December 18, 2023

Dear people of Trinity,

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to pray off and celebrate Diana Small, who, for the past 3 years, has served so well—with kindness, enthusiasm, and creativity—as Trinity's Director of Children and Youth. Diana now makes her way to Austin, Texas to pursue the next phase of her life and art and ministry.

Today, I'm pleased to announce that I've hired a new Director of Children and Youth, Theo Patterson, who will begin his work on January 8, 2024. I hope you'll read Theo's bio, below, to learn a little more about him and how he came to know and be involved at Trinity. 

I'm grateful to the team which joined me in interviewing candidates, representing all the various "constituencies" with which the Director of Children and Youth works: youth, parents, catechists, volunteers, Youth Group mentors, and CYC (Children and Youth Council) members. Participating on the team were: Christen Foell, Mary Gibson, Abby Selzler, Cara Silva, Aaron Sizer, Sarah Thomas, Aubrey Toole, and Vanessa Woods.

I look forward to working alongside Theo, and the many volunteers who serve and minister to Trinity's youngest members, helping everyone to know that they are beloved of God, and full participants in this faith community. 

Please join me in welcoming Theo into his new role.

With gratitude,

Elizabeth+

The Rev. Elizabeth Molitors

Rector, Trinity Episcopal Church

A message from Theo Patterson

Hello Trinity,

My name is Theo Patterson and I am thrilled to be serving as your new Director of Children and Youth after being welcomed into this outstanding community with open arms about six months ago.

A little bit about me. . . I grew up in Irvine, CA where I attended an evangelical church near Vanguard University for many years. After moving to Santa Barbara when I started high school at SBHS, my family and I became closely involved at Free Methodist Church over on the Mesa, where I spent years attending and also working with children at Cliff Drive Care Center. More recently, I graduated from Westmont College earlier this year where I studied Biology and Religious Studies, worked as an educator and activist in Intercultural Programs, and found my way to Trinity through the parish's connection with Gradient, the unofficial LGBTQ+ student group on campus.

If you or any youngsters in your life have found your way to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History in recent months, you may have seen me at the Museum Backyard where I currently work as a naturalist and nature educator. You may also recognize me from greeting you at the church entrance as an usher, or from being involved in the Justice and Outreach Climate and Environment Action Circle.

I am excited to accept this position to continue the wonderful work Diana already does so expertly with our dedicated team of catechists and volunteers in leading our next generations in the way of the Good Shepherd. I am also enthusiastic about using my science background to deepen connections between environmental and religious education in our parish and community.

Finally, I am thrilled to join Trinity's staff to continue to extend support to queer youth and to proclaim Christ's affirming love for all! I can't wait to get to know all of you better, so please don't hesitate to chat with me or introduce yourself when you see me around.

With love and gratitude, 

Theo 

Theo Patterson

Director of Children and Youth Ministries

Trinity Episcopal Church