Annual Report 2024

Trinity, there is a place for you

Annual report 2024 w w w. t r i n i t y u1 p p e r v i l l e . o r g

2

Almighty God, give us a new vision of you, of your love, your grace and your power; and then, give us a new vision of what you would have us do as your church in this congregation at this time.

Give us an awareness that in the strength of your Spirit we can do it all to your glory. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

Cover image: Some of the members of the Trinity Acolyte Team pictured with Bishop “Ted” Gulick; Trinity Sunday, May 26th, 2024; During a joyful service of Choral Holy Eucharist thirty three people were either Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church.

Thanks be to God! Alleluia, Alleluia!

3

Contents Page

Contents

5

Agenda

6-8

Minutes of Annual Meeting of January 29th, 2023

9 - 11

Vestry Nominations

12 & 13

Rector’s Report

14

Warden’s Report

15

Operations, Communications & Administration Report

16

Director of Music Ministries Report

17

Worship Report

18

Trinity Singles Report; Parish Life Report

19

Altar Guild Report; Trinity Village Report

20

Renew & Restore Capital Works Report; Trinity Youth Group Report

21

Prayer & Healing Ministry Report; Men’s Breakfast Report

22

Trinity Creatives Report

23

Flower Guild Report

24

Treasurer’s Report

25

Endowment Committee Report

26

Stewardship Committee Report; Hunt Country Stable Tour Report

27

Meade Society Report

28

Trinity Kids Report; Tree of Life Group Report

29

Outreach Committee Report

30

Trinity Thrift & Boutique Report

31

Faith Formation Report

32 - 34

Outdoor Sanctuary & Tree Dedications

4

AGENDA Trinity Episcopal Church Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 26th, 2025, 9:10am, Cox Hall Agenda 

Opening Prayer - Rector



Approve Registrar



Approve Deputy of Elections



Approve Ballot Tellers



Certification of a Quorum



Approval of the minutes of the Annual Meeting of 01/28/2024



Report: Senior Warden



Report: Treasurer



Reception of written reports



Report & Closing Comments: Rector



Closing Prayer - Rector

5

MINUTES Trinity Episcopal Church Upperville, Virginia DRAFT Minutes of the Annual Meeting, held on Sunday, January 28th, 2024 The congregation convened for the Annual Meeting in Cox Hall at 9:00 a.m. following the 8:00 a.m. worship service and before the 10:30 a.m. service. Voting opened at 9:00 a.m. in Cox Hall vestibule and closed at 10:45 a.m.

Opening Prayer The meeting was called to order at 9:16 a.m. by the Reverend Jonathan Adams, who opened the meeting with a prayer.

Appointment of Registrar Barbara Manning was appointed as Registrar of the meeting and her appointment was unanimously accepted.

Appointment of Deputy of Elections Ed Moore was appointed Deputy of Elections and his appointment was unanimously accepted.

Appointment of Ballot Tellers Brett Bibb and Gina Hammond were appointed Ballot Tellers. Their appointments were unanimously accepted.

Certification of a Quorum Senior Warden Ed Moore determined, with the registration desk, that a Quorum was present. Forty-six is the threshold number for a quorum (10% of eligible voters), and attendance exceeded that number with many attendees standing.

Approval of the Minutes of the 2023 Annual Meeting Upon motion duly made, seconded and unanimously adopted, the Minutes of the January 29, 2023 Annual Meeting were approved.

Wardens’ Report • Ed Moore, Senior Warden and Brett Bibb, Junior Warden reported that 2023 was a banner year for Trinity. They recognized the hard work of our Rector, Jonathan Adams, as well as, Ben Baker, Betsy Crenshaw, Kit Hall, Gina and Jim Hammond, Richard Jones, Sophia Mirra, Betsee Parker, the Vestry and many others who helped put Trinity on solid footing, for the future, this past year.

• The Nominating Committee is presenting Kate Armfield, Teresa Condon, Brad Gable and Mary Looney to stand for election for the Vestry Class of 2026. We are thankful for the service of our outgoing Class of 2023 ; Alix Coolidge, Daniel Leger, Ed Moore and Laurie Volk. They are the last of the Class that brought Jonathan to Trinity, for which we are most grateful.

• This past year was focused on our building renovations and repairs, but we have not forgotten that we are a house of worship. This coming year will be about Parish Life, growing our church and our Christian education programs.

Renew & Restore Capital Works 2023 • Highlights from the Renew & Restore – Capital Works» report (page 20 of the 2023 Annual Report) were provided by Richard Jones, Director of Operations and Communications. The full list of the 35 projects can be found using the QR code on page 20.

• Richard noted that, early in his career, he became involved with the renovation and restoration of many historic churches in the United Kingdom. He has continued using his expertise from those experiences throughout his career. His knowledge is a blessing for Trinity in his oversight and management role of the Renew and Restore effort.

6

MINUTES •

Trinity was constructed in 1958 and 1961 and over the years a number of systems have been breaking down faster than they could be repaired. It was determined that at least $3.0M to $5.0M was needed to address these issues. This led to the Renew and Restore capital campaign.

• The HVAC system has been the most extensive upgrade – necessitating the doubling of the power source and water supply, storage and treatment.

• In 2023 we took on 35 projects, 32 of which have been completed and paid in full. The remaining 3 projects are related to the HVAC system.

• These projects fall into two categories, renewals and repairs:  Renewals mean replacement, installation of failed systems, out-of-date things that are so old that replacements no longer exist, and bringing our systems up to code.  Repairs mean refinishing and recycling, specialist work for things like stained glass windows, ironwork and masonry. There are no external alterations planned.

• We have taken care to seek the best advice and help we can for these projects. Jim Davis, Davis Construction, has been invaluable in sharing his expertise and contacts. He has helped us find the most experienced and best craftsmen for Trinity’s unique renovation requirements. The construction sector has experienced huge inflationary factors and supply chain issues and Jim has helped us with these challenges as well.

• Richard thanked the Vestry and Buildings and Grounds (B&G) Committee for their dedication to this major renovation project. B&G met regularly for many lengthy meetings throughout the year. There were discussions with Gray Coyner, Jim Davis and others about the history of the buildings, the iron work, drainage and other issues critical to maintain the integrity of the property. And of course, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and everything else imaginable.

• Richard stated that he is always available to support us and to answer any questions we might have about Renew and Restore.

Treasurer’s Report • Chandler Van Voorhis highlighted the following details from the 2023 Annual Report: • A year ago the Vestry made a decision to restructure Trinity’s finances, start a capital campaign, and to use Campus Renewal funds to accelerate critical projects that had been pushed into the future year-after-year. We created a new position for Finance and Stewardship and we have modernized our financial software and integrated our systems. Richard Jones and Sophia Mirra are anchoring these operations.

• We ended 2022 with an endowment balance of $4.7M and an operating budget of $1M meaning our Endowment to Operating Ratio was 4.73 to 1.

• This may sound good but our deferred maintenance was at $4.3M and would overtake the value of our endowment in the next few years. When you net out the deferred maintenance from the endowment our real ratio was more like .5 to 1 and we were heavily using the endowment.

• This necessitated the need for a capital campaign to address the capital needs of the church and to recapitalize our endowment for the future.

• In February of 2023, the new Vestry took the challenge and set a Capital Campaign target of $10M. By August we had exceeded that goal!

• We ended 2023 with our endowment balance growing to $5.6M and an operating budget of $1.1M. The capital campaign allowed us to let the endowment grow this past year. For the first time in Trinity history, we did not take a draw from the Endowment. As a result, our endowment grew by $834K. • In 2023, we spent $1.23M on capital projects plus the accelerated funds of $175K for a total of $1.4M on 35 projects. We will spend another $2.9M over the next 3 years.

• By 2026 we will finish our capital projects and the dollars coming in will go to the endowment.

• There are three core accounts at Trinity:  Capital Account (Forward Funded)  Outreach Account (Forward Funded)  Operating Account (Pledge, Plate, Special Gifts) 7

MINUTES • In 2023 we surpassed over $700K in pledge money, another $71K from plate offerings and $66K from special gifts giving us total revenue of $914K. • Giving and pledging vs. Endowment means the more we give the less we have to draw on the Endowment.

• Expenses grew this year because we added personnel and saw Christian Education and Parish Life expenses grow. However, this was good growth because it shows signs of an active church.

• We ended the year with a net operating loss of $189K which we managed out of operating cash flow (3-month cash position). That eliminated the need to draw on the endowment and therefore losing the ability of those dollars to compound.

• The Endowment is a safety net, not a crutch to make up for pledge giving.

• Historically, Trinity has been taking a 4.5% draw which comes to $185K per year. We have now chosen a different path which is paying dividends.

• For the 2024 budget we anticipate zero draw on endowment. We are projecting a small operating surplus this year due to ERC monies and the Stable Tour.

• We continue to deal with deferred maintenance, our goal is for the endowment to recapitalize until we can add inflows of new money to grow it even more. Those inflows are expected to happen in 2026.

