The donation was a selfless act.
In an act of solidarity and compassion, Trinity Episcopal Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, generously donated over $2,000 to aid the restoration efforts of Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Parmelee, South Dakota, which tragically fell victim to a suspected arson attack last fall. The historic building, situated on the Pine Ridge Reservation, was devastated by the fire in October, prompting Trinity Episcopal to extend their support.
Facing their own challenges after a water main break rendered their downtown Bethlehem building unusable in December, Trinity Episcopal remained steadfast in their commitment to assisting others in need. The contribution to Holy Innocents was made possible through Trinity’s Centennial Fund, an annual initiative aimed at supporting worthy causes. By selecting Holy Innocents as the recipient of their gift, Trinity demonstrated their empathy and solidarity with a fellow congregation grappling with catastrophic loss.
Reverend Pamela Payne, the rector of Trinity, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the broader Episcopal community and the local Bethlehem community. She emphasized the transformative power of generosity in the face of adversity, affirming Trinity’s longstanding dedication to serving both their local community and the wider world.
Reverend Lauren Stanley, acting rector of Holy Innocents, conveyed heartfelt appreciation for Trinity’s contribution, highlighting the crucial role it would play in rebuilding their church. Stanley also recounted the distressing events surrounding the destruction of Holy Innocents’ historic building, including threats and acts of vandalism, which further underscored the need for solidarity and support.
Parmelee, located on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, has a population of around 600 people and serves as a focal point for the Rosebud Episcopal Mission, which oversees ten active congregations. The alarming increase in attacks against churches, as reported by the Family Research Council, reflects a troubling trend of hostility and violence targeting places of worship across the country. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of unity and resilience in the face of adversity, as exemplified by the compassionate gesture of Trinity Episcopal Church towards Holy Innocents Episcopal Church.