Rector Search FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently leading the parish after Robert+ left in mid-July?
Our long-time Associate Rector, the Rev. Lisa Frost-Phillips, has agreed to serve as full-time Priest-in-Charge through the end of August, at which time we hope to have named an Interim Rector. Lisa+ has served as a priest at St. Matthew’s since 2003, and previously served as Priest-in-Charge when Robert+ took a three-month sabbatical in early 2024.
What is the timeline for the Rector Search?
It generally takes 12-18 months to conduct a nationwide search for a Rector. We hope to name a new Rector and have them begin their ministry at St. Matthew’s by September 2026. Click here to learn more about the expected timeline.
Are current clergy eligible for the Rector position?
No, current clergy will not be considered for the Rector position per the Bishop.
Will our current clergy have to leave once the new Rector is in place?
No. It is a common misconception that current clergy and staff are required to leave when a new rector is appointed in an Episcopal Church. The Vestry will work with the new rector to ensure a smooth transition for all clergy and staff, and the focus is on ensuring a healthy and supportive transition for all involved. Ultimately, the decision to stay or leave rests with each individual clergy/staff person and the new rector, in collaboration with the Vestry.
How is the Search Committee chairperson selected?
The Vestry, led by the Senior and Junior Wardens, select the chairperson.
Who can be on the Seach Committee?
All Search Committee members must be communicants in good standing of the parish, meaning they are confirmed or received members who regularly attend worship and are active in the mission and ministry work of St. Matthew’s.
How are members of the Search Committee selected?
The Vestry will issue a call for nominations in late August or early September 2025. Parishioners are invited to nominate themselves or someone else. Nominees must be communicants in good standing (see above for what that means) and can also self-nominate. Past Search Committee members as well as current clergy and staff members are not eligible. The Search Committee chair works with the Vestry to select committee members.
What is the make-up of the Search Committee?
The Vestry will name nine people to the Search Committee, three of which will be current Vestry members and six others, including the chair, who are not currently serving on the Vestry. Members will be carefully selected to represent a diversity of gifts, ministry interests, and experiences as well as their ability to collaborate with others and hold confidences.
Have a question that wasn’t answered above? Contact the parish senior warden, Rebecca Gallegly.