Local author and St. John’s parishioner Jim Tormey has written a new book, How Firm a Foundation. Published by the Dietz Press of Richmond and Petersburg, the book tells the story of St. John’s Episcopal Church from its beginnings when the English established Protestantism in America. The story extends from the village of Kecoughtan, where William Mays was rector in 1610, to the modern Hampton. It relates the trials of the early settlers as well as the comfort provided by the early church in a new world.
Jim has researched the St. John’s role in the life of Hampton during the colonial period when it was not only a source of spiritual strength to the people, but was responsible for the poor, the sick, and orphaned children. The ruin of the church in the War of 1812 is described and its resurgence with leaders such as The Reverend Mark Chevers, who was renowned for his energy and enthusiasm.
In a period of mission when St. John’s was prominent in assisting the creation of new churches, The Reverend Reverdy Estill provided encouragement and guidance to St. Cyprian’s Church and to Indian students at Hampton University.
Readers will find encouragement as St. John’s begins to face the challenges of its next century of service.
Originally published in St. John’s Epistle, April 2009.