1. Art and Diseño

W e e k l y P a r i s h V i s i t o r
For the week of February 1, 2015
Trinity Episcopal Church
Mobile, Alabama
FROM THE RECTOR — It is hard to believe that we are three
weeks away from Diocesan Convention! There is still a lot of work
that needs to be done in getting prepared, but so many of you
have already responded to the call to help. If you have not yet
volunteered to help, please contact our Convention co-chair D.G.
Ewing at [email protected] or 281-3286.
Over the next two Sundays (February 1 and 8), I will continue our
adult forum conversation on the upcoming Diocesan
Convention. Our focus will turn to the bishop’s election. This
Sunday we will examine the office of bishop – its role, importance,
and relevance to our life here at Trinity Episcopal Church. This will
lead into a presentation of the four candidates who are up for
election and discussion from our convention delegates and other
members who attended one of the bishop walkabouts. Please
come, listen, and share your thoughts in this process that only
happens once every 15 years or so.
+Fr. Bailey
Schedule for February 1, 2015
8:00 – Holy Eucharist I
8:45 – Choristers
9:15 – Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
9:30 – Adult Forum
9:30 – Adult Choir Rehearsal
10:30 – Holy Eucharist II
4:30 – EYC (Youth Group)
Those Who Serve Sunday, February 1:
ALTAR GUILD: Team 3
HOSPITALITY: Men’s Cooking Team
8:00
SACRISTAN: Tommy Murray
LAY EUCHARIST MINISTER: Florence Crawford
LECTOR: Steve Flukinger
INTERCESSOR: Ellen Jones
USHERS/GREETERS: Doris Benson, Bryan Pearce
OBLATION BEARERS: Nancy and David Doolittle
10:30
FIRST SUNDAY BREAKFAST: The Men’s
SACRISTAN: David Clothier
Cooking Team will be preparing breakfast this
LEMs: Jacob Luke Taylor, Nathan Mussell
LECTORS: Anne Gill, John Goff
Sunday between services. If you attend the
INTERCESSOR: Michel Nicrosi
early service, please stay and enjoy the food
CRUCIFER: Kennedy Creel
and fellowship. If you attend the late service,
please come a little early (9ish) and enjoy the food and fellowship. USHERS: David Arnett, Ben Harris, D.G. Ewing,
Mike Cadden
GREETER:
Brenda Howard
ORGAN UPDATE — We are very excited to announce
OBLATION
BEARERS: Carolyn and Jim Allen
that Trinity’s new Goulding and Wood pipe organ will
make its debut this upcoming Sunday!! It will be the first
time that a pipe organ has been played at Trinity since Christmas Day of 2012. There will still be some fine
tuning of the organ that will take place over the next two weeks, but it is such a huge boon to our wonderful
worship to have this instrument accompany us in our worship once again.
Keep in mind that the great majority of the organ is being funded through insurance proceeds (the organ itself costs in
excess of $600,000, which is actually a fairly economic number for the size of the organ we have). However, there is
approximately a $91,000 gap between the cost of the organ and the settlement figure from Church Insurance. We
have raised $60,000 of this through a combination of memorial gifts and pledges from the Finish the Job campaign. If
you are interested in making a contribution to the organ or to the Finish the Job campaign, please contact our finance
secretary Kathie Wall at 473-2779 or [email protected].
WORK DAYS – Thanks to everyone who came to the work day this past Saturday. A great deal was
accomplished, but there are still a few things that need doing. We will have one more work day before the
Diocesan Convention. This work day is tentatively set for Saturday, February 7. Anyone who can help will be
appreciated.
PLEDGE UPDATE — As of January 28, we have received 111 pledges totaling $275,378 , is still far short of our goal of
$325,000. This is the minimum amount estimated needed to have a fully functioning budget for 2015. The treasurer
and vestry are working on the budget, and cannot complete this work until everyone has made a pledge. Pledge forms
are available in the office and online through our website. If you would like more information on this, please contact
our financial secretary Kathie Wall. The 2015 pledge envelopes are ready for pickup on the buffet in the hallway by the
doors into the parlor. Please let the office know if you if you don’t find a box, but would like to have one.
DUTY ROSTER UPDATES — The Parish Office is updating its duty roster lists. This includes lectors, intercessors, ushers,
greeters, oblation bearers and acolytes (including crucifers and torch bearers). If you want to serve in some capacity
during worship services, or are already serving and no longer wish to do so, please let the office know (473-2779 or
[email protected]).
DIOCESAN CONVENTION – We are less than one month away from hosting Diocesan Convention
and the election of a new bishop at Trinity on February 19-21. Our convention chairs D.G. and
Connie Ewing are sending out information regarding volunteer roles. Parishioners who have
volunteered for roles are being contacted and given specific information on their roles and
assignments. If you are interested in volunteering and have not signed up yet, please contact D.G.
at [email protected].
