The Rev. Spencer Reece, an Episcopal priest and acclaimed poet, recently delivered a sermon in Wickford, Rhode Island, that drew inspiration from the natural world, specifically the flight patterns of starlings. He described the phenomenon known as murmuration, where flocks of starlings move in a fluid, coordinated manner across the sky, likening their unity to the teachings of the Apostle Paul. “They fly in one mass of love,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of community in faith.
Reece, who has served as vicar at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church since 2022, has revitalized the congregation through innovative programs and outreach efforts. Under his leadership, regular attendance has surged to approximately 150 parishioners, with a renewed children’s program now enrolling 15 youngsters. His approach to ministry is collaborative, reflecting his belief that true leadership in the church is about serving others rather than exercising authority.
“Church is collaborative because that’s what Jesus did that was so revolutionary,” Reece explained in a recent interview. He articulated a vision for church renewal that seeks to bridge the gap between secular society and spiritual community. “The power of church is community-building, and the future of the church relies on how it connects with the world around it,” he said.
Reece’s journey to the priesthood has been marked by personal challenges and artistic exploration. Born in Hartford and raised in Minneapolis, he faced significant struggles as a closeted gay youth. These experiences, along with battles with alcoholism and suicidal thoughts, are chronicled in his memoir, The Secret Gospel of Mark: A Poet’s Memoir, published in March 2021. He found solace in poetry, discovering the works of Sylvia Plath and Elizabeth Bishop, which inspired him to embrace writing as a means of healing and self-discovery.
After studying at Bowdoin and then transferring to Wesleyan University, he took a writing class with Annie Dillard, igniting his passion for poetry. The influence of 17th-century poets like George Herbert and John Donne further shaped his understanding of spirituality and community, with Herbert’s works particularly resonating with him. “This poem looked directly at me… and in confidence said, ‘Over here! Welcome. You are loved,’” Reece recalled, emphasizing the transformative power of love in faith.
Reece’s path led him to Harvard Divinity School, where he initially aimed to become a hospital chaplain. His experiences in a Level 1 trauma center profoundly impacted his commitment to serving vulnerable populations. “Being exposed to the gang violence and the murdered young Black boys changed the course of my life,” he said, underscoring the urgent need for compassion in his ministry.
Fluency in Spanish, acquired during a three-month immersion program in Honduras, allowed him to connect deeply with communities in need. His work at Our Little Roses orphanage, a refuge for girls from troubled backgrounds, further solidified his calling. Reece later published a collection titled Counting Time Like People Count Stars: Poems by the Girls of Our Little Roses, highlighting the voices of the young poets he mentored.
After years abroad, including a decade in Madrid where he established the Unamuno Author Series, Reece returned to the U.S. in 2020. He has since continued to write and publish poetry, with works like The Road to Emmaus released in 2014 and a forthcoming collection expected soon. His artistic endeavors also include a book of watercolors, All the Beauty Still Left: A Poet’s Painted Book of Hours, which features quotes from influential figures.
Reece remains optimistic about the role of organized religion in today’s society. He advocates for creativity and adaptability within congregations, suggesting that churches must embrace entrepreneurial approaches to foster engagement. “There is a place for mainline, organized religion… a place that assures us we are loved,” he stated, while also acknowledging the need for innovation in ministry.
His recent sermon drew parallels between the beauty of starling murmurations and the call to love and connection within the Christian community. “Bless everyone you can think of until you can’t think straight,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of collective love and action during challenging times.
As Reece continues to weave his artistic and spiritual pursuits, his message resonates deeply, offering hope and encouragement to those seeking solace and community in a complex world.
