St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Chesterfield

Who We Are

Who We Are

St. Barnabas is a community rooted in the
Episcopal tradition — a place where thoughtful faith, meaningful worship, and genuine hospitality come together. We believe church should be a place of belonging, not judgment; of questions as much as answers; and of open hearts and open minds.

Our worship blends historic liturgy with a
warm, unpretentious spirit. You'll find beautiful, reverent services alongside a community that genuinely cares about one another and about our neighbors in North Chesterfield.

What to Expect

What to Expect When You Visit:&nbsp;<span>A friendly welcome.</span>

What to Expect When You Visit: A friendly welcome.

* Greeters and fellow parishioners will be glad to help you find your way, answer questions, and introduce you to the community.

*Meaningful worship. Our services follow the Book of Common Prayer, combining tradition with warmth and accessibility for newcomers.

*No pressure.** Come as you are. Sit where you like. Participate as much or as little as feels right for you.

- **Coffee and conversation.** We typically gather after worship for fellowship — a great way to meet people and ask questions.

Our History

Our History

Our patron saint is St. Barnabas, “Son of Encouragement.” Barnabas was instrumental in the spread of Christianity to the Jews and Gentiles. He was always there to encourage churches and individuals who were facing difficult times. We consider ourselves the “Sons and Daughters of Encouragement,” encouraging each other in our personal lives, in issues we face as a church, and in reaching out to help meet the needs of our community.

Founding and Early Years
  • January 1960: A plea was made to the Diocese of Southern Virginia to establish an Episcopal church in South Richmond near Broad Rock Road.
  • The first meeting took place at the Manchester Rescue Squad House on February 21, 1960.
  • The congregation initially met at Hening Elementary School while construction began.
🏗️ Establishment and Naming
    📈 Growth and Development
    • 1962: Trustees were elected, and additional land was bought for$18,500.
    • The Diocese approved St. Barnabas as an organized mission, with the Rev. Mat Taylor as priest‑in‑charge.
    • The present church building was completed in April 1963.
    🙏 Parish Status and Leadership
    • 1966: St. Barnabas attained parish status.
    • The Rev. John Rivers became the first rector, serving until 1972, when he left to become Rector of St. Dunstan’s in Washington, D.C.
    🙌 Leadership Transitions
    • Rev. Robert Hamilton became the second rector in 1973, focusing on youth ministry before leaving in 1975 to study at Duke University.
    • Rev. Charles L. Johnson succeeded him in 1976. Under his leadership, the 1979 Prayer Book was adopted, and baptized children began receiving the Eucharist. He later assisted Bishop Lewis in the Diocese of Virginia.
    • Rev. Uly H. Gooch became the fourth rector in 1982. During his tenure:
      • The parish hall was added and a bell tower erected.
      • A Memorial Garden was established for ashes of loved ones.
      • Original clear glass windows were replaced with stained glass, designed by parishioners and interpreted by Dr. Bragg and Dr. Allen.
      • Father Gooch retired in 1994.
    🪟 Artistic and Structural Enhancements
    • Rev.William Queen became the fifth  rector in 1997.
    • Stained glass installations were completed by 1998.
    • The brick house on Iron Bridge Road was converted into St. Barnabas House, serving as a transitional home for homeless women and children through the Daughters of Zelophehad ministry.
    ✝️ Modern Era 
    Rev. Rodney E. Gordon arrived in December 2002, first as priest‑in‑charge.
    • He then became the sixth rector in December2003.
    ✝️ Continued Leadership and Ministry
    • Rev Gordon's leadership emphasized shared ministry, encouraging collaboration among the wardens, vestry, and priest.
    • This approach marked a shift toward a more community‑driven model of church governance and spiritual life.
    🌿 Legacy and Ongoing Mission 
      The church’s history reflects a pattern of growth, adaptation, and service, from its founding in 1960 through successive rectors who expanded facilities, enhanced worship spaces, and deepened outreach.
      • Rev. Deborah T. Rankin arrived in 2022 as our Priest-In-Charge. She along with the Vestry and Parishioners continue to serve the Lord and our community by investing and growing outreach activities.
      • We hope and pray, to serve the Lord God, and to fulfill Jesus Commandments to Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength; and to Love your neighbor as yourself.

      Meet Our Team