Saint Thomas the Apostle

Episcopal Church

Our Clergy and Staff

The Reverend Mike Stone

Rector
Father Mike found and was found in the Episcopal Church after being nourished by myriad stops along the way: ordained Southern Baptist ministry, participation in almost every mainline Christian denomination and study in five differently confessional seminaries, teaching high school math, coaching wrestling, fishing for salmon in Alaska, and being built up by love after having puffed himself up with knowledge. He is the grateful spouse of Rebecca and the proud father of two children, Daniel and Emory, and caretaker of his canine associates, Dora the Newfypoo and Freddie the Irish Wolfhound. A NOLS Wilderness First Responder, Mike enjoys leading outdoor renewal retreats for parishioners and clergy, belaying climbers and rappelers as a Scouts BSA Climbing Director, and trying to make sense of his faith and study as an author. He eccentrically makes soap, mills grain, produces stained glass windows and custom cabinetry, plays the guitar, shops at livestock auctions, paints in watercolor, runs and swims long-distance, is a certified TABC Bartender and Food Manager, and wants to know more about, well everything, especially you!
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From Father Mike

The Reverend Sean Steele

Associate Rector and Program Director of Respite Ministry
The Rev. Sean Steele is an ordained Episcopal priest and "traditioned innovator" focused on reaching those often left out by traditional gatherings. He was founding vicar of St. Isidore in Spring, Texas, after four years as Associate Rector at Trinity in The Woodlands. Originally in finance at UT’s McCombs School of Business, Sean later earned an MA in Theology from Creighton and an MDiv from Seminary of the Southwest. A trained mediator, Licensed Daring Way Facilitator, and ICF Coach, he is currently completing a Doctor of Ministry through Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Sean is married to Rebecca, a professional muralist, and they have three teenage children: Margaret, Sebastian, and Eleanor. Off the clock, he enjoys sports, cigars, and deep conversations with friends, and he’s known for a notable—some might say "unhealthy"—love of tattoos.
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Courtney Whittington

Missioner for Parish Life
Courtney’s first Episcopal church family was at St. Matthias in her hometown of Whittier, California. When she first moved to Houston to begin her work at St. Thomas the Apostle, she felt like she’d found her new home. She served at St. Thomas for 6 years followed by 7 years at Church Pension Group. Courtney is grateful to be rejoining St. Thomas in a new role. Courtney holds a degree in Human Biology from Stanford University. She likes cooperative games, crossword puzzles, and movie nights. She and her husband Brian live in Houston and are proud cat parents of their adorable Bertie.
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Ellen Mastin

BOOKKEEPER AND COMMUNICATOR
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Julie Merritt

Spiritual Director in Residence
Julie is a former pastor and educator, ordained in 2007. After moving to Houston in 2016, she followed her calling into spiritual direction, launching her practice in 2018. As a companion to individuals and groups, Julie helps others deepen their relationship with the Holy, navigate the "alchemy of heartbreak," and hold space for sacred questions. Her practice incorporates spiritual exercises, writing, and dream work. Julie holds a BA in English, a Master of Divinity, and is a graduate of the Haden Institute’s Spiritual Direction and Dream Work programs. She currently mentors future directors at the Haden Institute. In her free time, Julie enjoys shared meals, poetry, and relaxing in a hammock!
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Christine Alexander

Artist in Residence
St. Thomas the Apostle believes art is transcendent, connecting us to beauty, creativity, and wonder. Our Artist in Residence program embodies this commitment, inviting the community to share in creative expression. We are proud to partner with long-time parishioner Christine Alexander as our inaugural resident artist. A master artisan, Christine recently designed and crafted a memorial chapel stained-glass installation. She skillfully blends faith with reason, combining detailed craftsmanship with abstract science and spirituality. In addition to her work on two large glass arrays, Christine provides oversight and connection to the greater Houston arts community, coordinating rotating exhibitions for our church and school. Her tenure ensures St. Thomas continues to celebrate the awe and wonder of the arts.
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Garmon Ashby

Music Director
Garmon grew up in South Africa, the son of Anglican missionary parents. After serving as Director of Music at the Diocesan College, Cape Town, and Director of the Cape Town Symphony Chorus for a number of years, he accepted a scholarship to study a Masters in Choral Conducting at Yale. After his studies there he was called to be Music Director at a large Episcopal parish in Tucson, Arizona, before moving to Houston, where he is Chair of the Performing Arts Department at the Episcopal High School. He was appointed Director of Music at St. Thomas in 2011.
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