Diamond Jubilee Capital Campaign
Where is the Holy Spirit Leading Holy Nativity?
In 2022 the Holy Nativity Vestry asked the congregation to dedicate six months of prayer and discussion to guide our congregation in listening to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in answering who we are; what we believe is important; and what dreams we have for our future. We were asked to “Be still and know that I am God” as we clarified how we came to this moment and to let the Holy Spirit reveal a vision of our future.
Five themes emerged from these collective discussions:
Spirituality and Worship ∙ Inreach ∙ Outreach ∙ Personnel ∙ Physical Property
Critical Needs
In addition to these themes, one significant challenge was identified that hinders our overall ability to engage our parishioners and strengthen our ministries:
We do not have adequate meeting and classroom space for our essential needs.
Our most critical and essential need is additional physical space as we seek to stimulate offerings for:
learning in small and large groups,
organizing youth outreach,
guiding those in need of private counsel,
leading a future choir,
providing adequate access to facilities for the disabled among us.
The Assessment
Over the years, through excellent oversight and management of our resources, we have been careful and thorough in addressing our past physical plant needs; however, we can no longer continue working around our current and future physical plant challenges. In May 2024, the Vestry appointed a Building Committee and engaged the services of local architect David Amos to carefully study and develop a master plan to address these challenges.
Building Phases
The analysis showed several items that should be addressed immediately and others that will take some time and planning to bring to fruition. With that in mind, the Building Committee made the following recommendations to the Vestry:
Phase 1: Diamond Jubilee Capital Campaign The Expansion of Cate Hall includes building the following areas:
a locked storage area,
two classrooms,
handicap-accessible restrooms,
a new Sacristy,
a work area,
and renovating the Parish offices to include a small conference room.
Phase 2:
refurbishing Cate Hall,
renovating the kitchen,
and expanding the front of the church.
Cost
The total cost of Phase 1 is estimated at $600,000. As of December 31, 2024, pledges and gifts received to support the campaign are $148,674. The Vestry believes the Phase 1 campaign celebrating our Diamond Jubilee can succeed with your commitment and payment over the three years of 2025, 2026, and 2027. Your Diamond Jubilee Capital Campaign pledge will be an above-and-beyond gift for your annual stewardship pledge.
Your Gift
We ask that you prayerfully consider your gift to the Diamond Jubilee Capital Campaign so that Holy Nativity can continue to be a place for the tremendous growth and vitality we are currently experiencing and so that we might undertake fulfilling our visions of mission and ministry for future generations.
DRAWINGS
AND PLANS
Frequently Asked Questions
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First, thank you for your pledge and for your support. Your early gifts will ensure that we have the cashflow for the projects. Some will make a one-time lump sum donation. Others will divide their pledge payments over two or three years. Please make sure you specify gifts to the Diamond Jubilee Campaign.
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Yes. Please continue to support our annual operating budget with your annual stewardship pledge. Early each fall, we request your annual stewardship pledge and, as costs are ever increasing, we ask that you consider a small increase in your annual stewardship pledge every year to support outreach, programs, personnel, and general operations and upkeep of the buildings and grounds. Your pledge to the capital campaign is an above-and-beyond gift for these specific one-time projects for the church.
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We are glad you asked. Our Vestry and campaign leadership is passionate about this Capital Campaign. Any of them would be eager to talk with you. John Byrne is the Capital Campaign Chair and his team includes Mary Alice Isele and Tim Taylor.
OUR GROUNDS
As Holy Nativity grew, so did its facilities and land. In the late 1960s, the church acquired additional property extending to Martin Street. A columbarium was installed on this land. The first burial was in 1971. That same year, fundraising efforts began for the creation of a meditation garden.
Meditation and Prayer Garden
After four years of dedicated support, the garden became a reality. Open to all, the meditation garden remains a place of peace and contemplation for the community.
