The Rev. Tommy Sheppard serves as an Episcopal priest with a deep commitment to pastoral care, justice, and a faith that takes both God and human experience seriously. He approaches ministry through the lens of Open and Relational theology, emphasizing a God who is intimately present, responsive, and always inviting creation toward healing and wholeness.
Fr. Tommy is particularly passionate about building communities where people are welcomed as they are, questions are honored, and faith is lived out through compassion, humility, and courageous love. His preaching and teaching seek to connect the Christian story to real life—especially in moments of suffering, change, and hope.
In addition to parish ministry, Fr. Tommy serves as a hospital chaplain, accompanying patients, families, and staff through times of illness, uncertainty, and grief. This work deeply shapes his understanding of God’s presence in the midst of vulnerability and informs his pastoral approach in the life of the church.
Outside of ministry, Fr. Tommy values time with animals, enjoys thoughtful conversation, and remains committed to work that promotes justice, dignity, and equality for all people.
Message from the Rector
I like to think of Trinity Episcopal Church as a lighthouse. It is a beacon of God’s Truth and Love, perched on the edge of the map to illumine the pilgrim’s path with the true light that has come into the world, Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Many faithful Christians have, and do, and will continue to call this place home. There are those who mind the lantern and love and serve God and others in this place. But there are just as many migrants seeking safe passage as they travel the road from brokenness to belief. They are on The Way, and Trinity serves as a holy resting place to be refreshed and nourished.
Amidst the brokenness of humanity, and indeed, the brokenness of the Church, Trinity beckons weary travelers to the safety of its doors, and the infinitely greater beauty of the life-giving and soul-saving gift of Our Lord Jesus Christ and his One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. He is the rock upon which this beacon is built. Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself on your journey of faith, there is a place for you here.
Pax et bonum (Peace and all good)
Rev. Tommy Sheppard
Rector