Transfiguration
Episcopal Church
Learn more about Transfiguration.
Transfiguration Episcopal Church is an open and welcoming congregation nestled in the woods of Indian River.
We love our community and strive to serve it through our many outreach ministries.
What sets Transfiguration Apart?
There are many wonderful churches in our area, all having something worthwhile to offer. As a congregation, we believe there are three characteristics that set Transfiguration apart -
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We're receptive!
The friendliness and genuine warmth extended to all newcomers is intrinsic with our values as followers of Christ. After visiting our church, most visitors mention the genuine acceptance afforded to them from our congregation.
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We are doers!
God has blessed us all in many ways. We believe that using our gifts to help our community is not only self-gratifying but is our call as Christians in the world. From our monthly Senior Lunch to our community Star Program, helping others in our community is a benchmark of Transfiguration. If you are inclined to volunteer for any of our worthwhile endeavors, we welcome your support with open arms.
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We are a congregation of friends and believers!
As you join our congregation, you will find that the spirit of one for all and all for one is the signature cornerstone of our beautiful church in the woods. We are all friends as well as a congregation of believers.
Our History
Transfiguration Episcopal Church began its life as a Mission Church sponsored by St. James’ Episcopal Church in Cheboygan, MI.
The Episcopal Church of Indian River held its first services in 1958 in a specifically designed trailer in downtown Indian River. Over the next several years the church raised funds to purchase the present property and erect a building that was architecturally in harmony with its natural surroundings. The summer and winter congregations were taken into consideration when addressing the versatility of the structure.
The first service in the new church was celebrated on July 2nd, 1967. The church was granted status as a parish in 1975 and was officially named "Transfiguration Episcopal Church."
Staff
In October of 2025, we welcomed our new Rector, the Rev. Theresa Williams. After a long and varied career in forestry, natural resources, and agriculture, Rev. Theresa discerned a call to the priesthood. She attended the Diocese’s Academy for Vocational Leadership, and served both a large and a small parish in northern Michigan during her two years of fieldwork. During the summer of 2025, she spent three months working full-time as a chaplain intern at a psychiatric hospital. Her ministry interests include creating meaningful liturgies and exploring possibilities for outreach ministries at the intersection of spirituality, mental health care, and the natural world. She is delighted to be serving the parish of Transfiguration!
Mary Smith is our “jack of all trades.” She is our church administrator, our organist and music director. She is always ready with a kind word, and is a bright light with many of the answers. Mary has served Transfiguration for more than 40 years.
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