Welcome New Clergy in Pauma Valley

The Rev. Michael Carr began as priest-in-charge of St. Francis, Pauma Valley in June of this year. He wrote this biography to help you get to know him.

“I was raised in Fort Worth, Texas. I am the only one of three brothers who has left the state. After receiving a bachelor’s in psychology at Texas Christian University, I went straight to Nashotah House, the Episcopal seminary in Wisconsin. My wife, Kelly, and I met there when she came to visit her parents. We married in 1980 at All Saints’, Vista and then lived for two years in the seminary’s married student cubicles, known as the flats. In 1982 I graduated, was ordained deacon and was called as curate to St. John’s, Chula Vista. Later that year I was ordained priest there.

After some time there, I was called to work with youth at the Episcopal Church of our Savior in San Gabriel. From there I was elected rector at St. Bede’s in the Mar Vista area of Los Angeles. After that we moved to Lake Arrowhead where I was vicar of St. Richard’s from 1989-1994. I sure enjoyed the mountain communities and even volunteered with the schools to teach children to snow ski. I was able to have two of our kids learn in my classes there; our youngest Benjamin learned later when were in Washington. We were in Port Angeles, Washington for 12 years before being called back to San Diego to minister at All Saints’, Vista.

Our eldest child, Aaron, is married and a practicing massage therapist in Caldwell, Idaho. He and his wife, Jessica, recently purchased their first home there. Next in line, Sarah, works with prosthetics and orthotics and is currently in Virginia with her Coast Guard husband, Derek. Our youngest son, Benjamin, who just turned 26, moved back to Washington and bought a house in Bellingham. He is a computer programmer and engaged to Rebecca Dolan.

I still get out to snow ski as often as I can. I enjoy walking with Kelly and lifting weights and in the morning. I am rebuilding a ‘67 Camaro convertible and still do most of my own vehicle maintenance. After retirement from All Saints’, I worked as a handyman with my father-in-law for a few years. Some called us the fixin’ friars. I fly fish and camp when I get the chance to go up to the Sierras. Also I attempt to play golf.

I enjoy preaching from the midst of the congregation and after over 30 years I might finally be getting the hang of it. When asked what I consider to be my successes in ministry, I often point to the visitation of those home bound or in need. I have been allowed to share many important moments in people’s lives. St. Francis is a wonderfully accepting and grace-filled congregation. We look to have a great relationship in Christ.”

Welcome to Pauma Valley, Father Carr!