Kilauea — Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Kilauea recently announced that the Rev. Gae Chalker accepted Christ Memorial’s call to serve as its new Vicar. Gae began her ministry at Christ Memorial on Dec. 3, the First Sunday of Advent.
“I can’t imagine a more perfect day. Advent is a favorite season, a time in which we ponder the new life that is emerging within us as we await again the coming of our Savior, Jesus the Christ,” Gae said.
Gae brings over 17 years of experience leading a small church to triple its congregation and grow together in faith, love, and service to God and community.
“We are very blessed to have Pastor Gae lead Christ Memorial in worship, prayer, and growth,” said David Akana, the church’s Bishop’s Warden. “We are thrilled to have her guidance as we live out our call through our ministries serving Kilauea and our North Shore community.”
Gae has a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s in divinity. She was ordained to the priesthood in 1998, and comes to Christ Memorial after being a rector for 17 years in Litchfield Park, Arizona.
“My memories of our family visits on Kauai are among my most joy-filled; I feel as though the island has been calling me back. I can’t think of a more blessed call to serve God than the one that I am pursuing at Christ Memorial,” she said.
Gae is also a spiritual director in the Jungian tradition and a conscious aging coach.
“I love learning about how people of other faiths nurture their spirit. I love early mornings.” she said. “I love talking over a cup of coffee. I love being quiet, sitting on my meditation cushion, or in a church alone, or walking on the beach. I love to exercise and eat healthy, which is just amazing to do here in Kauai.”
“And I love our Episcopal Church. I love the hymns, the sacraments, and our beautiful service. I love our inclusivity. Through all of this, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into people who are filled with joy and love. Most of all, I love the path that we are on, following the teaching of our Master Jesus.”
Worship services are 9 a.m. Sunday at the stone church on Kolo Road.
The church’s Montessori-based Godly Play program is available on first Sundays of the month during worship, followed by pancake breakfast in the Christ Memorial Parish Hall.
“More than anything, I want you to know how grateful I feel. I so look forward to getting to know the Kilauea and North Shore community,” Gae said. “And I give thanks to God that I have been entrusted to be the Pastor at Christ Memorial.”
Info: christmemorialkauai.org or call 482-4824.
