Q. What is a Rector?
A. In the English Church tradition, a Rector is the tenured Senior Pastor of a Parish. The title comes from the Latin word for "ruler" or "guide." While the role is similar to a "Senior Pastor," there is a key legal distinction: Rectors have tenure. They are not "at-will" employees of the parish, meaning they cannot be dismissed over simple disagreements or unilateral decisions by the trustees, but they remain accountable to the bishop. This protection ensures the Rector can preach the Gospel and provide spiritual correction with courage and independence.

Q. Is the Rector a Reverend, a Pastor, or a Priest?
A. Actually, all three! However, each term describes a different aspect of the Rector’s identity:

• Priest describes the Office: This is the Rector’s ordained rank. Derived from the Greek Presbyteros (elder), it is the office that conveys the authority to preach the Word, administer the Sacraments, absolve sins, exercise discipline, and bless the people in the name of Christ and His Church.

• Pastor describes the Work: This is a professional title (like "Doctor") meaning "Shepherd." It refers to the Rector’s daily work of caring for, feeding, and protecting the "flock" of the local congregation.

• The Reverend describes the Style: This is an honorific adjective, much like "The Honorable" for a judge. It is used primarily in formal introductions or written correspondence (e.g., "The Reverend John Doe").

Q. So what is the correct way to address the Rector?
A. There are several appropriate ways to address your priest, and you are welcome to use whichever feels most natural to you:

• Father [Last/First Name]: This is the most common and traditional address in our tradition. Since the 1800s, it has been used as an affectionate title for the priest's role as a spiritual father to the parish family.

• Pastor [Last/First Name]: A perfectly acceptable title that highlights the Rector’s role as your spiritual shepherd.

• Your Reverence: While technically correct, this is rarely used today outside of written correspondence unless you are feeling particularly formal!

• Note: Because "Reverend" is an adjective and not a noun, it is traditionally incorrect to say "Hi, Reverend" or "The Reverend said..." (just as you wouldn't say "The Honorable said..."). Instead, use Father or Pastor.

Q. Can I address the Rector more casually?
A. Yes, though we encourage a sense of "holy habit." When the Rector is "uniformed" (wearing the collar) and serving in his official capacity, we address him with a proper honorific. Much like a judge’s robe or a physician’s white coat, the collar reminds us to honor the office and the anointing God has placed upon it, rather than the man himself.

Using these titles also sets a wonderful example for our children and visitors, showing that we honor the Lord by honoring the shepherds He has appointed. As a rule of thumb: if the collar is off, he is "off-duty" and welcomes casual address.

Q. Does the Rector/Church do Weddings, Funerals, etc.?
A. Yes. The Parish provides these services for members and their families. The Rector may also conduct weddings, funerals, or private blessings of non-members in external venues for a modest honorarium; however, these services are strictly governed by the canons of the United Episcopal Church. All such services remain subject to episcopal oversight and the Rector’s discretion.

Q. Does the Rector offer Pastoral Counseling?
A. Absolutely. Biblical counseling, spiritual guidance, private confession, and discipleship are offered to the community at no cost. You may book an appointment via the calendar link below. If you need to meet outside of standard hours, please email the parish office, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Please review our Pastoral Counseling Disclaimer before your first appointment to understand the scope and nature of our care.