary on September 22. Members of the choir support On a personal note, I am grateful for the opportunity to our Taizé liturgy, now in its 25th year of regularly scheduled perform in other venues and the support of our staff which monthly worship. makes this possible. This past year I gave concerts in San Trinity Choir (*denotes staff singer) Francisco, New York, and Louisville, and as part of the Assistant Organist: Lucas Fletcher Indianapolis Pipe Organ Festival at St Luke’s UMC; in July I Soprano: Laura Cruise-Gibson, Cheryl Eiszner, Deb Havill, chaired the annual conference of the Association of Anglican *Elisabeth Hoegberg, Jennifer Mentink, Victoria Resnick, Musicians, meeting in Winchester, England. Cindy Williams I am thankful for all who create, love and support music in Alto: Linda Brown, Linda Cuticchia, Grace Davis, Meg Feemthis place—singers of all ages, on both sides of the chancel ster, Anne Greist, Sally Hardgrove, Shannie Hughes, Caran screen, parents, spouses, partners and families, donors, Keller, Mary Mail, Rebecca Mattingly, Jolene Moffatt, Leigh patrons and enthusiasts. I am also grateful for incredible colAnne Naas, Judy Peach, *Chelsea Reynowsky, Syd Schafer leagues who are gifted, creative, visionary, and a joy to work Tenor: Robert Bentley, *Zach Cardwell, John Eiszner, Ed with! May we all continue to proclaim the presence, power, Ferguson, Rick Herd, Cos Raimondi, Hugh Resnick love and beauty of God through music. Submitted by Dr. Michael Messina, Director of Music
In October, Trinity was granted $182,000 by the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, Inc. for the renovation of our organ, and a celebratory concert series upon completion. This work is the second phase of renovation which began in 2011 with the installation of a new console. Allen Clowes was a parishioner at Trinity his entire life. During his life, he made major contributions to various charitable organizations that promoted or preserved the fine arts, music, literature, education, science, and history. Most of these organizations are located in Central Indiana. Allen’s parents, Edith and George, were largely responsible for the concepts behind the structure and decoration of our current church building, completed in 1952. We are most grateful to parishioner Heidi Green, our grant writer, for her work on our behalf.
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Taizé at Trinity
Submitted by Jane Root, Convenor
“Nothing is more conducive to a communion with the living God than a meditative common prayer with, as its high point, singing that never ends but continues in the silence of one’s heart when one is alone again.” ~ Brother Roger
2017 was the 24th year of Trinity’s Taizé worship in the Indianapolis community, as the first church in Indianapolis to offer Taizé services. Currently three other churches, St. Luke’s United Methodist, North United Methodist and Central Christian, offer Taizé so it is possible to attend Taizé worship on nearly every Sunday; this has contributed to the development of a small but faithful Taizé community in Indianapolis. In addition, the University of Indianapolis and University Heights United Methodist Church have partnered to offer Taize worship at the church twice a month mid-week.
A second service was held on September 22, 2017 in recognition of the International Day of Peace on September 21, an annual commemoration sponsored by the United Nations. The service was again held at Sweeney Chapel. More than 80 worshipers attended and feedback was highly positive. Planning will soon get under way for the 2018 ‘city-wide’ service. The International Day of Peace seeks to promote peace among nations and peoples. The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations in 1981. In 2002, the U.N. declared it a permanent holiday.
Taizé services at Trinity are offered on the second Sunday of every month, except when the second Sunday is Easter. Trinity’s Taizé services include Scripture readings, silence, simple chants that are heard at Taizé services throughout the world, and, of course, both silent prayer and prayers offered aloud for individuals, the community, and the world. In keeping with the nature of the Taize community in Indianapolis, readers at the services include Trinity parishioners as well as members of other faith communities.
Trinity participates in a ‘Taize in Indianapolis’ Facebook page and Trinity Communications Director Tracey Lemon is one of the administrators of the page. Information about Trinity’s services is posted every month along with announcements from the other churches and general information about Taize.
In 2015 a group of individuals representing all of the ‘Taize churches’ began meeting with a member of the administrative staff from Christian Theological Seminary to plan a ‘city-wide’ Taizé service on Friday, February 19, 2016 at the CTS Sweeney Chapel. It had the added advantage of making more visible the availability of Taize services in our community and bringing together people from the churches to work together on this community worship experience.
We invite you to join us on the second Sunday of the month to experience the deep peace that is Taizé. All are welcome!
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The Real Talk Series continued with a five-week series of guest speakers and discussions: • Awakening Community: Dr. Leah Gunning Francis, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at The Christian Theological Seminary, will present her book and lead a discussion on, Ferguson and Faith: Sparking Leadership and Awakening Community. • Bias in the Classroom: Dr. JaDora Sailes, Associate Professor at Indiana State University and an authority on Education Psychology, will lead a discussion on “Implicit Bias in The Classroom.” • Mass Incarceration: Dr. Robin Hughes, Executive Associate Dean at the School of Education at Indiana University, Indianapolis, will lead a discussion & workshop on The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, by Michelle Alexander. • Faith & Action: The Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Deputy Mayor of Indianapolis and Sr. Pastor of Light of the World Christian Church, will lead a discussion: “Church as a Center of Social Activism.” • Fearless and Faithful Conversations: The Rev. Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, Bishop-Elect for the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis, will lead a discussion on the value of healthy, relationship-sustaining conversations, especially when addressing tough topics like race and justice in society.
Adult Learning & Formation 2017 Programming
Submitted by Tracey Lemon, Director of Communications Throughout 2017, Clergy and Lay leaders offered multiple learning tracks and formation experiences to engage different learning styles, invite significant conversations, and partner with other churches and neighborhood organizations, all with the goal to help us deepen our faith and grown in our engagement as Christians and community members. It was a rich year for Adult Learning & Formation! SPIRITUAL FORMATION Opportunities for stillness, prayer, bible study, and deepening of the spirit were offered through 2017. • Epiphany Meditation & Bible Study: Six-week, Wednesday evenings focused on Centering Prayer followed by a half hour Bible Study on the weekly Lectionary. The sessions concluded with Lectio Divina and was led by Deb Cooney and Kathy Watson • Quiet Lenten Morning: a three-hour Lenten Retreat with three contemplative practices: walking the Labyrinth, Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina (“Divine Reading” of Scripture) led by Deb Cooney and Kathy Watson. • 9AM Sunday Adult Forum Lent Series (four Sundays) on The Practice of Prayer, a book by Margaret Guenther, and led by Mother Julia. • Advent Bible Study was offered during Advent on Sundays, a discussion the Gospel readings to prepare for, and anticipate, the coming of Christ. • Advent Quiet Morning: Mother Julia led a morning of quiet meditation during advent, a time of preparation and waiting for the celebration of Christmas. • The Sunday Lectionary Bible Study was initiated in 2017, offered between the 8:00am and 10:00am services. These are led weekly by the 8am preacher and have been very successful.
In the Summer, Trinity’s Nedra Feeley and Paula Means from Tabernacle Presbyterian Church offered a book discussion group on the memoir, Waking Up White. It was attended by over 50 from the combined churches. In the Fall, the Working Group offered a three week series on the documentary, 13th, ending with a panel discussion on local issues around incarceration and policing. OFFERINGS FOR NEWCOMERS AND INQUIRERS At varying points in the year, Father Ben or Mother Julia offered evening courses for people hoping to learn more about Christianity, the Episcopal Church, or Trinity. These included: • Episcopal 101: introduction to the Episcopal ChurchMother Julia offered a three-week class in May for anyone wanting to learn the basics about our church polity and traditions. • Newcomers & Inquirers Class was offered on four Wednesday evenings in November - An introduction to the basics of Christianity and the Episcopal Church. The class consists of four multi-week modules: 1) History of the Church; (2) Scripture; (3) Theology & Ethics and (4) Discipleship. Each meeting included a simple meal, brief lecture, group conversation and concluded with evening prayer. The class was open to Newcomers, and longtime members were encouraged to participate.
WORKING GROUP ON RACE AND RECONCILIATION The Adult Formation Committee at Trinity examined fresh approaches to inspire healthy conversations, active listening, and provocative questions. From this initiative the Working Group on Race and Reconciliation was formed. Events included a Lenten Series: REAL TALK: Community Conversations about Race. The Real Talk series opened with a viewing of Attucks: a school that opened a city. 60+ people attended, half of which from the surrounding community. With study guides and questions, groups of 8 watched parts of the documentary, then discussed the issues, past, present and future. The filmmaker, Ted Green, joined us for a discussion of his important work.
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Education for Ministry(EFM)
SUNDAY ADULT FORUMS Throughout the year, Mother Julia offered interviews with Community leaders at the Sunday Adult Forums. Interviews with Community leaders included: • Duane Ingram, Board President, Mid-North Food Pantry • The Rev’d Matthew Boulton, President of Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) — also a guest preacher • Leigh Evans, CEO, Mapleton Fall Creek Development Corporation • Bishop Cate Waynick • Lakshmi Hasanadka, Executive Director of Project Home Indy • Chris Purnell, Executive Director of Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic • Myranda Warden, Director of Programs and Training of Indiana Youth Group • The Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Anthony, Associate Rector for Formation and Invitation and the Chaplain for St. Richard’s Episcopal School, • Rev. Guard Barnes, Community Organizer for the Indianapolis Congregation Action Network (IndyCAN).
Submitted by Sara Bean, EFM Leader Education for Ministry (EFM) is a unique four year distance learning certificate program in theological education from the University of the South School of Theology. Based on small group study and practice , this international program has assisted more ten 80,000 persons in discovering and nurturing their call to Christian service. EFM helps participants explore in depth the Christian Tradition and bring it into conversation with their world through study, worship and reflection. In 2017 the Trinity EFM group met on Thursday evenings from 6-8 :00 pm in the Crist Room. Group Mentors are Sara Bean and Jim Knowles. From Jan-May , 2017 participants were: Theresa Arness, Jodi Ammons, John Bean, Ginny Cottrell, Meg Feemster, Tony Harvey , Beverly Summit , Olive Soriero, and Mary Jo Wedding. In September of 2017 a new class was formed and Mary Mills, Richard Hughes, and Martha Weissert (ST. Christopher’s) and Mike Kohtz joined the previously listed participants for a class of 13. Every 18 months, mentors are required to participate in in-service training and Jim and Sara attended a 3 day training in November at Waycross of all mentors in the diocese. Training staff are sent from the School of Theology at Sewannee. Our focus this year was Storytelling and the Public Narrative Model.
Other Forums, led by Father Ben, focused on parish-wide conversations including: • Holy Hospitality at Trinity: current practices and new possibilities for welcome, hospitality, and integration of members, new and old, at Trinity. • Discipleship Groups at Trinity: laying the groundwork for new small groups at our parish • How to Talk to Kids about Race & Racism: guest speakers for Episcopal Schools/St. Richard’s Sunday
Applications for the Fall 2018 class will be available in June of 2018.
