History

The first meeting about an Episcopal church in Orange City, Florida was held in June 1982. There were 21 people present.

St. Jude's Church began Jan. 23, 1983. It was a mission of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Deland, Florida and remained a mission church until 1996. Services were held in a city-owned building adjacent to the Orange City Police Department. Ground breaking ceremonies took place July 15, 1984, and on Nov. 18, 1984, the first services were held. Father William G. Hunt was the first Vicar with membership at 65. The new building was dedicated by Bishop William Fowell on Dec. 8, 1984. In 1986, the Rev. Christopher Young, a retired Naval Chaplain, assumed the role as Vicar. In 1989, the Rev. David Hartling became Vicar until 1994. The Rev. Wayne Neller joined the St. Jude's family in 1994 as the first Rector, and in 1996 parish status was granted. The Rev. Andrew Faust served as rector from 2001-2005. Our present rector is The Rev. Phyllis Bartle.