Get to Know: The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, Lake St. Louis
John says he’s had bad church experiences in the past. But when he and his wife lost a child, he needed a place to heal and grow. He found it at Transfiguration in Lake St. Louis.
David found Transfiguration online during the pandemic. Now he drives all the way from Cottleville to Lake St. Louis (about 20 miles) each Sunday because he feels welcome here.
Alice is retired and says her volunteer work at Transfiguration has taught her how to be a blessing to her community.
These are just three people who shared their personal stories as witness to what The Rev. Lu-Anne Conner calls the “deep welcome” people experience at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Lake St. Louis.
Transfiguration is tucked into a lovely suburban neighborhood, surrounded by trees, elementary schools and shopping centers in western St. Charles County. The parish is an off-shoot of Trinity Episcopal Church in St. Charles.
In 1980, 18 Episcopalians began discerning the call to form a second congregation in St. Charles County. They started as a house church in 1981 and the group quickly grew too big to meet comfortably in homes. In July of 1983, they purchased land in the growing community of Lake St. Louis and built their church. Their red doors opened in November of 1985. They transitioned from a mission church to a parish in 2009.
With a mission of being accepting and inviting to all, Rev. Lu-Anne says Transfiguration became known as the “gay church.” She happily accepts that recognition, knowing they are surrounded by other denominational churches who are exclusionary. But she says she hopes they are also becoming known for their outreach efforts in the community.
Transfiguration is in the process of redefining their ministries as we make our way out of the pandemic. Vestry members have spent time visiting local businesses and organizations to find out what needs exist in their community. Whether it’s a Laundry Love ministry, or putting together diabetic kits for the local free clinic, members at Transfiguration are committed to making a difference.
Vital Stats:
Church name: The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration
Address: 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd.
City: Lake St. Louis
Phone: 636-561-8951
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.transfigurationchurch.org/
Worship Services:
- Sundays 8 (streamed on FB) & 10 a.m. (with music)
- Tuesdays & Fridays: interactive litanies on Zoom
Clergy: The Rev. Lu-Anne Conner, Rector
Mission: The mission of church is to be a Christian community, accepting and inviting all persons to share in worship, witness and service; as disciples of Jesus Christ in the world.
Members: 110
ASA: 45-50