Chris has been rector at St. Paul's and Trinity since June 2011. Chris brings a passion for social justice and the environment and has helped focus attention on the ways in which the congregations live out the marks of mission. This work also happens at the Diocesan level as Chris is a Tri-Chair for Social and Ecological Justice Huron and a founding member and Tri-Chair for Justice League of Huron.
Chris has a creative side that has been described by parishioners as 'you never know what to expect'. A story about the creative ways in which Chris pivoted to online worship early in the pandemic, including preaching while making bread, made the front page of our Diocesan newspaper - Huron Church News. This article subsequently won an award from the "Canadian Christian Communicators"! Those who are curious about what Chris might do next are encouraged to come and see.
Recently, Chris has been named Chaplain to Trans Wellness Ontario as part of the effort to build an intentional relationship between the organisation and St. Paul's.
Hi my friends, my name is Hilton Gomes and I am the Associate Priest at Trinity Anglican Church in Cottam. Originally I am from Brazil. When I was approached by Archdeacon Jane Humphreys who asked me about the possibility of providing pastoral services to Trinity Church Family, my immediate answer was “yes”. As a disciple of Jesus who tries to serve Him with all that I have, I believe that God decides to count on each one of us to continue his mission in this broken, but amazing world. During almost 23 years of ministry which 10 of them have been in the Anglican Church of Canada (Diocese of Huron) I always kept my promise to God to be open to serve where He wants me to serve. I have never said “no” when the Church asked me to do any kind of ministry.
In these 10 years of service in the Diocese of Huron I always had the tireless support of Sandy and our kids - Tyler, Jordin and Kendra (I should say our dogs too, Luna & Kobe… lol). Sandy has been my greatest supporter in my ministry! We have been married for over 10 years. I love being a husband, a father and a priest. I love to serve the Lord.
I am very happy to join you in this journey. I believe that with God guiding our two churches, St. Paul’s (in Essex) and Trinity (in Cottam), with God guiding Rev’d Chris and I, with God guiding us all, we will continue to be a sign of life, light and hope in the heart of Essex county here in Cottam. Come and visit us!
God bless you and your loved ones.
Hilton+