• Given the nature of Trinity, the target should be to have a 7:1 Endowment to Operating ratio.

• The focus for 2024 is to smooth out the inconsistent nature of how we pledge and receive income. With Sophia on staff, we plan to employ more sophisticated cash management strategies, and grow our program ministries.

• Chase Rowan will be joining us this year as co-treasurer which will help us in all our financial management efforts.

• We are planning to reintroduce the Stable Tour which has been the signature event that has always defined us in the region. We need to work hard and make this year’s tour the best ever. May it be a welcome mat for the region.

Reception of Written Reports • Written Reports, found within the Annual Report, were received and unanimously accepted.

Closing Comments – Rector • Jonathan Adams thanked everyone who made 2023 such a successful church year and he expressed gratitude for our parish.

• Jonathan recognized the following people who contributed to our success: the outgoing Vestry; Alix Coolidge, Dan Leger, Ed Moore and Laurie Volk; the Wardens; Gina Hammond and her tireless work for Trinity; and Lisa White and our acolytes.

• The Trinity Thrift & Boutique allowed us to give the largest gift ever to our outreach community. We continue to make our outreach programs a priority in 2024.

• Thomas Lloyd recently contacted Jonathan to say that the Lloyds and Lamberts want to make a contribution to Trinity in support of future generations. They have approved a massive project for the “back 40”. Thomas Watts will be coming on campus soon to look at the landscape and architecture to consider the possibilities.

• Jana and Jonathan recently bought a house in the area so they are planning on being here for a long time!

Closing Prayer and Adjournment - Rector The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 a.m. with a closing prayer by the Reverend Adams.

Respectfully submitted, Barbara H. Manning Registrar

8

V ESTRY NOMINATIONS FOR THE CLASS OF 2027 Introduction The Vestry Nominating Committee has canvassed for candidates for the Class of 2027. After discussions, prayer and discernment they are pleased to present four candidates who have agreed to stand for election to the four available positions.

Vestry terms are three years and will begin in February 2025. Candidates must have met the eligibility qualifications as shown below.

We are very grateful to the Vestry Nominating Committee for their work and to all the candidates who have agreed to stand for election in service of their church. Biographical information is presented here for your information.

Who is Eligible to Serve on the Vestry?

According to the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia, Canon 11, Section 4: Only lay persons who are confirmed adult communicants in good standing of the church, as defined in General Convention Canon 1.17., shall be eligible for election as Vestry Members of such church.

However, regardless of eligibility of a person for election, no person shall be elected at a duly convened congregational meeting to consecutive full terms on a congregation’s Vestry or Vestry Committee.

So what does this mean in plain English?

“Confirmed Adult Communicant in good standing” means the following: •

You are age 16 or older.

•

You have been baptized and confirmed in the church, and we have your baptism and confirmation dates duly recorded.

•

You are active in worship, and have received communion at least 3 times this year.

•

You have been faithful in working, praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God (meaning you are active and intentional about your participation in the life of the church and are known to the treasurer of the church).

•

Furthermore, this Canon states that you can only serve one consecutive full term (3 years) on the Vestry.

9

V ESTRY NOMINATIONS FOR THE CLASS OF 2027 SCOTT ANDREWS I am honored to be considered as a candidate for the Vestry of Trinity Episcopal Church. It has been my pleasure to have recently served on the Vestry since October 2024, as an interim member to fill the position vacated by Randy Mullett. My wife Jennifer and I have adult children (Turner, Merrill & Babbie and Jamie). We have lived in the Middleburg/The Plains area since 1991. We feel blessed to see the extraordinary spirit and growth occurring within Trinity. My professional experience lies within a wide range of industries leading complex restructuring and turnaround environments. I have more than 40 years of experience in executive and board -level roles with multiple organizations including business strategy, financial services, entrepreneurship and team building. I have a passion for non-profit service and have served on a number of non-profit boards, including those for Truth for Life, Meadowkirk Retreat at Delta Farm, and Hill School.

STEVE PUTNAM I was born and raised in Warrenton. I started working in Middleburg as a carpenter 18 years ago. I moved here in 2010 with my wife, Bess and two daughters, Gwenevere and Lila. I have been working on property management, restoration, and construction and manage a cattle operation.

We have been attending Trinity since 2019, helping wherever we can to support this community. I am honored to be considered for this role and look forward to the possibility of service.

10

V ESTRY NOMINATIONS FOR THE CLASS OF 2027 REBECCA SCHAEFER I have been attending Trinity Church on and off since childhood. I was a member of Leeds Episcopal Church in Markham for 20 years where I was involved in almost every ministry, except the Vestry. I moved back to Upperville four years ago and rejoined Trinity Church where I’m an ardent attendee and supporter of the 5:00pm Celtic service. I live and work on my family’s farm, Welbourne, where I run a Bed and Breakfast. I am the mother of two sons. I feel called to minister to those who are suffering or struggling, which gives added meaning and purpose to my life.

LISA WHITE I am a mom to three amazing kids (Allie, Ky and Wagner) and foster mom to a future service dog (Finney). A Virginia native, originally from Oakton, I moved to the Piedmont area full time In 1990. As a lifelong Episcopalian, I frequently joined my parents, Henry and Betty Long for services at Trinity and my husband, Chip and I became members in 2015. My first role here was as a Sunday school teacher and program coordinator for several years. I served on the Parish Life committee, and as a lector, and usher. I am currently on the Outreach Committee. For the past three years I have coordinated the Acolytes; it is a true joy to help children serve. I am passionate about community service and mission work and believe everyone has something special to share in God's service.

11

Rector’s report Dear Trinity family, I heard recently of a young Priest arriving in his first parish. “I am more concerned with people than I am with buildings” he announced to his congregation. It’s a statement that’s hard to disagree with. The sentiment and thinking behind his words aren’t wrong. As so often in life (as no doubt a few more years in ministry will reveal to this Priest) the reality isn’t actually like that; the practicalities are not nearly so simple. The truth (of course) is that as disciples of Christ in this place we should always be more concerned for people than buildings… but a growing and active group of Christians also need buildings that are fit for the purposes of ministry. This isn’t an either/or scenario; it’s a both/and situation.

So in a year when we completed the largest capital project since the building of the current Trinity Church and Cox Hall almost seventy years ago (thanks to your amazing generosity), I could be forgiven for saying that 2024 was a year that was all about our much loved and beautiful buildings… and in many ways it was. The completion of a $2.25m HVAC replacement,

electrical upgrading, and water supply project was a huge achievement for this church. I want to personally thank everyone who has worked so hard to ensure that everyone else is comfortable and suitably heated or cooled every time they worship here.

However, above all else 2024 was a year at which people were at the heart of so much that we did together. During the year what our former Trinity Treasurer Chandler Van Voohris had written in his 2o23 Treasurers Annual Report began to be realized in some amazing ways: “The unfolding story of transformation is just beginning.”

We grew significantly as a church family during the year, with marked growth in numbers of those worshipping at our weekly 5:00pm Celtic service… but, we also grew in faith. We set out in 2024 with a clear commitment to expand faith formation programs and we began with the launch of Alpha in April.

Such was the positive response that we quickly switched to a larger venue and over six weeks ninety people enjoyed videos, discussion, fellowship over a meal, and prayer.

Thirty-three of the participants were later Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church at an amazing service with Bishop Ted Gulick on May 26th. It has been a joy to welcome to Trinity as

12

“ We set out in 2024 with a clear commitment to expand of faith formation programs and we began with the launch of Alpha in April. Such was the positive response that we quickly switched to a larger venue and over six weeks ninety people enjoyed video’s, discussion, fellowship over a meal, and prayer. ”

Rector’s report members many of those who first doing at Trinity and reflect again on joined us at Alpha back in the spring those words ““The unfolding story of 2024. of transformation is just beginning.”

We never do things by half-measure at Trinity! So, on the very same weekend that we held our largest Confirmation and Reception for many years, we also hosted Hunt Country Stable Tour 2024 - the first such event since 2019. 1250 people visited Trinity and our local community over two days, and enjoyed an amazing experience, bathed in warm spring weather. A particular and personal “thank you” to Melinda Gable and Ed Moore, CoChairs, whose amazing leadership of a great team resulted in us delivering a truly memorable event.

Also at the end of the year we said “goodbye” (for now!) to Ben Baker, our Minister for Outreach and Family Ministries”. Ben has been a much valued and respected colleague and I know along with many of you I will miss his ministry greatly… But, Ben won’t be a stranger here at Trinity.

We remain his “Sending Parish” as he works his way through the discernment of his ministry towards Ordination, and we look forward to welcoming him back here regularly.

