The Reverand A. Ryes (pronounced "Rise") is a trailblazer in Zachary. She is not only St. Patrick Episcopal Church's first Black Rector, but their first female Rector as well! After the departure of their longtime Rector several years ago, the congregation has been praying and looking for new leadership. "The process of discernment for a new Rector is collaborative between the congregation and the priest," explains Mother Ryes, "St. Patrick's was looking for someone with a heart for hospitality, and that aligned with my vision for ministry as well."  Mother Ryes, a New Orleans native, was recently ordained after an early career spent in education. In order to obtain ordination, a Priest must have a Parish. 

"I looked at the Zachary community and St. Patrick's itself and knew it would be a good fit." Part of that discernment came from the fact that St. Patrick's has a day school, which, as Rector, would fall under Mother Ryes' ministry obligations. Before becoming a Priest, The Rev. Ryes was an educator for twenty years. "I see my role as helping with the spiritual formation of the children through weekly chapel, but also as a minister to all of the families. I get to know the parents and will minister to them when they're doing school drop off or pick up. I want them to feel as though they have a place where they can be spiritually cared for, even if they're not a part of the Episcopal Church."

St. Patrick's Day School is still accepting enrollment for the 24/25 school year. The school features several programs including a preschool for ages 3 months to 4 years and before and after school care and camps for ages 5 to 14. 

· PRESCHOOL: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K-3, & Pre-K-4, Ages 3 months to 4 years old
· ELEMENTARY: Before/After/Early Release/Holiday Care, Ages 5 to 14 years old
· ELEMENTARY: Summer Camp Ages 5 to 14 years old

The Episcopal Church, part of the global Anglican Communion, traces its roots to the Church of England while maintaining independence established after the American Revolution. Its services follow a liturgical style based on the Book of Common Prayer, featuring structured elements like prayers, Scripture readings, hymns, and Eucharist celebrations. The church embodies the Anglican "via media," balancing Catholic and Protestant traditions in its theology and practices.

In this way, it is likely to feel welcoming and familiar regardless of whether you're coming to services with a Catholic or Protestant background. If you're curious about learning more, you're in luck! St Patrick's is hosting a fall "Novemberfest" during the first week of November where you can come tour the sanctuary and school as well as enjoy food, fun, crafts, and games. 

This is to be a condensed version of the month-long fall festival that they've held in the past. "I am excited to use the event to meet more people in the community," says Mother Ryes. If you've been curious about what's happening at St. Pat's, are looking for a fun Fall activity, or just want to swing by to say hello, mark the date in your calendar now! St. Patrick's has always been a place for community and hospitality, and we can't wait to see how that tradition continues and grows under the leadership of their new Rector! 

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