Part of the activities surrounding the convention will be the Annual Diocesan Gala, which this year will be held Friday,
February 20, at the Cruise Terminal overlooking Mobile River. As this will be Bishop Duncan’s last convention, expect
there to be some special presentations at the Gala. The theme is Big Band Era, so expect some good music for dancing.
Everyone is invited. If you would like to attend, the tickets are $60 per person which includes dinner, entertainment
and dancing! Please let the Parish Office know as soon as possible if you are planning to attend.
SNACKS NEEDED FOR CONVENTION — One of our responsibilities as host of the convention is to provided snacks
during the breaks between sessions. The team in charge of hospitality is asking for donations of cookies, cakes, cheese
straws, sausage balls, muffins, etc. to meet this need. As there will be up to 500 people on the Trinity campus during
the convention, we will need everyone who can either make or purchase these snacks to do so. Please, call or email Jill
Creel and let her know what you can do. She can be reached at 665-5234 or [email protected].
ALTAR FLOWER DELIVERIES -- One of our lesser known, but still very important, ministries is our
tradition of taking the altar flowers to parishioners who are homebound or to others for whom the
flowers might brighten their day. These are delivered on Monday of each week (except during Lent
and Advent). This ministry needs volunteers who are willing to both deliver the flowers and say
hello to the person receiving them. This only takes a couple of hours (at most) a week, and it means
so much to those who receive the flowers. Currently, we only have a few months covered for 2015.
If you could do this for one month during the year (which means no more than five times), please let the office know.
We also still have a few open dates for dedicating altar flowers in 2015. These flowers are a way to remember loved
ones, either as memorials or as thanksgivings. The cost of the flowers is $75. Open Dates in 2015 for Altar Flowers are
May 24, June 7, and August 30.
VISITOR PARKING —There is now designated visitor parking spaces along the driveway on the eastside of the church.
Please leave these spots open for those visiting the parish, especially on Sundays. These spaces are marked with
“Visitor Parking” signs.
WILMER HALL THRIFT STORE—Last fall, the Wilmer Hall Thrift Store (formerly Second Time Around), a resale shop and
outreach ministry sponsored by the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer and Wilmer Hall opened at 168 South Broad
Street. The goal of the store is to offer clothes and goods to the working poor and middle income families at affordable
prices. This Saturday, they are looking for volunteers to man the store while the Church of the Redeemer is having a
parish meeting. If you can help, please contact Mark Roberts at 583-2650. The store is open 9 AM-3 PM on Saturdays.
This is a new ministry for both Redeemer and Wilmer Hall and one that should assist both the church and home for
children in a positive way. It is their desire it will also be a positive influence in the community as they provide goods
and services and hope to the people they meet and serve through this ministry.
Regularly Scheduled Activities
CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD – All children ages 3K thru 5th grade are invited to participate in our weekly
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd atria. Catechesis is a wonderful program based on the Montessori method that
presents the stories of the Bible and the liturgy of our church in experiential ways. Above all, it also teaches children a
sense of discerning the presence of God in everyday life and learning how to understand the sacred mysteries of God
all around us. There are two atria – one is for 3K thru 1st grade, the other is for 2nd through 5th grades. For more
information, please contact Anne Gill at [email protected].
ADULT FORUM – Last Sunday D.G. Ewing and Cindy Nicholason presented a program on the
upcoming Diocesan Convention (which Trinity is hosting February 19-21). This Sunday and the next
(February 1 and 8), Fr. Bailey will continue the conversation. This week he will answer question
related to the convention. What is a Diocesan Convention, and what does it do? Why is it
important for Trinity and the average Episcopalian? What goes into electing a bishop?
On the 8th, we will focus our conversation on the candidates for bishop. Each of our delegates from Trinity (David
Arnett, Bob Howard, Martha Jones, and Michel Nicrosi) will be asked to share their reflections on the process and the
candidates, as well as listen to your thoughts and questions.
RECTOR’S WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY – The rector’s Bible study will continue our study of the Pastoral
Epistles, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus the following Wednesday These letters are the best “how-to” manual
for living out the Christian faith in the Bible. But they are a lot more than that! They are full of
exhortation, hope, and guidance for how to deal with the various trials of life. Please join us on
Wednesdays at 11 AM in the parlor. Childcare provided upon request.
