"Standing on the storied foundation of the Episcopal faith, we embrace the wisdom of our heritage, guided by tradition, and inspired to write the next chapter of our journey with grace and reverence."
A Commitment To Telling Our Story
The Episcopal Awakening
The Episcopal Awakening is a powerful and eye-opening 40-minute documentary film that highlights historic complicity in acts of prejudice, discrimination, racism, and systemic oppression here in the Diocese of Indianapolis.
St. Philips is a large focus of the documentary and includes stories from members of our church.
Our History
The congregation of St. Philip's was organized in 1901 as a Mission under the sponsorship of Christ Church Cathedral of Indianapolis.
During that time, African-Americans felt unwelcome in the existing parishes which prompted the decision to form a new Mission. A group of twenty-five, initially gathered in homes and organized what was to become the first Negro Episcopal church in Indianapolis.
As the congregation grew they began meeting at St. Paul’s before striving to build their own structure. Unlike other Episcopal churches, the congregation did not receive any financial support from the Diocese. Nor did they receive any large philanthropic contributions, which had been the experience of many black churches during the time.
Thanks be to GOD! The congregation obtained a $3,000 loan from the Church Building Corporation. The loan was repaid in full at the time of the consecration of the building in 1913 and the Diocesan Convention accepted it as an Organized Mission. The congregation remained at that building until 1986 before building a new structure in an adjacent lot. St. Philip’s has been in its present building for 36 years.
St. Philip’s is located at the corner of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. drive and Indiana Avenue. In the 1930’s-1940’s, “The Avenue” was the “Broadway of black Indianapolis” and served as a cultural center for the city. African-American owned businesses, churches, newspapers and organizations thrived. The 50’s brought change to the neighborhood as commercial development grew, housing restrictions eased and the formation of IUPUI. We remained dedicated to maintaining our presence on The Avenue, restoring and preserving the rich heritage of the neighborhood. Presently, we are working diligently to serve and form connections with our new neighbors and the wider community.
Rev. Michelle Johnson Roos was ordained to priesthood on the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, 1996. She is a native of Indianapolis, and has served churches in cities around the U. S, and in Latin America.
Rev. Michelle and the late Rev. Carl A. Roos are proud parents to their son, a talented musician. Rev. Michelle
enjoys attending his concert performances on pipe organ, guitar, and in choir.
Michelle enjoys travel, especially learning about diverse peoples and cultures. A defining moment in her life
was serving as a missionary in the Republic of Panama.
Michelle has two reading chairs at home, several books open, and many articles dog-eared. She finds peace and
renewal in spending time with family in the outdoors.
Michelle is engaged in the community, especially through justice and outreach ministries, and participates in the organized efforts of Faith in Indiana. She also serves on the boards for Goodwin Plaza and The Conner House.
Rev. Michelle returned from sabbatical in January 2023. She enjoyed traveling around the world including time in Europe, Israel, and South Africa.
