Mary Ann Huston '78 is new curate at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Houston

The Rev. Mary Ann Huston, ordained deacon in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas on June 15, has joined the clergy at St. Mark's Episcopal Church as curate, the newest clergy assistant to the rector. She recently preached her first sermon at St. Mark's.

Huston received her Master of Divinity from Seminary of the Southwest in Austin in 2010. She has worked as a hospital chaplain and as Interim Coordinator of Adult Christian Formation at Austin's Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.

"We're thrilled to have Mary Ann at St. Mark's," said the Rev. Patrick J. Miller, rector of the parish. "She brings us exceptional capabilities. She'll work with parishioners in the Welcome Ministry, overseeing welcome events and working with the lay committee to develop an overall strategy of welcome, inclusion, and involvement in the parish. In addition, she'll oversee adult formation, including Sunday classes and possible mid-week offerings."

Liturgically, Huston will preach in rotation and will serve as deacon in a variety of liturgical settings. After being ordained to the priesthood, she will continue to preach and will serve as celebrant during Sunday and mid-week Eucharists. She will also participate occasionally in Chapel for St. Mark's Episcopal School.

"I'm delighted to be a part of the life of St. Mark's," Huston said. "It's a great community with lots going on, and I invite anyone looking for a church home to come join us."

In addition to her M.Div., Huston holds a bachelor's in anthropology and music from Grinnell College and a master's in anthropology from the University of Washington. Her professional experience before entering religious studies includes service as field archaeologist for Montana State University and chief of archaeological survey for the Iowa State Historic Preservation Office. She and her husband, Michael, have two adult children.