Mead, who has been leading the parish since May, was officially inducted as rector during a celebratory evening worship service led by the Right Rev. Andrew M.L. Dietsche, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New York. The Rev. Terence Elsberry, rector of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bedford, New York, delivered the sermon. The parish’s historic 1843 church building was standing room only for the service.
The Christ Church parish family was joined by many guests, including more than 40 visiting clergy members. The service was followed by a reception in the restored parish hall.
“I am honored to serve as the 15th rector of this vibrant and historic parish,” said Mead. “And I am thankful for all who planned for, prepared and participated in this wonderful service.
"I want to extend my gratitude to those from the Pelham community, representatives from the other houses of worship in Pelham, and clergy and laity from the greater Diocese of New York who joined us for this celebration. My family and I are grateful to have been warmly welcomed by Christ Church and the people of Pelham,” he continued.
Mead came to Christ Church from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Granite Springs, N.Y., where he had been rector since 2009. Prior to that, he served as curate of the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin, in New York City. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Chicago and a Masters of Divinity from Yale Divinity School.
The Parish of Christ the Redeemer is located at the corner of Pelhamdale Avenue and Shore Road.
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