Vice-Rector

The Rev. Martin J. Bastian

The Rev. Martin J. Bastian currently serves as the Vice-Rector at St. Martin’s. In this role, he oversees the Parish’s day-today operations, manages Clergy and provides oversight of the Church’s worship, service and educational ministries. He helped guide the Parish Building Committee as St. Martin’s developed and completed its Building for the Ages campaign in 2021. This $67 million capital campaign added 64,554 square feet of new space to the Church, paving the way for expanded and new ministries. It was the most extensive building campaign in the Episcopal Church’s history. He also serves as the Clergy Trustee for the Saint Martin’s Endowment and plays a pivotal role in planning St. Martin’s stewardship efforts.

The Rev. Bastian’s professional journey began with an undergraduate degree in liberal arts from the University of Kansas. His career in publishing and service as a lay leader in youth ministry in Washington, D.C. paved the way for his Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary in 1996. He then began his ordained ministry at St. Martin’s following ordination to the deaconate in the Diocese of Virginia.

He served as Senior Chaplain for Episcopal High School in Houston from 1998 to 2008 as the head of the school’s religion pillar, which combined with the pillars of academics, arts, and athletics to provide a well-rounded high school experience. He also served as an educator, administrator and spiritual leader while assisting the head of the school in the day-to-day operations.

Rev. Bastian’s work is underpinned by his passion for education, his broad worldview and his commitment to promoting the exercise and discipline of reason. He approaches his work with
a solid biblical starting point, coupled with a realistic and raw view of his humanity and the humanity of others.