Long-time rector Jeff Paul of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Carson City retires
Submitted by Carson Now Reader on Thu, 11/02/2023 - 8:25am
In a significant announcement, The Very Reverend Jeff Paul, affectionately known to many simply as “Father Jeff”, is set to embark on his well-deserved retirement. He has served as the Rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Church for 28 years. This milestone marks the culmination of a distinguished and impactful four-decades-long career.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Jeff Paul's life journey has been one characterized by ambition and dedication. After relocating to southern California during his high school years, he pursued higher education at Cal State Fullerton, where he achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and sociology. His academic pursuits were complemented by his work as a community organizer, showcasing his early commitment to social betterment.
Subsequently, Jeff pursued theological studies at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific in Berkeley, Calif., culminating in a Masters of Divinity degree. His theological education marked the beginning of his dedicated service to the church and community.
Father Jeff’s journey of service led him to three prominent churches in the Diocese of Los Angeles – St. James' Wilshire, St. Andrew's Torrance, and St. Paul's Ventura. In these roles, he took on various responsibilities, including serving as an assistant and day school chaplain, rector, and associate for youth and young adults. The diversity of his roles mirrored his commitment to comprehensive engagement with the church's multifaceted needs.
In the late 1980s, Father Jeff embarked on a national journey as a consultant for the National Episcopal Church in Young Adult Ministries. His role as a consultant allowed him to contribute his expertise and insights to dioceses across the country, fostering the growth of youth and young adult ministries on a broader scale.
The mid-1990s marked a pivotal moment in Father Jeff’s journey when he accepted the call to serve as the Rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Carson City. His tenure at St. Peter's proved to be historic, as he became the longest-serving rector in the church's 160-year history. His unwavering commitment to the congregation and the community is a testament to his enduring legacy.
Beyond his role as a religious leader, Father Jeff’s commitment to community service extended to various charitable organizations, including FISH, Night Off the Streets (NOTS), Rotary, and the Capital City CIRCLES Initiative. His involvement in these organizations was characterized by a dedication to the well-being of the wider community.
Furthermore, Father Jeff offered invocations at many of the sessions of the Nevada State Senate and Assembly, a testament to his significant influence beyond the ecclesiastical realm. His words of guidance and inspiration resonated with legislators and the community at large.
As we bid farewell to The Very Reverend Jeff Paul, we acknowledge the substantial impact he has made both within the walls of St. Peter's Episcopal Church and throughout the Carson City community. His retirement signifies the end of a distinguished chapter, and we await with anticipation to witness the new adventures that lie ahead for Father Jeff and his beloved wife, Marietta Sophie Paul.
Father Jeff's final service at St. Peter’s was celebrated on Sunday, October 29, thus completing a 40-year career that has been marked by commitment, dedication, and a passion for making the world a better place. He looks forward to spending more time with Marietta, his children and grandchildren, and traveling extensively.
We extend our congratulations on his well-earned retirement and wish him a future filled with reflection, relaxation, and, undoubtedly, further contributions to the betterment of society. His enduring legacy in Carson City is a testament to the indelible mark he has left on the community.
About St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
St. Peter’s is a historic building with modern spirituality where all are welcome. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Carson City, Nevada began as an organized Parish on November 9, 1863. They are an inclusive congregation that strives to be open-minded and spiritually stimulating. Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. and 10 a.m. are designed to help individuals begin or continue their spiritual journey. To learn more, visit www.stpeterscarson.city or call (775) 882-1534.
