Contemplating Growth

01.18.19 | Pulpit Posts

The Rev. Dr. Anna S. Pearson

Back in the early days of Advent, a parishioner forwarded to me a video of Ray Suarez’s keynote address to the Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago. The theme of his talk was church growth and changing demographics (the link to the video is here). As you are probably already aware, church growth is an issue addressed early and often when faithful people gather together. I know it was a topic of discussion when I was interviewing with the Holy Apostles Search Committee and Vestry, and Bishop Shin shared during his Visitation with us that it is the subject he is most asked about when he spends time with congregations.

Often this subject is addressed with a lot of hand-wringing and worry thoughts, because on the surface the numbers do not tell a very promising story. Yes, average Sunday attendance in mainline Protestant churches is declining. Many of these communities are aging as well. But there is also hope in much of our ecclesiastical reality, and Ray Suarez has something to say about our past, our present, and some adjustments we might need to make if we are to move forward as a robust denomination. I urge you to watch the video at your leisure. You might not agree with everything he says, but I’m pretty sure you will find it thought provoking. You may or may not find his suggestions galvanizing, but I hope you will feel inspired.

I also urge you to attend our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 27. This will be a time when we talk about our community priorities for the coming calendar year. Even though our numbers are good (and even though numbers are only one way to measure the health of a congregation), one of those priorities will surely be convening people who are especially interested in initiatives that welcome people to Holy Apostles. We have much to share and good reason for sharing it, so please bring your questions, your ideas and your faithful energy.

Blessings,
Anna+

Rev. Dr. Anna S. Pearson

Rev. Dr. Anna S. Pearson

THE LATEST

Stay current on activity at the Soup Kitchen, guest stories, thoughts from Clergy, news and events.

Subscribe to receive the latest news, events, volunteer opportunities, and more — right to your inbox.

Church of the Holy Apostles

We are an open, inclusive Christian Church celebrating in the Episcopal tradition.

Sunday Service is held 11AM (on site and via livestream). Weekday services are held on Zoom.

LEARN MORE

For Newcomers

Learn about our faith community and explore ways to connect with our work and worship.

Sermons

Reflections on Holy Scripture from our Clergy.

History

Founded in 1844, with a focus on social activism and the desire for social justice.

Clergy, Staff & Vestry

The Vestry is the governing body of the Church of the Holy Apostles.

MUSIC

Music commands a strong presence at the Church of the Holy Apostles.

Space Rental

Host your next meeting or event in our landmark building.

Soup Kitchen & Pantry

Nourishing hungry New Yorkers since 1982 in an atmosphere of respect and hospitality.

LEARN MORE
Daily meal service

Serving a free, nutritious meal every weekday from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Meal outreach

Distributing bagged breakfasts and lunches throughout Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen.

About the soup kitchen

Learn more about our mission, our history, our performance, who we are, and what we do.

Pantry Program

Providing fresh and nutritious groceries to food-insecure New Yorkers.

Sunday Supper

Bridging generations and building community over a monthly family style meal.

Give Layers of Love this Winter

Help Keep Our Guests Warm this Winter.

Social Support

Meeting basic needs, stabilizing lives, and supporting individuals and families to achieve their goals.

LEARN MORE
SOCIAL SERVICES

Addressing the needs of the whole person through basic needs, counseling, and referrals.

Classes

Offering learning and skill-building opportunities.

Community Partnership

Partnering with others to expand the services offered to our guests.

Get Involved

Holy Apostles is a great place to channel your time, talents and generosity for good.

LEARN MORE
Volunteer

Make a difference in the lives of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and hunger.

Partner

Join our efforts to serve others and provide for people who are vulnerable.

Donate

Your gift provides food, community, and hope to New Yorkers in need.

The Latest

Stay up-to-date on all happenings at Holy Apostles.

VIEW ALL
Food For The Soul

The official blog of Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen.

Voices of Our Community

Guest stories, poetry, and more.

EVENTS

See our calendar of events.

Church Pulpit Posts

Read weekly meditations written by our clergy.

Newsroom

Holy Apostles in the news.