About
Our Story
Beginnings (1952–1972)
St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church was founded in 1952 by the Rev. Charles Adams, chaplain at nearby Moffett Field. Two years later, the Diocese of California purchased our current 2.5-acre site on what was once a local farm, and a 50-year-old farmhouse became the first church building.
Dwight W. Edwards began serving while still a seminarian and became our first rector in 1955. Under his leadership, the parish and community grew together—the preschool opened in 1961, full parish status was granted in 1963, and the church building was dedicated in 1970.
Growth and Shared Leadership (1974–2004)
The Rev. Ralph Jeffs, called in 1974, guided St. Tim’s toward shared lay leadership and deeper collaboration. Nearly two decades later, the Rev. Kevin Phillips (1993–2004) helped spark a new season of creativity and outreach. During his tenure, we introduced programs such as Godly Play and Stephen Ministry, created the Patricia Westlake Sammel Memorial Garden and Columbarium, renovated the sanctuary, and purchased the rectory in Sunnyvale.
Resilience and Renewal (2005–2016)
Following a period of financial and leadership challenges, interim clergy—including the Rev. Donald Schell and the Rev. Janet Wheelock—helped the parish rediscover its stability and purpose. The Rev. Ron Griffin (2012–2016) then led a time of renewal, strengthening worship, youth, and outreach, and reinvesting in the preschool.
Reaching Out (2016–2021)
Under the Rev. Karen Cuffie’s interim leadership, the church launched new community partnerships like Safe Parking and Compassion Week. In 2017, the Rev. Lisa McIndoo became rector, expanding Christian formation for families, introducing the Little Free Pantry, and guiding the parish through the pandemic with heartfelt online worship and connection.
A New Chapter (2023–Present)
After a short interim under the Rev. Nick Roosevelt, the Rev. Nikky Wood was called as rector in 2023. Today, St. Timothy’s continues to grow as an inclusive, intergenerational, and joyful community putting faith into action in Silicon Valley.