FOOD PANTRY NEEDS - The food pantry has been restocked, but, there are still some items that are
needed, including items for our “homeless bags” (which are designed to help those with no means to
prepare meals). This includes eight-ounce pop-top cans of fruit and vegetables, small jars of peanut butter,
small bottles of water and saltine crackers. We also need regular-sized cans of vegetables and fruit, as well
as regular-sized jars of peanut butter. Next time you’re in the grocery store, please remember to pick up a
few extra items to help our food pantry ministry. Thanks to all of you who have been so generous.
FOOD PANTRY SCHEDULE CHANGE — After much consideration, the days when the Food Pantry is open to the public
has changed. It is now only open on Mondays, but at the same times (10:00 AM-2:00 PM). This was done in
coordination with other area churches who provide this ministry on other days.
ART CLASSES — Beginning oil painting classes are being offered at Trinity. The classes are planned for
Thursdays, from 12:30 to 2:45 PM. There will be three four-week sessions; the first began on January 8.
The cost is $35 per sessions or $80 for all three (plus a small consumable supplies fee). The classes will
include a brief review of styles, color theory, brush stroke/application, review of design elements,
mixing colors and other aspects of oil painting. There will also be guest artist visits. For more
information, contact D.G. Ewing at 281-3286 or [email protected], or the Parish Office.
OUT-TO-EAT SUPPER CLUB — The Out-To-Eat Supper Club will be gathering at 6:30 PM on February 27 at Dreamland
BBQ on Old Shell Road and the East I-10 Service Road. If you plan to attend, please RSVP so the restaurant can have a
count. For more information or to RSVP, call Jane Williamson at 342-5215.
PRAYER LIST FOR THIS WEEK — We ask your prayers for Linda Griffin, Errol “Budda” Collier, Kate Russell, Martha
Fuller, Lester Taylor, Bill Suffich, Doris Benson, Jason Taylor, Leslie Hawkins, Mary Jo, Steve, Owen Taylor, Julie Eubanks,
Barbara Frettwell, Michael Lane, Gene Lindsey, Barbara Brown, Charles Kent, Sara Spottswood, Fred Dreago, Ruth
Wimberly, Connie Tallman, Rhoda Helen Richardson, Neil McMillan, Melanie Moak, Tanny McMillan, Craig H., Norman
Hunt, Barry Nicks, Troy Dixon, Catherine Hall, Phyllis Creel, Kitty Sawyer, Tom Gray, Ralph Powell, Ruby Lambert, the
Diocese of the Dominican Republic, and St. George’s Baghdad; and for those currently serving in the Armed
Forces: Thomas Ishee, Noah Weaver, Jacob Corbett, Scott Rye, Kevin O’Rourke, Brittany Vance, and Charles Allen.
The 2015 Annual Reports
(Presented at the Annual Parish Meeting, January 18)
RECTOR’S REPORT
“Follow me.” As we begin our 2015 Annual Meeting, there are no better words to hear from the gospel this morning
than these timeless words uttered here by Jesus to Philip (and to Peter, and James, and John, etc. in other texts). They
are words of invitation, words of challenge, words of reflection. Jesus speaks to Philip at a particular place in his life
where those words cause him to stop dead in his tracks. They compel him to think about all the experiences he has
had to that point. Clearly Philip held some expectation that God was going to change his life and improve the lot of his
entire people, as he cannot help but explain what he has seen and heard to Nathanael. These are the foundational
words of discipleship, the call to hear Jesus beckoning us to travel along with him in our daily life and chores.
The measure of a successful church is not always accounted in membership growth or programs or financial
abundance. It is simply a question of whether we, as a congregation, have succeeded in growing as disciples of Jesus
both in what we do here and especially in what we do out there, in the mission field of home, work, and beyond. That
being said, over the past year Trinity has accomplished a monumental number of things, great and small. I am sure to
leave some things out, but the following is a fairly representative “short” list:
Transformation of our buildings – This includes re-opening the church; installing a new pipe organ; preparing
for installation of a new steeple; renovating the Children’s Center space; installing shower facilities;
installing wireless hotspots all over campus; finishing renovation of the parlor under St. Anne’s direction;
laying the foundation of a new community garden; creating a new EYC space; creating an art room
upstairs; relocating and redecorating our Catechesis classrooms; acquiring a new portable smoker for
parish cookouts
Establishing new and building up existing programs – Hiring of a youth minister; calling of a new deacon;
training of new catechists for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd; training of new Lay Eucharistic Visitors;
establishment of an organized parish hospitality ministry; creation of the Mustard Seed program; training
of a new parish nurse; building up of a new pastoral care team; recruiting new singers for the choir; Men’s
BBQ fundraisers; growing our ministry to new parents
Continuation of some solid, regular parish events and celebrations – Just to name a few: Joyful Night; Men’s 1st
Sunday Breakfasts; St. Anne’s Gumbo sale; Wednesday night Lenten series; Halloween fellowship; Out to
Eat group; Bishop’s Visitation with ten confirmations and two reaffirmations
Outreach and mission activities – Keeping our food pantry financially supported during a period of
unprecedented need; collecting of food done by all of our parishioners, including our youth; conversations
with local churches as to how to expand and better organize our local food ministries; Lenten call to
support Episcopal Relief and Development; Wilmer Hall angel tree; supporting our missionaries to the
Dominican Republic; supporting our sister church at St. George’s in Baghdad; Family Promise; supporting
McKemie Place; supporting the Episcopal thrift store; and the neighborhood walkabouts, an activity
designed to lay seeds for future ministry and involvement in our local neighborhood
Sound exhausting? And there are plenty of other things I have not included, including the work of our office staff
(Kevin Davis, Amos Kidd, Kathie Wall, Cathy Williams) and volunteers, as well as the weekly work of leading worship
that is done by our choirs and by the folks who serve as ushers, LEMs, sacristans, lectors, intercessors, and oblationers
on a weekly basis.
