Introducing our New Seminarians

This year we welcome two new seminarians from Yale Divinity School who will assist in various ministries within our parish.

Tonita Branan (she/her), a native of Georgia and former English professor, spent most of her child-rearing years in Greenville, NC. Post-divorce she turned from academics to the nonprofit sector (Recovery Café in Seattle, WA, the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, NM, and Mission Farm in Killington, VT) before landing at Yale Divinity School, where she is currently a second-year M.Div. student. Tonita enjoys reading, long walks, and listening to her younger friends’ (and kids’) music recommendations—also visiting her son, William, in Boston, and daughter, Laura, in Chapel Hill, NC. She looks forward to this year with Trinity, especially working under Lisa Levy with Chapel on the Green and being schooled by Chuck Kaywood as an acolyte (shout-out to Chuck, the most amazing mentor).

Elishia McAllister (they/them) is a devoted parent, community organizer, coalition builder, former film industry professional turned high school English & Social Studies teacher turned seminarian and multidisciplinary artist whose spirit feels most fulfilled when working at the intersections of prison abolition, food & housing justice, universal healthcare & universal wages, and education policy reform. Very Radical. Very Queer. Elishia is deeply committed to bridging generational gaps and nurturing spiritual growth for all community members, but most especially those who are disenfranchised and under-served. Their current internship at Trinity on the Green Episcopal Church and Advisory Board role at Wethersfield UMC each capitalize on Elishia’s expertise in public-facing theology and coalition-building skills in order to develop transformative programming. They seek to uplift and grow initiatives which are designed to resonate deeply with young adults, fostering a space where spiritual narratives are fully valued and meaningfully cultivated. Transitioning from a background in education to church leadership, Elishia has honed the ability to listen actively, guide thoughtfully, and inspire action. With a dedicated focus on creating dialogue and opportunities for development, the congregations Elishia is in community with each strive to nurture a culture that cherishes every individual's story and ever-evolving spiritual progression.

Welcome, Tonita and Elishia!