An article for The Cathedral Times
by the Very Rev. Sam Candler, Dean of the Cathedral
November 3, 2024
The Cathedral of St. Philip is calling another new priest: the Rev. Ashley Carr!
Ashley will begin her ministry with us as the Canon for Parish Life, which includes oversight of a broad array of ministries including children, youth, young adults, families, and membership.
Ashley comes to the Cathedral from Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, a congregation in the Diocese of Atlanta that serves adults living with mental illness and in poverty. As the Vicar of Holy Comforter, Ashley worked to embrace the marginalized and privileged alike with love and joy. She quickly realized that while Holy Comforter’s context is unique, the work is the same—love God and love one another. Ashley also serves as interim middle school chaplain at the Lovett School, leading chapel services and guiding students at a critical time of their formation. Prior to her time at Holy Comforter and Lovett, Ashley worked in a variety of parishes across the diocese.
As a native of Sewanee, Tennessee, a graduate of the University of the South, and the daughter of an Episcopal priest, Ashley is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Episcopal Church. After studying at Candler School of Theology, she was ordained to the priesthood in 2015. Whether it’s working with children, young families, or grandparents, Ashley has a deep passion for connecting people under the umbrella of their shared faith. And, whether she’s in the pulpit or at the bedside, at the dinner table or in the classroom, her engaging personality and genuine care for those around her is palpable.
Ashley’s wife, Megan, and two children, Mary Stuart (4) and Shepherd (18 months) will join her at the Cathedral. Megan is a 7th grade science teacher in Decatur. The Carrs live in East Lake with their mutt and three-legged border collie. Ashley is an avid rock climber and, as she puts it, “a mediocre cook.” She and Megan enjoy good restaurants around the city and going to see live music. With the family, they can be found outside, building pillow forts, and camping in their vintage Scamp camper.
Ashley’s first Sunday at the Cathedral will be December 8, the Second Sunday of Advent. But even before that, Ashley will be our preacher at the 36th Annual Homeless Requiem this Friday, November 1. Please join us in welcoming Ashley, Megan, Mary Stuart, and Shepherd to the Cathedral of St. Philip!
The Very Reverend Samuel G. Candler
Dean of the Cathedral of St. Philip