Thank you to everyone here, whatever part you play, for being part of the unfolding and exciting A congregation that is continually story of God’s people at Trinity renewing is always a place of energy during this past year, when it has and creativity, so it has been a truly been my privilege and joy to particular delight to begin new lead you in ministry as you Rector. ministries during the year (for Of course, these are just my example Trinity Singles) and to see personal highlights of 2024, and the rejuvenation and growth of there were so many others during others (for example Men’s the year that I just don't have space Breakfast). Toward the end of the to write about - but read on through year we hosted a special lunch for this report where you can enjoy newcomers to Trinity, and so many being reminded about a blessed year showed up we had to squeeze in for God’s Kingdom in this wonderful additional tables and chairs! As I community. looked around, I was able to see for Much Grace! myself the reality of what God is + Jonathan

The Rev. Jonathan V. Adams Rector 13

“ As I looked around I was able to see for myself the reality of what God is doing at Trinity and reflect again on those words “The unfolding story of transformation is just beginning.””

Warden ’s Report At Trinity Church, the Vestry works closely with the Rector to ensure our mission is carried out both effectively and efficiently. In addition to the important fiduciary responsibilities of stewarding our church’s finances and property, we also oversee the programs and activities that take place within our church and which extend into the wider community, too.

dedication has been a blessing to our church.

All of our meetings are recorded by our registrar in the form of minutes, which then become part of our church archive and history.

We would like to especially thank Barbara Manning for cheerfully performing that role for the past three years.

As wardens, we are privileged to work regularly with our Rector, Meeting monthly, the Vestry The Rev. Jonathan Adams and rotates its agenda throughout our dedicated team of staff. We the year, receiving reports on a are especially grateful to our wide range of topics from both Director of Operations & staff and volunteers who Communications, Richard Jones, specialize in leading particular and our Director of Finance and areas of ministry such as Stewardship, Sophia Mirra.

Outreach, Parish Life events, Although their efforts often go Christian Education, and the care unseen by the congregation, they and upkeep of our Buildings and are hard at work every weekday Grounds. (and often at many other times, Members of the Vestry are too!) in their offices on the elected by the congregation and second floor of Peard House, commit to a three-year term. This ensuring the smooth operation year we extend our heartfelt of our church. thanks to those completing their Thank you to all who have served service: Jolly De Give, Daniel and continue to serve our church Haney, and Jake Hambrick. Their family.

“In addition to the important fiduciary responsibilities of stewarding our church’s finances and property, we also oversee the programs and activities that take place within our church and which extend into the wider community, too.”

Brett Bibb & Jonathan Catherwood Wardens 14

C o m m u n i c at i o n s , O p e r at i o n s & A d m i n i s t r at i o n R e p o r t “Do you want the good news first, or team has been to keep up with the the bad new first?” is the age old practical challenges such increased question so often heard. We are truly levels of activity bring. We estimate blessed that at Trinity we almost some 35,000 people a year access always have good news to share! the Trinity campus! That means lots 2024 proved to be a year full of good of cleaning, many repairs, constant news and amazing stories of faith to maintenance, thousands of e-mails, share… and sharing those stories of and far too many pieces of paper! faith brought many others to join our (have you seen Betsy’s desk?!)… but growing faith community, too. Put - our staff team loves the challenge simply “evangelism” is “telling and feels privileged to serve God in others” - just as Jesus tells us to do. this special place.

Effective communications through a Practically, 2024 was a year when whole plethora of media is an we’ve embedded and adjusted to integral part of our strategy for many of the operational and growth at Trinity. administrative changes we Take another look through this introduced in 2023. These have extensive report - only this time streamlined, updated, and improved don’t read any of the words. Read many of our office processes. The this report just by looking at the task for 2025 is to stretch these new wonderful pictures, right from the systems further so that we can gain front cover to the very back. They tell even more potential from all they the amazing story of 2024 at Trinity; have to offer to managing a busy a year of fun, faith, and fellowship. place like Trinity Church.

The challenge for the Trinity staff

… and we did all this and at the same managed the largest ever single capital works project at Trinity Church since it’s construction almost 70 years ago. You can read more about that on page 20.

To the entire staff team and to so many faithful and committed volunteers who make all this possible, thank you for everything you do - “all that is seen and all that is unseen” - to quote to Book of Common Prayer!

Thanks be to God!

2024 was another banner year at Trinity. For this old-timer keeping up with Jonathan and his ideas is challenging. At Trinity, “There Is A Place For You”, so come join us! Once again you all have stepped up to the plate and helped in so many ways to have Trinity remain active and vibrant. I’m always amazed and eternally grateful for all of you volunteering to make things continue to happen around here. There are so many groups that make this church function. It takes all of you and your time, talent and treasure for Trinity to work. I feel privileged to work, pray, give and grow with you each week, year after year. There are so many volunteer opportunities here at the church; for example The Stable Tour is back and we will need plenty of volunteers on the Saturday and Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. It’s an amazing two days and lots of fun to be involved. Let me know how you would like to be involved. Think of the rewards this amazing outreach project brings! If there is anyone who would like to be more involved or just want to get started being involved, call the church office 540 592-3344, or e-mail me at betsy@trinityupperville.org. I’d love to chat for awhile about the miracles happening in and around Trinity Church each and every day.

“ … It should also be noted that this activity extends well beyond worship each Sunday every day is a busy day at Trinity and we give thanks for the privilege of being part of God’s work here..”

Betsy Crenshaw, Assistant Administrator

Richard D. Jones, Director of Communications & Operations 15

Mu s i c M i n i st r i e s R e p o r t Trinity Church has a long history wonderful singing and playing on of outstanding music. It is a great Christmas Eve by our choir and privilege to continue the work of string quartet, including Haydn’s those who have preceded me, “Little Organ Mass”. Our and to work with Jonathan and handbell choir joined the adult the church staff to come up with choir on December 22nd for an new ideas and programs to break anthem and it was a joy to have new ground. them in worship again.

What is seen and heard during worship on Sundays is just the tip of the iceberg. During the week, church members of all ages give of their time and talent to come together and prepare music for worship. Rehearsal also provides time for fellowship and bonding, strengthening the Trinity family.

Our dedicated section leaders in the Trinity Choir provide strong leadership for our volunteers and enrich our worship with occasional quartets and solos.

Our talented Music Associate, Noah Wagar, has ably assisted me with directing the choir along with our Church Music Intern, Jonathan Margrave.

We continue to have guest musicians join us periodically throughout the year, including Marjory Serrano Coyer who gives so much of her time and talent by playing in worship and procuring instrumentalists for us whenever they are needed. Our friend Lukas Hasler joined us in February for worship and an organ recital, and we were blessed by a number of fine musical programs by the Blue Ridge Singers as well as Winchester Musica Viva, who gave an outstanding performance of the Durufle “Requiem” in October.

Our Music Ministry is committed The adult choir provides primary to maintaining the highest standards both musically, leadership for Sunday worship theologically, and pastorally as from September-June each we continue to live into our program year. Some of the highlights from this year include mission statement: musical commentary at noon on “It is our mission to enable and encourage all members of the Good Friday on The Seven Last parish to share in the experience Words of Christ by our section leaders; a wonderful Good Friday of glorifying God through music; to teach together the skills of evening concert led by Marjory Serrano Coyer; Franz Schubert’s music and the practices of faith; and to build the body of Christ “Mass in G” with strings on Easter Day; Choral Evensong for through worship, rehearsal, The Feast of St. Luke in October; outreach, and fellowship, using A Service of Advent Lessons and music as an instrument of God’s peace.”

Carols on December 1st; and 16

“What is seen and heard during worship on Sundays is just the tip of the iceberg. ”

Daniel J. Miller Director of Music Ministries & Organist

Wo rs h i p R e p o rt Worship is at the heart of who we are and occasional Choral Evensong has enriched what we do as followers of Jesus Christ. our worship menu. We have, and It’s not an optional extra; it’s not a social continue to, place greater emphasis on club under a different name. It’s not a the beautiful feast days of the church and case of doing it because we’ve always on occasions (such as Epiphany and done it. We come to set time apart to Candlemass) enrich our worship with spend with God. A 2024 article in additional and special liturgy, prayers, “Worship Leader” magazine refers back processions, and more. Our 5:00pm to a report from 1994 by Robert Webber Sanctuary service draws heavily on who studied factors around church ancient Celtic liturgical text, interlaced growth. The article includes this with contemplative, modern worship statement: “Webber’s reflections reveal songs, and amazing instrumental and that the core of worship—empowered by vocal pieces. Worshipper numbers at this the Holy Spirit, gospel-centered, and service have grown rapidly through 2024 focused on creating an encounter with and it is now typical to have over 50 the living God—will never lose its power people present most weeks. This service to draw people in. Churches today can has also proved to be an excellent learn that, beyond trends or preferences, “gateway” to Trinity, through which it is worship that embodies depth, those looking for an experience of God, a transcendence, and genuine connection new church, or returning to church, can to God that will always sustain and grow a do so gently and comfortably. vibrant congregation.”

