Thomas (Tommy) C. Drake IV

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! As I write this, my heart is full of joy and anticipation. I am deeply honored and grateful to join you as your new Rector. I look forward to settling into the office after the first of the year and beginning this new chapter of ministry together.

I am inspired by your vibrant ministries and your deep commitment to serving the Outer Banks community. Your witness to God’s love, expressed in acts of compassion, justice, and welcome, shines brightly. It is a privilege to join you in this holy work—to serve as your priest, to walk alongside you in faith, and to discern together what the Holy Spirit has in store for us.

My first Sunday with you will be January 12, the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord.  This feast day is significant as it represents the beginning of a new ministry, a reminder of the promises we share in baptism and the journey we embark on together in faith.

Chris and I are both excited to become part of the All Saints family. We have already felt the warmth of your welcome and look forward to getting to know each of you, sharing stories, and building relationships that will enrich our shared journey.  We are eager to embrace the rhythms of life here and the joy of being part of this remarkable community of faith.

In the weeks and months ahead, I hope we will find many opportunities to listen, dream, and grow together. The Holy Spirit is always at work, inviting us into new possibilities and deeper connections with God, each other, and our neighbors. I am excited to explore these opportunities with you and to discover how we might continue to live into God’s call with creativity, courage, and love.

Please know that my prayers are with you as we prepare for this new season of ministry. I ask for your prayers as well—for me, for Chris, and for all that God is bringing to life in and through All Saints.

May this Advent season fill your hearts with hope and anticipation, and may the coming of Christ draw us ever closer to God’s dream for the world.

With gratitude and great joy,

Faithfully yours in Christ,

Thomas (Tommy) C. Drake IV
Rector-Elect
All Saints Episcopal Church