The Venerable Sam Thomas is no stranger to St. Paul’s. Sam’s seven-week interim
ministry immediately prior to our Dean’s arrival was formative for Sam as well as
for the people of the Parish. Sam has recently retired from his role as Archdeacon
of Huron West. Two years ago Sam retired from full-time parish ministry,
concluding twenty years as Rector of St. Michael and All Angel’s Church. Sam
brings his wealth of experience from thirty-eight years of ordained ministry.
As Priest Associate and Director of Pastoral Care at St. Paul’s, Sam will provide
general support to the rector in all aspects of parish ministry. This will include
liturgical leadership, special services, educational opportunities, preaching,
formation with cathedral staff, administrative support, providing vacation
coverage, and acting as special advisor and counsel to the Rector. Specifically,
this position will pay particular attention to the pastoral needs of our
parishioners. This will include, but is not limited to:
• Working with our Deacon, and with our Rector to tend to the pastoral care of
our parishioners in times of struggle and in times of strength.
• Assisting with the building and training of a Pastoral Care team.
• Assisting the baptized to fulfill their covenant to seek and serve Christ in all persons, to love neighbour as
self, and to respect the dignity of every human being.
• Giving direction and leadership to healing ministries.
• Assisting in building a ministry to the bereaved.
• Sharing in ministry to three Longterm Care/Retirement facilities.
• Sharing in discerning and delivering care to our unhoused downtown neighbours.
• Assisting all lay and ordained leadership in developing a plan to confront racism in the church and support
initiatives to embrace and enhance diversity in the Cathedral community.
Sam will be a great addition to the St. Paul’s Pastoral Team. This is a two year appointment beginning Thursday,
August 1, 2024.
