St. Stephen Welcomes New Pastor

Fort Worth, Texas – St. Stephen Presbyterian Church is pleased to welcome The Rev. Dr. Elizabeth J. Callender as its new pastor. Grace Presbytery approved Callender on Saturday, May 4, after unanimous congregational approval on April 21. Her installation will be held on Sunday, June 9, at 2:00 p.m.

St. Stephen has been a spiritual beacon in the TCU neighborhood, just south of downtown, since 1950. Following the departure of The Rev. Dr. Fritz Ritsch in mid-2022, St. Stephen embarked on a thorough and thoughtful search for its next Minister of Word and Sacrament. Callender served as the Interim Pastor since the fall of 2023 and, after a few months, was invited to apply for the installed position following the PC(USA) search process.

“I look forward to working alongside the faithful people of St. Stephen to enrich and initiate effective ministries that fulfill the mission of the church. Eager for new possibilities and collaborations, we seek to grow as followers of Jesus Christ, strengthening community bonds through service and fostering an inclusive community where all are welcome, even as we honor cherished St. Stephen traditions,” Callender said. 

Callender earned a Master of Divinity (with a concentration in Systematic Theology) from Princeton Theological Seminary and was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in May 2010. Beginning doctoral studies at The University of St. Andrews in Scotland, she completed her Ph.D. in Systematic Theology at The University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. 

She served as the pastor of Bentwood Trail Presbyterian Church in Dallas before joining Grace Presbytery as Director of Ministry Development. Serving as a resource for churches and pastors in transitions, preparation, and ministry, she also helped to develop programs for social justice and commissioned pastors.

Callender’s installation marks an exciting time for St. Stephen Presbyterian Church as the congregation looks toward the future with renewed hope to serve the Fort Worth community. St. Stephen celebrates God’s love through liturgical worship, theological curiosity, mission, and an intentionally inclusive community.