The Very Rev. Christopher D. Hofer became Rector of the Church of St. Jude, Wantagh, on July 15, 2004. Since coming to Wantagh, St. Jude’s average Sunday attendance has grown from 77 persons (June, 2004) to 187 persons (March, 2008) while, at the same time, tripling its active communicants in good standing. With a heart for proclaiming Christ’s Gospel of love to all with an ear to listen, Fr. Christopher has worked with parishioners in examining their mission and ministry and developing ways, whether new or not-so-new, to share the Good News.

Known for his preaching and teaching, Fr. Christopher is often invited to other Episcopal churches to share God’s word through delivering sermons and/or leading retreats. Fr. Christopher is also active in Diocesan affairs serving as Secretary of Convention (and subsequently serving on Diocesan Council and Departments of Council as an ex officio member), Secretary of the Archdeaconry of Nassau, Dean of the South Nassau Deanery, member of the Transition Committee for the Diocese of Long Island Bishop Coadjutor Search, a Diocesan Anti-Racism and SHE/CAP instructor, deputy to General Convention (’09) and also the Provincial Synod (’09). Fr. Christopher is also a participant in the Clergy Leadership Project, Class 23.

Prior to coming to Long Island with his partner, Fr. Christopher was Associate Missioner with the Episcopal West Side Shared Ministry (five Episcopal parishes) in Cleveland, Ohio where he also served on the Board of Trustees for the Episcopal Community Services Foundation and Community Corners. Before attending seminary, Fr. Christopher had a career in marketing and communications where he served as Marketing Director for United Ways in Akron and Canton, Ohio. He lives in Wantagh with Kerry and their dog, Quentin.