Clergy & Staff

Our Clergy

The Rev. Chase Ackerman

Rector

Father Chase has served as the Rector of St. John’s since August 2019.

Born and raised in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, he grew up in the Episcopal Church, where he was deeply formed in faith through his involvement as an acolyte and chorister. He is a proud graduate of the United States Naval Academy (Beat Army!) and spent eight years as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy, serving in Virginia, Florida, and Italy. During his time in the Navy, he discerned a call to ordained ministry.

Following his transition from active duty, Father Chase pursued theological studies at the General Theological Seminary in New York City before transferring to the School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, where he earned his Master of Divinity in 2016.

Before coming to Decatur, he served at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tampa, Florida, first as Curate and later as Associate Rector. Passionate about empowering and equipping the laity, he is dedicated to fostering their ministries both within the Church and in the world.

Father Chase is married to Jeanne, an Atlanta native, and together find great joy in raising their son, Jonathan. In his free time, Chase enjoys cooking, camping, and traveling.

256-353-9615 Ext. 102
chase@stjohnsdecatur.org

The Rev. Sam
Burcham

Deacon,
Director of Outreach and Family Ministries

A native of Mississippi, Sam was late coming to the Church. It was only due to the relentless invitations of three children he taught that he begrudgingly attended a local parish where his life was changed (which is why he’s still passionate about working with children and youth to this day!).

Sam attended Mississippi State University and the University of North Alabama before a (failed) attempt at doctoral studies at UNC-Chapel Hill; he dropped out to attend seminary at Candler School of Theology instead.

Sam joined the St. John’s staff in 2022 as youth minister and now works in children’s/youth, family, and outreach ministries.

Outside of St. John’s, Sam is a ladies’ man—his life revolves around his wife Holly, his two daughters, and their female Goldendoodle, Riley. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

256-353-9615 Ext. 111
sam@stjohnsdecatur.org