our big question

In 2025 (not so far away), Holy Trinity will mark its 75th year of ministry in Ankeny. Such a milestone is certainly a cause to look back and give thanks for all the blessings God has granted in and through the congregation. More important, however, is that we look ahead to the call God issues to love in the days and decades ahead.

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As we approach 75 years of ministry, we must take the steps needed to build a good foundation for our future. That future must honor the commitments we have made over the last 75 years and look ahead to the challenges of the changing role of the church in society, the advance of technology, and climate change. 

Holy Trinity made a commitment some years ago to stay in its current location and serve the neighborhood and community that has been our home for 73 years. As Ankeny has grown Holy Trinity has become a prime spiritual presence for the south half of the community where few other new congregations have been built. 

One of our challenges, the “big question” is how we will tend to the building and grounds that are such an integral part of our ministry. Our sanctuary is a place for worship and music. Our learning and care ministries gather here. The community leans on us as we provide meeting space for community groups. We feed the hungry here. We gather for fellowship here.  

The building and its systems are getting older each day. Some of the systems that make ministry possible are coming to or have passed their life expectancy. The “newest” part of our building is over 20 years old. The foundation we need to carry out our mission will provide a place for ministry that meets the needs of our mission and addresses the changing realities of our world. 

Our property team has been in the process of assessing the systems and structures that need attention and has developed a list of projects that need to be addressed. From boilers and a cold air chiller that keep us warm and cold and are reaching life’s end to long-delayed roofing replacement and flooring and paint that are just worn out, we need to address our future together in this place.  

The Council has been engaged in review and evaluation of the items that need attention and in a discussion of our options for moving forward. The needs identified together total nearly $2 million.  

In the coming weeks you will hear more about the needs identified and options for addressing our future. We will be publishing more information and gathering for discussion. Our big question is, “What is God calling us to do and to be to build a good foundation for sharing God’s love?”  

The call of scripture beckons us to thrive, not just survive; to build, not just maintain; to adapt, not just stay the same. Paul lays out our challenge in I Timothy:  

“(You) are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.” 1 Timothy 6:18-19 

God never calls without giving all that is needed to answer. We have been in mission together for nearly 75 years. God will sustain the next 75. 

Pax Christi,
​Tim Olson – Lead Pastor