And yet, as important as all this work is, the true mission of the church lies in how we encounter Jesus and share
Christ’s love in all of these things. A church can have a thousand programs and be spiritually bankrupt; a church can
focus on one or two ministries and be a vibrant beacon of faith to its members and beyond. The problem with this
overwhelming number of programs is that they give us plenty of opportunities to disagree with one another. Take the
organ, for instance. If you have not already seen it, it is an astoundingly beautiful instrument. And yet, despite our
instructions and the best care taken by the organ builders, Goulding and Wood, the new organ does obscure more of
the iconic Rose Window than we would like. In these situations, we have to hold side-by-side the Rose Window’s
significance in our history and the place of the pipe organ in our growing ministry. We cannot dismiss the concerns of
those who might initially be bothered (as I was) by the size of the organ. But we also cannot dismiss the tireless work
of the Vestry, Property Committee, Director of Music, and the organ builders who have spent countless hours selecting,
designing, and implementing the best possible organ for Trinity as far as appearance and sound. These times are when
we must realize that what is most important is how we gather together as Christians to express our varied opinions on
a subject such as this. As important as the organ and Rose Window are in themselves, they pale in comparison to the
work of building up the people of God into that one body that moves forward together in following the call of Jesus.
After Philip hears the call of Jesus and rushes to tell Nathanael, he summons Nathanael to “come and see.” It should
not be overlooked that Nathanael was expecting to see something in Jesus that was common or even vulgar based on
his question as to whether anything good can come out of Nazareth! Ultimately the call of “come and see” is a
summons to others outside of our community, but first it must be a call to those of us who are here. At some point
during the process of when Sara and I were looking to come here, a person I knew in this diocese told me that Trinity
had a litany of problems. According to this person, they had heard that the people were not friendly; the congregation
was aging; and the buildings were decaying. This person literally asked me: “Can you accomplish anything good at
Trinity?” I have found the opposite to be true. Trinity’s people are indeed friendly; the congregation is growing at all
age levels; and the buildings, while in need of some TLC, had been propelled by the recently completed renovation
(and, of course, the little wind event we had a couple of years ago). I took the invitation to “come and see”, and I am
so glad I did!
Within our congregation, I hear comments spoken by our people about things going on here that, whether they are
true or exaggerated, would tend to repel others from coming and seeing the many things that Trinity has to offer. One
of these complaints that I hear often is that “the same people are always doing the work”. This complaint is spoken
both by those outside “that group” AND by those who (I’m guessing) are part of “that group”. This is not a unique
problem to Trinity, but it is one that has to be addressed if we are to grow as disciples of Christ, let alone in the more
empirical means of attendance and finances. First of all, my experience is that those who are part of “that group” are
active because they want to be. I have not experienced anyone at Trinity who has taken on a position of leadership
solely to have it as a means of power. Now we all have egos and varying amounts of OCD and a need to control things,
yours truly included. But everyone in a leadership position here at Trinity does so (in my humble opinion) because they
want to serve the Church first and foremost. These are the people who are first to arrive and last to leave. They make
sure the food is set out and the dishes are washed. They give of their time to come up here during the week to work,
sometimes as long as 8-10 hours, trying to make this church a better place in some way. Their complaint is that they
wish others would give at least a little of their time to come up here and serve, whether it be on Sunday mornings or
sometime during the week. Their wish is that people would express more appreciation of their work instead of being
quick to criticize. As I am constantly reminding them (and myself), each person in this church has a different schedule
and differing abilities to come and contribute. We cannot expect and demand people to volunteer; we can simply
invite them to “come and see.”