TUESDAY STUDY GROUP The Rector’s Book Study Group meets on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. in the Crist Room. Books and topics for 2017 included: • The ALSOLIFE, by Barbara Cawthorne Crafton • Conversations with Scripture: Daniel by Edmond F. Desueza and Judith Jones. • The Jesus Heist: Recovering the Gospel from the Church by C. Andrew Doyle • The Practice of Prayer by Margaret Guenther • The Gospel of Mark
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Community-building Opportunities Alongside Parish Life activities including the Epiphany party, Mardi Gras pancake dinner, and parish picnic, several events through the year were geared to children and families in particular. Children enjoyed an indoor egg hunt on a rainy Easter Sunday, with older and younger children’s hunts in separate areas of Trinity and St. Richard’s facilities. Waycross Family Camp was attended by a large number of Trinity parishioners who enjoyed swimming, crafting, outdoor activities, and worship in Brown County over Labor Day weekend. Our inaugural Family Game Night in November was a fun evening with pizza, games, and fellowship. The season of Advent was ripe with the traditional Intergenerational Wreath- and Craft-making event, St. Nicholas Shoppe, and a Childhood Hunger, Education, Engagement, and Reverence (CHEER) service opportunity benefitting the Mid-North Food Pantry.
Education and Formation: Children & Youth Children & Family Ministry
Submitted by Kathleen Strickland, Director Ministry to children and families happens in many ways at Trinity. As people of faith, we are called to shepherd our youngest members in their journey of formation. At Trinity, we celebrate full participation of children in worship and parish events. Identifying Needs A parent meeting with Mother Julia in February 2017 identified areas of growth and opportunity for family ministry, including recruitment and nurture of volunteers, issues with timing and continuity in the Sunday school schedule, and increased special events designed for family fellowship.
Parent Education A seasonal children’s ministry newsletter, Kids @ Trinity, was introduced in the fall to guide parents in family offerings and events at church. For National Episcopal Schools Sunday (November 12, 2017) a panel of Indianapolis community leaders, Dr. Dawn Batson, Ms. Patricia Payne, and Mrs. Brittany Wayman, convened and, with Mother Julia, facilitated a discussion: How to Talk to Your Kids About Race and Racism during the adult formation hour.
Sunday Schedule The new Sunday schedule was rolled out in September with Christian education taking place after church rather than coinciding with the 10:00 a.m. service. This change has afforded choristers, acolytes, and Sunday school teachers the opportunity to attend worship services in full as well as allowing greater continuity for Sunday school classes, particularly upper elementary classes that had previously been affected by chorister and acolyte responsibilities during the service.
The Sunday Garden Liturgy This casual service was well-attended throughout the summer and gave families and opportunity to serve as greeters, ushers, and readers. It has been observed that new families often begin visiting Trinity through attendance at this service, and its informal nature and short duration is appealing to parents with young children and newcomers just becoming familiar with Episcopal liturgy. Thanks to our Garden Liturgy hosts, musicians, and chalice bearers: The Knick family, the Howe-Hembre family, the Bacon family, the Phelps-Kelleher family, Ken and Nedra Feeley, Jim Strickland, the Naas family, the Valentine family, the Stump-Steensland family, Michael Messina, Neal Wylde, Missy Roetter, Scott Whitaker, and Hannah Curtis.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word With the change in the Sunday schedule has come a new addition to our offerings for younger children in the form of Children’s Liturgy of the Word. During the 10:00 a.m. service, younger children are invited to gather in the Chapel of the Holy innocents for a child-centered liturgy which offers a lectionary-based lesson with reflection, opportunity for prayer, and songs. The average attendance for this weekly offering is 15-20 children ranging from three to ten years of age. Sunday School Children in preschool through grade 2 participate in Montessori –based Godly Play classes, in which Old and New Testament scriptures are presented in hands-on stories with invitations for reflection, exploration and art responses. God’s love for creation and our place in these sacred stories are explored in a community of care and wonder.
Christian Formation Volunteers Our parish is blessed to have had at least 30 volunteers in the last year dedicated to the care and nurture of our children. These individuals prepared lessons during the week and gave tireless service on Sunday mornings in addition to providing behind-thescenes work to sustain our program. On a personal note, it was not lost on my family when we first visited Trinity that Sunday school volunteers span multiple generations; it was clear that the entire parish values the Sunday school program. Thanks to our 2017 Christian education volunteers: Lisa Adler, AmySue Bacon, David Bacon, Sara Bean, Maren Bell, Brock Brown, Matthew Bucken, Patty Bucken, Mother Nancy Ferriani, Phil Graybiel, Heidi Green, Catey Hale, Fred Halter, Annette Henderson, Christy Jacobi, Matthew Jennings, Terry Langdon, Jeff Martin, Erin McMath, Adam Mueller, Ken Myers, Ann Perry, Jen Phelps, Ruth Simmons, Brian Steensland, Shana Stump, Abby Vincent, Erin Vincent, Mary Jo Wedding, and Scott Whitaker.
Children in grades 3-6 attend Sunday school with Feasting on the Word, a lectionary-based curriculum that explores the relevance of scripture in our daily lives and how our Christian faith informs our choices. Bible stories ground each lesson as class communities search for God’s presence and call to us. Art/journal response, community-building, and service projects are incorporated into our upper elementary classes. Parent volunteers periodically provide snacks to Sunday school classes, and Trinity cookies are also offered to children in their classrooms each week.
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Nursery
Submitted by Patty Gotway, Nursery Coordinatory Nursery care is always available as part of our welcome to our youngest members and their families. The Nursery offers a place where infants and young children can experience the love and care of this community, and it offers parents an opportunity to give their full attention to worship and other church activities. Childcare is available for infants and children 3 and under, every Sunday morning and at midweek events. Sunday hours are 9:30 – 12:30 AM. When there is no Sunday School, children up to 6 years old are also welcome. Nursery is open until the end of the service or the last child is collected. The Nursery is staffed on Sundays by at least two trained paid adult caregivers with professional experience. Tia Goodloe, Libby Wright and Alison Boerger are the long time care providers, other parish members providing help when needed. The Fall of 2017 has shown a solid group of 9 children from new families enjoying the Nursery and each other.
Youth Ministry
Submitted by Missy Roetter, Youth Coordinator In June, the J2A group traveled to Calgary/Banff for their J2A pilgrimage, the 9th pilgrimage for Trinity church. Thirteen teens and six adults spent ten days in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. We stayed at a local camp where we were able to cook meals and enjoy bonfires every night. Several days, we hiked the strenuous trails in Banff National, exploring God’s beauty. While in Calgary, the focus was on mission work with the homeless shelter. We spent an afternoon in the Mustard Seed (the homeless shelter) distribution center sorting clothes. We worked in a local garden planting potatoes and other items for an organization called Grow Calgary. All the produce is given to those in need of, and can’t afford, healthy food. We spent one day in downtown Calgary as if we were homeless. We collected bottles and cans for money, explored the many options for housing and other assistance. All in all, it was quite a moving experience. In the fall of 2017, we started the 12th Rite-13 group consisting of 7th and 8th grade teens and the 11th J2a group which are 9th and 10th graders. Both the J2A and Rite-13 group began the fall season with an overnight to Bradford Woods retreat center. Team building was the focus of the weekend. The older teens, some from the pilgrimage and others, meet several times during the fall with some of our supply priests for a conversation and questions. Fundraising was very successful this year. The May flower sale and car-wash raised over $2,500 which was given to the mission projects on the pilgrimage, including The Mustard Seed, Grow Calgary, and St. Martins and Christ Church. The cookie bake continues to be profitable. The teens sold over 400 boxes of cookies and 150 tubs of dough. Unfortunately, this was our last year renting Broad Ripple High School as our kitchen. It was a privilege to use this large facility for the last 15 years.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the leaders of all the youth groups. They spend every Sunday sharing their time and love for the teens. Without them this program would not be as successful as it is. The Pilgrimage leaders were, Kay Whitaker, Jim Jacobi and Fred Roetter. The J2A #11 leaders are Aaron Naas, David Holtman and Sarah Nabinger and the new Rite-13 leaders are Katherine Smith and Bobby Bell.
Outreach Ministries The Rev’d Karen L. King, Senior Associate Rector Trinity Outreach Ministries include the following: Dayspring Sunday Dinner, Trinity Sunday Dinner, Community Outreach Grants, Magi Tree, Back to School Supplies Drive, Emergency Assistance, Trinity Comforters, Habitat for Humanity, Trinity Exodus-Welcoming Team, the Advent Parish – Wide Outreach Project, and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service. Part of the oversight of Outreach Ministries is the management of theTrinity Outreach Center, which provides rental space at below market rates to the Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic and the Mid-North Food Pantry, and is the home of Trinity’s Sunday Dinner. 2017 Annual Report - Community Outreach Grants Submitted by Patty Prosser, Chair, and The Rev. Karen L. King, Senior Associate Rector
with cancer. In 2016, the 13,141 trips which the Rides of Hope program provided were indicative of a 25% increase in rides over the previous two years. Funds will increase the capacity to help meet this increased need.
The Community Outreach Grants Committee identified and invited seven (7) Organizations to participate in the 2017 Grants Process to request an individual grant for “Basic Needs”, not to exceed $2000. Basic Needs were defined as food, shelter and transportation. These organizations were: • Felege Hiywat Center • Gleaners Food Bank of Indianapolis • Habitat for Humanity of Indianapolis • Indiana Youth Group • Little Red Door Cancer Agency • Martin Luther King Center • Use What You’ve Got Prison Ministry
Use What You’ve Got Prison Ministry - $3000 To provide funds to provide transportation for approximately 66 families and significant others to visit an average of 15 incarcerated individuals located in Marion County correctional facilities. Research shows that even one visit during the length of incarceration reduces their likelihood for recidivism by 13%. Many prisoners would not be able to receive these visits while incarcerated without these funds. The 2017 Community Outreach Grants budget was $10,500. The Vestry accepted the Committee’s recommendation. The Community Outreach Grants Committee: Kelly Bentley, John Bridge, Gayle Holtman, Linda Lance, Patty Prosser, Chair, Nathaniel Samba and the Rev. Karen L. King, Clergy
Four (4) applications were returned and the committee met and deliberated on Sunday, October 29th. On Monday, November 20th, Patty Prosser, Chair, attended the Vestry meeting and presented the Committee’s recommendation that all four organizations receive grants as follows:
All-Parish Advent Outreach Project A parish-wide, intergenerational outreach project was held during Advent in which a variety of personal hygiene products (soap, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrush- es, etc.) for women and men were collected, sorted and then donated to the Trinity Sunday Dinner and Mid-North Food Pantry. This project met an urgent need for these organiza- tions because personal hygiene products are always in high demand by people who utilize these resources. However, these products are o en among the items that are seldom do- nated. Another reason for the high demand is because Food Stamps cannot be used to purchase these items. The project was coordinated by Abby and Erin Vincent. Annual Magi Tree Trinity’s Magi Tree represents a partnership between Trinity Episcopal Church and a community and /or a campus partner to designate Christmas gifts to that organization’s
Gleaners Food Bank of Indianapolis - $3000 For the BackSacks- Weekend Food for Kids Program; to feed approximately 20 food-insecure elementary students enrolled at IPS/Butler Laboratory School 60 for the 2017-2018 school year. Habitat for Humanity of Indianapolis -$1500 To provide funds to continue the opportunity for Habitat and Trinity volunteers to walk alongside current and future homeowners on their journey to homeownership. The grant will help fund one work day on one of the build sites. Little Red Door Cancer Agency - $3000 To help fund the Agency’s Rides of Hope transportation programs which provides reliable transportation to and from treatment for those who are low income (at or below 225% of the Federal Poverty Level), who are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or other frequent procedures associated 18
clientele. This year parishioners gave over 70 Magi Tree gifts to children of the Horizons Summer Program at St. Richard’s Episcopal School. Each child listed three gift ideas on their Magi Tree ornament to guide donors as they shopped. Gifts ranged from a wide assortment of clothing items, including winter wear, toys, electronic games, books, art and educational materials and a bicycle.
hood through its ongoing commitment to feed those who are hungry, as well as, provide hospitality and fellowship for our parishioners and guests through weekly connections of the Sunday Dinner. We celebrated this anniversary with a luncheon and program which brought together Trinity parishioners and neighbors to recognize hunger in our neighborhood and celebrate our relationships as we work to address food insecurity and hunger.
