Who We Are
At St. Raphael’s, we are a community rooted in healing, hope, and hospitality, serving both residents and visitors of Fort Myers Beach. While we are an Episcopal congregation, our identity extends beyond denominational boundaries. Our church family includes people from diverse religious backgrounds—as well as those exploring faith for the first time.
We believe that God is always calling us into something new. Our worship reflects this conviction, gathering us in grace, fueling our spirits, and sending us forth in love and service to our community. At St. Raphael’s, ALL are truly welcome.
Our Mission and Values
Our Mission
Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, we exist to be a beacon of Healing, Hope, and Hospitality on Fort Myers Beach
Our Vision
Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, we are committed to nurturing spiritual growth, fostering a sense of belonging, and serving our community with compassion.
Our Staff and Lay Leadership
Rev. Michael Rowe
Rev. Michael Rowe is a Canadian native, educated at McGill, Oxford and Sewanee. He has served as parish priest within the Anglican and Episcopal communities across North America and the Caribbean, includes positions in Montreal, Bermuda, Maine, and Southwest Florida.
In 2005, Fr. Rowe accepted the call to become the rector of St. Mary & #39;s Episcopal Church in Bonita Springs, Florida and served there until retiring in 2020. Inheriting a parish with strong outreach, he emphasized glorifying God in worship and growth in spiritual engagement and depth. After his retirement from St. Mary’s, Fr. Rowe served as interim at St. Luke’s, Fort Myers for a year and then accepted a call from St. Raphael’s Church to serve as our priest-in-charge in 2024.
Kathleen Pignato
Kathleen Pignato is our music director. She has been with us for over a year and has provided wonderful music in whatever venue we may be in at the time. Here she is playing the harp outside when we were in the tent. She has also played the keyboard for us at the shrimp docks under a tent or on a dock.
Charles A. White
We have a small congregation and we do not sing well without assistance. That is where Charles white comes in. Charles lends us his beautiful voice and leads us through the service hymns.
The Bishop’s Council is responsible, with the Priest in Charge, for the overall governance of the parish. Members act as representatives of the congregation, making decisions that support the church's spiritual and operational health. It plays a role in setting goals that guide the parish’s future direction.
Members of the Bishop’s Council for 2025
· Ellie Bunting
· Ross Miller
· Kathy Leson
· Mary Ann Gee
· Joanne Semmer
· Jim Davis
· Jackie Sarullo