May 2024 witnessed our largest At Trinity we have worked hard in recent years to renew and supplement our worship so that it continues to embody depth, transcendence and that genuine connection to God that the Webber report highlights. Our model for this has become a three-service Sunday for most of the year, each deliberately offering very different experiences and styles of worship. From quiet, completive, brief, to modern, traditional, choral; and using liturgy from ancient times to today. To quote again from the Webber report... “the timeless nature of worship—rooted in deep tradition, reverence, and a Spiritfilled approach—offers a compelling reminder that authentic, Christ-centered worship is always attractive.”

Our choir have worked hard to expand their repertoire even further and

Confirmation service at Trinity for many years (ever?!) when 33 people were Confirmed or Received by Bishop Ted Gulick. (Bishop Gulick having already been with us to preach on Good Friday 2024 thank you Bishop Ted!) Our Holy Week, Easter and Advent Christmas services all had exceptionally good attendance and were greatly appreciated. All Christmas 2024 services saw a minimum 10% increase in attendance over 2023.

With thanks to everyone who makes this all this happen: Altar Guild, Flower Guild, Lectors, Musicians, Welcomers, Lay Eucharistic Assistants, Acolytes, Lay Preachers, Staff and Honorary (retired) Clergy.

“ At Trinity we have worked hard in recent years to renew and supplement our worship so that it continues to embody depth, transcendence and that genuine connection to God ...”

17

Trinity Singles Report Trinity Singles was started in November 2024 to create a community that enables members to grow socially, spiritually and personally so they can actively succeed in every area of life. This group is open to all ages and will hold activities that will appeal to young, middle age and active senior singles throughout the year.

Whether never married, divorced or widowed, all are welcome.

Planning has begun for regular happy hours, monthly brunches, dinners, music and theater events, workshops, hikes, community outreach and much more! Future dates for these events will be announced in the church bulletin, FB page, Trinity App and weekly Trinity Essentials email. If you have not already received Evites for events from this group and would like to be on the Trinity Singles Evite list, please email Julie Weir Lula at julieweir888@gmail.com to get your name added to the list.

You may also email Julie with ideas of events you would like to see this group plan.

Our first event was a successful Festive Holiday Cocktail Party held in December at Cox Hall. A beautiful table full of delicious appetizers, desserts and drinks were shared by the many guests who also expressed enthusiasm for Please note: This is not a dating the start of the Trinity Singles club. We do not check male/female group! ratios for events. This group was created to help foster community A New Year’s Eve French themed dinner was then held at C’est Bon among Christian Singles in the area. Any single in the area is in Round Hill. The group had a welcome, you do not need to be a table together and enjoyed fun member of the church to attend. cooking demonstrations of some Please bring your friends and pass dishes that were served. On the word about this group! The January 8th, a well-attended organizational meeting was held to more the merrier! plan events for 2025. Much enthusiasm and great ideas were discussed.

Julie Weir Lula Coordinator

Parish Life Report It was a busy year for Parish Life activities. Although event, and many other we have no formal organizing committee many culinary highlights! We people have stepped forward to take the lead to continue to appeal for more ensure that the faithful of Trinity are fed at our people to host a Coffee Hour many and varied special events. There were the each Sunday after either usual three Trinity Picnics & Grills through the morning service. Please add summer; hot cross buns for Good Friday, a welcome your name to the rota lunch for newcomers to Trinity, a Welsh themed St. displayed in Cox Hall. Thank you to everyone who David’s Day Dinner, a grill for our All Hallows Eve helps with this ministry in any way!

18

A lta r G u i l d R e p o r t To be a member of the Altar Guild is a privilege. Our tasks have great worth as we provide what is needed to celebrate Holy Eucharist. For that, Altar Guild members set up and take down for each service: Sundays, Wednesdays, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, as well as weddings and funerals when requested.

setting up the altar at Trinity is maintained in the Sacristy. It provides pictures to illustrate the settings for each service. It is used for training new members and, often as a reference for both new team members and experienced team members.

The Altar Guild needs new members at all times. We invite both men and The Altar Guild is made up of four women to join us. We welcome and teams of 3 to 5 members who are train each new member in the charged with preparing for each procedures and offer encouragement service by setting the altar for and support as they learn. Soon, we worship. This requires setting the see them experience the quiet joy they hymn boards, preparing the candles, find in the value and worth of this laying the linens, and setting the table. service that we ourselves experience We also take down the altar after the each time we serve. It is a valuable and service, and clean and put away the rewarding service. service items. We maintain the Please consider joining us! Contact the sacraments, wine and wafers, and care church office to find out more. for all the linens, altar frontals, and the sacred objects used for the Eucharist. We are exceptionally grateful to both Becky & Barbara for stepping up and agreeing to A detailed procedure manual for become Co-Chairs during 2024. Rector.

Becky Hoecker & Barbara Augenblick Co-Chairs, Trinity Altar Guild

Trinity Village Report “And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.”

– Titus 3:14

remain informed about potential needs within our church and community.

Whether facing grief, illness, or personal challenges, we prayerfully and confidentially assess how best to offer meaningful support.

Carrying the Church’s Mission Forward Trinity Village continues to embody the mission of the church, extending our As Trinity Village looks to the future, we care and service to both congregants aim to expand our outreach. We want and the greater Upperville community. everyone to know: We are here to help.

We are deeply thankful for the many A Call for Leadership and Participation individuals, both from our church family To continue and grow this vital ministry, and the broader community, who have we are seeking a passionate individual to generously shared their time, talents, chair this committee and help coordinate and hearts. We provide essential support our activities. We invite all who feel to those in need through acts of kindness called to learn more about our work or such as meals, rides, notes of comfort, join us in this mission of love and service. visits, care baskets, flowers, and even a Let us remain faithful in meeting the simple phone call. Often, the smallest urgent needs around us, ensuring that gestures make the greatest impact. our community feels the presence of Compassion in Action God’s care through our actions.

Under the guidance of our dedicated church liaison, Betsy Crenshaw, we 19

Sabine Bibb Convener, Trinity Village

R e n e w & R e s t o r e — C a p i ta l Wo r k s 2024 was a landmark year for capital works at Trinity Church. As part of our 5 year Renew & Restore program (Fall 2023 to Fall 2028) we undertook the planned replacement of HVAC systems to both the church and Cox Hall. In addition we completed the linked projects to renew and significantly increase the electricity supply to the Trinity campus, and replace and upgrade water supply, storage and treatment systems to the whole campus. The total cost of these works was $2.25m which represents the largest single investment in the infrastructure of Trinity Church since the completion of the current Church and Cox Hall buildings. These systems have been operational since Fall 2024, and works are currently continuing to minor reinstatements and refinishing areas effected by the construction works. These will be complete by spring 2025. All this was achieved without having to relocate or cancel any Sunday services!

These works followed hard on the heals of the completion of 32 other projects during 2023 (reported on last year). Smaller scale projects will continue through 2024, with larger scale works likely to resume late in

2025 and onwards. Planned works for future years as part of Renew & Restore include refitting of all restrooms on campus, Organ restoration, window replacements, and much more. Although not originally part of the Renew & Restore program we hope that through generous pledges and donations we will also be able to complete the installation of a new audio system to the church. Can you help us?

As Jim Gemmer reported last year the former “Buildings & Grounds Committee” has reformed itself as a project advisory group, and is convened when needed as large scale or specialist projects are planned. I wish to put on record my thanks to all members of that group for their unstinting dedication and commitment to the HVAC replacement projects. The group met almost every week for over 12 months, working with architects, engineers, and contractors, to agree the very best solution for Trinity Church. Thanks also to a wonderful group of skilled contractors and craftspeople who have become friendly and familiar faces at Trinity.

We greatly appreciate you all!

Richard D. Jones Director of Operations & Communications

T r i n i t y Yo u t h G r o u p Trinity youth group (TYG) led

by Taylor Robeson and Miles Kresic focused the youth on building their faith and serving God in their community. TYG met weekly at the church to engage in lively Biblical discussions and participate

in team building activities. The leaders and youth traveled for a Ski Retreat in February and in October to went to Purcellville for a ropes course team building event!

In July, TYG served God by volunteering for VBS. They were known as the “Praise Posse” and they acted, sang, danced, played and served God to create a fun, exciting “Faith Festival” for the children ages 4-11. In November, 20

TYG served God in their community by helping Seven Loaves Food Pantry prepare for Thanksgiving distribution.

“TYG met weekly at the church to engage in lively Biblical discussions and participate in team building activities.”

Taylor Robeson and Miles Kresic Youth Ministry Leaders

P r ay e r & H e a l i n g R e p o r t The Healing Ministry has been congregation. Please contact Ginny praying weekly for those on the Fluet (540-660-2636) if you are Sunday prayer list, the long term interested. healing prayer list and our internal In September of 2024, we held a confidential prayer list. We’ve also community wide healing event with instituted Prayer Cards by email, keynote speaker The Rev. Nigel from Trinity Essentials or the Trinity Mumford. An internationally known website (Click on Prayer Request or author and healer, he has practiced send email to healing ministry for more than 20 contact@trinityupperville.org). years. The one day healing Parishioners may submit names for conference included talks on the prayer just as they did via the black basics of healing, blocks to healing cards during services. Please include and perseverance in prayer, the name and what should be followed by a healing service and prayed for. The names are prayed Eucharist. Over 60 came along! The for each week and then shredded Holy Spirit was perceptibly present so they will have to be resubmitted and healing permeated the room. each week.

