It is a joy to be named your Priest in Charge. Some of you already know me from Sundays I’ve shared here, but I’d like to introduce myself a bit more fully.

I understand the Church not simply as a place where we gather, but as a community where we grow. The role of a priest is to help that growth happen through teaching the faith, preaching the Gospel, and offering the healing grace of Christ. My ministry follows the rhythm of Jesus in Matthew 9:35—teaching, preaching, and healing—at the heart of all I do.

I love teaching Bible studies, leading seasonal formation series, and walking alongside people as they discover how Scripture speaks to today’s challenges. In preaching, I try to connect head and heart with sermons that are biblical, honest, and memorable—what I call “bumper sticker sermons with soul.” A distinctive part of my ministry is healing prayer. Through the Order of St. Luke, I’ve come to see healing as the restoration of body, mind, and spirit, and as reconciliation within our communities.

I’m especially looking forward to working with Deacon Rachel. The diaconate calls us outward into the world; the priest draws us back to the altar. Together, those callings make us stronger.

On a personal note, I bring with me a long career in both public and private service—20 years with the Escambia County School District, 13 years as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Landrum HR, 4 years as a coach with Studer Group, and now in my 7th year as HR Director for the City of Pensacola. I am blessed with three daughters—Colleen, Emily, and Claire—and four grandchildren: Elena, Marco, Cece, and Lucia.

St. Monica’s already has a reputation for its heart for youth and community. My hope is to help us also grow deeper as disciples—anchored in Scripture, formed in prayer, and alive to the healing Spirit. I don’t come with all the answers, but with open hands, open ears, and a desire to walk with you as we listen for what the Spirit is saying to the Church.

Thank you for welcoming me into this season of ministry. I am excited for what God will do among us.

God’s peace,

Ted+

The Rev. Ted Kirchharr

(850) 341-4674

FatherTedK@icloud.com