September 12

TRINITY CHURCH NAMED “JUBILEE MINISTRY;” LOOKS TO FUTURE COMMUNITY IMPACT

Posted by thebplot on September 12, 2013 in Non Profits

After decades of philanthropic work in the Asbury Park community, Trinity Church has been designated a Jubilee Ministry Center by the Episcopal Church.

“I am so happy the people of Trinity have been recognized for what they have been doing for a long, long time,” said Reverend Gail Bennett. “This is an opportunity to share knowledge as well as gain knowledge for years to come.”

The larger Episcopal Church’s Office of Social and Economic Justice proclaims parishes as official Jubilee Ministry Centers after an extensive review of the various ministries a church oversees. Reverend Bennett worked with Kris Koller, Trinity’s Director of Programs during the one year Jubilee application process. Trinity’s new ministry status enables it to participate in larger grant opportunities as well as work with other area parishes.

Trinity Church has been named a Jubilee Ministry Center because of its work in the community, including it's backpack ministry.

Trinity Church has been named a Jubilee Ministry Center because of its work in the community, including the backpack ministry.

The hundred year-old church on Asbury Avenue has been working with the community in a spectrum of different ministries over the years, including chorister, anti-hunger, Christmas and backpack ministries. The anti-hunger ministry began 25 years ago and was Trinity’s first.

“The chorister ministry is bigger than music and good musical education,” said Reverend David W. Perkins, interim rector who marked his one year anniversary at the church earlier this month. “It is an opportunity to travel, learn about teamwork and, for some have a place to go after school. Volunteers also help students with homework and SAT prep.”

The Trinity Choristers Ministry was founded by Diane Caruso in 2005. The after-school initiative has 25 student members 5 to 17 years-old – one who recently performed two piano pieces she crafted during a summer Sunday service.

Three weeks ago, the backpack ministry gave 55 students school bags filled with school supplies.

“Having a backpack with everything they need helps the children start school on the same level playing field as their peers,” said Reverend Perkins. “School supplies cost upwards of $50. That may be equivalent to a day’s pay to a parent.”

Last Christmas, more than 500 children received gifts from Trinity’s Christmas ministry.

Trinity’s short-term plans include creating a Saturday evening activity program for students and young adults.

“We promise to serve people and treat them well,” said Reverend Bennett. “Being named a Jubilee Ministry furthers and expands our promise to respect the dignity of every human being.”

For more about Trinity church, visit TrinityNJ.com.

Richard@TheBPlot.com