Meet Our People

Meet our Rector - The Rev’d. Gretchen Sanders Grimshaw

I am delighted to be here at St. Paul’s as the Rector.  I began my tenure on Palm Sunday, 2008 and shared an amazingly deep and connected Holy Week with this wonderful community. My basic theological orientation is grounded in the notion of the God-given dignity of all of humanity and all of creation. And I see my role in this parish and this world to be one who lifts the dignity and the image of God that is already etched on every human heart to the surface of every human life in the service of justice and peace and compassion. My ministry itself is informed primarily by my respect for the dignity of every human being and all of creation, a passion for God, a love of beauty and justice and joy, and a steadfast sense of humor.

Prior to my arrival at St. Paul’s, I served for three years at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Jamaica Plain (as was the Associate Rector for the last year), and for the last 9 months of its organizational life as the Executive Director of the Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry - as marriage equality was achieved in Massachusetts on June 14, 2007, praise God! Prior to my enrollment in seminary in 1999, I spent 15 years in retail advertising and marketing. In 1998 I resigned my position as Corporate Vice President of Advertising for Filene’s Department Stores to start my own publishing company, specializing in theology and ethics. And in January of 2007 I was ordained to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church…never say never.

I have an M. Div. from the Episcopal Divinity School (2004), an ALM in History from Harvard University Extension School (2004), and a BA in Humanities from Smith College (1983).

I live in Watertown, MA with my partner of 19 years and our two seven-year-old Golden Retrievers, Archie and Diva (with a long i). And I count among my most treasured blessings Timbre Cowboy, a gorgeous young energetic Thoroughbred, and Patience, a seasoned speed demon of a Quarterhorse trail mare. And each of my beloveds serve to remind me, every day, among other things, that there is no such thing as impossible.

If you have any questions about St. Paul’s or would like to talk about joining our community, please contact me. I would be delighted to know more about what you are seeking in and offering to God.

Rector's Office Hours
The rector is in the office and available by appointment on Tuesday and Wednesday from 11am-3pm and Thursday from 2pm-6pm. Other times are available upon request. Email gsgrimshaw@parishofstpaul.org or call the church office at 617-527-6642 to arrange a time to meet. Messages are checked daily.

Meet our Staff 

Church Office Hours:  Tuesday - Friday 10:00am - 2:00pm
Parish Administrator: Carolyn Hoogendoorn
Church Sexton: Al Totten

Click here for more information about the Vestry of St. Paul's.