Truro Church

Truro Anglican Church, located in the charming city of Fairfax, Virginia, is a beacon of historical and spiritual significance. This venerable church has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century and a half, offering a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and faith that continues to draw visitors and worshippers alike.

The Early Beginnings

The origins of Truro Church date back to 1843 when the Rev. Richard Templeton Brown, then rector of The Falls Church, organized a congregation in Fairfax. Initially, the congregation gathered at the historic Fairfax Courthouse before moving to the private home of Mrs. William Rumsey. By 1845, a plain white frame church was constructed on the current site of the Truro Chapel and was consecrated as Zion Church.

However, the onset of the Civil War brought turmoil. As Union troops advanced into Virginia, the congregation was forced to abandon Zion Church, which was subsequently used as a storehouse for munitions and eventually destroyed. Despite these challenges, the resilient congregation re-formed after the war, meeting once again at the Fairfax Courthouse before rebuilding Zion Church in 1878.

Growth and Expansion

Truro Church continued to evolve through the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By 1933, under the leadership of the Rev. Herbert Donovan, the congregation had grown to 100 parishioners, necessitating the construction of a new church. Designed to replicate the old Payne's Church on Ox Road, this new building was consecrated in 1934 as Truro Episcopal Church. The original Zion Church building, which had served as the Parish Hall, was unfortunately lost to a fire in 1952.

The post-World War II era saw significant growth for Truro Church. The Rev. Raymond Davis, installed as rector in 1948, witnessed the congregation outgrowing the little brick church. By 1959, a new, larger church with a seating capacity of 500 was completed. This expansion continued under subsequent rectors, with the addition of transepts in 1983 increasing the church's seating capacity by 300.

A Hub of Mission and Outreach

Truro Church has long been a center for mission work and outreach. The church has played a pivotal role in establishing several mission churches, including the Church of the Apostles in 1967 and the Church of the Epiphany in 1985. Under the leadership of the Rev. Martyn Minns, installed as rector in 1991, Truro Church emphasized an evangelical call to worldwide mission and outreach to the poor.

One notable initiative was the establishment of the Lamb Center, which offers social services, prayer, and practical encouragement to the homeless in Fairfax. Truro's International Programs and Services (TIPS) also expanded, providing support and resources to international communities.

Contemporary Challenges and Resilience

The early 21st century brought significant challenges and changes for Truro Church. Following the ordination of Bishop Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church, Truro Church embarked on a period of discernment to consider its future within the Episcopal Church. In December 2006, 92 percent of the congregation voted to withdraw from the Episcopal Church and join the Convocation of Anglicans in North America (CANA), a mission initiative of the Anglican Church of Nigeria.

This decision led to legal proceedings to determine the ownership of the church's properties. After a lengthy legal battle, the court upheld the Episcopal Church's claim to the property. Despite this, an unexpected friendship between Rev. Tory Baucum of Truro Church and the Rev. Shannon Johnston, Bishop of the Diocese of Virginia, resulted in an amicable truce and a settlement of the litigation in 2014.

The Present and Future

Today, Truro Anglican Church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community. The church continues to be a vibrant center for worship, mission, and fellowship. Services are held throughout the week in both the historic chapel and the larger church building, catering to a diverse congregation.

Visitors to Truro Church are often struck by its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. The church's rich history is palpable, from the graffiti left by Union officers in the Gunnell House during the Civil War to the modern mission initiatives that continue to serve the community and beyond.

In conclusion, Truro Anglican Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a living piece of history, a hub of community service, and a beacon of hope and faith. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious visitor, Truro Church offers a unique and enriching experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.