The Magi Tree is always an enjoyable experience for parishioners and is another example of how members support the community through Outreach activities.
Another highlight for the Sunday Dinner was renovation of the Trinity Outreach Center’s lower level, as well as, improvements made in the lobby and the Mid-North Food Pantry. These improvements to the space emphasized Trinity’s commitment to the neighborhood through feeding, provision of family food and affordable child care.
Back to School Supplies Drive Many families struggle to obtain the wide range of school supplies for each child that is expected at the beginning of the school year. The Annual Back to School Supplies Drive is an Outreach effort to help children begin the school year in a positive way by making available an assortment of basic supplies that are prescribed by the school and according to grade levels. Supplies were distributed to the children of the Day Spring Family Shelter and Trinity’s Sunday Dinner.
The Year in Review: Renovation of the Lower Level The goal was to improve the aesthetics and functionality of the lower level of the Trinity Outreach Center (TOC) to create a more comfortable and welcoming space and experience. • The Planning Committee consisting of Matthew Jennings, Rick Beardsley, Mike Arnold, Vickie Bellamy, Pua Smith, Larry Durkos, Diana Creasser and Karen L. King (clergy) began work on defining the scope of the renovation in February as a follow-up to the 2016 suggestion. • Funding for this special project was largely underwritten by generous donations from parishioners Michael Arnold and Rick Beardsley with additional funds available through Outreach reserves. • The target date for completion of improvements was April 28th in preparation for a visit from Bishop-elect Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows and the Presiding Bishop, The Right Reverend Michael Curry. The bishops were joined by Mayor Joe Hogsett and other members of his staff in a tour of the TOC and presentation of Trinity outreach ministries led by Mother Karen L. King and others. • Improvements included painting of all feeding and community areas of the lower level, ceiling replacement in the dining room along with consistent energy efficient lighting. • Much focus was given to softening the space through art work, as well as, incorporating the role of the church in this ministry without giving the space too much of a religious feel. • Beautiful photos of the Trinity gardens and sacred space were framed and provided by Rick Beardsley. They hang behind the serving area. • Mike Arnold oversaw purchase and framing of other pieces of art to soften and beautify the area. He also commissioned the mural of Monument Circle in the lobby of the lower level.
Emergency Financial Assistance Another means of Outreach into the community is through Trinity’s emergency Financial Assistance Ministry. Financial support is made available through Clergy Discretionary Funds to member of the community who are facing a crisis and are able to meet certain requirements. Funds are used to help pay mortgage and apartment rental fees, utility bills, purchase work uniforms and shoes, fill pharmacy prescriptions and assist with other crisis related issues. This assistance is also made available to parishioners, of which all transactions are confidential The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Project 2017 was the first year to launch the Day of Service Project in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This parish-wide outreach project served Dayspring Family Shelter and the Martin Luther King Center. Adults and children helped sort a variety of school and personal hygiene products that had been collected for the MLK Center’s clientele. Another group of volunteers spent the day deep-cleaning the commercial kitchen at the Dayspring Family Shelter. From this first experience it was determined that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service was a rewarding experience and volunteers wanted to engage in this project again next year.
Trinity Sunday Dinner
Submitted by Diana Creasser & The Rev’d Karen L. King We seek to nourish the spirit and bodies of those among us who are hungry, thereby creating a more viable community through generosity, hospitality, and fellowship. 2017 represented a milestone year for the Sunday Dinner. October 2017 was the anniversary of the tenth year that Trinity Episcopal Church served the mid-north neighbor-
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Trinity Sunday Dinner Tenth Anniversary Celebration
Jim Purucker, Parishioner, Founder and Chief Unexceptionable Cuisinier for his generosity and faithful hospitality. Jim has donated copious amounts of food, as well, as organizing cooking crews to prepare special meals for our Sunday Dinner guests.
Trinity Episcopal Church opened its doors to our neighbors on October 21st of 2007 with the intention of serving a Sunday meal that was family friendly and augmented the soup kitchens provided by two other churches so that there would be a feeding opportunity seven days a week in the mid-north community.
Larry Durkos and his son, Duane, parishioners and Sunday Dinner team supporters. They prepare 15-20 specials meals a month for the Sunday Dinner to give thanks to God for Larry’s restored health.
Addressing hunger as part of Trinity’s outreach mission is ordained in scripture and is a core aspect of stewardship and giving from the abundance of God’s gifts. The Sunday Dinner moved from the Fortune room at Trinity Episcopal Church to the lower level of the new Trinity Outreach Center less than a year after its inception.
• Since the first Sunday Dinner in October 2007, we have relied on six core teams of 12-15 parish volunteers to prepare, serve, and clean-up. More than one half of the parish has participated since it started.
• A Planning Committee consisting of parishioners Matthew Jennings, Ruth Simmons, Jolene Moffett, Vickie Bellamy, Patricia Brown, Tonja Goodloe, Annette Henderson, Rick Beardsley, Diana Creasser, Robert Wilson, Mark Baker, Lynette Herd, Cathy Bridge, Gretchen, Sofia and Lyla Blair and Karen L. King (Clergy) worked through the end of summer and early autumn to plan a celebration event.
• 241 volunteers, some of whom have been on a team since 2007, led by 19 team leaders have made this ministry work. 183 adults have worked in the Sunday Dinner and 58 children and youth have grown up serving in the Sunday Dinner.
• A parish/neighborhood luncheon and program was identified as the celebration event to be held on October 22, 2017. It was hosted after church in the St. Rchard’s School gymnasium. Guests from the Sunday Dinner, neighbors, parishioners and community dined on a scrumptious meal prepared by Trinity’s own Unexceptionable Cuisiniers. The gymnasium was festively decorated for autumn and the atmosphere was upbeat.
• Since the inception of this ministry nearly 50,000 people have dined at the Sunday Dinner.
• We also rely on part-time staff. Darren Palmer, Sunday Dinner Coordinator and Lee Bowles and Steve Hiser, Associates.
General Operations • The Sunday Dinner served every Sunday in 2017. • 5,734 guests dined at the Sunday Dinner in 2017 and 6,976 meals were served. • The Sunday Dinner was supported by 13 team leaders along with 83 adult volunteers. 23 children and youth also participated in the meal with adult supervision when needed.
• A brief program consisted of opening remarks and welcome from Rector, Julia Whitworth and overview of the history of the Sunday Dinner by Karen L. King, Senior Associate and Sunday Dinner founding clergy.
• 2017 has been a fortunate year as we have had consistent part-time staff leadership and support. Darren Palmer took a personal leave from December 2016 until mid-March 2017, but Steve Hiser, Associate, acted in his place as the Coordinator. Steve did a fine job. Lee Bowles also continued as an Associate. A smooth meal requires close coordination between team leaders, volunteers and staff. We appreciate all.
• Patty Cortellini, Agency Relations Manager for Second Helpings spoke of the strong relationship between Trinity Episcopal Church, the Sunday Dinner and Second Helpings. Second Helpings has been our core partner since the beginning and without their weekly entrees and other foods the Sunday Dinner could not operate. • Jeff Bennett, Deputy Mayor of Community Development for the city represented the Mayor’s Office and spoke of hunger in our city and the impact that a ministry such as the Sunday Dinner has on the health of the community.
• Second Helpings continues to be a sustaining partner with weekly delivery of main course and other food items such as desserts, produce, and bread as available.
• Diana Creasser, Lay Leader of the Sunday Dinner and Julia Whitworth recognized supporters and volunteers.
• Larry and Duane Durkos continued to prepare their 15-20 special meals per month to be served alongside the Second Helpings meal. Jim Purucker and the Unexceptionable Cuisiners also generously offered specials meals and donated food items.
• Special Recognition went to: The Revd. Karen L. King, for her inspirational vision for outreach and the idea for the Sunday Dinner and a neighborhood feeding ministry. Mother Karen represented a turning point in the discernment of this parish to intentionally invest in a big way in community outreach.
• New volunteers all received welcome packets and were required to review the power points on history and origin of the Sunday Dinner along with Safe Food Handling. Team Leaders then assumed responsibility for orienting the new volunteers and emphasizing the training content.
Diana Creasser, Lay Leader for initial development of this ministry and ongoing leadership of the Sunday Dinner 20
2018 The Year Ahead 1. Carry forward incomplete items from 2017. 2. Conduct a formal evaluation of the Sunday Dinner with both guests and volunteers. 3. Enhance the Sunday Dinner based on the feedback from the evaluation. 4. Recruit additional volunteers including opportunities for youth. 5. Continue to look at ways to add 1 or 2 new teams. 6. Conduct a Sunday Dinner volunteer workshop to reexamine mission and ministry and identify priorities to not only enhance this ministry but to address other aspects of Wholly Foods. 7. Join city and neighborhood advocacy efforts as we address poverty and hunger in the campaign against city violence. 8. Conduct annual review of safe food handling through power point self-training.
At our August dinner, school supplies were on hand and the children were so excited to have new pens, pencils, folders, and notebooks to use for the start of the school year. Children’s books were also made available to the families at one of our meals. Trinity has the reputation of serving delicious dinners! We often hear that our meals are the best and families are very appreciative! Thank you to our faithful volunteers. We would like to acknowledge those that have helped with this very important ministry. Volunteers for 2017: John and Cathy Bridge, Carrie Kinder, Bill Coleman, Mary and Steve DeVoe, Ginny and Mitch Cottrell, Jan and Jim Gould, Rev. Karen L. King, Karen E. King, Ann Perry, George Plews, Kathleen, Jim, Ivey and Sarah Jane Strickland, and Peter Whitten. Habitat for Humanity Outreach Report Submitted by Erik Hembre, Chair Habitat for Humanity is a global organization focused on addressing problems of housing insecurity. Their mission statement reads: “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope”. Trinity Episcopal Church has partnered with Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity over the past several years in various projects in Mapleton-Fall Creek and surrounding neighborhoods.
