Since our beginning in 1820 as Charlottesville’s first church, Christ Church has proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ. Each week we hope to communicate the love of God summarized so powerfully by St. Paul in his letter to the Romans: “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

This gospel message is for one and all and is the foundation of our life at Christ Church.Our mission statement is simple: PREACH THE GOSPEL, LOVE PEOPLE, TRUST GOD. Everything we do is centered around the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the radical acceptance that flows from God’s self-sacrifice for us. The cross and resurrection show us that we can totally trust God with our lives.The Bible tells us that God ALWAYS cares. God is always ready to listen. No detail is too small. Yet, sometimes, it is helpful to have someone else on whom to “cast your cares” as well. To be known and to be loved by another brings help, hope and healing into the worst situations. We at Christ Church stand ready to listen to you and pray for you. We are here, and we care.

We are so glad you are here. Please be in touch with me if I can be of help in any way.

Paul Walker, Rector 

HISTORY OF CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Christ Church was founded in 1820 by a congregation led by its first Rector, Frederick Hatch. The first organized congregational worship occurred on November 27th 1825, the first Sunday of Advent. In 1826 and after a $200 donation from Thomas Jefferson, construction of the original church building was completed. Our current building dates to 1898 with the installation of the Tiffany stained glass windows soon following. Meade Hall and the church towers were built in 1929- St. Anne’s Chapel and the Carillon in 1941. The Carillion played for the first time on Christmas Eve in 1947 and is the only Carillion in the state of Virginia housed in a church.

To learn more about our staff and vestry please visit see our staff page.