In the early 1990s, when St. Luke’s found itself in a challenging interim period, lifelong member Coleman Budd stepped forward. As Senior Warden, he was effectively in charge. He couldn’t have taken that responsibility more seriously. Having recently retired from business, he moved into an office at St. Luke’s for about a year and ran the church. During this time, he was affectionately known as “Bishop Budd.”

His presence, steadfast leadership and countless hours of work during that critical period brought stability, inspiration and growth to our parish. Yet, it was just one of many times when Coleman dedicated his time and talents to his beloved church. Coleman, who is now in his 90s, for decades has been one of the most faithful and active members of St. Luke’s, having served on numerous vestries, search committees and terms as both Senior Warden and Junior Warden. He changed our campus forever when he led the effort to quickly raise the money to buy the Browne Decorating Co., which was on the land that is now our beautiful Memorial Garden. St. Luke’s had been trying to buy the property for decades, and when the opportunity finally arose, the window to act with short. Coleman made sure it happened.Once again, Coleman had dropped everything to make sure St. Luke’s would continue to grow, thrive and carry out its mission at an important moment.In recognition of his remarkable life of service to St. Luke’s, the Vestry in January unanimously voted to show its appreciation by renaming our gathering spot the Coleman Budd Parish Hall. Thanks be to God for Coleman’s continued presence among us, his deep faith and his decades of inspiring leadership!Carrie Teegardin, Junior Warden