We have had many thanksgivings We currently have 12 people and reports of healings from those engaged in the ministry and have for whom we have prayed. Many gladly welcomed new members, have been blessed with God's grace Nicole Byars, Evelyn Walsh & Bob and healing power. Thanks be to Neil. We have trained 41 people for God! the prayer ministry, including a number of people from other parishes. We are still in need of new members, especially from the 10:30 Ginny Fluet, Convener

“In September of 2024, we held a community wide healing event with keynote speaker The Rev. Nigel Mumford. An internationally known author and healer, he has practiced healing ministry for more than 20 years.”

M e n ' s B r e a k fa s t R e p o r t The first three breakfast gatherings more recently coming along. We of 2024 had to be cancelled due to also regularly welcome members of inclement weather. From April 2024 other churches in Upperville, and we embarked on a drive to grow our members of the wider community ministry through an increased with no church or faith affiliation. profile at Trinity. We also introduced Members are asked in turn to offer guest speakers into our monthly to cater for a simple breakfast, meetings and this was well received. sometimes pairing up with a friend Our subjects ranged from radical to prepare and serve food. generosity, rural compassion, We meet on the third Saturday of outreach in the greater Fauquier/ each month (except summer Loudoun communities, a Korean months) from 8:00am to 9:00am in breakfast, the geologic wonders of Cox Hall. Come along and join our the United States, and a history of growing group and enjoy great Christmas Carols. Attendance has fellowship and food at Trinity! For increased to 13 to 17 persons each more information contact Gray month and continues to grow, with Coyner at agcoyner@gmail.com many men who have joined Trinity 21

Gray Coyner, Convener

T r i n i t y C r e at i v e s R e p o r t Thank you all who have encouraged beauty, we gather to encourage Trinity Creatives both personally as each other to have “Gospel eyes”; well as part of our greater Trinity to be attentive to God’s word Family. All activities are a response through beauty expressed all to the leadership of Jonathan, the around us; and to grow in our love continuing challenge and privilege for self, each other, and God, as of growing the Gospel family in a disciples in this place. time of changing cultural and Our regular Tea and Conversation institutional rejections, and events, which occur on Sunday fresh expressions of faith in these afternoons, has grown in chaotic times. What began as a way attendance as well as depth. During to encourage individual creatives in 2024 with the growth of all our congregation has continued to worshipping numbers, especially at grow and adapt to the wonderful the weekly 5:00pm Celtic service, changes and additions to our there became a need to find ways church family. to connect people of the Trinity Approximately every five weeks we host a tea and conversation gathering at Gulick House to complement spiritual growth and family connections within our community. From its inception Trinity Creatives was created to provide an imaginative and flexible response to God’s leading in new ways of collective worship and fellowship. Programs were not created on old ideas of rigid church organization and structure or expected outcomes.

family.

In addition, we hosted occasional small groupings of about 10 people for a meal, to nurture lasting friendships to complement all the wonderful activities and events that happen at Trinity . We had four such dinners over this last year. On December 22nd we hosted a Christmas Open House Party and welcomed 70 people!

In the New Year we will be exploring themes that will enrich anyone seeking to experience This past year has been one of God’s love . We will continue to wonderful growth in participation look at those things that drew C.S. from a wide variety of friends new Lewis to faith and his writings. and old. The “Tea and There are many talented and Conversation” events have inquiring minds here at Trinity! It is centered around matters of faith as our hope that an intuitive and seen through the eyes of persons imaginative approach may deepen such as C.S. Lewis and artists like and enrich the presence of God in Vincent Van Gogh and others. They our daily lives and as a gathered discovered the faith through their community of Jesus here at Trinity.

Gospel journey often in reaction to the previously limited expression of Thank you especially to the support of our faithful church staff.

Church and instead found the gospel through academics, classics, or through the work of their hands, Jerry L. Eisley as artists, craftspeople or writers.

Convener Whether actual creatives ourselves Trinity Creatives - such as writers or painters, or simply as people who have discovered the goodness, truth and 22

“From its inception Trinity Creatives was created to provide an imaginative and flexible response to God’s leading in new ways of collective worship and fellowship. Programs were not created on old ideas of rigid church organization and structure or expected outcomes.”

Flower Guild Report The Trinity Church Flower Guild, evergreens, poinsettia and mixed chaired by Gina Hammond, flowers in Christmas colors. consists of seven talented The Flower Guild thanks all teams. On a scheduled rotation, individuals who make each team prepares the flowers contributions for flowers used for the Sunday services. For a throughout the year. Openings typical Sundays, flowers were are available on the calendar if placed on the reredos, in the you wish to remember someone entryway and in the or an event (birthdays, chapel. Flowers were also anniversaries) during the provided for two weddings and year. Persons interested in six funerals using favorite flowers serving on the Flower Guild and colors, as specified by the should contact the families. As part of the Christmas chairperson. Flowers are a Auction, the teams also provided welcoming way to greet visitors arrangements for sale at the end to Trinity. The Guild is honored of the evening. to be able to work with so many

Special attention was given to gifts from God’s creation. flowers for the feasts of Easter, Advent and Christmas. Memorial gifts are asked of the congregation for Easter and Christmas to be given in thanksgiving for and in memory of family members and loved ones. For Easter, an arrangement was made for the sunrise service at the Outdoor Chapel. A variety of spring flowers were used in arrangements in the church. For the month of November, harvest arrangements were placed on the reredos, in the entryway and in the chapel. During Advent, only greens were used in the church to include two Christmas trees placed on the reredos. A beautiful Advent Wreath was commissioned for the church, and three festive wreaths hung outside of Cox Hall. At Christmas, the church was decorated with 23

“Flowers are a welcoming way to greet visitors to Trinity. The Guild is honored to be able to work with so many gifts from God’s creation.”

Gina Hammond Chair, Trinity Church Flower Guild

TREASURER’S REPORT 2024 was a year of growth for Trinity. As you may know, the church has seen a sharp uptick in attendance since Jonathan Adams joined as Rector. While this growth has led to an approximately 30% increase in operating income over the last five years, the same growth and inflation have led to corresponding increases in expenses.

For 2025, Trinity has a $1.2 million budget reflecting a 9% increase in total operating expenses. This notably includes a scheduled commitment for an associate rector. We anticipate this role to focus on family and outreach ministries, enabling our continued growth in the coming years.

Your pledges are essential to Trinity and its mission. Like most churches, travel and family activities can lead to more sporadic summer attendance here, which in turn leads to reduced pledge collections during those months. Our scheduled endowment draws helped mitigate the worst of this issue in 2024. Many parishioners fulfill their pledges with automatic monthly payments, while others use tax-efficient strategies like gifts of appreciated stock made late in the prior year or early in the current. If you aren’t taking advantage of these tools already, we encourage you to contact staff for assistance.

Beyond operations, Outreach was blessed with strong receipts during 2023 from Trinity Thrift & Boutique and from the Christmas Auction which enabled more than $114,157.90 of outreach grant support in 2024 for local, national, and international charitable activities. With the return of an exceptionally successful Hunt Country Stable Tour in 2024 ($100k profit after expenses) the Vestry has gained sufficient comfort with this model to authorize quarterly spending guidelines for the Outreach Committee for 2025, enabling that committee to do its work confident in its abilities.

Renew & Restore, the church’s capital campaign, received over $11 million of pledges. Of these, $5 million are estate gifts designated for the endowments.

The remaining $6 million are for capital works and renovations.

First in priority was a substantially-total replacement of campus utility infrastructure, now completed. A line of credit was used to finance construction in advance of pledge receipts.

Remaining scheduled work will be contingent upon repayment of that line as well as escrow of sufficient funds to see each project through to completion.

This means your Renew & Restore pledge payments are as important in the coming months and years as they were last year.

Finally, Chandler Van Voorhis concluded his term as Treasurer 24

in May 2024. We are grateful for his service. We also give thanks for the sharing of skills, experience, and time of members of the Finance Committee, and the Endowment Committee.

Chase Rowan, Treasurer Kathleen Lange, Chair, Finance Committee

“Many parishioners fulfill their pledges with automatic monthly payments, while others use taxefficient strategies like gifts of appreciated stock made late in the prior year or early in the current. If you aren’t taking advantage of these tools already, we encourage you to contact staff for assistance.”

Endowment Committee Report The endowment returned just under 15% in 2024 for an $814,000 gain, bringing the endowment to $6.25M. It is the second year in a row that the endowment has been up double digits and gained more than $800,000.