Dayspring Dinners Submitted by Jan Gould, Coordinator Dinner at Dayspring is one of our longest standing Outreach service projects at Trinity. A group of volunteers prepare dinner on the third Sunday of every other month, usually feeding 35 - 40 residents, many of whom are children. The meals consist of a hot entrée, salad or vegetable, fruit, potato or pasta dish, and dessert. Healthy juices, as well as milk and water are served with the meal. Trinity volunteers frequently donate the food items used in meal preparation. Reimbursement for food items is always available form the outreach budget. Fried chicken dinners, chili suppers, and pizza night are a few of the favorites!
In 2017 Trinity volunteers participated in a Habitat for Humanity home renovation project in the Audubon Gardens neighborhood in the Near Eastside of Indianapolis that took place on September 29th. Five volunteers from Trinity participated (Erik Hembre, Chuck Schafer, Ray Neufeld and David Bacon) working on replacing rotting exterior walls and roofing material.
Dayspring volunteers prepare the food, serve the meal, run the dishwasher, and clean the kitchen before leaving. This is normally a two hour shift from 5:00 to 7:00 Anyone interested in helping is always welcome to serve and can contact Jan Gould (jang1136@aol.com) or the Reverend Karen L. King for more information.
Anyone interested in participating in future Trinity Habitat for Humanity projects should contact Erik Hembre (ehembre@Lilly.com).
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Trinity Comforters Submitted by Patty Gotway, Trinity Comforters Coordinator
There is one issue the WT may want to discuss and that is whether to use some funds in the fund for a driving school for Prosper. This school specializes in refugees and would go with him to the exam.
Trinity Comforters mission is to make handcrafted items to provide a personal connection between those making the item and those receiving it. Sewing aid is also provided to the Church staff when requested. Comforters is self-funded through donations of material and money from its members, generous friends.
Jane and Sarah. The Welcoming Team is mentoring Jane Kandu and her daughter Sarah. Jane is settled but has had some difficulties in finding secure employment. She had been at Foxconn but was let go. I brought her to church in December and will be bringing her to a Methodist church in her area where she can find support.
The Knitters meet the second Sunday of the month from 3:00-5:00 in the Fortune Room. We are a social group and we work on our own projects. Members are glad to help members with problems. We are always willing to teach anyone would like to learn to knit. We welcome all needle workers!
The goals we had for her were to help find child support. She now has child support. Exodus is working with her on finding her reliable employment.
Anyone interested is invited to join us, no skills are required. Exodus Immigration Welcome Team (NEW) Submitted by Elsa Sands, Chair
Trinity Outreach Partnerships
Prosper and Sidonie and their family continue to adjust to their life in Indiana. This has been a year of hope and achievement for everyone. Highlights include:
Trinity Outreach Properties Committee Submitted by Edward Stephenson, Chair
Molly and Michael invited the family to Christmas dinner.
The role of the Trinity Outreach Properties Committee, as approved by the Vestry on May 16, 2016, is “to manage all aspects of those properties owned by Trinity Episcopal Church that are dedicated for use by outreach tenants or programs…”. This includes: occupancy, tenant relations, buildings and grounds maintenance and repair, policy issues, financial assurance, budgeting, and strategic and long term planning. Team members include: The Reverend Karen L. King, Bill Coleman, John Craun, Kevin DePrey, Dirk Edwards, Patty Gotway, Erik Hembre, Leigh Ann Hirschman, Susan McMahon, Jay Simmons, and Edward Stephenson (chair). The team meets at least bi-monthly.
Last summer the younger boys, Dieudonne and Giscard, went to the Horizons Program. Members of the Welcoming Team provided transportation. Among the fun summer activities they experienced was swimming! Tom took the family to The Rivera Swim Club! and Alex had swim lessons! The main focus of the Welcoming Team was helping them find new and better jobs (thanks to Katie Simmons’ connections), and working on driving. Paul SerVaas offered Prosper, Sidonie and Arsene, their friend and driver, employment at his new factory working the night shift for $11 an hour. This required four weeks training during which the Welcoming Team provided transport for Arsene’s wife home from her job at Krispy Kreme Donuts so he could participate. The work arrangement has been successful.
Key activities for 2017 included the following: • Improved the Trinity Outreach Center (TOC) front entrance to make it more attractive and functional; • Beautified the TOC dining room to make it more welcoming to our guests; • Improved the flow and the signage of the Trinity Outreach Center parking lots; • Refinished all Trinity Outreach Center wooden doors; • Redesigned the Outreach Center storage area to allow for storage for St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc.; • Strengthened the relationship between the Trinity Facilities Committee and the Trinity Outreach Properties Committee; • Held two Trinity Outreach Center tenant meetings to improve communication between Trinity and outreach tenants and among outreach center tenants; • Developed an annual Trinity Outreach Center budget and monitored revenues and expenses; and • Updated the Trinity Outreach Center Ten-Year Capital Plan.
Katie Simmons organized a legal team to sue the BMV to allow Prosper, Sidonie and Arsene to take their Indiana permit exam orally in French. Loic Andres, St Richard’s French teacher, volunteered to read the exam in French to Arsene at the courthouse. Arsene passed! We are now going through the same process so Prosper can have his exam read to him in French. We are fortunate to have Cecile Carre, a native French speaker and French teacher tutor Prosper, Arsene and Sidonie, and to have Loic volunteer his time to help in this long tedious effort. Meanwhile Alex passed his drivers permit. Tom, Deb and Brock have taken Alex practice driving. Tom and Ann Greist have found a car for Prosper and his family. The family is working and self sufficient so the work of the Welcoming Team is completed.
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Important issues for 2018 include: • Illuminate and redesign the Meridian Street Trinity Outreach Center sign to add “Trinity Sunday Dinner”; • Upgrade the Outreach Center HVAC control system; • Obtain cost estimates for eventual passenger and freight elevator replacements; • Obtain cost estimates for the renovation of Outreach Center bathrooms; and • Continue to address ongoing Trinity Outreach Center facility needs.
The Mid-North Food Pantry (MNFP) Submitted by Erin Vincent, Chair The Mid-North Food Pantry served 11,768 households of which 44% of those served were under the age of 18. We began providing a dozen eggs to every client, thanks to a grant from the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation in 2016 and this continued throughout 2017. MNFP continues to seek grant opportunities allowing for the purchase of healthier food options for our neighbors. Partnerships with Whole Foods, School 60, and Gleaners produce mixing center also brought in thousands of pounds of fresh produce, bread, dairy products, and dry goods, improving both the quantity and the quality of the food we are able to provide.
Horizons @ St. Richard’s Submitted by Leigh Ann Hirschman, Chair Mission: Close the summer learning gap for Indianapolis kids from low-income families through: • • • •
With our expanded garden, we continue to increase the amount of produce we can grow. We have also received a grant from the Indy Hunger Network to continue to upgrade our refrigerators and freezers from donated home units to commercial units with much greater capacity. MNFP has hired two part-time staff members to help manage our dayto-day operations: Matthew Jennings (Trinity member) and Stephen Hiser (neighbor and Sunday Dinner staff member).
intensive academic enrichment from preK to 8th grade; fun learning environment; lifesaving swim lessons; and year-round support for families.
Horizons at St. Richard’s is led by director Shanna Martin; the program is staffed by licensed teachers and teachers’ aides, giving Horizons a three-to-one staff-student ratio. High-school interns volunteer with the program as well. The Horizons board represents many dimensions of the Indianapolis community. In 2017, Trinity member Leigh Ann Hirschman served on the board. Trinity Episcopal Church awarded Horizons a 2016 outreach grant that was distributed in the 2017 financial year. In addition, Trinity contributed the use of its facilities, in-kind donations, and support for Horizons families during the holidays via the Magi Tree.
In 2017, we worked to renew and strengthen relationships with our founding church partners, build relationships with new partners, improve communications with the community, and recruit more volunteers to help us serve the increasing numbers of neighbors seeking food assistance. Trinity continues to be one of our strongest partners, providing food, funds, and volunteers that keep the pantry running. An example of Trinity members finding unique ways to contribute to MNFP, is Tom Root’s Eagle Scout Project. With assistance/guidance from Bill Coleman, Tom worked with MNFP to build much-needed cabinets/storage/countertops in the pantry and breakroom. Thank you Trinity for your continued support of Mid-North Food Pantry!
Highlights of 2017: • Horizons at St. Richard’s Episcopal School was in session from June 14 – July 20. • In total, 149 students from 47 different IPS, charter, and township public schools attended the six-week program. Each of these students qualified for a free or reduced-price lunch at their school. • Horizons built and continued partnerships with 37 community-focused organizations and individuals. • Our students closed the summer learning gap! Instead of sliding backward in math and reading over the summer, they moved forward. They started the 201718 school more confident, more prepared, and excited about learning. • Nationally, Horizons has a 99 percent graduation rate.
Trinity volunteers at the Mid-North Food Pantry: Theresa Arness Mike Arnold Cathy Bridge Brocky Brown Lisa Buoy Mary Chalmers Bill Coleman Nick Fennig Bonnie Frye Kate Howe Matthew Jennings (also part-time staff) Jan Barnaby Jim Knowles Susan McMahon
Get involved with Horizons: If you would like learn more about Horizons or get involved, please contact Leigh Ann Hirschman at leighann@ hirschmanliteraryservices.com. Horizons welcomes licensed teachers (who are paid for the summer), volunteers, and donors.
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Ross McKenna Ron Newlin Jon Parker Nikeesha Pittman Jane Root Tom Root Harriet Stambaugh Ed Stephenson Jane Stephenson Graham Turner Gretchen Turner Greyson Turner Abby Vincent Erin Vincent Mollie Williams
St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc. Submitted by Jane Stephenson, St. Nicholas Early Learning Board of Directors, President
Project Home Indy (PHI) Submitted by Lakshmi Hasadnadka, Executive Director Project Home Indy provides holistic, trauma-informed services to teen mothers to create successful futures for themselves and for their children. The first step in our program is the residential program. In that program, housing and services are provided at Trinity Episcopal Church’s Alley House. We help our clients achieve educational success, access healthcare, learn needed independent living skills, heal from past trauma through intensive therapy, and eliminate barriers to self-sufficiency.
In October 2017, St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc celebrated it’s one year anniversary. Located at the Trinity Outreach Center, this program offers a safe, welcoming, and high quality childcare serving children of diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. Conceived by a committee of Trinity parishioners, the organization became a 501(c)3 in June 2016 and officially opened in September 2016. On October 1, 2017 St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc. (SNEL) celebrated their one-year anniversary with a slideshow of happy children in classrooms, comments by staff and families, and refreshments provided by the SNEL Board of Directors. Currently, SNEL serves 38 children (only two children short of the maximum capacity 40) under the supervision and encouragement of ten full-time staff. In striving to fulfill the SNEL mission of providing “a safe, welcoming, and high-quality childcare serving children of diverse racial and socio-economic backgrounds”, 62% of our families are full-pay and 38% either receive state Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) vouchers or scholarships. Family and staff surveys conducted in September 2017 indicated a high level of satisfaction by all parties.
