Church Staff & Leadership
Our Leadership
The Rev. Shawn Evelyn
The Rev. Shawn Evelyn is the priest in charge of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Originally from Georgetown, Guyana, he was only a child when he arrived in the United States with his family. He grew up in Los Angeles, California, where he developed a fascination with the church in the Diocese of Los Angeles. A cradle Episcopalian and always active in the church, he was recognized at an early age as someone who would be a priest. He continued to serve in his parish and was able to find ways of being a part of diocesan ministries and even national ministries with the church. Although he engaged in various types of diverse ministries, he takes great pride in being formed in multiple historic African American and black parishes. His call to ministry was formed at a young age, but he later found a call to ordained ministry, to no one’s surprise. He graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary in the summer of 2019, where he was an active and engaged student. Shawn comes to Minnesota through his wife Anna, a native Minnesotan and an Episcopal priest and reserve Army chaplain. He is also the father of two lovely daughters, Yara and Esther, who keep him on his toes. Shawn has a strong desire to share the love of Christ, explore liturgy, and engage others through various perspectives. He is excited and honored to be able to serve at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
The Rev. Colleen swope
Collen serves as the deacon at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. Religion was always in her life until she walked away from anything organized at the age of 22. Then, almost 14 years ago, she found faith.
She and her husband were curious about the Compline service at St John the Evangelist during Lent 14 years ago. The entire five weeks set them off on an adventure in the Episcopal faith. It led to her being formally received into the faith in 2015.
During these last 13 years, she found her faith growing. This led to her understanding of God’s care throughout her life. She grew to realize God was not a vindictive, heavy-handed so-and-so. God was the one who loved us unconditionally – full stop.
She and her husband, Charles, have been married for 22 years! She has three stepchildren and two stepgrandchildren, though they don’t use such distinctions in their family: “We are family, period.” Colleen and Charles are caretakers of two demanding rescue cats. Colleen is one of six children. Her father died when she was very young, and her mother struggled but did a good job of raising the children alone.
Meet Our Wonderful Staff
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church has both wonderful members and a great staff. Meet everyone down below.