AI. The Fed cut rates by 1.00% during its last 3 meetings of the year, however, the 10 year bond yield has risen by an almost equal amount. The reasons for this are either because the market believes the economy will grow more as a The endowment’s total return was result of the Fed’s cuts or the market is nervous about how the just slightly lower than its own benchmark (15.7%). The endowment Fed’s rate cuts will cause inflation to rise. For the moment, the rise in consists of a mixture of equities the 10 year yield means that the Fed (80%), fixed income (12.6%, alternatives (3.3%) and cash (3.5%). is unlikely to cut rates in the first The equity portion gained 19.3% vs quarter of the year.

The election of President Trump is expected to bring a decrease in regulation, extension of the 2017 tax cuts and increased use of tariffs.

How of these factors will impact The strong equity market was the economy are uncertain but the driven by continued consumer balance will likely determine how growth, strong corporate profits and huge corporate investments in equities and fixed income do in 2025.

“The strong equity market was driven by continued consumer growth, strong corporate profits and huge corporate investments in AI.”

the S&P 500 gain of 25% whereas the fixed income portion gained over 10% vs 1.25% for fixed income benchmark.

25

Daniel Ledger For the Trinity Church Endowment Committee

S t e wa r d s h i p C o m m i t t e e R e p o r t The response to the 2024 Stewardship Campaign “All-In” was tremendous! Trinity received 151 Pledges for a total pledged of $664,000. There were 24 new pledging families. The attrition level was far below the anticipated 10%. The amazing effort of our Rector is a significant factor behind the success of the 2024 Pledge Campaign.

PushPay is now being fully utilized, and I am happy to report that more and more parishioners are using the online App to manage their regular giving. We continue to encourage parishioners to use this giving platform and set up monthly gifts for a smoother financial base for the operating of Trinity.

Trinity kicked off the 2025 Pledge Campaign “Joyful Living, Joyful

Giving” in October 2024 and it is off to a great start. To date we have received 133 pledges with 20 of these new pledging units. At the time of writing more than $677,203.00 has been pledged, already matching our 2023 amount, and with some way to go yet.

Pledges continue to arrive daily.

We encourage anyone who has not submitted their 2025 Pledge to do so as soon as possible. The activities and programs described in this report are only possible because of generous, regular, pledged giving. Thank you.

We give thanks to Melanie Blunt & Ashley Kennedy 2023 & 2024 CoChairs.

Sophia Mirra Director of Finance & Stewardship

“The activities and programs described in this report are only possible because of generous, regular, pledged giving.

Thank you.”

H u n t C o u n t r y S ta b l e To u r R e p o r t Hunt Country Stable Tour made a online ticket sales welcome return to the Trinity and a driving app calendar in 2024. May 25th & 26th, downloaded to Memorial Day weekend, saw over your cell phone to 1200 people visit 13 local farms or act as a guide to venues for special events - and it local farms and all took place in glorious weather. stables.

The Trinity Church campus was a We were blessed with and after hive of activity, and included a lots of enthusiastic support, a great Country Market, an opportunity counting planning team, generous to meet the hounds, and much and a little sponsors, and welcoming farm more. The leadership of the Hunt and stable owners. A special math over Country Stable Tour worked $100,000 mention should be made of especially hard to ensure that Melinda Gable & Ed Moore who as profit was like all the best traditions – this Co-Chairs went above and beyond realized event is a “living tradition” that for Trinity to ensure an outstanding event. continues to grow, develop, and Ministries - our Outreach and Events costs were significantly thrive. For 2024 we fully Community programs. We look reduced, largely due to a shift to embraced the latest software forward to the 2025 event! - May online marketing and ticket sales, technologies available to us; 24th & 25th.

26

Meade Society Report The following list includes the current living Meade Society members as of December 31, 2024. We are deeply grateful for their commitments to help preserve Trinity’s unique campus and to sustain its mission and ministries. Their generosity will help ensure that future generations are able to worship God and learn of our Lord and Savior in this beautiful sacred space, nestled in the Piedmont hills of Northern Virginia.

parishioners chose to also include Meade Society Gifts. The process is simple. You simply need to inform the Director of Finance and Stewardship that you have included Trinity in your estate plan. If Trinity is already a beneficiary of your will, please notify us, so that we may add your name to the Meade Society membership, should you wish.

“All things come of thee, O Lord, and of thine own have we given thee.” (I Chron. 29:14b, KJV)

All parishioners are welcomed and encouraged to become a member of the Meade Society. During our Renew and Restore Campaign, several

Gina Hammond Meade Society

Meade Society Members Anonymous (4) Mr. & Mrs. Scott Andrews Robert & Kathy Appenzeller, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Howard Armfield The Rev. Robert & Mrs. Janie C. Banse, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Henry O. Chapman, III Mr. & Mrs. Richard Coolidge Barbara Tragakis Conner Josephine F. de Give Mr. & Mrs. Guy O. Dove, III C. Greg & Sarah Ellison Joe & Ginny Fluet Bradley & Melinda Gable John Greely Mr. & Mrs. Sydney D. Hall The Rev & Mrs. James A. Hammond

Mr. & Mrs. David Hartley Charles M. Hassett & Neil R. Peddicord James & Rebecca Hoecker Mr. & Mrs. Lou Kennedy Mrs. Clyde C. Lamond III Mr. Daniel Leger Sheryl Heckler Mazzatenta Ed & Margaret Moore Ms. Deborah Payne Nicole H. Perry Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Principi Edith Smart Carolyn L. T. Smith Heather & Richard Taylor Pamela Jean Wynfield

27

Tr i n i t y K i d s R e p o r t Jesus said, “Have the children come to me”, and observing the yearly growth in Sunday school Trinity Kids attendance, the children are indeed coming to Jesus! In 2023, the average number of children that attended on Sundays was seven to ten children; in 2024 the average is ten to twelve children and frequently many more! A very exciting time at Trinity Episcopal Church!

candle (God is with us), to place their nametags in the offering basket (giving thanks to God’s love and care) and to say a prayer. The lessons are created by reviewing the ECC (Episcopal Children’s Curriculum), reading the lectionary and speaking to Rector Jonathan.

Adding music, movement and videos to the lesson ensures the children’s participation! Lesson themes in 2024 included: Jesus Popping In, God You Are, All Saints, Jesus’ Life and Ministry (Advent and Lent).

Trinity Kids (TKs) begin each Sunday with an opening activity, typically a coloring page, puzzle, drawing or game, this allows children to arrive, and get settled before the lesson is presented. The lesson starts by gathering around the worship table to light the

Praise-APalooza, a funfilled Vacation Bible School curriculum focused on the extraordinary people or

events found in the Bible.

Inspired by Brandon Lake’s song, PRAISE, the extraordinary stories included -The Creation story, Joshua and the Battle of Jericho, The Transfiguration, and Doubting Thomas.

Over forty children attended Vacation Bible School - our biggest yet! Praise Posse (eight youth volunteers) and thirty-two Trinity Tykes (ages 4-7) and Faith Friends (ages 811) came Susan Robeson Convener, together for an Trinity Kids amazing week!

Tr e e o f L i f e R e p o r t Our Trinity Tree of Life Outreach distribution, and simply showing · Relief assistance (financial, etc.): ministry mission had a successful up to serve. It is always a joyful 410 individuals year contributing to the Purcellville event and humbling to know that · Summer Giveaway: 733 backpacks Tree of Life free Thursday night we can help folks in need… even in given to students, 752 people meals. Tree of Life maintains three a small way. I don’t think there has received clothing locations across Loudoun County been a night when we served that Thank you all so much for your and Purcellville is the location we did not have at least one support and thanks be to God for a serving all of Western Loudoun. person come up and thank us for successful year!

The other locations are in Leesburg the food. Often, they tell us they and Sterling. are reminded of home cooked Jim & Kat Gemmer meals that they enjoyed in the Tree Of Life Outreach Group The meal that we always prepare is past. a favorite one… roasted chicken, Just so you can appreciate the rice casserole (or sometimes impact that Tree of Life has had potato salad or sometimes orzo across the county, here is some of salad), green beans, cornbread, what was accomplished in 2024… and dessert (usually a cookie or · TOL wide community meals: brownie). We are very lucky to 10,973 meals have so many members of Trinity · Grocery Deliveries: 5153 supporting us by baking goods, individuals preparing dishes, organizing 28

Outreach Committee Report Mission Statement: Responding to God’s love for the Church and the World, Trinity Outreach Ministries bring renewal, hope, and assistance to our neighbors both locally and throughout the world.

Under the committed leadership of Ben Baker, Director of Outreach and Family Ministries, the Outreach Planning and Grants Team held a series of discernment discussions in the spring, prayerfully drafting the mission statement and articulating the team’s grantgiving role within Trinity’s overall Outreach Ministries.

The 2024 grant budget was $114,157.90. Primary sources of funds were the 2023Trinity Christmas Auction (online & inperson) and Trinity Thrift and Boutique. The Outreach grants team is grateful for the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who make the fundraisers possible.