After the young mom leaves the residential program, she may enter phase two of the program, which is the alumnae program. In the alumnae program, PHI provides continued case management, support, programs, and services to help our clients continue to work toward independence. Because of the significant trauma histories our clients have and the generations of poverty they have endured, self-sufficiency and housing security take time. The continuity of care PHI provides with our two-step program helps ensure the moms are able to learn the skills needed to make lasting change. PHI tailors the program for each individual. When a young woman enters the program, she and her team create a treatment plan in which she sets measurable, realistic goals in eight different categories. The treatment plan is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it is current and relevant. Each client’s treatment plan, and the steps needed to achieve the goals, are unique. For our clients to make deep, lasting change toward self-sufficiency, they must have an individualized program to address their individual barriers and needs.
Major SNEL accomplishments in 2017 include achieving a Level 2 designation on the Indiana Paths to Quality program; receiving additional funds from Anthem Foundation and the United Way of Central Indiana to expand our natural playground; establishing a new partnership with Martin Luther King Community Center Great Families 2020 Project; and increasing our social media presence on Facebook and our updated website. As defined by the state of Indiana: “Level 2 Programs have demonstrated a commitment to improve program quality. These programs offer environments that support children’s growth, development, and learning. Level 2 programs will have evidence of a consistent daily schedule, planned activities for children, and will provide relevant program information for families”.
In 2017, Project Home Indy served 18 families in both our residential and alumnae programs. We worked with 8 families in our residential program, including 7 babies. We shared the birth of three healthy babies, and helped their mothers learn how to care for and nurture their beautiful newborns. In the fall, we launched the “Weekly Workshop,” a weekly program to teach our youth much-needed skills. The programs are presented by community partners. All programs are evidence and research-based and provided by experienced facilitators. The programs span a broad range of topics, including education, domestic violence/interpersonal violence, healthy relationships, sexual health, self-esteem, financial literacy, personal hygiene, safety, and preventing child abuse.
An enormous thank you to Trinity parishioners, vestry, clergy, and staff who continue to support SNEL in so many ways including, but not limited to, ongoing parishioner donations, subsidized space in the Trinity Outreach Center, and vestry approved gifts. Also, a very grateful thank you to outgoing board members Bill Coleman, Abby Vincent, and Dick Hughes without whom clearly SNEL would not be where it is today. And a warm welcome to new board members: Amy Sue Bacon, Meg Feemster, Jennifer Hundley, Amelia Patel, Shana Stump, and Leah Turner who bring fresh passion and talent to the Board.
Our strategic planning committee was hard at work in 2017, as we worked to achieve the goals in our new three-year strategic plan. (2017-2019) The committee focused on two main goals: 1. Strengthening our programmatic excellence; and 2. Fostering a strong board and staff team. PHI reviewed our current practices to see where we have gaps in service and is developing a plan to address those needs.
For more good news, check us out on Facebook: Facebook. com/StNicolasEL; or the St. Nicholas Early Learning, Inc. website at www.stnicholasel.org ; or better yet visit the center at your convenience!
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The Guild of the Holy Cross: Lay Eucharistic Visitors (LEVs) Submitted by: Karen E. King & Scott Whitaker, Co-Leaders & the Rev. Karen L. King, Senior Associate Rector The Guild of the Holy Cross is a long standing ministry of Trinity Episcopal Church. A Lay Eucharistic Visitor or “LEV” is a person licensed by the bishop, upon the recommendation of the Rector and approval of the Vestry to take the consecrated elements, the Bread and Wine of Holy Communion to mem¬bers of the congregation who, by reason of illness or infirmity were unable to be present at the Celebration of Holy Eucharist on Sunday or other Principal Celebrations. LEVs also assist with other activities. Listed below are ministry highlights: • Attended regular monthly meetings. • Made 116 Private Home Communion visits with 328 people present during the visit and 282 people receiving communion (includes clergy visits). • Recruited three new members: Carol DeCoursey, Kathy Watson and Eric Williams. • Assisted with the set-up and serving the meal for the Spring Senior Luncheon. • Cooked and served the meal for the Fall Senior Luncheon
In 2018, we will launch a six-month program development project, which will help us achieve the strategic planning goal of programmatic excellence. During that project, we will conduct a careful assessment of our current practices. We will next compare our current work with government regulations and requirements, evidence, and best practices. Finally, we will tailor our program to meet the findings of this research. We look forward to this work, which will help ensure we provide the best possible service to our young families. As always, we are grateful for the support of Trinity Episcopal Church and its parishioners. Thank you for all you do for our young families.
Pastoral Care Ministries 2016 Activities
Submitted Patty Bennett, Chairperson and the Rev. Karen L. King, Senior Associate Rector Throughout the year several activities were implemented by the Pastoral Care Committee to bring care, comfort, and support to our members who were sick and shut-in, struggling with bereavement, loneliness, and other life challenges. Below are ministry highlights: Activities for 2017 include the following: • Held the Spring Eucharist and Senior Luncheon, May 18 with 42 in attendance. A demonstration of the new lights in the sanctuary was given by Mother Julia.
Co-leaders: Karen E. King and Scott Whitak¬er, Co-Leaders. Team members: Team 1: Theresa Arness & Scott Whitaker, Team 2: Mary Chalmers & Brocky Brown, Team 3: Karen E. King & Ross McKenna.
• Held the Fall Eucharist and Senior Luncheon, October 12 with 55 in attendance. An interview with our new priest, the Rev. Dr. Benjamin Anthony, Associate Rector for Formation & Invitation & Chaplain to St. Richard’s Episcopal School was provided.
Trinity Caregivers’ Support Group Submitted by Peter Sehlinger The Trinity Caregivers Group began meeting in the summer of 2014 and is composed of individuals who are caregivers for relatives and friends suffering from Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, strokes, and other debilitating medical problems. They are joined by two resource persons who have been caregivers and by the Rev. James Knowles, the group’s chaplain. Those present share their experiences and offer support to their fellow caregivers, as well as proffering suggestions and noting available resources. All conversations remain strictly confidential.
• Sent 157 cards from the Card Ministry to Trinity members, relatives, and friends of Trinity to offer care and support during illness, death and other occasions. Sandra Malcom leads The Card Ministry and writes a personal note in each card. • Distributed colorful lap blankets made by the Trinity Comforters and prayer shawls made by Victoria Resnick to members who are homebound.
Caregivers at Trinity and elsewhere are invited to attend our meetings.
• Co-sponsored one youth to attend the Episcopal Youth Event sponsored by National Episcopal Church. Committee members: Patty Bennett, Chairperson, Richard Bennett, Tom Griest, Jeanne Hight, Karen E. King, Sandra Malcom, Deedra Runyan, Finis Tatum and the Rev. Karen L. King
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Families & Parents Parents of Episcopal Teens (PETs) Submitted by Sally Hardgrove
Waycross Bucks 2017 Submitted by Christy Jacoby
PETs was created to fill a need for community among parents of Trinity’s middle and high school age youth. The group is intended for parents of youth in grades 5 to 12.
The Waycross Bucks Fund at Trinity was created in 2014 through generous donations from Trinity parishioners in celebration of the ministries of the Rev’d Tom Kryder-Reed and the Rev’d Grace Burton-Edwards. Each year, a portion of the fund is used to encourage Trinity children to both participate in programs at Trinity and to attend camp programs at Waycross Camp and Conference Center, the diocesan retreat center in Brown County, Indiana. Children and youth who participate at Trinity in Sunday School, Youth Group, Choristers, or Acolytes can earn up to $100 toward their camp fees for Summer Camp, Family Camp, or Women’s Week.
Those years are transitional for the teens and their parents. As youth become increasingly independent during the middle and high school years, many parents lose their own community. We all wanted our children to grow up in a Christian environment where it is safe to ask tough questions and experience loving support from their peers, and realized that we want this for ourselves, too. Parents also expressed the desire to better know the parents of the youth their children gather with every Sunday for four years!
The program has been very successful in growing the relationship between Trinity and Waycross. In 2017, Waycross Bucks were granted to 17 young people at Trinity, including 11 St. Richard’s students. And the broader impact of Waycross Bucks can be seen in the overall numbers for Trinity participation at Waycross - 12 Trinity families attended Family Camp (totaling 48 participants), 7 women and their children attended Women’s Week, 4 dad’s and their children attended Dad’s Weekend, and 6 couples and counting are planning to participate in the Love for Waycross fundraising dinner in February 2018. Trinity parishioner Jennifer Phelps is a member of the Waycross board of directors.
In 2017, the parents of Journey to Adulthood sent our youth on Pilgrimage to Calgary, Alberta. Thanks to past PETs activities, our group of parents knew each other and could share information, anticipation and angst about sending our babies out of the country for two weeks! The PETs group needs to meet more regularly and increase participation. Any ideas for activities (and assistance in coordinating them) would be much appreciated. Parents Raising Exceptional People (PREP) Submitted by Christy Jacobi
Christy Jacobi coordinates the Waycross Bucks program. She can be reached at christyjacobi@gmail.com.
PREP stands for “Parents Raising Exceptional People”. We are Trinity parents who come together in various ways throughout the year to learn together, serve each other and our community, and just have fun together. This can be at Trinity, at off site venues, or through social media on our (non-public) Facebook page. PREP welcomed a number of new members this year, and we are always eager to engage new Trinity families. We are committed to raising our families in this community of faith. Here are some highlights of our activities in 2017: • Couples enjoyed a night of creating and sharing food and drink at The Art Lab for PREP Art Night Out. • Parents and children participated in service projects at Mid North Food Pantry and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Service Center. • A group camping trip was planned to McCormick Creek State Park. • Four PREP dads and their children attended Father’s weekend at Waycross. • Six PREP moms and their children attended Women’s Week at Waycross. • Twelve Trinity families attended Family Camp at Waycross. • Many families helped host Mary, Joseph, and the donkey through Advent to arrive at Trinity on Christmas Eve.
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Parish Life Submitted by Missy Roetter There were many fun activities for young and old and 4 legged here at Trinity in 2017. The year began with all parish “dinner with the Magi” in January. 75 attendees shared their favorite dish and Mother Julia read a book about the three kings followed by a special visit from our three kings dressed in beautiful costumes.
The fall kick off on September 10 began our fall season. Different ministries within Trinity and the surrounding community were on hand providing information about their ministry. Our own vestry members provided the food for this event. Feast of St Francis featured all types of animals from Trinity parishioners, Indianapolis Mounted Police, and Indy Humane. We even had a chicken on a leash and a cageful of butterflies being blessed. An animal themed reception followed in the Fortune room.
The Shrove Tuesday dinner at the end of February, had a creole feel to it last year thanks to the men’s guild the Cuisinier’s . Music, pancake racing and dancing along with the burying of the Alleluia’s were among the activities that began our Lenten season.
Our stewardship campaign began with a party and a special guest speaker the former Rector Jim Lemler on Oct 29th. The children had their own celebration with games and special food.
In 2017 Trinity began having Celebration Sunday expanded coffee hours after the 10 am service about once a month. Christy Jacobi coordinates these events which are hosted by parish volunteers. Groups that hosted included the Trinity Vestry and the St. Nicholas Board. Themes included animal treats for the Blessing of the Animals and pumpkin treats in October. Parishioners have enjoyed these opportunities for fellowship and celebration.
