Important Update and Affirmation of our Mission at COTG

February 27, 2026

Our mission at Chapel on the Green is to provide spiritual care and material support to our unhoused and vulnerable neighbors on the New Haven Green, bringing the experiences of those who are marginalized into the center of our worshipping community. We give and receive, as we practice and proclaim the love of God in our weekly 2pm worship service and meal. While our community gathers on the New Haven Green, it also extends far beyond that place to include every volunteer, faith community, and generous giver who makes our weekly gathering possible.

We write to share some challenging news. Lisa Levy, who coordinates Chapel on the Green, was charged last Friday with state misdemeanor animal cruelty offenses. As we gather more information, we are placing Lisa on administrative leave. You can read Trinity Church’s full statement on the situation here. We are mindful of the significant spiritual and emotional impact of this news on our Chapel on the Green community, both on the New Haven Green and beyond.

Our mission at Chapel on the Green is just as important as ever– as is our vision of a more just a loving world. We will gather this Sunday for Chapel on the Green, and will continue to do so moving forward. We will continue to serve a meal and give out laundry cards to people who rely on these services for their personal care, health, and dignity. And we will continue to pray for one another.

For the time being, Rev. Heidi (hthorsen@trinitynewhaven.org) will be the point person for scheduling and logistical questions about upcoming dates at Chapel on the Green. Both Rev. Luk and Rev. Heidi are available for conversation and support, as we navigate this time.

In hope,

The Rev. Luk De Volder (ldevolder@trinitynewhaven.org)

The Rev. Heidi Thorsen (hthorsen@trinitynewhaven.org)