May 7, 2024
Dear Good People of St. David’s,
It is with pleasure that we announce our new Rector, the Rev. Richard “Rick” Morley of St. Mark’s Church in Basking Ridge, NJ. Rick has served St. Mark’s since 2009 and during his tenure has revitalized the congregation, founded a community garden that provides over five thousand pounds of food to local food banks, mentored new clergy, overseen capital campaigns and improvements, and created Anglican community resources for both confirmation and praying the Anglican rosary. He has grown stewardship and shepherded his congregation successfully through COVID-19, managing to grow despite the pandemic.
Rick impressed our discernment committee with his calm and caring nature and impressive preaching – without notes. When they presented him to the Vestry for consideration, we were told repeatedly how loved he was by his congregation and how genuine his connection was with them: how gifted he was pastorally. This was something that could not be captured in a resume or a bio; it had to be felt. We understood what they meant once we met him and our hope is that you will, too. He understands the work at St. David’s includes, more than anything, getting to know and love us. He comes prepared to listen as well as lead.
Rick has a dedicated prayer life and is known to keep a successful work/life balance. He makes time for daily prayer and a yearly retreat and is adept at delegating tasks to help keep his time for this reflection and self-care available to him. He works closely with his wardens and Vestry on projects for his church and hopes to continue that at St. David’s. He works on podcasts and videos to bring his love of God to a wider audience. He enjoys home brewing, keeping chickens, woodworking, and tennis.
Rick grew up a United Methodist in Ocean City, NJ and his then girlfriend, now wife, introduced him to The Episcopal Church in college. He has a BA in psychology from St. Joseph’s University and a Master of Divinity from The Candler School of Theology at Emory University. He is married to Karen, who is a licensed social worker, and is the father to Zoe, a junior in college, and Mattie, a junior in high school.
We look very forward to introducing Rick and all the Morleys to you in person in late August. Until then, please continue to remember them in your prayers.
Yours in Christ,
The Vestry of St. David’s
Alison Hastings, Rector’s Warden