New to the Diocese
On September 1, the Rev. Cameron Soulis joined the staff of Calvary Church, East Liberty, as its Associate Rector. Cameron came to Pittsburgh from the Diocese of Washington (D.C.), where she served as Lower School Chaplain at National Cathedral School.
On October 4, the Rev. Canon Natalie Hall was received into the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the Southwestern PA Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of North America. With her reception, Natalie will transition from Interim Priest to Rector of Church of the Redeemer, Squirrel Hill. She also continues her role as Canon for Evangelism & Faith Formation.
New Calls
On September 1, the Rev. Brandon Cooper became Priest-in-Charge of St. Paul’s, Kittanning. He continues his role as Assistant Rector of Christ Church, North Hills, as well as serving as a regular supply priest at St. Michael’s in Wayne Township.
The Rev. Deacon Carter Hawley became Executive Director of the Association for Episcopal Deacons. She had been serving as the organization’s Interim Executive Director since March.
The Rev. Dr. Luke Zerra is now Associate Dean for Academic Affairs of the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania’s Stevenson School for Ministry. Luke also serves as Curate at St. Andrew’s in Highland Park.
Retirements
On August 1, the Rev. Canon Dr. Jay Geisler retired as Rector of St. Peter’s, Brentwood. Earlier, on June 30, he had completed his work as Canon for Recovery Ministries, one of several roles he has filled in diocesan leadership.
On August 1, the Rev. Dr. James B. Simons retired after 36 years of ordained ministry in our diocese and 34 years of service as Rector of St. Michael’s of the Valley, Ligonier. During his retirement celebration, Jim announced his engagement to Sandy Byrd Binder of Vero Beach, Florida.
Completed Call
On September 25, the Rev. Dr. Julie Smith ended her time as Youth Education Director at St. Brendan’s, Franklin Park. Julie continues her ministry as a chaplain at Caring Hospice Services. She also serves as a supply priest, filling in the gaps, as needed, at parishes throughout the Diocese.