At its center stands a striking Christus Rex, a cross with the figure of the risen Christ in glory, created by Roger and Loretta Johnson. The garden was designed specifically to complement the statue. Inspired by traditional European wayside shrines, the space was carefully planned by architect Ed Cheshire. It features seventy-five azaleas, a sprinkler system, and soft lighting illuminating the statue from dusk until dawn. The garden was dedicated in memory of a former church organist, Aspasia Powers.
In Cate Hall, you will find another Christus Rex, which is an intricately carved icon, crafted in Austria over 18 months. It is slightly larger than half-life size, with meticulous detailing and realistic coloration. Priscilla Gregory and her family donated the statue in memory of her mother.
In 2024, seven prayer and contemplation stations were added to the Meditation Garden. Visitors can scan the QR code at the entrance to access prayers for each station or simply sit on the benches in quiet reflection. Each station is marked by handcrafted tiles made by artisans working on Mt. Horeb in Jordan.
Pet Memorial Garden
Station 5 in the Prayer Garden has been expanded to include a memorial wall honoring beloved pets. The first interments took place in the spring of 2025 and will continue annually near Valentine’s Day and the Feast of St. Francis. For more information about the interment process, please contact the church secretary, Rebecca Daniels.
OUR GROUNDS
As Holy Nativity grew, so did its facilities and land. In the late 1960s, the church acquired additional property extending to Martin Street. A columbarium was installed on this land. The first burial was in 1971. That same year, fundraising efforts began for the creation of a meditation garden.
Meditation and Prayer Garden
After four years of dedicated support, the garden became a reality. Open to all, the meditation garden remains a place of peace and contemplation for the community.
At its center stands a striking Christus Rex, a cross with the figure of the risen Christ in glory, created by Roger and Loretta Johnson. The garden was designed specifically to complement the statue. Inspired by traditional European wayside shrines, the space was carefully planned by architect Ed Cheshire. It features seventy-five azaleas, a sprinkler system, and soft lighting illuminating the statue from dusk until dawn. The garden was dedicated in memory of a former church organist, Aspasia Powers.
In Cate Hall, you will find another Christus Rex, which is an intricately carved icon, crafted in Austria over 18 months. It is slightly larger than half-life size, with meticulous detailing and realistic coloration. Priscilla Gregory and her family donated the statue in memory of her mother.
In 2024, seven prayer and contemplation stations were added to the Meditation Garden. Visitors can scan the QR code at the entrance to access prayers for each station or simply sit on the benches in quiet reflection. Each station is marked by handcrafted tiles made by artisans working on Mt. Horeb in Jordan.
Pet Memorial Garden
Station 5 in the Prayer Garden has been expanded to include a memorial wall honoring beloved pets. The first interments took place in the spring of 2025 and will continue annually near Valentine’s Day and the Feast of St. Francis. For more information about the interment process, please contact the church secretary, Rebecca Daniels.
CLERGY
STAFF
The Reverend Thomas P. Townsend III, Rector
Office: 912-638-3733
Cell 770-616-4791
email: tptownsend3@outlook.com
Jamie Clayton Candidate for Holy Orders
Office: 912-638-3733
Cell: 678-628-5516
Email: jpclay1114@gmail.com
Flower Guild: Karen Stickle. 912-222-8506
Gardens: Betty Lou Shaw, 904-588-6454
Kitchen Brigade: Edie, 248-892-5003, and John Wakevainen, 248-672-1437
Special Events: Bet Leemhuis, 317-371-8617, and Rangeley Turner, 804-241-1834
Pastoral Care: Rangeley Turner, 804-241-1834
Technical Support: Vic Peirce, 517-881-2319
Donna Nilsson, Pianist
Cell: 912-222-0866
Email: dcnilsson71@gmail.com
VOLUNTEERS
Maggie Glennon, Senior Warden Vestry
Cell: 706-424-6127
Email: maggieglennon1@gmail.com
VESTRY
Joe Artime Physical Property
Cell: 770-853-7144
Email: jartime@att.net
We Are Glad That You Are Here
Mary Alice Iseley Spiruality & Worship
Cell: 404-405-2512
Email: mary.alice.isele@gmail.com
Lynda Byrne Inreach
Cell: 678-428-5227
Email: ltbyrne@bellsouth.net
Sue Miller Personnel / People
Cell: 310-977-8210
Email: suzanita@gmail.com
WHO DO I CONTACT?