It is important for all of us to remember that the church is a place where we come to serve rather than to be served.
We all need to be reminded of the fact that things don’t magically happen around here. Food for hospitality doesn’t
simply appear and then get cleaned up; floors and bathrooms don’t clean themselves; walls don’t ooze out paint on
their own; salaries and expenses don’t get paid off of a money tree behind the church. At home, we would be in
trouble if we simply waited around for the pile of dishes in our sink to be cleaned or the floor to be vacuumed. As
corny as it may sound in one sense, a church that follows Jesus Christ expresses this reality first and foremost in its
dealings in little things. Volunteer to bring food or clean up for hospitality; if you’re around during the week, come by
the office and offer to help. However large or small, make a financial commitment so that the needs of this church can
be addressed. Above all, if we see someone doing a task around this church, make sure that, without exception, the
first words out of our mouth are “Thank you!” We may not like a paint color or the way in which someone has
decorated a table, but we most definitely should recognize and appreciate the efforts made by those who are doing the
work. I have heard from many here and at every other church I have attended that they are hesitant to serve because
they don’t want to be criticized. This is a problem that, if we focus on being disciples and making the goal of our
ministries to invite others to come and see the work of Christ in action, will take care of itself as we lay aside the need
to impose our own agenda on a given project.
As we expand out from the little things to the larger ones, keep in mind these verses from Paul’s letter to the Romans
(which happens to be the bishop’s theme for Diocesan Convention this year): “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and
sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and
proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then
you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2). You will
hear more in a little bit from our Convention chair D.G. Ewing about the details of the convention. You will hear more
in a bit from our treasurer Mike Cadden about some financial challenges ahead for Trinity as it relates to paying off the
lingering debt from the 2010 renovation. Through all of these things, the little and the large, we are called to carry
ourselves as people without fear, living in thanksgiving, and holding on to a hope that conquers everything.
That hope manifests itself in Jesus’ words to Nathanael that “you shall see greater things than these.” A people who
shall see greater things are ones willing to accept the call to follow Jesus. While Trinity is but one small corner of the
Kingdom of God, it is OUR little corner. It is that little nook that helps give our faith some definition and gives us a place
to express it in various and sundry ways. Trinity is indeed a wonderful place, and I am convinced that the possibilities
for what God has in store for us are beyond our imagination. The questions for Trinity as we move forward are: Where
is God calling us to go, and what is God calling us to do? What are our spiritual needs, and how can we nourish our
needs as we learn how to further serve the Lord and one another? The Vestry you elect today is charged to continued
discernment of these questions, but this meeting also provides a forum for that conversation to take place. We have
cast a vision of Trinity being a true parish church, one that serves the needs of not only its members but also the larger
community surrounding us. Yet, as Bob Howard has reminded me constantly of a phrase I used in my very first sermon
here, our mission also boils down to the statement, “We’re so glad you’re here!” It is truly a statement that can be
lived out in inviting new people to join us and in inviting current members to participate in the daily life of Trinity in
new ways. But it most especially applies to acknowledging and giving thanks to the transforming reality that we are
the caretakers of the Lord’s house – the physical plant of Trinity and the physical bodies that we inhabit. As we
transition from reconstruction to renewal, let us hold fast to Christ’s exhortation that, in all of our thoughts and our
work together, Trinity will indeed see new and greater things as we journey forward together.
The Rev. Bailey Norman, Rector
Deacon’s Report
I begin this report by stating it is a pleasure to be the Deacon assigned to Trinity Episcopal Church and an honor to
serve this congregation and the surrounding community. On my first Sunday at Trinity, which was the re-entry Sunday,
August 24, 2014, I was somewhat overwhelmed by the number of people and all the energy surrounding such a large
event. Now, after being welcomed in a more tradition manner through smiles, handshakes, hugs and the kindness of
allowing me time to learn names and faces I can truly say I feel great joy each time I walk on campus or tell someone I
am your Deacon.
As Deacon if fill a liturgical role which you have witnessed each Sunday and during the funerals in which I have had the
privilege to serve. I have now been her long enough that I feel comfortable going out into the community and visiting
with our members who are no longer able to attend church or who are hospitalized. I am just beginning this part of my
ministry at Trinity. I have done this in the past at my former parish. I am currently completing Part 1 of the Catechesis
training so that I may better serve the children of our parish. In the past I taught a similar program and Fr. Baily was
very generous to allow me to complete this training so I too may have the opportunity to assist with our children’s
education. More recently I attended the Inquirer’s classes to be a presence as our candidates for confirmation and
reaffirmation explored our church history and catechism. This also gave me an opportunity to get to know them one
on one and to know our Rector and to see his deep devotion and care for his people.
