The Rev. Mark Wastler

Mark’s position as University Chaplain embodies the founding vision of St. Paul’s Memorial Church at the University of Virginia—college ministry rooted in a thriving local congregation. Chaplaincy at St. Paul’s involves lots of opportunities for student engagement: frequent gatherings, meals, worship experiences, retreats, pastoral care, and Bible study, just to name a few. In keeping with the original vision, students are also an integral part of all aspects of parish life. Additionally, as Associate Rector, Mark provides staff oversight of our Adult Formation programming, regularly preaches in Sunday worship, provides pastoral care, and takes a leadership role in liturgy planning.

Mark came to St. Paul’s in the fall of 2018 after having spent a decade farming in the Shenandoah Valley. With the help of a team of draft horses, he made hay, raised grass-fed sheep and cattle, and grew a wide variety of organic vegetables. A native of Thurmont, Maryland, Mark was ordained in 1999 and has served parishes in Massachusetts, Annapolis, and Sharpsburg, Maryland. Mark has also done conservation education and outreach for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Soil and Water Conservation District. His agrarian roots run deep and he continues to farm in western Albemarle County.