Dear Members and Friends of Trinity Church,

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.

These familiar words of the doxology remind us that every good gift - every note of music, every act of service, every moment of worship - flows from the abundance of God’s grace. In this stewardship season we give thanks for the countless blessings that continue in our life together at Trinity.

If you were with us on All Saints’ Day, you experienced that abundance firsthand: a full and vibrant congregation, and the announcement of the many projects now underway. The removal of our old organ has begun, and the building of our new custom pipe organ is in progress. We have already raised nearly $1.3 million for this extraordinary endeavor. A generous anonymous gift will restore the windows and renew the exterior of Honeyman Hall this spring. And as we approach the 300th anniversary of our church building, a devoted team of parishioners are planning a variety of events to honor Trinity’s legacy and ministry in downtown Newport.

Even as we take on these exciting projects, the daily work of ministry continues to flow steadily from this church: feeding the hungry, caring for the sick and dying, teaching our children, welcoming newcomers, making beautiful music, and worshiping God together. The Spirit is at work in this place, and the energy is palpable.

The year ahead will ask much of us. We will need to fund both the Tricentennial Organ project and our growing annual budget. It is indeed a big ask, but one born out of gratitude for what God has already done, and faith in what God will yet do through us. I believe you are wise enough to understand the importance of both efforts, and generous enough to meet these needs.

I invite you to prayerfully consider your 2026 pledge to Trinity Church. If you are able, please increase your pledge this year to support our expanding ministries. Each gift matters, large or small, as an offering of thanksgiving to God, from whom all blessings flow.

Pledge cards were mailed this week, or you can submit an online pledge at any time.

With deep gratitude,

Meaghan

Make a pledge online

Pledging FAQs

What is a pledge?

A pledge is a notification of what you intend to give in a given time period. Each fall at Trinity we ask our members to pledge what they think they will be able to give the following year (2026).

Why is it important to pledge? Where does my pledge go?

Pledge income makes up the majority of our operating budget. As we look ahead and budget for the coming year, having a sense of our pledge income is important. That money pays for the staff, keeps the buildings running, and funds our ministries.

How much should I pledge? What is an average pledge at Trinity?

Each individual and family decides what amount is right for them, and we hope it's a decision you will make prayerfully. Pledges at Trinity range from $100 to $15,000 a year, with our median pledge being $2100.

When do I pay my pledge?

Whenever works for you! Some people pay monthly, others pay all at once. We simply ask that you fulfill your pledge by the end of the 2026.

How do I pay my pledge?

There are several options for paying your pledge. You can set up automatic payments online with a schedule that works for you. You can send checks to the church, or drop them in the offertory plate. Contact our treasurers about paying your pledge with stocks or securities. (If you put cash or checks in the offertory plate, contact the office for pledge envelopes, which will help us know that your specific offering goes towards your pledge.)

What if my circumstances change and I can't fulfill my pledge?

We totally understand that circumstances change! Please let the church know if things change so we can update our records and spare you from any confusing communication throughout the year.

I set up automatic payments/withdrawals. Does that mean I pledged?

Well first, thank you! We appreciate that you set up a regular gift to Trinity. However, setting up automatic payments is not the same as a pledge. Please total the sum of your automatic payments for the year and submit that as a pledge.

I don't want to pledge. Can I simply make a donation?

Of course! We are grateful for any gifts towards the ministry of Trinity Church.

I'm not in a financial position to pledge. Can I contribute to the church in other ways?

YES! First, please know that the pledge itself matters more than the amount of the pledge. We are grateful for gifts of all size. We also welcome your participation in all areas of our common life together, and there so many ways to get involved. Please contact Meaghan to talk more and find the best way to offer your time and talent at Trinity!

Some of our many blessings:

The completed Glenn Family Center, and the glorious celebration at its dedication.

Our Pumpkin Patch, which raised $20,000 for Trinity and local non-profits in its 16th year.

The Trinity Landmark Preservation Fund, and it's restoration of our church tower.

The Choir School of Newport County (shown here having dinner on the deck): our new tenants and partners in ministry, who have blessed us with their presence and talent.

The Altar Society: one of many ministry groups that work faithfully to serve God in this place.

Our vibrant worship, supported by our talented choir and organists.

Our growing Sunday School, and dedicated teachers, who welcome new families frequently.

Our annual Strawberry Festival, and all of the other incredible events and ministries that take place at Trinity throughout the year.

The Rev. Tim Safford, our interim rector, who helped Trinity tremendously during our transition, assisted by Norris Commodore, our faithful senior warden.

Our new rector, the Rev. Meaghan Kelly Brower, who came to us after a prayer and intentional search process.

Trinity Church

1 Queen Anne Sq.

Newport, RI 02840