Message from our new Rector

Dear Family in Christ, 

I am overjoyed to have received and accepted the call from your Vestry to become your next Rector. I look forward to starting a new chapter with the people of St. Timothy’s. 

While I can’t wait to meet you all in person, allow me to give you a small introduction. I was born in York, PA and after a few childhood moves, my parents settled in Paducah, KY - the place I consider to be my “hometown.” I’m married to Michael Francese, originally from Long Island, NY. Michael works as a freelance architectural designer. Together, we are raising two brilliant daughters. Kenna is eight years old and loves Girl Scouts, video games, and tennis. Louise will be two in October and loves mischief, waffles, and being outdoors. Both girls adore their two new kittens, Sunny and Star—our newest pet additions joined by our lovebird, Luna. ​

I attended Murray State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theatre. I am a 2011 graduate of Virginia Theological Seminary. After ordination, I served at churches in the Diocese of Kentucky. After that, I was called as the Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Clarksville, TN. During my six-year tenure, Trinity grew in number and in spirit, with a renewed focus on outreach and evangelism.

I served as the board president of a local nonprofit that provides mental health care to veterans and first responders, as well as serving as the vice president of the ministerial association for several years. I am also a member of Gathering of Leaders, an organization “committed to connecting young, creative, proven clergy-leaders in the Episcopal church.”

Most recently, I served as the Associate Rector of Formation and Pastoral Care at Christ Episcopal Church in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. It was a wonderful opportunity to work in a large church setting and see authentic church growth in action. 

Soon enough you’ll learn what I’m "all about”. But for now, let me say this. So much of what I know about God, Jesus, and the Church comes from being in relationship with other people. Every conversation is a new revelation of the divine, each interaction a new experience of something holy. This isn’t a coincidence. It’s God’s intention for us.

Through my interview and call process with St. Timothy’s, I knew that something wonderful was unfolding. I felt the call of the Spirit. And it didn’t come from your beautiful church building or the wonderful programs or even from the inspiring worship. The call came from being in conversation with the people of St. Timothy’s. The call came from the joy you all have just being with one another. That is special and important. I look forward to being part of many, many of your conversations in the years to come. And I especially look forward to seeing God revealed in our new relationship. 

Looking forward in joy and anticipation,

Meghan+

The Rev. Meghan Ryan ​