Staff | stmarys

The Revd. Sylvester O. Ekunwe, Rector

Fr. Sylvester Ekunwe (Pronounced E Conway), grew up in Nigeria and after graduating from a
teacher’s college, began his career there as a teacher. A few years later, he immigrated to the
U.S. and earned a degree in Computer Science. He worked in many technical fields and taught
computer science to students in parochial schools.
In 2006, he answered a call to ordained ministry and acquired his training at New Brunswick
Theological Seminary, New Brunswick, NJ and later, at Church Divinity School of the Pacific,
Berkeley, CA for his Anglican Studies. He was ordained a Priest in June 2017 by the Rt. Revd.
Mark M. Beckwith, 10th Bishop, Diocese of Newark. Fr. Ekunwe has served St. George’s
Episcopal Church, Maplewood, NJ; Epiphany and Christ Church, Orange, NJ and most
recently at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Newark, NJ as the 5th Vicar.
During his ministry, he has collaborated in many initiatives such as GED Program for new
immigrants, facilitating Voter’s registration program, Youth and Young Adults’ mentorship
the program, Community Garden for fresh vegetables, a member of Faith-In-Action of New Jersey
and many more uplifting programs geared towards social justice and equality.
He is married to Faith Oviasuyi and parents to three children – Osarugue ‘Rebecca’,
Osakweyo and Esohe ‘Grace’.
Fr. Ekunwe is a strong believer in our Lord Jesus Christ and Christ’s message of the gift of
salvation to all. He is poised to preach Christ’s Gospel and serve Christ in all persons.
Fr. Ekunwe’s passion includes singing, connecting with people in the community, and working
with them on how to build a better and safe neighborhood. He prides himself in his open-door
policy.

Darcy A. Dyer, Organist, and Choir Master

Paige Gunther, Parish Administrator

Bruce Biggins, Sexton

Wardens: Mark Oyelaja & Jody Stoll

Vestry: Mr. Gabriel Adetoro, Mrs. Blessing Emeka-Ikpegbu, Ms. Joana Marshall, Mrs. Elisa Di Simone, Mr. David Jumbo, Mr. Dayo Owotomo, Mr. Frank Winter.
OFFICERS: Clerk: Mrs. Elisa Di Simone Treasurer: Mrs. Cathy Carlson.

DIRECTOR OF BUILDINGS, GROUNDS & STEWARDSHIP: Mr. Robert Campbell

St. Mary's Altar Society: Andrea Horsford-Dumas, Directress

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