News & Upcoming Events

After a season of deep prayer and careful listening, the Vestry and Search Committee are thrilled to announce that The Reverend Elizabeth Costello has accepted our call to be the next Rector of Christ Episcopal Church.

Liz will join us from St. Thomas in Medina, Washington (this is a large parish in the Seattle suburbs). However, she is already a 'local' at heart, having previously served at St. John’s Cathedral in Denver and at St. Gregory’s in Littleton.

In our time with her, it became clear that Liz possesses strong experience in church leadership, along with a quiet strength and a grounded, confident faith that perfectly matches our parish profile and needs.

We know our congregation is eager for continued growth, and Liz brings a proven track record in the exact areas we prioritized:

A Champion for Families & Children: Liz has a remarkable gift for building vibrant youth and family ministries. She has spearheaded a new young family worship service at St. Thomas, which has attracted new families, including families from the parish-affiliated school.

A Bridge to the Community: Liz is committed to taking the church beyond the church doors. In our discussions with her, she spoke passionately about becoming a visible presence in the Roaring Fork Valley—whether that’s in our local schools, on the trails, or partnering with community organizations. She sees her 'collar' as an invitation for conversation across the valley.

Intellectual & Liturgical Depth: For those who value the 'Aspen Idea' of nurturing the mind, Liz is a formidable preacher and scholar. With degrees from Duke and Yale, her sermons are intellectually stimulating while remaining deeply personal and rooted in the Gospel.

Pastoral Care: Liz views pastoral care as the core of being a parish priest. Along with a core group of volunteers, she values building and fostering relationships with all parishioners, from those active in outdoor activities to those who are homebound or dealing with illness.

Compassionate Outreach: Her experience is not limited to the sanctuary; she has demonstrated a focus on outreach in her prior parishes. For example, Liz was instrumental in driving the Saint Francis Apartments project in Denver—a $10 million supportive housing complex. She knows how to turn faith into action.

On a personal note, Liz is an avid outdoors enthusiast -- skier, hiker, and cyclist -- who understands the spiritual power of our mountain landscape. She, her husband, and their children are eager to join us and participate in the full life of our community.

Liz’s husband (Joseph Wolyniak) is also an Episcopal priest. Joseph has been working remotely with the Colorado Diocese and will continue to do so. Liz and Joseph have two children (a daughter and son – a 4th grader and 1st grader).

Here’s what Liz asked us to convey to the parish: “I am beyond thrilled to accept this call. I first learned of Christ Church while serving at St. John’s Cathedral and while on vacation. When I first saw your church, I turned to my husband and said, ‘Wow, this would be a dream church to serve!’ Who knew that the wish God planted in my heart would come true? The mix of warm and faithful church members, a heart for growing the church with young families, caring for those inside and outside the church, and a love of the Aspen Idea is incredible. My family and I cannot

wait to meet you all and begin ministry together this summer!”

Liz’s first Sunday with us will be June 14. You will be seeing more information and

communications on Liz and her family in the coming weeks. Also, we all will have an

opportunity to meet Liz in person on Tuesday, March 10th, at the church (Zoom for those who want to join remotely).

Finally, we invite you to pray for our church and for Liz and her family as they transition to Aspen. We are confident that her leadership will guide us into a bold and transformational future.

Eric Pelander, Sr. Warden