The Rev. Kara Leslie

Welcome the Rev. Kara Leslie

Rector of The Episcopal Church of the Messiah

Kara grew up in Lubbock, Texas, and has degrees from Emory University (BA in sociology), Texas Tech University (Masters in Educational Psychology), Candler School of Theology at Emory University (Master of Divinity), and Bexley Seabury Seminary (Diploma in Anglican Studies). 

Kara was originally a United Methodist Pastor and was ordained to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church in 2006. As a priest, she was on the staff at St. Mathew’s Cathedral and Church of the Transfiguration, both in Dallas. Kara then moved to the Lubbock area and served as a supply priest for various parishes all over the panhandle. For the last 6 years, Kara has been at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Waco working with Pastoral Care and various other ministries. 

Kara has worked as a Board Certified Chaplain for almost 20 years, working in both the hospital setting and hospice care. Also, she is a Certified Spiritual Director and has a small private practice as a counselor.

Kara is very proud of her three children. Blair is a Senior and Kris and Jake are both Juniors at All Saint’s Episcopal School in Lubbock Texas. 

Kara enjoys playing tennis, dancing, and baking. She will preside and preach for the first time on July 13th, of this year.