Get to Know: Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Charles
Founded in 1836 by Missionary Bishop Jackson Kemper, Trinity Episcopal Church in St. Charles is the second oldest parish in The Diocese of Missouri. Trinity has stood through the Civil War, the Great Depression, and the westward development of St. Charles County. Throughout that history, Trinity's congregation worshiped in three different church buildings before landing at their current site on South Duchesne Drive in 1961. And now, Trinity is in the middle of a major renovation project to move the parish into the 21st century.
That renovation project includes redesigning the altar space, replacing pews with chairs, laying new flooring, and installing new wiring for improved sound, lighting and livestreaming capabilities.
The Rev. Tamsen Whistler, rector of Trinity Church, said the congregation began talking about renovating their space in 2019, but the actual construction didn't begin until January of 2022 (thanks to the pandemic). She is hoping to celebrate the completed renovation this summer. Until the dust settles (literally), Rev. Tamsen is finding small spaces to gather in their building and bringing their congregation together online each Sunday.
The goal of this renovation -- like all the ministry happening at Trinity -- is to best use their resources to serve their congregation and the community.
"There's love flowing inside this church and outside to the community," said Trinity member Lori Cooper. From taking out the trash to singing in the choir, Lori says she enjoys finding new ways to help her parish. "It's an anchor for me -- a chance to share."
Trinity's congregation has found many ways to use their building and property to share with their community. St. Charles Montessori Preschool is located on the property and several 12-step organizations have meetings in their building. The St. Charles Ministerial Alliance often meets at Trinity.
Trinity sits on a beautiful plot of land that is being used for many purposes. The congregation has a large community garden that produces more than 1,000 pounds of fresh vegetables each year. The produce is shared with local food banks. Members from Trinity and other local churches come together with neighbors to tend the garden. 2022 marks their 12th growing season. Deacon Betty Bowen says this year will also include plants to encourage butterflies and bees.
Other features on the property include an outdoor labyrinth, a memorial garden, and several beautiful and inspirational sculptures. Trinity's property is adjacent to Lindenwood University. You'll often find students jogging or walking the path between church and the college. "We can do so much with this space," said Deacon Betty. "We've started conversations with Lindenwood and hope to host events here for their students."
Vital Stats:
Church name: Trinity Episcopal Church
Address: 318 S. Duchesne Drive
City: St. Charles
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.trinity-stcharles.org/
Worship Services:
- Sundays at 8 a.m. (Rite 1)
- Sundays at 10:15 a.m. (Rite II)
Clergy:
- The Rev. Tamsen Whistler, Rector
- The Rev. Dr. Richard Tudor, Associate Rector
- The Rev. Betty Bowen, Retired Deacon
- The Rev. Margaret Goldstein, Transitional Deacon
Mission Statement:
The mission of Trinity is to share the good news of Jesus Christ with all people and proclaim the Gospel in word and deed.
Membership: 320
ASA: 98