Deacon’s live in and outside of the church; we are out in the world. I would like to see more of the world represented
inside the church. I am hopeful when the children’s center is complete or the “new building” comes to fruition there
will be more outreach opportunities where people who need to be housed, fed or clothed can be served. I do believe
work can begin in small steps toward this before another building is erected. I look forward to working with our
outreach committees this coming year.
The Rev. Deacon Terry L. Goff
Senior Warden’s Report
The past year was a time of triumph and challenge for Trinity Church. As January 8th dawned, the roof of the Nave was
open to the eastern sky, but a week later the roof was decked. A month later saw the installation of the dormer
windows above the Chancel, but the sunlight could not spread throughout the Nave due to the scaffolding that made
this great space a maze of steel until March. The copper roof was installed during the months of March and April.
While all of this was happening on the outside, the interior of the Church was abuzz with activity as electrical circuits
were run, an air conditioning system was installed, the floor was put down, and our ancient columns, strengthened by
steel panels, were once again trimmed out, stained and finished. It had seemed to take forever, but the old Church was
rapidly fixed and reassembled. The old chandeliers and the pews were returned to their accustomed places in early
August, and finally, on Sunday, August 24, 2014, we returned to worship in this special place. It had been 606 days
since the tornado had stuck; It was a triumphant day.
Challenges still remain, however. The repairs to the Chancel walls did not hold as water collected in the masonry from
over a year of exposure to Mobile’s weather weeped through the plaster and spoiled the finish – the repairs are
continuing and we hope that the effect will be permanent this time. The pipe organ, Opus 51, is being installed as we
assemble this week. It is a beautiful instrument; it is purported to have a marvelous sound – we hope to hear soon; it is
big – bigger than we anticipated from the drawings and proposals; and it is ours. Further challenges are to come: the
Steeple should be installed in March – good Lord willing and the Insurance Claim resolved; and the Diocesan
Convention will be here the day after Ash Wednesday; and a new Bishop will be elected by February 22nd.
During the course of this year of triumph and challenge, the Vestry met regularly every month and dispatched the
business of the Parish with dedication and commitment to the mission of this Church. Our Junior Warden, Michel
Nicrosi, while also serving at the Diocesan level as Treasurer, ably led the financial affairs of the Parish. David
Quittmeyer, our Parish Chancellor, confronted every legal and canonical question through the rebuilding process with
knowledge, skill, and Christian demeanor. The Clerk of the Vestry, Dr Elizabeth Hill, recorded the actions of the Vestry
for the second year and leaves that body with a tough pair of shoes to fill. It has been my honor and pleasure to serve
the Parish over these last two years as Senior Warden.
A new Vestry class will be elected today for a three year term. They will take the place of Jill Creel, Elizabeth Hill,
Michel Nicrosi, Margaret Platt, and myself – and I am confident that they will do so quite ably. Under the leadership of
Fr. Bailey and the new Senior and Junior Wardens, Laurent Cadden and Becky Vance, our Parish is poised for a new era
of ministry and program. We want to expand our outreach in this neighborhood. We want to expand our offerings to
this community of faith – offering more ways for you to be involved and to be in service – more ways to shine light in
this world. This is more than a challenge. This is a hope, a blessed hope, for the strength and life of those assembled in
this place to worship and serve God.
The coming year is a time of challenge and triumphant hope for Trinity Church.
Respectfully Submitted,
Bob Howard, Senior Warden
Music Report
Praise the Lord………I will sing praises to my God while I have being. Psalm 146
Many thanks to the choir and choristers for singing so beautifully and for being very flexible both in schedule and
locations of rehearsals and services! A special thanks goes to the families of the choristers for their dedication to the
program. We have continued to provide quality music first with a temporary setting (piano in the Parish Hall) and then
in our permanent space but with a temporary instrument that definitely lacks the ability to perform much of the great
music of our Anglican/Episcopal Heritage.
The most significant project for the last year has been the replacement of the organ that was damaged in the tornado.
After much consideration of cost, specification (choices of sounds), design and timing of the installation, we choose
Goulding and Wood from Indianapolis to build Trinity’s new instrument. They reused 2 ranks (sets of pipes) from the
previous instrument but the remainder is new. The new instrument contains the same number of pipes as the
previous instrument but they are more graciously scaled and should sound warmer and fuller. Pipe scaling refers to
the diameter of the pipe in relationship to it’s length. A “fatter” pipe will produce a richer/warmer sound in
comparison to a “thinner” pipe which tends to make a tight or pinched sound that emphasizes the higher overtones.
Generally, the organ should have a more pleasing tone than the previous instrument. In particular, the new organ will
accompany the choir beautifully and support congregational singing with more fundamental tone.
