The Rev. Ernest M. Galaz

The Rev. Ernest M. Galaz has served as the rector of Christ Church, Media since 2018 and is the Co-Chair of the Diocesan Anti-Racism Commission. Prior to Christ Church, Ernie was the Rector of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Nogales, Arizona for five years. 

Ernie took up his path of priesthood after a long career as an educator. He has a B.A. in Elementary Education from The University of Arizona, and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Prescott College.  From 1985 through 2012, he held successive positions as an elementary and middle school teacher, a middle school assistant principal, and then an elementary school principal.  As a school principal, Ernie oversaw a learning community with hundreds of students, teachers and other staff, and a sizeable budget. 

Ernie has a deep love for the study of theology, and is also steeped in contemplative prayer and practices.  He presently is nearing completion of a course of study with Father Richard Rohr, through which Ernie finds he can “deepen contemplative practice and ways of seeing to ground my action in the world from a place of love and acceptance.” Ernie describes his vision of spirituality and leadership as “living into the belovedness for which God created me in Christ. “ He calls others to do the same, and “strive[s] to be a servant leader—engaging, equipping and empowering others to live into their belovedness and become servant leaders themselves.” 

Ernie has two grown children, one of whom lives in Philadelphia. He and his wife Elizabeth enjoy exploring Media, especially nearby hiking spots like Ridley Creek State Park. ​