November 16th, we invited all of our newcomers to a meet and greet in the Fortune Room. It was very well attended with about 50 new members and vestry members. The Christmas faire on December 10th, was quite successful. There were numerous vendors and the food was provided by The St Nicholas center board members. The teens sold boxes of cookies, Helen Dekker had her world famous jams and jellies, Wilks and Wilson and Bee Coffee returned with their products for purchase.
We said goodbye to Bishop Cake Waynick on Sunday March 26th, with cakes and other delights from parishioners. On Maundy Thursday we started a new tradition of an agape meal with soup, pita bread and olives before the foot washing service in the church. Then The Easter Vigil followed on Saturday with a huge celebration of food and drink. Thank you again to the Cuisiniers for preparing the food for this event.
The Greening of the Church on Dec 21st, was a success because many members lent a hand. We had over 25 people make the aisle candles, wreaths and the swag look lovely. It was followed by a chili supper which several parishioners shared their secret recipes.
Our parish picnic at the end of May took place outside on the grounds of St Richard’s school playground. The Cuisinier’s provided the chicken and hot dogs and parishioners brought their favorite side dish. The children were entertained by the Silly Safaris group.
I would like to thank all those who have volunteered in the past year to make this church so lively. Every month there was an event that brought this parish together in some way. It’s one of the many reasons why this Trinity community is thriving.
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Trinity Guilds 8:00 a.m. Chalice Bearers Submitted by Jeannice Shobe
The Chalice Bearers for 8 a.m. are a small but mighty team. Our regular participants are Michael Cuticchia, Finis Tatum and me. Neil Wylde helps out when needed. Michael, Finis and I work to cover the majority of the Sundays without fail. We work well together and appreciate the assistance of Neil. I am truly grateful for the service of all the gentlemen that cover the 8 a.m. service with me.
Continuing Acolytes Hollis Carbrey, Ryan Jacobi, Keagan Williams, Liam Whitworth-Neufeld
WE NEED ADDITIONAL CHALICE BEARERS. If you would like to attend a smaller more intimate service occasionally or on a monthly basic please let me know, by email jeanniceshobe@hotmail.com, or call/text, 317-331-4527. We can set you up with the same Sunday each month or schedule you when you are available.
Graduating Seniors Spring 2017: Jonathan Onuorah, Hannah Resnick Spring 2018: Mitch Cottrell, Erick Hoegberg, Massa Massaley, Liam Pierson, Greyson Turner
New Acolytes Dieudonne Djarabe, Vanessa Djouma, Bailey Garverick, Noah Lee, Giscard Medjeham, Alex Ngaba, Dale Potter, Sarah Jane Strickland
Acolyte Directors: Kate Howe, Alex Pierson, Todd Relue, and Gretchen Turner
10:00 am Chalice Guild Submitted by Jeff Martin
Altar Guild
The Chalice Guild currently has 23 members and would welcome a few more members. Chalice Bearers are scheduled quarterly and typically serve Chalice about one to three times a quarter. You may serve as much or as little as you desire. Please contact Jeff Martin (jdmartin@usgs.gov 317-730-4907) if you are interested in serving in the Guild. Serving Chalice is a joy and a gift.
The Altar Guild is responsible for the preparation of the altar for various sacraments as the Rector directs. This includes every service held in the church. The Altar Guild cares for all communion linens and communion vessels, as well as all flowers within the sanctuary and provides assistance to the clergy as needed.
Submitted by Anne Throop, President
There are currently 18 members in the Altar Guild, and there are three meetings a year with required attendance (Sept. Jan. and May). We work in teams with each team being responsible for one scheduled weekend per month in addition to occasional services during the week. New members are added as openings occur, and are expected to complete a period of training and working with a seasoned member prior to becoming a regular part of a team.
10am Chalice Bearers: Theresa Arness, Eric Baiz, Kelly Bentley, Jerry Butt, Mary Challman, Mary Chalmers, Deb Cooney , Bonnie Frye, Jim Gould, Lynette Herd, Dick Hughes, Watta Johnson-Massaley, Russ Lawson, Sandra Malcom, Jeff Martin, Samuel Massaley, Susan McMahon, Alex Ngaba, Jane Stephenson, Kathy Watson, Kay Whitaker, Eric Williams, and Neil Wylde.
Acolyte Guild
Members: Anne Throop, Dana Newell, Kim Purucker, Linda Brown, Mary Beaty, Patty Bennett, Mary Campbell-Maher, Mary Challman, Betsy Cronin, Catey Hale, Sandra Orr Malcom, Rebecca Mattingly, Tricia McMath, Ken Myers, Missy Roetter, Deedra Runyan, Nancy Wright, Angie Wylde.
Submitted by Kate Howe, Alex Pierson, Todd Relue, and Gretchen Turner Trinity is blessed with one of the largest and most enthusiastic acolyte corps of any church. These young people serve faithfully Sunday after Sunday, as well as feast days, all year-round.
Officers: • Anne Throop, President • Dana Newell, Recording Secretary and Vice-President / Care of Linens • Kim Purucker, Vice-President/Flower Contact • Linda Brown, Treasurer
Gold Crosses (served 100 or more services) Andrew Hoegberg, Erick Hoegberg, Tim Jolliff, Grant Newlin, Liam Pierson, Abby Resnick, Greyson Turner Silver Crosses (served 60 or more services) Mitch Cottrell, Eli Furuness, Evan Furuness, Jane Hirschman, Andy Jacobi, Kyle Lee, Massa Massaley, Ian Miller, Abby Smith Bronze Crosses (served 30 or more services) Eli Bucken, Madeline Bucken, Rose Cooney, Madison Gonzalez, April Heller, Erika Heller, Erin Heller, Sydney Heller, Malcolm Hembre, Cate Hirschman, Sara Jacobi, Carolyn Johnson, Joseph Naas, Evie Relue, Myia Thomas, Allan Williams 28
The Guild of the Unexceptionable Cuisiniers Submitted by Jim Purucker, Leader
was looking after the Cusiniers in 2017, we had no serious injuries, did replace a few knees and the only we think the only digits lost were in Ivan Jahn’s wood shop not the Trinity kitchen!!
The Guild of the Unexceptionable Cuisiniers Guild Description: Members of Trinity Episcopal Church who enjoy the fellowship of working together to serve Christ, our fellow parishioners, and community by cooking for the parish. The Guild was loosely formed mid-year 2015 when a few Trinity members volunteered to prepare a brunch for one of the Parish Holy Conversations organized as a part of the Rector search process. Since, the Guild has become more mainstream in both mission and organization. Members have asked to join, been recruited, cooked for numerous events, have joined forces with Trinity Women in a number of events and organization of a new kitchen pantry, provided a new ice maker for the Trinity Kitchen and many other smaller pieces of equipment for the TEC kitchen allowing it and us to serve the mission of Trinity Church, the members of our Parish and our broader community better and in a more culinarily creative fashion. We cooked exclusively or in conjunction with Trinity women for the following events in 2017:
We look forward to further serving the Parish and community in new and better ways in 2018 and hope to further refine the organization behind our culinary efforts. While every guild member is a leader, Rob McMath and Jim Purucker remain Co-Chairs the Guild, John Craun is Guild Treasurer and Bill Coleman has taken on the role of Peace love and Bacon Chair. We have several “opportunities” already on the calendar in 2018 where we look forward to sharing our culinary talents with the Parish. Other goals for 2018 include making membership dues regular, having all Guild members complete an on-line food safety training, continue to providing TEC with the great food at considerable savings and have a little fun while doing it all. Finally, if you are wondering about our name, we offer up the following dictionary.com definitions: • Unexceptionable [uhn-ik-sep-shuh-nuh-buh l] – Not offering any basis for exception or objection. Beyond criticism. • Cuisinier [kwee-zee-nyey] – A male cook or chef
• TEC Annual Meeting Stewardship Dinner - Lasagna • TEC Choir Cabaret Dinner • Shrove Tuesday – Pancakes, Sausage and Jambalaya Dinner • Easter Vigil • Presiding Bishop’s Luncheon – Salad, Carving and Pasta Stations • SRES Dads Club/TEC Cuisinier’s Second annual Peace Love and Bacon competition – Asian dressed lettuce wraps with Nueske Bacon • Parish Picnic – Grilled chicken & sausage. Slaw and beans. • 10th Anniversary of the feeding ministry joint dinner for Church and feeding ministry guests • Sunday Dinner at the Feeding Ministry – Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings • SRS Regalia donor dinner
Like us and follow our activities on Facebook: facebook. com/Unexceptionables Guild Members: David Bacon, Rick Beardsley, Richard Bennett, Robert Bentley, Thomas Blaire, John Bridge, Brocky Brown, Bill Coleman, David Crabb, John Craun, Bob Dekker, Kevin Deprey, Ken Feeley, Doug Hale, Eric Hembre, Dave Holtman, Dick Hughes, Jim Jacobi, Ivan Jahns, Todd Janzen, Matthew Jennings, Jim Maher, Bob Marchesani, Jeff Martin, Rob McMath, Mac McPherson, Bill Mirola, Aaron Naas, Max Newell, Ron Newlin, Erick Ponader, Jim Purucker, Scott Purucker, Fred Roetter, Jay Simmons, Brian Steensland, Ed Stephenson, Spencer Valentine, Scott Whitaker.
Greeter’s Guild
In 2017, Guild members contributed and raised through their efforts enough money to purchase food and supplies to provide several at least two meals to the Trinity feeding ministry, and donated a diner at the SRS Regalia which sold for $20,000 to be used for SRS scholarships. We count 39 exceptional Trinity men as members, an increase of five over 2016, we have designed and brandish our own logoed hats and aprons. In 2017, Cuisiner Ken Feeley led an effort to add Cuisinier logo chef jackets and loud chef’s pants to our ensemble. In addition to giving its members a great social activity, we believe the Guild is serving Trinity by providing unexceptionable food for parish activities at a fraction of the cost of traditional caterers. We strive to have regular “planning” meetings to discuss upcoming Guild activities, share fellowship with one another, engage in general murmuring and challenge each other’s culinary skills to bring more and better tasting things to Trinity events. The good lord
Submitted by Tom Greist The Greeter’s Guild is blessed with many wonderful Greeters: Lisa Adler and Adam Mueller, Mary Beaty, Maren and Bobby Bell, Patty and Richard Bennett, Mary and John Challman, Betty Elliot, Sally Hardgrove and Ron Newlin, Lynette and Rick Herd, Gayle and David Holtman, Kate Howe and Erik Hembre, Erin Kilbride-Vincent and Abby Vincent, Trish and Rob McMath, Kim and Jim Purucker, Iris and Colin Terry and Neil Wylde. Jan Kempf and Harriet Stambaugh retired in 2017 and we shall miss their enthusiastic greeting. We all greatly appreciate Missy Roetter whose reminder letters help us get to our greeter’s spot at the correct time and on the correct date!
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St. Francis Guild
Submitted by Ken Myers Mattins, festivals such as Lessons & Carols, The Great Easter Vigil, and other occasional services.
The St Francis Guild is now overseen by the Campus Landscape Committee. This report is offered as an addendum to the report in the Finance & Facilities document.