After not hearing an organ for almost 2 years, this is an exciting time for the music ministry of Trinity. Although the
organ looks as if it is completed, two men that are specialists in organ sounds will arrive this next week to begin the
final voicing and regulation of the sound of each pipe. This should take between 2 and 4 weeks so the organ won’t be
heard until sometime in February.
I look forward to the future for Trinity’s music ministry. So much is possible now that we have the building rebuilt with
improved acoustical and climate properties. I look forward to a time that we can bring guest artists in to perform both
during worship and concert opportunities.
Kevin Davis, Organist-Choirmaster
EYC Report
I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Trinity’s youth for the past few months! We have been having a good time
hanging out together and trying to find ways to serve our community and have some fun outings. This semester I plan
on taking a closer look at the elements of the Eucharist and seeing what God thinks of some of the situations we all
encounter in our every day lives. Typically we have 6 kids show up and they are all so awesome, I try to encourage
them to bring friends and hopefully we will get the opportunity to join up with some other churches this semester. We
got an outstanding response from the congregation in our search for furniture to outfit our room and we really
appreciate it. If anyone else would care to help out the EYC, we are always looking for individuals and families who are
willing to provide dinners! I am planning on putting together Vacation Bible School this summer, I have some ideas
already but I don’t have anything too solid as of yet. If anyone would like to assist with that please get in touch with
me!
Meg Lowe, Youth Minister
Parish Nurse’s Report
On September 1, I became the Parish Nurse. I spent two weekends in Lawrenceville, Georgia taking "Foundation of
Faith Community Nursing." This course gave me the tools to begin my ministry.
The first of my ministry has focused on pastoral care. I have made visits to hospitals, nursing homes and private homes.
The first blood pressure clinic was held on January 25. During the convention, we will have a First Aid Room. The
Backdoor Reading material will return as soon as the work on the restrooms is completed.
I am available for private consultation for any concerns regarding your health or the health of family members.
Kay Cruthirds, RN, MSN, FCN
Property Report
This past year has been an extremely busy one. This will also informs of future items to be done in the future to let you
know where we are going.
Church and Steeple
At last the rebuilding of the church is coming to a close! The plaster repair and the installation of the new organ is
nearing completion. Then the contractor will complete the painting. There was a walk-through of the church to check
for anything that needed to be touched up. Once these items have been done then the church will be finished with the
exception of the steeple. The steeple is scheduled to be shipped and installed sometime in March. More information
will be made available as it gets closer to the time of shipment.
Nursery
Renovation of the nursery should be completed by mid February. The renovations includes:
New restrooms with new sinks and faucets, vanities, countertops, flooring, light fixtures, painting, and replacement of
outlet and light switch and covers. They are even equipped with showers.
The main and back rooms of the nursery will have new paint, flooring, doors, new hardware, new electrical outlet and
light switch covers, and smoke detectors. The back room will also have a new vanity and sink.
Parish House Air-conditioning and Heating Units
As many of you know these units are over 50 years old and are in urgent need of replacement. The nursery units have
been replaced by a new heat pump. We will replace the remainder of the system as funds become available.
Parish House Restrooms
The renovation to all of the parish house restrooms should be completed by next week. This includes new vanities,
countertops, sinks and faucets, light fixtures, new mirror frames, paper and soap dispensers, and painting of the walls,
ceilings, and stalls.
Parish House Brick
Over the years the mortar of the brick veneer walls became greatly deteriorated. About a year ago the south and east
walls were re-mortared. The north and west walls will be done as funds become available.
Parish House Windows
All of the steel frame windows have rusted beyond repair and will be replaced as funds become available.
Parish Hall Windows
The large windows on the south wall will be replaced with the new permanent windows once the contractor completes
the church.
Kneelers
Finally what everyone has been waiting to hear about. Construction on the new kneelers will begin in early spring.
Anyone wanting to make a donation, please see Father Bailey.
David Arnett
Hospitality Report
With some cookies and a signup sheet at the ministry fair, the Hospitality Committee began in September 2013 by
Jane Heath.
The object being to create an environment for fellowship among members but most importantly, an opportunity to
meet and properly greet our visitors.
On a voluntary basis members have been invited to furnish cookies to serve with Amos’ famous coffee. 30
individuals/couples responded in 2014. Each week our hosts are recognized with a framed “thank you" on the main
table.
Since there is only a minimal line item in the budget for "coffee” it is important that we all participate with either
money or food donations.
For our hospitality fellowship hours to continue each Sunday, it is vital that we all participate.
(Jane has now passed the Chair of this ministry to Martha Jones, who will be contacting each of you, so please give
her your support.)