ADDRESS CHANGES: Rebecca Daniels
ALTAR GUILD: Ann Russell
BAPTISMS: Father Tommy
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS:
Robert Cooper & Joe Artime
BULLETINS: Rebecca Daniels
CALENDAR: Rebecca Daniels
COMMUNICATIONS: Rebecca Daniels
ESTATE GIVING: John Byrne or Father Tommy
FLOWER GUILD: Karen Stickle
GARDENS: Betty Lou Shaw
INREACH: Lynda Byrne
KITCHEN BRIGADE: Edie and John Wakevainen
LAY MINISTRY: Sue Miller
MEMORIALS AND GIFTS: John Byrne or Father Tommy
OUTREACH: Vic Peirce
PERSONNEL: Sue Miller
PLANNED GIVING: John Byrne or Father Tommy
PRAYER LIST: Rebecca Daniels
PRIVATE PRAYER: Vanette McKinney (DOK)
SPECIAL EVENTS: Bet Leemhuis or Rangeley Turner
STOCK GIFTS: John Byrne or Father Tommy
TREASURER: John Hartland
VESTRY: Maggie Glennon
WEDDINGS and FUNERALS: Father Tommy
WELCOME COMMITTEE: Bet Leemhuis
Robert Cooper, Junior Warden Physical Property
Cell: 404-313-2171
Email: robertcooper1684@comcast.net
Vic Pierce Outreach
Cell: 517-881-4712
Email: vrpeirce@sbcglobal.net
Rebecca Daniels, Secretary
Office: 912-638-3733
Email: holynativityssi@bellsouth.net
You Belong Here
"However you are, wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome at this table."
This invitation to communion expresses the heart of what it means to be a Christian community. At Holy Nativity, you are welcome. You are accepted. You are valued. Here, you belong—and here, you have a part to play.
Inreach is how we care for one another, growing together in faith and fellowship. Your unique gifts and presence are essential to Holy Nativity becoming the church God calls us to be. Without your contribution—your ministry, your decision to serve the Lord with us—something vital is missing.
Join us. Let’s grow, serve, and become together.
Parish Life Ministries
Daughters of the King offers an international community of females wishing to grow in their journey of faith through prayer, service, and evangelism.
Kitchen Brigade takes turns to ensure the parish kitchen is well supplied and helps with clean up on Sundays and special events.
Pastoral Care acts as the heart of the church’s life through a ministry of shared presence, listening, and support for church members in need.
Welcome Committee provides those new to the Episcopal Church or new to Holy Nativity a warm, welcoming environment that fosters their ability “To Know Christ and Make Christ Known."
Garden Committee maintains the parish gardens.
Worship Ministries
Altar Guild cares for the altar, vestments, vessels, and altar linens and prepares the sanctuary for services.
Flower Guild provides arrangements for the altar, parish hall, and special events.
Lay Readers convey selected passages of Holy Scripture during worship services.
Lay Eucharistic Ministers administer the consecrated elements of the Eucharist. These Lay persons are licensed by the Diocese.
Ushers function as spiritual ambassadors of the church by greeting each person, distributing the bulletin, seating those needing assistance, answering visitor questions, collecting the offering, and counting attendees.
Welcome to Our Church Community
What is the Episcopal Church?
What is a Rector?
Our History
Transparency
We’re so glad you’re here! At Holy Nativity, you’ll find a vibrant and inclusive community, united by our love for God and our care for one another. With open arms and open hearts, we welcome everyone — no matter where you are on your faith journey.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, meaningful connections, or opportunities to serve, you’ll find a place here. From worship services to outreach programs, from moments of reflection to joyful gatherings, we strive to create a space where everyone feels at home.
