The History of St. Thomas'

At the turn of the twentieth century, the area in Richmond, Virginia known as Ginter Park was a growing suburb developed by a wealthy tobacco merchant, Major Lewis Ginter. Designing one of the first planned communities, he envisioned schools, churches and other public buildings. At his death his aspirations were carried out by his three nieces, of whom Miss Grace Arents was most instrumental in the development of St. Thomas' Episcopal Church.

With the approval of the bishop, Miss Arents built a rectory and a school house with chapel for the new St. Thomas' Mission. The first service was held May 17, 1907 with nineteen communicants. The vicar was The Rev. Frank Ridout appointed by the bishop at the request of Miss Arents.

In 1911 the congregation expanded to 51 members, and in 1912 the present church was completed. The Rev. Elmer C. Pedrick, the third rector, was called in 1920 and served 34 years. In 1922 the two-story wing containing a parish hall and Sunday School rooms was built. Growth slowed during the depression years, but by the 1940's had reached 750 members, of whom 131 served in World War II and six gave their lives.

In 1961, the one-story complex to the north of the church grounds was constructed to provide additional office and Sunday School space, as well as a small chapel. The same year, the Day School was opened which continues to serve the community today.

The Hawthorne-Walton Fund was established to purchase adjacent property for the purpose of building a playground and expanding the parking area. In 1967 The St. Thomas' Endowment Fund was begun to provide financial security for the church.

During the years, the women of St. Thomas' formed the Sewing Guild, staffed the Altar Guild, held yearly yard sales, antiques fairs and auctions. In the early 1980's they came together to create beautiful needlepoint kneelers for the altar rail.

The youth of St. Thomas' have always been an integral part of the community. Built on the framework of study, worship, fellowship and service, the youth ministry is integrated into the overall life of the church.

Recent years have seen rapid growth in the size of the congregation and the ministries of the church mirrorng the urban renewal of the neighbohood. Currently celebrating its centennial year, St. Thomas continues to share fellowship, serve its' neighborhood, and the wider world.