St. Thomas, the Southern Branch Chapel, can trace its beginning to the first English settlers in Jamestown. In 1661 a “Chapel of Ease” under the umbrella of the Church of England was established on the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River to accommodate the growing population. The Episcopal presence in the area lapsed after the American Revolution because residents were no longer taxed to support “The Church.” However, in 1956, the modern church was re-established as a mission of St. Bride’s in Chesapeake for the growing area of Great Bridge. Since then, St. Thomas has served the Great Bridge community with an inclusive Episcopal presence.

Our original church was a simple, white frame building. This was a gift from another church in Kempsville with the stipulation that St. Thomas move the building to the land which they had purchased in 1961.