Most services include three readings: an Old Testament lesson and a New Testament lesson found in the Revised Common Lectionary and the Prayers of the People found in the Book of Common Prayer. Readings for occasional services and baptisms can vary, and festival services include a broader range of readings utilizing Lectors from Trinity youth, St. Richard’s Episcopal School, the immediate neighborhood, and the greater Indianapolis community.
I have been caring for the Lemler and Cloister Gardens for the past year (Lemler Garden for 6 years). In addition, I was asked to clear an unkempt area south of the Tudor House under a locust tree in the parking area. The third area was cleared of euonymus, poison ivy, and weeds. It was then planted with native Indiana perennials and mulched. This area should flourish and provide seasonal color if allowed to grow undisturbed. Minimal care will be needed for this area.
In 2017, the guild’s administration was coordinated by two schedulers, Anne Greist for the 8:00 Sunday services, and Hugh Resnick for the 10:00 Sunday services as well as the Christmas Eve, 11:00 Christmas Morning, and other services throughout the year. New members of the Guild are always most welcome, but there is a particular need at this time for additional Lectors at the 8am service.
Weather conditions were not kind to the roses in the Lemler Garden. A wet spring was followed by a dry summer, yet the climbing roses were able to show their potential. The shade area under the two trees continues to be a challenge, appropriate plants are being explored. Reliance on attractive size appropriate shrubs and perennials rather than annuals continues to be a goal for this garden, an aim of English Gardens.
Available resources include a Biblical pronunciation guide and www.lectionarypage.org (full lectionary texts according to the liturgical year).
One of the grandest accomplishments of the year in the Cloister Garden was the repair of the Ram’s head fountain. Thanks to Leigh Ann Naas for seeing this accomplished. A diagram and plant list of the original garden plan has been discovered. There is no intent to duplicate this original plan in its entirety, however the original plan will be consulted. I also plan to trim the boxwood hedge closer to its intended height in early spring. Recovery will not be immediate, but should enhance the beauty of the garden.
• Anne Greist: agreist@ihtc.org - 8am services • Hugh Resnick: hugh.resnick@gmail.com - 10:00 and occasional services • Russ Lawson: rlawson_trinityparish@ymail.com - Verger and Lector consultant St. Stephen’s Guild members: Alice Soriero; Alisha Valentine; Ann Durkos; Cheryl Eiszner; Christine Plews; Deb Cooney; Gayle Holtman; George Plews; Hugh Resnick; James Cramer; Jan Gould; Jeannie Mayhue; Jerry Butt; Jim Knowles; Joel Harrison; Jody Root; John Bridge; John Craun; Karen E. King; Kathy Watson; Leigh Ann Hirschman; Linda Lance; Mary Challman; Mary Chalmers; Mary DeVoe; Olive Soriero; Patty Prosser; Robert Wilson; Russ Lawson; Shannie Hughes; Steven Stolen, Theresa Arness, Michael Cuticchia, Holly Day, Sandra Malcom, Jennifer Phelps, Victoria Resnick, and Anne Greist.
I spent over 420 hours working in the Trinity/SRES Gardens in 2017.
St. Monica’s Guild
Submitted by Catey Hale St. Monica’s Guild held their last meeting on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017, to celebrate the Advent and Christmas season, with our annual Christmas party and Cookie Exchange. Despite the knowledge that it was our last meeting, we came together in joyful fellowship and assembled extra boxes of cookies to bring to our members who were unable to attend due to a variety of health reasons. The Guild’s last project will be a small, framed, dedication to the history of women’s guilds at Trinity Episcopal Church. The Guild would like to thank all the women who contributed their time and talent, working in the many church guilds, to support various Church functions and leaders over the years.
We sometimes utilize Lectors from the community or the Trinity youth group, etc, for special services.
Ushers Guild
Submitted by Eric Baez Principal Activities: The Ushers’ Guild is responsible for the logistics of getting people to and from their pews. The ushers are responsible for collecting the offering, releasing people for communion, and cleaning up after the services. Ushers serve at special services: funerals, confirmations, and non-Sunday services. Functions include handing out Orders of Service, selecting Oblation Bearers, assisting in emergencies, managing chairs & doors & wheelchairs & the flow of people during services. All this is done in a manner that is friendly, subtle, respectful, and dignified. There is a general feeling that the Guild should be more involved with the greeting and welcoming of visitors.
Saint Stephen’s Guild
Submitted by Anne Greist St. Stephen’s Guild/Trinity Lectors participate in the liturgy on a rotating basis by reading scriptural lessons from the lectern and leading prayers from the nave during services. From a group of over 35 parishioners, Lectors are scheduled quarterly according to their availability and the liturgical needs for regular Sunday morning services, Evensongs, 30
Structure: The Head Usher is Eric Baiz (ebaiz@talktotucker. com). The 10:00 Service is divided into 8 teams of 5 people with the first person listed being the Captain, and a Reserve Team of some former ushers. The 8:00 Service is comprised of people who attend that service. The Ushers’ Guild reports to the Clergy, Ministers of Ceremony, and the Worship Committee, but in reality we seamlessly interface with all the Worship guilds: choir, altar, children’s ministries, acolytes and maintenance staff.
Team 8: Jeff Martin, Dick Hughes, Zander Koponen, Hope Oaks, Tony Harvey Team 9-The Reserves: Erick Ponader, Rebecca Mattingly,Jane Stephenson, David Holtman, Jon Parker, Casey Cronin, Tim Koponen 8:00 AM Ushers: Finis Tatum, Mike Cuticchia, Jeanne Hight, Jeannice H. Shobe, Alia Shobe, Vickie Bellamy, Gail Barrett.
Trinity Men’s Group
Submitted by Peter Sehlinger
New ushers are most welcome to join anytime during the year by contacting the Head Usher. Currently, we need 2 new ushers.
The Trinity Men’s Club first met last January and now meets for breakfast at 8:15 A.M. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at Duo’s Kitchen, on the SE corner of 30th and Illinois Streets. The group offers an opportunity for attendees to share experiences and get better acquainted. Trinity clergy occasionally join the group. While the gatherings are largely social in nature, at each breakfast Mr. Ross McKenna reads a short scriptural passage and a commentary from the tract Forward Day by Day, which are followed by discussion.
In 2017 the following personnel changes occurred: • Tim Koponen resigned from Team 6, and moved to Team 9 (The Reserves); • Steve Brockmann died, member of Team 7; • Matthew Marchesani trained and joined Team 7; • Saa Samba trained and joined Team 5; Winter Snow trained and joined Team 5; • Casey Cronin retired from Team 6, moved to The Reserves; • Mike Cuticchia added as 8:00 Usher; • Tony Harvey trained and joined Team 8; • Hope Oaks trained and joined Team 8; • Jim Strickland resigned from Team 8; • Stephan Hodge resigned from Team 8.
All men at Trinity are encouraged and welcome to join us at these Men’s Club breakfasts.
Trinity Women’s Guild Submitted by Janet Craun
Trinity Episcopal Women’s Guild has a long rich history of hosting funeral receptions, showers, and any other gathering that needs our special touch!
Process changes include: Saying goodbye to the Rev’d Lea Colvile, curate, and welcoming the Rev’d Dr. Ben Anthony. We added 2 additional hearing aids. The 10:15 service was moved up to 10:00. We now help move the 4-years-oldsto-4th-Graders to the Holy Innocents Chapel. With Sunday School now being after the service, the ushers no longer walk the school hallways to get a head count. The ushers now hand out “Welcome Bags” to interested visitors. The acolytes now have the first 2 rows of chairs in front of the lectern. The choir no longer starts in the tower pews.
Our membership consists of all the women of Trinity. There are 4 contact people that take 3 months each as the go to person for clergy to contact. We set up the Fortune Room, prepare the food, serve and clean for receptions. This past year we hosted 6 funeral receptions, helped with one rehearsal dinner and participated in several special receptions. For more information on joining the Trinity Women guild please contact Janet Craun or Missy Roetter.
Usher Teams Team 1: George (Corky) Plews, John Bridge, Tom Greist, Cathy Bridge, Todd Relue Team 2: Eric Baiz, John Craun, Peter Whitten, Greg Turner, Adam Mueller Team 3: Ron Newlin, Susan McMahon, Richard Bennett, Samuel Massaley, Watta Johnson Massaley, Erik Hembre Team 4: Ross McKenna , Jay Simmons, David Crabb, Jonathan Onuorah, Steven Stolen Team 5: Doug Hale, Nathaniel Samba, Clara Jammy-Samba, Saa Samba, Snow Winter Team 6: Pat Garten, Jim Purucker, Tim Root, Fred Roetter Team 7: Abby Vincent, Mike Arnold, Mike Kohtz, Matthew Marchesani
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St. Richard’s Episcopal School Submitted by Peter Harding, Head of School Richard’s community. A recent history of multiple transitions in the position has meant much of the work has amounted to cultivating a steadying and observing presence. Therefore, the chaplaincy and the program that grows out of that role is mostly unchanged at present. More time as chaplain and the space to reflect on the difference between the present shape of the ministry and edifying revisions to it are required.
I am very pleased to report from St. Richard’s that the working and spiritual relationship between Trinity and the school continues to be healthy and productive. Cooperation is evident at all levels be it room sharing, teaching, worship, facility planning or a myriad of other ways in which the families live, learn and work together. This working relationship gained great impetus with the appointment of Father Ben Anthony to the position of Chaplain for the new school year. Father Ben has brought a caring, approachable, sensitive personality to the school community and is already loved and respected by the staff, teachers, and most importantly, the students of St. Richard’s.
National Episcopal School Mentoring Program for New Chaplains In late October I attended a retreat organized by the National Association for Episcopal Schools that gathered new chaplains and experienced chaplain mentors. Although I have served as a higher education chaplain before, attending this retreat provided me with the colleagues, mentors, and resources to shape those memories into the skills to be an effective chaplain for St. Richard’s.
St. Richard’s is flourishing with enrollment at 362 for the 2017-2018 year, and long- term projections indicate continued stability in student recruitment. Our diverse community of families from 35 different countries and various races, ethnicities, religions, family structures, and financial backgrounds continues to provide a rich cultural learning environment.
Chapel and Divinity Classes: Chapel life at St. Richard’s has largely retained the schedule and liturgical forms that preceded my arrival. Lower Division chapel on Monday and Tuesday; Lower and Middle Division Chapel on Wednesday. Chapel is offered for Early Childhood (skillfully led by Mrs. Debby Thomas) in the Chapel of the Holy Innocents on Thursday.
The Horizons at St. Richard’s program continues to grow in popularity and is most successfully and positively helping students thrive in a stimulating educational environment as they effectively combat summer learning loss. The outreach to Butler University for the middle school children was successfully launched.
Mrs. Thomas also provides Godly Play instruction to students in grades 1-2. Mrs. Jennis Kiffmeyer joined the St. Richard’s faculty in August to teach Divinity classes for grades 5-7. She brings a background in storytelling, theological education and Episcopal school chaplaincy to St. Richard’s. Presently, the chaplain teaches Grade 8 Divinity class as a kind of capstone course for the Divinity program. The three of us are able to offer a program of theological instruction and faith development that is creative, age-appropriate and true to the character of the Episcopal Church.
