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The next few years saw tremendous growth at St. Philip’s. The Youth Ministry expanded and Rite 13 was introduced; there were Diocesan ski trips, trips to Mexico with St. John’s Church, and the expansion of the middle school youth program. The kitchen was remodeled and a church bell was installed in the belfry. The music program grew under the guidance of many dedicated musicians. The first deacon from St. Philip’s church was ordained. In addition, the church buildings were used by many local community groups, including Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, AA, school meetings, etc. The upstairs office space was rented to Triad, a local non-profit organization. |
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St. Philip the Apostle Episcopal Church held its first service on All Saints Day 1987, led by the Reverend Martin Yabroff, at the offices of ‘Doctors on Duty’ in Scotts Valley, California. Deacon Peggy Thompson set up the Bishop’s Congregation with six families, under the guidance of Bishop Mallory. St. Philip’s was funded as a Mission Church in the Diocese of El Camino Real. |
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Thirty six members joined the church in the first year, and St. Philip’s quickly outgrew the doctors’ office. The congregation held services in the City Hall and dedicated church members set up and disassembled the church every Sunday. The church grew rapidly, with young families especially interested in the lively Sunday School, which was initially held in the hallway of City Hall. The church family was expanding and needed a permanent home. |
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In 1995, a Capital Building Campaign was launched amongst the congregation and friends of St. Philip’s, which resulted in the purchase of the ‘Star Lodge Hospital’ on Scotts Valley Drive. A major conversion was undertaken to build the new church. On All Saints’ Day 1995 – exactly eight years after the first service – the opening service was held in the new Parish Hall. St. Philip’s Church was consecrated by Bishop Richard Shimpfky on Pentecost 1996. |
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In September 2004, Rev. Martin Yabroff announced his calling to the position of Dean at Episcopal Cathedral Church of St. James in South Bend, Indiana. St. Philip’s is ready for the next steps in its growth, the calling of a new priest and attaining parish status. |
