The Rev Joseph Smith joined us mid August of 2023. Father Smith was ordained by the Diocese of Upper South Carolina first to the diaconate in June of 2007 and later into the priesthood on February 2, 2008. After a few years as curate with St. Matthew’s in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Smith was called to be the first vicar of St. Christopher’s in Spartanburg.  Much like the churches in the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina, St. Christopher’s also had its troubles with schism which led Bishop Dorsey Henderson to changing them to mission status.  Fr. Smith describes his five years with St. Christopher’s as some of the most fulfilling ministry and has prepared him for his tenure with Saint Francis.  No doubt his nine years at St. Mary’s in Wayne, Pennsylvania, also gave him the experience and confidence to lead the good people of Saint Francis now that they have become a parish.  Father Smith said, “I am so excited to get back to my roots in South Carolina, to be on Edisto Island serving where the Holy Spirit has led. I am excited!”