We have even more exciting news for our parish today. During the search process for a new priest to come serve alongside us, an opportunity emerged for a collaborative ministry between our parish and the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia, that would allow Christ & St. Luke’s to hire another clergy person who would serve as an Assistant Rector at our parish and as the Episcopal Chaplain at Old Dominion University.
On behalf of Bishop Susan Haynes, Canon Roy Hoffman, and the ODU Episcopal Chaplaincy board, as well as our vestry and search committee, I am very glad to announce that we have called The Rev. Katie Beth Miksa to this role. We are thrilled with this new hire!
In our search process, Mother Katie Beth distinguished herself to me, the committee and our staff with her energy, enthusiasm, experience, and intelligence. Her previous postings not only include parish ministry leadership, but also college chaplaincy, making her the perfect fit for this new position. The excitement is mutual. As Mother Katie Beth shares,
“Sometimes the Holy Spirit is like a honking goose, unmistakably moving in ways that grab attention. You, the people of Christ & St. Luke’s, are filled with the Spirit. You worship not only in your building but in your lives as well. You are risk takers. And you do so with the best sense of humor—I heard about the Christmas Card! I can’t wait to be in ministry with folks like you. See you soon!”
Mtr. Katie Beth comes to us from Virginia Theological Seminary where she recently completed her Anglican Studies Diploma. She is currently ordained as a transitional deacon and will be ordained to the priesthood on August 3 at Washington National Cathedral. She has previous degrees from Wesley Theological Seminary, American University, and Millsaps College. Before answering the call to ministry, Mtr. Katie Beth taught English in Taiwan for eight years, giving her a global perspective that will be a gift to our community.
She has an adorable, rambunctious pup named Maggie!
Mtr. Katie Beth will be sharing fully in the priestly ministry and life of our parish while also helping to lead the important chaplaincy at ODU. Along with Fr. Jared, and with the helpful assistance of Fr. Vince, Fr. Jess, and Rev. Kate, we now have an exceptionally strong pastoral team to help lead us into the next chapter of life at Christ & St. Luke’s.
Mtr. Katie Beth’s first Sunday with us will be July 16, meaning this summer we will have many opportunities to share our gifts of hospitality and welcome. We’ll be communicating information soon about how you can help us make Mtr. Katie Beth and Fr. Jared feel at home here in Norfolk and at Christ & St. Luke’s. I can’t wait for you to meet them both and for the work and ministry we will all do together in the name of Christ.
In gratitude and grace,
Fr. Noah
