The Rev. Randy Kyle Callender, born in the City of Philadelphia to a tight-knit family from the Island of Barbados, has always been deeply passionate about the Episcopal Church. From his early years, he immersed himself in church life, participating in Diocesan events and engaging with organizations like the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE), where he held leadership roles in youth and young adult ministries.
Randy pursued his education at Voorhees College in Denmark, South Carolina, and later transferred to Cheyney University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communications in 2007. He continued his academic journey at The Episcopal Divinity School (EDS) in Cambridge, MA, where he received
his Masters of Divinity in 2010. Ordained as a transitional deacon on June 5, 2010, Randy made history on January 22, 2011, as the first African American male priest to be ordained in the Diocese of Pennsylvania in twenty-five years. His journey led him to serve as the Rector at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Annapolis, MD, starting on July 1, 2012, until January of 2024.
In 2024, Randy was called to serve as the Canon for Mission in the Diocese of Maryland, furthering his commitment to youth, racial reconciliation, and building bridges within and beyond the church. Throughout his ministry, Randy has been actively involved in various committees and initiatives at both the diocesan and national levels, including the Commission on Ministry, the Standing Committee, and the Bishop Search Committee.
Beyond his church duties, Randy has contributed his expertise to initiatives like the Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) and the One America Movement, where he served as a consultant for the Faith Over Division program, addressing societal divides in congregations and communities. Randy sees his ministry as a calling to build relationships and create a welcoming space for all in God’s Beloved Community. He is married to Katya and is the proud father of two children, Jaivyn and Soraya.