The story of St. Francis Parish begins with the Universalist Society, which first gathered in Stamford in 1776. In 1834, the Society built what we now call the Historic Church in the heart of Long Ridge Village. Designed in the popular Greek Revival style, the building’s four-column façade and classic proportions made it an enduring landmark—one that remains a beloved part of the neighborhood’s character today.
By the early 1940s, the Universalist congregation had dwindled, leaving the church unused. During World War II, gas rationing made it difficult for local Episcopalians to travel into Stamford for worship. In response, a group of residents, led by Mrs. Harlan Logan, partnered with St. John’s Episcopal Church and the Universalist Society to use the building for local Episcopal services.
In 1945, sisters Mrs. Howard Gilmour and Mrs. Lucie Newton purchased the church and generously donated it to the Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut. That Christmas Eve, the first Episcopal service was celebrated in the Historic Church—marking the birth of the Mission of St. Francis.
Over the following decades, the St. Francis community flourished with the following rectors: The Rev. George W. Chidester (1947 - 1959), The Rev. Edward W. Mills (1959 - 1965), and The Rev. Robert M. Dresser (1965 - 1977). In the 1960s, the parish acquired additional land and built Assisi Hall in 1968. Under the leadership of The Rev. Richard Mayberry (who served from 1978 to 2007), the Historic Church was expanded in 1984 while preserving its original beauty. A new worship space was begun in August, 1999, and completed in June, 2000 - a modern church designed for both reverence and exceptional acoustics.
In 2008, the sanctuary was further enhanced with a custom Konzelman electric action pipe organ, which continues to enrich our worship and musical events.
The Rev. Mark Lingle joined St. Francis in 2002, became Priest-in-Charge in 2008, and was installed as Rector in 2016. Deeply engaged in community service, he helped found the Interfaith Social Ministry Collaborative, which continues to thrive today. Mark served as Rector until 2024, when he returned to his Lutheran roots. St. Francis remains an active and committed member of the Collaborative.
Our search for a Rector lasted nearly a year, and during that time, we were truly blessed to have The Rev. Dr. Linda Spiers serving as our priest. She not only led us faithfully in worship but also became so much more than a “supply priest.” Through her care, wisdom, and leadership, she became a deeply valued part of our community.
We were thrilled to welcome The Rev. Joe Rose as our new Rector on October 1, 2025 and celebrated his officially becoming our rector on November 23, 2025! Joe, as he prefers to be called, is a spirit-led and down-to-earth leader whose warmth, thoughtful approach, and powerful preaching inspire all who hear him.
From its humble beginnings to the present day, St. Francis continues to be a vibrant spiritual home—grounded in history, open to renewal, and dedicated to serving God, one another, and the broader community. All our welcome at St Francis!