Come as you are, and let’s journey together in faith, love, and community.
The Episcopal Church is a warm and welcoming community where everyone is invited to seek God, grow in faith, and serve others. Rooted in love, we’re dedicated to working for reconciliation, justice, and peace, living out Christ’s mission in our daily lives.
As part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, our faith is shaped by scripture, tradition, and reason. Our worship centers on the sacraments, especially Holy Communion, and is made even more meaningful through beautiful liturgy and music.
No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you’re welcome here. Join us as we explore what it means to follow Jesus and experience the life-changing power of God’s love.
Our Leadership Structure
A Parish of the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia
Holy Nativity is a welcoming parish within the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia, part of the larger Episcopal Church. As a parish, we are connected to a regional community of churches, united in faith and mission. Our spiritual leadership is provided by the Right Rev. Frank S. Logue, Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia, who serves as our chief pastor and guide.
Clergy
At Holy Nativity, the Reverend Thomas P. Townsend III leads our parish as rector, serving as our pastor, priest, and guide in faith. He works alongside a team of assisting clergy, lay leaders, and volunteers. Together, they help make our Holy Nativity community a place of worship, connection, and care for all.
Ministry of the Baptized
At Holy Nativity, we believe that every baptized Christian has unique gifts for ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve the church and glorify God. There’s a place for everyone here, and we invite you to share your talents by joining us in service, worship, and community life. Together, we make a difference!
Discover our journey! Click here to read "Growing Through The Years" for a concise look at our evolution, or click here to explore The Church of the Holy Nativity, 1964–2014: Fifty Years of History for a comprehensive narrative of our legacy.
As a convenience to members and others in the community who would like to know more about us, we will publish our Vestry Meeting minutes, budget updates, and other relevant documents for your review.
JOIN US FOR WORSHIP
HOLY EUCHARIST: Sundays 8:00 am Rite I
10:30 am Rite II
HEALING SERVICE: Wednesday 12:30 pm
Feast Day Services: See Calendar
The Reverend Thomas P. Townsend III, Rector
If you are unable to meet with us in person, please join us for our weekly broadcast and pray along with us. Just click the YouTube link below at 10:25 AM EST for our live broadcast: https://youtube.com/@holynativitysaintsimonsisl2530
Welcome to Holy Nativity!
We’re so glad you’ve found us! Whether you’re visiting, new to the area, exploring faith for the first time, or looking for a church to call home—you are welcome here. We believe all of God’s children are welcome, so come just as you are.
Holy Nativity is a beloved community, rooted in love, grounded in grace, and committed to serving others. Our mission is simple: To Know Christ and Make Christ Known to the World.
Take a few moments to explore our site and learn more about who we are. We hope you’ll come visit us in person—there’s a place for you here, and we can’t wait to meet you!
– Father Tommy
JOIN US FOR WORSHIP
HOLY EUCHARIST: Sundays 8:00 am Rite I
10:30 am Rite II
HEALING SERVICE: Wednesday 12:30 pm
Feast Day Services: See Calendar
The Reverend Thomas P. Townsend III, Rector
If you are unable to meet with us in person, please join us for our weekly broadcast and pray along with us. Just click the YouTube link below at 10:25 AM EST for our live broadcast: https://youtube.com/@holynativitysaintsimonsisl2530
Welcome to Holy Nativity!
We’re so glad you’ve found us! Whether you’re visiting, new to the area, exploring faith for the first time, or looking for a church to call home—you are welcome here. We believe all of God’s children are welcome, so come just as you are.
Holy Nativity is a beloved community, rooted in love, grounded in grace, and committed to serving others. Our mission is simple: To Know Christ and Make Christ Known to the World.
Take a few moments to explore our site and learn more about who we are. We hope you’ll come visit us in person—there’s a place for you here, and we can’t wait to meet you!
– Father Tommy