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Nov 09, 2018

Blake Rider Named New Transition Minister

The Rev. Wm. Blake Rider has been named Diocesan Transition Minister for the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, the Bishop's office announced today. Rider will return to the Diocese of Texas and join the staff in the position currently held by the Rev. Francene Young, who will retire at the end of January.

Young will continue to serve as rector of St. Luke the Evangelist in Houston as well as chair of the Commission on Ministry. 

Rider comes with a depth of experience in diocesan and congregational ministry. Most recently, Blake served as Canon to the Ordinary in the Diocese of New York for five years, assisting the Rt. Rev. Andy Dietsche in the development and execution of a strategic plan that resulted in a reorganization of the bishop's staff and diocesan structure.

Prior to attending Virginia Theological Seminary (2001-2004) Rider was an active layperson in Houston area parishes for more than 20 years, attending St. John the Divine, Church of the Epiphany, St. Stephen's, Houston; as well as Christ the King, Alief. He was sponsored to the priesthood by St. Stephen's. Prior to attending seminary he worked in the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma and Texas, Karachi, Pakistan and Tunisia.

Rider is a native of Oklahoma and a member of the Cherokee Nation. He received his undergraduate education at Oral Roberts University.