We have continued to focus on our major construction project through the “Campaign at St. Richard’s” and, in fact, reached 80% of the project costs. Generous supporters and donors continue to give and pledge to give and so we embarked upon a competitive bid process that ended in selecting AECOM as the general project manager. The building will hold one floor of early childhood classrooms and learning spaces and one floor with modern science and technology learning spaces. Design work is almost complete, and we are well on track for breaking ground in the summer of 2018. Detailed drawings will be on display shortly in the school.
The retention of received patterns makes chapel life at St. Richard’s an exciting space to braid together pedagogy, liturgy, art, and the everyday concerns of a school student. The All School Eucharist is celebrated three times a semester (four times total this year at the time of this writing). Making these celebrations into feast day celebrations of saints like St. Nicholas, Martin Luther King, Jr., and St. Richard of Chichester represents one attempt to shape a familiar practice into something more richly complex and edifying. The exercise and celebration of student leadership in chapel liturgies is something I remain deeply committed to in its present form, even as I anticipate making this an emphasis of chapel in more visible ways (e.g., a Student Vestry).
This is an exciting time for St. Richard’s as we seek to create high quality learning environments to enhance our current facilities. A strong and effective partnership between SRES and Trinity is an integral part of our higher-level strategic goals. I am pleased and proud that the church and school are living and working effectively together and am delighted to continue to strengthen and broaden ties with Julia and her Trinity team.
Looking Ahead
Chaplain’s Report
I look forward to the moment in my work as Chaplain when I know this community (its gifts, rhythms, idiosyncrasies) well enough to act with anticipation rather than simply reaction. Until then, I intend to unfold a chaplaincy marked by patience, curiosity, and gratitude.
Submitted by the Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Anthony The first six months of my tenure as chaplain for St. Richard’s Episcopal School have been full, challenging, life-giving. Cherished traditions and received structures have made it easy to embrace the role and to be embraced by the St. 32
Trnity Delegation to the 180th Diocesan Convention Submitted by Sally Hardgrove, Secretary to the Delegation The 180th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis was held in Jeffersonville, Indiana on October 27 to October 28, 2018. We were invited to “Come to the River” to worship, share and make decisions about the common life of the Diocese.
Trinity will be represented well in Diocesan life this coming year. Jeff Brinkmann’s election to Executive Counsel was affirmed by Convention. Additionally, Sally Hardgrove was elected as a representative of the laity to Standing Committee.
Trinity elected a group of parishioners to represent them at the 2017 Diocesan Convention. Those delegates were Jeff Brinkmann, Linda Brown, Bill Coleman, Erik Hembre, Sally Hardgrove and John Bridge. Alternates were Tricia McMath, Heidi Green and Carol DeCoursey. Janice Shobe was also elected as a regular delegate but was unable to serve. Corky Plewes attended in his role as Chancellor to the Diocese.
The 181th Diocesan Convention will be held November 16th and 17th, 2018 at the Monroe Convention Center in Bloomington. Please consider attending for part or all of the Convention. Observers are welcome, and Convention is a wonderful opportunity to develop relationships in our wider Diocesan family. Your delegates thank you for the honor of representing Trinity at Convention.
Preparation for the convention proper began with Deanery meetings. Trinity belongs to the Mid-Central Deanery, and our meeting was held at Trinity on September 27th. During that meeting, Jeff Brinkmann was elected to represent the Mid-Central Deanery to the Executive Council that serves the Bishop and the Diocese The Convention began Thursday, October 2th with an Evensong service and Reception at St. Paul’s, New Albany. The next morning Convention convened. The Convention was chaired by the Bishop of Indianapolis, the Right Reverend Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows. In the morning and afternoon the business meeting took place. One of the morning activities were table discussions of the key concerns and opportunities that were identified during the Bishop’s facilitated discussions around the Diocese. The topics included communication (between parishes, Diocesan offices to parishes, etc.) And there was a desire to use our resources most effectively by sharing best practices and ministries across the Diocese. There was a break in the afternoon for participants to attend one of three Congregational Vitality workshops. There was also a session on how and when to administer Narcan to individuals experiencing an opioid overdose. Early evening, the participants gathered at St. Paul’s, Jeffersonville for Prayers and Bells for opioid victims. This was followed by Evensong and Eucharist service where Bishop Jennifer preached. The Household returned to the conference center following service, ate a buffet dinner together and danced until the floors shook! The next morning we convened to learn about the budget, hear reports from the various ministries of the Diocese. The 180th Diocesan Convention adjourned at noon.
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Who’s Who at Trinity Church TRINITY CLERGY The Rev’d Julia Whitworth, Rector The Rev’d Karen L. King, Senior Associate The Rev’d Dr. Benjamin J. Anthony, Associate Rector Affiliated Clergy (non-stipendiary) The Rev’d Gordon Chastain The Rev’d Bob Dekker The Rev’d Nancy Ferriani The Rev’d Jim Knowles The Rev’d Jean Smith The Rev’d Mollie Williams The Rev’d Catherine Wilson
TRUSTEES FOR ENDOWMENT & MEMORIAL FUND Mark Green, Chair John Hirschman Catherine Bridge Lynette Herd Kennan Buoy Jay Simmons, ex-officio, Treasurer to the Vestry The Rev’d Julia Whitworth, ex-officio CHAIRS OF TRINITY MINISTRIES Acolytes, Kate Howe, Todd Relue Chalice Bearers, Jeannice Shobe (8am); Jeff Martin (10:15am) Trinity Outreach Property, Ed Stephenson Columbarium, Chris Plews and Mike Cuticchia Dayspring Dinner, Jan Gould and Karen L. King Docents, Rob and Tricia McMath Education for Ministry, Sara Bean Exodus Welcoming Team, Elsa Sands Finance, Ann Durkos Green Team, Kathy Watson, Chris Plews, Nedra Feeley IndyCan, Bill Coleman Joint Facilities, Erik Hembre Adult Formation, Ben Anthony Landscape Committee, Kate Howe Newcomers, Ben Anthony Nominating, John Bridge Outreach Grants, Patty Prosser, Karen L. King Parent Conversations, Leigh Ann Hirschman Parish Life Activities, Missy Roetter Pastoral Care Committee, Patty Bennett, Karen L. King Personnel, Cathy Bridge PETs (Parents of Episcopal Teens), Sally Hardgrove PREP (Parents Raising Exceptional People), Jennifer Phelps Race and Reconciliation, Jane Stephenson, Bill Coleman Stewardship, Joel Harrison and Shana Stump Sunday Dinner, Diana Creasser, Karen L. King Taize, Jane Root Tree of Life Society (Planned Giving), Diana Creasser Ushers, Eric Baiz Worship Committee, Julia Whitworth
TRINITY STAFF Kevin DePrey, Parish Administrator Rita Earls, Housekeeping Dirk Edwards, Director of Facilities Lucas Fletcher, Assistant Organist Chris Johnson, Maintenance Tracey Lemon, Communications Director Albie Marco, Financial Administrator Michael T. Messina, Director of Music Julie O’Mara, Administrative Assistant to the Rector Missy Roetter, Youth Coordinator & Parish Life Kathleen Strickland, Dir of Children and Family Ministries VESTRY Jodi Ammons, 2018 Patty Gotway, 2018 Leigh Anne Naas, 2018 Abby Vincent, 2018 John Craun, 2019 Eric Hembre, 2019 Karen E. King, 2019 Joel Harrison, 2019 James Cramer, 2019 Leigh Ann Hirschman, 2020 Gayle Holtman, 2020 Samuel Massaley, 2020 Scott Whitaker, 2020 David Bacon, 2020 John Bridge, 2018, Senior Warden Leigh Ann Hirschman, 2020, Junior Warden Jay Simmons, Treasurer to the Vestry Todd Relue, Clerk to the Vestry
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St. Richard’s Episcopal School CHAIRS OF TRINITY GUILDS Altar Guild, Anne Throop Guild of Saint Stephen (Lectors), Ann Greist (8 am); Jody Root, Russ Lawson (10:15 am and special services) Guild of the Christ Child (Nursery), Patty Gotway Guild of the Holy Cross (Pastoral Care), Karen E. King, Scott Whitaker Guild of the Unexceptionable Cuisiniers – Jim Purucker Saint Francis Guild (Garden), Mary and Jim Maher Saint Monica’s Guild, Catey Hale Trinity Women, Janet Craun
ST. RICHARD’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES EXECUTIVE CMTE Erick Ponader, President Rosalia Morquecho, Vice President Jennifer Springer, Secretary Jeffery D. Frank, Treasurer Valita Fredland, Past President BOARD MEMBERS The Rt. Rev’d Baskerville-Burrows Ron Bockstahler Cathy Bridge John Craun Ken File Kyle Fisher Tatiana Foroud Mark Gramelspacher Claude Harrington
TRINITY REPRESENTATIVES Mapleton Fall Creek Development Corp., Adam Mueller TRINITY OFFICE VOLUNTEERS Our current office volunteers are: Mary Beaty, Becky Peyton, Deedra Runyan, Sandra Orr Malcom, and Sara Bean.
Leigh Ann Hirschman Sally Hardgrove Timothy Root Adriana Keramida Strahl Greg VanSlambrook Gil T. Voy Maria Weber The Rev. Julia Whitworth Nancy Wright
EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS Peter Harding, Head of School Abby Williams, Associate Head of School John Mainella, Director of Development & Major Gifts AmySue Bacon, Faculty Representative Lulu Lapp, Parent Organization President
These people keep the Trinity office running by answering the phone, receiving visitors, and helping the team with any administrative tasks needed. Their presence and hard work allow for more thorough work to be done and each one brings her own sets of talents. Sandra can be noted for her spectacular penmanship, Mary for her meticulous organizational skills, Becky for her diligent filing, Sara for her wide knowledge and history of this church, and Deedra for always having something sweet to share and her dedication to Sunday preparations!
ST. RICHARD’S ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Peter Harding, Head of School Linda Chestnut, Financial Officer Alexis Mills-Harrison, Annual Fund Manager Shanna Martin, Executive Director of Horizons Summer Program Kathleen Milkey, Director of Extended Day & Summer Program David Schlenk, Development Coordinator Jill Stedham, Administrative Assistant & Healthcare Support April Thomas, Business and Enrollment Executive Assistant Stephanie Valadez, Administrative Assistant The Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Anthony, Chaplain Abby Williams, Associate Head of School John Mainella, Director of Development & Major Gifts John Brady, Head of Middle Division
If you are interested and would like to volunteer at the front desk please contact Julie O’Mara at the church office.
The mission of St. Richard’s, an independent Episcopal day school, is to instill knowledge and values for a lifetime through the implementation of Five Pillars for Success: Faith, Classic Curriculum, Leadership, Civic Responsibility, and Global Readiness. 35
Be Transformed by your Discipleship. Transform Trinity with your Faithful Generosity. Transform the World through Prayer & Action. TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH 3243 N Meridian Street • Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 317 926 1346 • www.trinitychurchindy.org