'Star Wars' was a Formative Movie for this Priest

Name: Patrick Gray

Street: 151 Asbury St. (behind Christ Church)

Family: Wife, Naomi Gray - we just celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary on Nov. 21!  Two kids - Ezra who is eight and in third grade at Cutler, and Ella, who is five at the Christ Church Parish Day School.

Occupation: I'm an Episcopal priest, and the Rector (which basically means Head Pastor) at Christ Church of Hamilton and Wenham.

Hobbies/interests: I wish I had more of them! But being with my family is tons of fun for me, whether it's at the beach with them during the summer or sledding in the winter. We like games in our family, so we do a lot of "gaming," as well.

What are you passionate about? I want people to know Jesus Christ.

What did you study in school? I majored in politics as an undergraduate at Gordon College, but also have theology degrees from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and from General Theological Seminary in New York City.

Are you utilizing this subject now? Well, I like to think my sermons are theological, and I am certainly using my political science degree, since there are plenty of politics in the church!

You forget your cell phone at home - are you stressed? or relieved? Probably stressed, although I like to imagine myself as relieved.

Best book: Is it too obvious to say The Bible?

Best movie: "Star Wars" (I was seven when it came out, so it was pretty formative for me.)

Dream vacation: I met my wife in England, and I always think it would be fun to go back there with her sometime.

Who is your favorite local resident? My wife Naomi, of course.

What obstacle have you over come? Well, I always say, if someone like me can become a priest, anyone can!

What brings you peace? Jesus

What is the coolest thing you have ever done? Well, the best thing I've ever done is marry Naomi, and I definitely think that's pretty cool.

Where is your favorite place on earth? Where my wife and kids are.

Is there a motto you live by? Live the Great Commandments, and fulfill the Great Commission.

How long have you lived in Hamilton-Wenham? Just over three years.

Why did you chose Hamilton-Wenham? I was called to be the priest at Christ Church.

What is your favorite place in Hamilton-Wenham? Any place where there is beer on tap.

Where would someone see you around town? Well, one of the moms at the Christ Church Parish Day School told me that she went to the Black Cow with her daughter, and her daughter said, "Mom, where's Father Patrick?" So I think that pretty much sums it up.

Which local services and programs do you support? Young Life, the Acord Food Pantry and I'm very excited that we will be a "host" church for Family Promise starting this summer.

Hamilton-Wenham is a great community, and we are very excited to be here!