Jane Heath
Treasurer’s Annual Report for 2014
Overall Assessment: in 2014, The Vestry approved a projected Operating budget of $418,564 on projected
revenues of $363,400 giving us a deficit budget of $55,164. That included a $30,000 draw from Endowment. The
parish paid all of its operating obligations incurred for the year, but to meet those obligations , the parish used
$9,000 in other funds ($9,000 from Tornado Recovery) Trinity ended the year with a deficit of $2,329 - which is
$54,845 less than what was projected in the 2013 budget. While the church’s overall financial performance was
significantly better than budgeted, the remaining deficit will carry forward into the 2015 budget.
Stewardship: Actual pledge payments were $279,699 on a budget of $285,000 or $5,131 below pledge that was
better than 2013 when we were $22,742 short. 16 pledging units stopped pledging in 2013 but 19 new pledging
units started pledging for a net gain of 3. Plate contributions made up the difference exceeding budget expectations
by $11,776. Holiday Gifts were below budget by $3,701.
The Vestry has not completed and approved a budget for 2015. As of 12-31-14 108 Pledges have been made for a
total of $272,378. That is an increase in pledging units of 6 pledging units at an average pledge of $2,522. With is
$10 per pledge higher than 2013.
Expenses: Overall expenses were $7,028 below budget. Every category was below budget except for Utilities and
Outreach/Pastoral Care and Other Operating. This is due to the hard work and diligence of the clergy and staff:
Salaries & Benefits
$7,868 under budget
Utilities
$3,348 over budget
Repair /Maintenance
$2,442 under budget
Parish Programs
$3,599 under budget
Music Ministry
$1,885 under budget
Outreach/Pastoral Care
$3,222 over budget
Other operating
$2,193 over budget
Status of Funds: Trinity’s various funds had the following year end balances:
Endowment Fund -- $280,067
The endowment consist of $260,555 invested with Fidelity and $19,511 in cash. The Endowment gave $53,000 to
the church in 2014. $30,000 of that was to Operations
Gifts and Memorials -- $127,225
Gifts and Memorials had gifts of $11,070 and had expenditures of $6,461.
Property and Development -- $578
This fund was created after the tornado due to the acquisition of the two lots east of the former Belding House. The
lots have been reassessed in Trinity’s name for tax purposes going forward.
Tornado Recovery – $122,133
Tornado Recovery gifts $18,810 and Insurance fund $103.322
Capital Campaign -- $72,539
The Capital Campaign received $56,205 in pledges in 2014 from the original campaign. There are $70,534 in
outstanding pledges from the first campaign.
There were $52,453 in “Finish The Job” contributions main and there is $41,727 remaining to be collected over the
next 3 years.
Primary Operating Account -- $34,795
$10,449 in Operating Fund and $24,296 in special operating fund
Trinity has two outstanding loans to Trustmark Bank. Trinity has a line of credit for $40,000. The parish borrowed
$23,500 on the line of credit in 2012 and we have only paid interest on the balance since that time and still have a
current balance of $23,500. The Construction/capital loan that we took out for the original renovation of the church
has a balance of $331,000. In the past this loan has been paid from gifts to the Capital Campaign. Gifts from the
original Capital Campaign have just about completed. Those remaining pledges on the original campaign are not
estimated to be collectable. There are $72,539 in the capital campaign account and from the 23 pledges for the “Finish
the job campaign there is $50,190 to be paid over three years. A portion of that money is being set aside to pay for the
remaining expenses for the Organ and Air Conditioning for the Parish Hall. The payment amount is approximately
$3,400/m
Mike Cadden, Treasurer
2015 Vestry
Laurent Cadden, Senior Warden;
Becky Vance, Junior Warden
Connie Ewing, Clerk
Bob Howard, Treasurer
David Quittmeyer, Chancellor
Jim Allen, Amanda Alvarez, David Arnett, Bob Berry, David Clothier, Ricky Creel,
David Doolittle, Walt Fuller, Nettie Robertson, Scott Rye, Shae Street, Betsy Wooten
Parish Contact Information:
Church Office: 251-473-2779
Fax: 251-479-7406
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.trinitychurchmobile.org
Physical Address: 1900 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinitymobile
Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Staff
The Rev. Bailey Norman, Rector
The Rev. Terry Goff, Deacon
Kevin Davis, Organist/Choirmaster
Meg Lowe, Youth Minister
Kathie Wall, Financial Secretary
Amos Kidd, Sexton
Cathy Williams, Parish Secretary
Kay Cruthirds, R.N., Parish Nurse
Bob Peck, Parish Archivist
Trinity Episcopal Church
P.O. Box 6176
Mobile, Alabama 36660-0176
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