Per the vestry’s recommendations, 2024 grants were allocated as follows: Local: 30% / Local Emergency: 10% / Regional: 30% / National: 20% / International: 10%. Guided by vestry’s allocation recommendations and driven by our mission statement, the team carefully considered each request for assistance, striving to be good stewards of the funds entrusted to us. In addition to responding to requests, the team initiated several special gifts, e.g. for disaster relief in multiple states. In consideration of countless worthy causes and in the face of much need locally,

nationally, and worldwide, we often faced difficult decisions about the distribution of funds.

Highlights of the 2024 budget distributions include but are not limited to: Local/Regional ○ Tree of Life Ministries - $40,000 ○ Piedmont Child Care Center $20,500 ○ Cloverleaf Equine Center (equine therapy) - $5,000 National ○ Hurricane Helene Crisis Relief The grants team initiated a special congregational collection that raised an amazing $6,000 for three faith-based organizations providing hurricane relief in Tennessee and Florida. The team granted an additional $1,000 from the Outreach budget.

International ○ Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem - $10,000 (one of our Christmas Auction Paddle Raise causes).

Within the greater Trinity Outreach Ministry, a generous private donation was given to Seven Loaves feeding ministry.

At year’s end, the team chose three beneficiaries of the Christmas Paddle Raise, which raised a total of $21,640 for our 2025 nominated good causes.

Holistic Haitian Alliance, Seven Loaves feeding ministry, and Middleburg Community Center’s after school program for Windy Hill children will each receive $7,213.33 at the beginning of 2025.

29

The Planning and Grants team welcomes new members and encourages fresh ideas! Contact Melissa Saunders mwsaunders26@gmail.com or Jim Gemmer jimdgem@gmail.com to learn how to become involved.

Melissa Saunders, Chair, Outreach Planning & Grants Committee

“The grants team initiated a special congregational collection that raised an amazing $6,000 for three faith -based organizations providing hurricane relief in Tennessee and Florida. The team granted an additional $1,000 from the Outreach budget.”

Trin ity Thrif t & B o u tiqu e 2024 was another great year for Trinity's Thrift & Boutique.

We continued to expand under our new name and brand. As a result of a continuous and ready supply

of high quality donated items, our sales were strong, and our total income (after tax, but before operating costs) was an impressive $89,943.88.

During 2024 we were able to redecorate and rearrange for a more comfortable shopping experience. This followed on from completion of the installation of new lighting to all rooms within the building, as part of the Renew & Restore Capital Campaign. This project has transformed the property and the shopping experience for our customers.

In 2024 we participated in the Hunt Country Stable Tour with extended opening hours through the weekend. We also worked with the Trinity Christmas Auction team to reassign selected collectables and indemand items to the auction.

During the year we also began a consignment program for highend jewelry. This service is for

carefully selected items only, but has proved a useful source of additional income.

As in past years our extraordinary success is due to the generous donations of parishioners and local families, This attracts customers from all over Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and as far as North Carolina! All customers are attracted to the high quality of our merchandise, as well as knowing that all our profits go towards Trinity Ministries, our Outreach and Community Program.

Sorting the donations, is not a easy task , and we could not do it without our dedicated volunteers, some of who travel a long distance just to help out. A big thank you to Sharon Wray whose regular volunteer help each week is invaluable. We thank the Church leadership and staff for their continued support. Thank you to all our donors and customers for a wonderful year, Here's to Trinity Thrift and Boutique!

We’re excited to see what 2025 brings!

“During 2024 we were able to redecorate and rearrange for more comfortable shopping experience. This followed on from completion of the installation of new lighting to all rooms within the building...”

Chloe Miller Trinity Thrift & Boutique Manager 30

F a i t h F o r m at i o n R e p o r t Faith Formation was one of our priority development areas for 2024, following on from some successful trials of courses, formats, and scheduling in 2023.

At the start of April 2024 we launched “The Alpha Course” with guest facilitator The Rev. Derek Rust. Initially planned to be held at Trinity, from the levels of interest received it soon became apparent that we would need to find a larger venue! Each Wednesday evening for 6-weeks we met at Middleburg Community Center and we are extremely grateful to their leadership team for agreeing to host us and for their warm welcome. Around 90 people signed up and we had an average attendance of 75 most weeks. The video’s and discussion sessions were helpful and engaging and each table group quickly bonded and many people have become firm friends as a result of Alpha!

Alpha is a foundational Christian “basics” course created within and widely used within the Church of England. It was an ideal course to prepare candidates for Confirmation or Reception to the Episcopal Church and at the end of the course 33 Alpha attendees were Confirmed or Received by Bishop Ted Gulick. As a result of offering Alpha, we also welcomed

numerous “seekers”; people wanting to know more about the Christian faith, looking for a new church, or looking to return to church after a break. It has been an immense delight to see those same people coming along to Trinity to worship, and joining our church family. A number of them are continuing to seek spiritual experiences and faith learning and have signed up to be part of the Trinity Celtic Pilgrimage, travelling to Wales in May/June 2025.

During the Fall we began a new series “Heaven in Your Home”, and although sadly the weekly sessions didn’t thrive, those who did come much appreciated the course and our guest speakers.

Nothing with God is ever wasted, and we will reconnect with those speakers who were scheduled for later in the program and invite them again in 2025 within a different context and format.

Through 2024 our regular weekly Bible Study continued to meet through each semester, on Wednesday morning, at Peard House, parlor. The group welcomed new and returning members through the year, and we are grateful to Joe Fluet for his excellent preparation and leadership of these sessions. All are welcome!

31

“The video’s and discussion sessions were helpful and engaging and each table group quickly bonded and many people have become firm friends as a result of Alpha!”

Outdoor Sanctuary Report Worship and Fellowship Good Friday and Easter Sunday services were conducted at the Outdoor Sanctuary on March 29th and 31st respectively. Attendance reportedly reached record levels of 38 on Good Friday and 160 at the popular sunrise service! Special thanks to Sabine and Brett Bibb and Gina Hammond for set up, clean up, flowers, votive candles, and altar preparation on Easter, and to Julie Simonton for leading the “Stations of the Cross” service on Good Friday.

On April 8th, several members of the community gathered informally in the Outdoor Sanctuary to view the total solar eclipse! What a spiritual venue from which to witness a heavenly event.

Stewardship Throughout the year, Holly Bimba and friends continued to purposefully plant seeds and cuttings of native plants, while gently removing invasive species. A dedicated corps of faithful volunteers filled the gator bags protecting the youngest of the donated trees this summer during the severe drought. Special thanks to the Bibbs, Gemmers, Bowers, Halls, Bimbas and Knapps for keeping the young trees alive as they have become established. Thanks to Ken Knapp and Jerry Crenshaw for haying and bushhogging, and to Kit Hall for maintaining the trails during the growing season.

A View Toward the Future Pursuant to the successful conclusion of the Renew & Restore Capital Campaign, Thomas Lloyd, grandson of Mrs. Rachel Mellon, approached the Rector to discuss the future of the Outdoor Sanctuary.

The 30-acre property, just north of the church campus, was donated to Trinity by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon in 1988. The worship area, council rings

and trails were approved and developed in 2011 and 2012, and the land was dedicated and sanctified in a 2012 ceremony. The gift of the land specified that it be used for “ecclesiastical purposes,” and remained dear to Mrs. Mellon’s heart during her lifetime. Mr. Lloyd offered to provide Trinity with the professional services of one of the world’s leading landscape architecture firms, Nelson, Byrd, Woltz, to develop a comprehensive master plan for the future of Trinity’s Outdoor Sanctuary. NBW proposed to study the history, ecology, geology, and potential uses of the Outdoor Sanctuary, consistent with Mrs. Mellon’s directives and Trinity’s mission objectives.

“On April 8th, several members of the community gathered informally in the Outdoor Sanctuary to view Throughout 2024, members of the the total solar eclipse! What a Outdoor Sanctuary Committee met spiritual venue from which to with representatives of NBW to learn witness a heavenly event.” about the history of the region, and the ecology of the land. NBW’s skills in research and vision were surpassed only by their ability to truly “listen” to what informs Trinity’s DNA in prioritizing worship, fellowship, ministry, and appreciation of the natural beauty of our area. After several iterations involving give-and-take, NBW presented a comprehensive master plan to the committee, and subsequently, to the Vestry. This master plan concept strives to optimize worship and fellowship opportunities, preserve view-sheds, provide creek access, expand the trail network, mitigate against invasive plant growth, accommodate future cemetery expansion, provide educational and meditative opportunities, and conceal “back-ofhouse” infrastructure. The development of the master plan going forward may be Stephanie Knapp undertaken in phases, as interest For the Outdoor Sanctuary Team and funding allow.

32

Outdoor Sanctuary Tree and S h r u b D e d i c at i o n s – 2 0 2 4 This list is included each year in the Annual Report to acknowledge those whose generosity has beautified the Outdoor Sanctuary through the donation of trees and shrubs.

