Church of the Holy Comforter | Vienna, VA

Dear Holy Comforter Family,

It is with much enthusiasm I announce that the Rev. Melissa Fauci has been called to be our new Associate Rector. Melissa brings a passion for parish ministry, preaching, and pastoral care grounded in making connections with people. She brings nine years of experience in ministry, having served for two years in a Catholic church; having served six years as a hospital chaplain and supervisor of chaplains at Oschner Health in New Orleans; having served in her Episcopal parish as a junior and senior warden; then recently completing an Anglican Studies year at Virginia Theological Seminary.

From left: Jr. Warden, Kim Brailey; the Rev. Melissa Fauci; the Rev. Jon Strand

Described as an excellent preacher, an “old soul” and a person of deep faith by those who have worked with her closely, Melissa will be stepping into the shared work of guiding our Center for Spirituality and Wellness, be a regular preacher with Jackie and myself, working with our pastoral caregivers and supporting our adult faith formation and discipleship work.

In her undergraduate work, she majored in Religion and Economics, with minors in Poverty Studies and Latin American Studies. She completed her Masters of Divinity from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in 2015. Melissa then sensed a call to be a priest and discerned the Episcopal Church was to be her new spiritual home.

Melissa is an “excellent communicator, preacher, and pastoral presence who connects well with people,” her former bishop said, “She has a high capacity for friendship.”

Melissa used to be an athlete and marathon runner before acquiring a chronic illness about six years ago that causes some fatigue and breathing challenges. She has learned to adapt extremely well, such that it seems to be an invisible disability at times. You may see her zooming around the Holy Comforter campus on her scooter or occasionally relying on a stool when in longer standing sessions. "This vulnerability has only further deepened her call to include everyone," her former supervisor shared.

Melissa is married to Megan and together they have a 2.5 year old daughter Lina. She will be a transitional deacon until ordained to the priesthood, hopefully early in December. Please join me in welcoming a gifted new associate clergy into our congregation and pray for her in this new time and for our ongoing growth in Christ. 

With Joy,

The Rev. Jon Strand,

Rector