Joe Smith, Trinity’s senior warden since January, said a recent assessment of the congregation, involving an outside consultant, looked at the strengths and weaknesses of the church. About 40 people were interviewed, he said. They included current and former members, and of varying ages. One component Trinity looked at was membership.
“The demographic most people are interested in is the 20-40 year olds with children. … and not just that group but (recruiting) new members across the board,” he said.
A result was that [Rich] Martindale resigned.
Brinkley Pound said: “We’ve been through a lot,†she said of the church. “I think some of it’s residual from the New Hampshire bishop.â€
As the article goes on to state, Bp Alexander actively supported Robinson’s election.
It was made clear to everyone that there would be no support for applicants for rector at Trinity who were seriously committed to an orthodox position on anything. At the point when the new rector was appointed, a good number of the previous leadership left.
While Trinity was commended for its involvement in Habitat and food banks, it had seen itself as a place of active Christian Evangelism. If “Membership” is the main problem here, perhaps that is code for, “we aren’t so entirely energetic about spreading the Gospel anymore.”?? Just wondering.
I’m curious; to what church(es) has “the previous leadership” gone? Are the 20 to 40-somethings heading to those churches, or is church attendance simply shrinking in Columbus?
This is still quite murky. After two articles, I still can’t suss out why the Rector resigned. This piece in the Ledger could be Exhibit A with why religion news coverage can be so frustrating. Quotes from church members with rote phrases such as “I’m just so sad” don’t really tell much of a story.
Anybody have the real story?
There has to be a real story. Great preacher and rector is sad to leave and the congregation is sad to see him go. And…….