Anonymous – two Willow Oak trees and one Sunset Red Maple tree The Reverend Robert L. Banse, Jr. -- twelve Redbud and Dogwood trees in honor of the Senior Wardens with whom he has served: Nicky Perry, Barbara Augenblick, Arch Randolph, Ellen Hall, Stephanie Knapp, Henry Chapman, Carol Miller, Meralyn Autry, Gina Hammond, Rebecca Hoecker, Jim Gemmer, and Matt Blunt.

The Blue Ridge Book Group – A serviceberry shrub in honor of Beth Gibbens Whitney and Sherwood Bowditch – a Redbud tree, with gratitude and love in honor of Ken and Stephanie Knapp on the occasion of our wedding Deede and Don Cady – a Dogwood tree, in thanksgiving for our many blessings The Congregation of Trinity Church – native bluebells, in honor of Beth and Wayne Gibbens Barbara DuPont – a Dogwood tree, in loving memory of my husband, Victor M. DuPont Fauquier/Loudoun Garden Club – two Winterberry shrubs in memory of our beloved members who have been part of Trinity Church Fauquier/Loudoun Garden Club (with others) – a Dogwood tree in memory of Linda Newton.

Ginny and Joe Fluet – a Dogwood tree in memory of Deacon Carl Roberts Debbie and Ben Gale – a Redbud tree, in memory of Charles and Margaret Broadley, Ben P. Gale, and Mary B. Lee Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Sourgum tree in memory of Janet Whitehouse and Diane Martin Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Serviceberry shrub in memory of Mrs. Anne Banse Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Serviceberry shrub in honor of Ann MacLeod Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Winterberry shrub in memory of Soccoro Sandoval’s mother Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Winterberry shrub in memory of Robert Newton Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Winterberry shrub in memory of Joe L. Allbritton Beth and Wayne Gibbens – five Fothergilla and three Oakleaf Hydrangea shrubs Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Maple tree in loving memory of Susan Grayson’s father, Paul R. Gary Beth and Wayne Gibbens – a Hackberry tree, in honor of Sam and John Epley Susan and Cab Grayson – a Dogwood tree in memory of Betsy Crenshaw’s brother, Jim Maddock Georgiana and John Greely – a Redbud tree, in thanksgiving for Trinity Church Dan and Annabelle Haney – a Carolina Silverbell tree in memory of our daughter, Friday Elizabeth Haney Dan Haney – a Dogwood tree in memory of Herbert R. Peddicord, Jr. Stormy and Jeff Hood – a Redbud tree in memory of our fathers Johanna VanDoren Jackson – a Carolina Silverbell tree in memory of my father, Melvin L. VanDoren Johanna and Robert Jackson – a Carolina Silverbell tree in joyful celebration of the marriage of Lauren Young and William Jackson on November 4, 2016 Sarah and Jeff Kennedy – two Redbud trees in honor of our daughters, Hillary Elizabeth and Katherine Louise Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Winterberry shrub in honor of Karen Hauswald Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Winterberry shrub in memory of William Lackman Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Winterberry shrub in memory of Gray Price 33

Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Winterberry shrub in memory of George Shick Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Winterberry shrub in memory of Robert Newton Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Redbud tree in honor of Betsy Crenshaw Stephanie and Ken Knapp – a Redbud tree in honor of Gina and Jim Hammond Stephanie and Ken Knapp (with others) – a Yellowwood tree in memory of Herbert R. Peddicord, Jr. Stephanie and Ken Knapp (with others) – a Dogwood tree, in memory of Linda Newton Beth and Clyde Lamond – a Dogwood tree in memory of Marguerite Moncure Lamond and Clyde Campbell Lamond, Jr. Beth and Clyde Lamond – a Redbud tree in memory of Marion Putnam Kouns and Charles Wilmarth Kouns Anita and Charles Ledsinger – a Burr Oak tree, in memory of Grace Whitney Clarendon Anita and Charles Ledsinger – a Yellowwood tree, in memory of Betty Ledsinger Heller Margaret C. Littleton – a Dogwood tree, in memory of my mother Emily N.K. Hutchison, and my mother-in -law Rosalie G. Turner Sandra and Joe Markus (with others) – a Yellowwood tree in memory of Herbert R. Peddicord, Jr. Cheri and Lewis Martin – an American Fringe shrub, in honor of Beth and Wayne Gibbens Sheryl Heckler Mazzatenta – a Winterberry shrub in memory of my husband, John Maguire Heckler Sheryl Heckler Mazzatenta – a Winterberry shrub in memory of my mother, Mary Elizabeth Kehl Bills Sheryl Heckler Mazzatenta – a Winterberry shrub in memory of my father, Robert Jackson Bills Carol Ann Miller – a Winterberry shrub in thanksgiving for the service of the 2012 – 2013 Vestry Margaret and Edward Moore - a Redbud tree in memory of Margaret Sharpe Fair Neil Peddicord (with others) – a Yellowwood tree in memory of my father Herbert R. Peddicord, Jr. Christine Perdue (with others) – a Dogwood tree in memory of Linda Newton Perennial Garden Club – a Dogwood tree in honor of Wayne and Beth Gibbens Nicole Perry – an American Fringe shrub, in memory of my granddaughter Lucy Exene Owen Piedmont Garden Club – a Sourwood tree, in honor of Wayne and Beth Gibbens Ruth Ripley – a Dogwood tree, in memory of my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Williamson Edie and Bruce Smart – a Dogwood tree, in memory of our parents Eddie and Helen Merrill, and Beatrice and Bruce Smart Mary M. Stokes, and grandchildren Peter Hood, Will Stokes, Clara Leder Stokes, and Tommy Stokes – a Dogwood tree, in memory of Tommy Stokes Heather and Richard Taylor – a Redbud tree, in memory of Charles and John Taylor Heather and Richard Taylor – a Dogwood tree, in memory of William H. Leachman, III Jill and Alex Vogel (with others) – a Yellowwood tree in memory of Herbert R. Peddicord, Jr. Janet Whitehouse – a Dogwood tree in memory of Millicent West Janet Whitehouse – a Redbud tree in memory of William C. Grayson Pamela Jean Wynfield – an American Fringe shrub in memory of my grandmother, a lifelong gardener, Leslie Ovada Wisener Breeden Celeste and Henry Wheelwright – a Redbud tree, in memory of Samuel Thompson Adams Penelope Yungblut and Raymond Ewing – a Redbud tree in honor of our marriage

34

The Diocese of Virginia The Rt. Rev. E. Mark Stevenson, Bishop The Rt. Rev. Gayle Harris, Assisting Bishop Clergy & Staff The Rev. Jonathan V. Adams, Rector Richard D. Jones, Director of Operations & Communications Sophia Mirra, Director of Finance & Stewardship Betsy Crenshaw, Administrative Assistant Dan Miller, Director of Music Ministries & Organist Noah Wagar, Music Associate Kit Hall, Buildings & Grounds Supervisor Angela Lake, Housekeeping Chloe Miller, Trinity Thrift & Boutique Manager Honorary Associate Clergy The Rev. James A. Hammond The Rev. Canon Dr. Betsee Parker O f f i c e r s & Ve s t r y Brett Bibb, Senior Warden Jonathan Catherwood, Junior Warden Chase Rowan, Treasurer Barbara Manning, Registrar Class of 2024 Brett Bibb, Jolly de Give, Dan Haney, Jake Hambrick Class of 2025 Jonathan Catherwood, Page Gravely, Kathleen Lange, Scott Andrews Class of 2026 Kate Armfield, Teresa Condon, Bradley Gable, Mary Looney

Trinity Episcopal Church is within Meade Parish, a parish of the Diocese of Virginia of the Episcopal Church 9108 John S. Mosby Hwy., Upperville, VA 20184.

35

February

A rejuvenated Trinity Youth Group travelled to Bryce, Virginia, for a fun Ski Retreat.

The Rev. Mark Lawson-Jones, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Archbishop of Canterbury visits Trinity for a week of special events.

March

Bishop Ted Gulick joins us as part of “Journey to the Cross” our Holy Week & Easter devotions and worship. He is risen! Alleluia!

1250 people from across the U.S. enjoyed the first Hunt Country Stable Tour since 2019. +$100,000 was raised for Trinity Ministries.

July

September

Happy Birthday to you!

Trinity helped the Rector celebrate his 50th birthday!

The Northern Lights shone brightly over Trinity to create a spectacular and rare sight.

December

May

40 young people & leaders took part in VBS 2024“Praise-APalooza” focused on extraordinary people in the Bible.

We were blessed with a beautiful fall morning for the 2025 Activity Fair held in the Bishop’s Garden.

Trinity showcased its many and varied ministries to a great crowd!

October

March

October

$60,000 is raised for the Trinity 2024 Outreach Program at the Trinity Christmas Party, Paddle Raise, and live & online auctions.

The Christmas Eve Pageant is the largest for many years! 335 people pack the church for an amazing performance. Attendance at all Christmas services up 10%!

36

December