Chaplains we love: Father Matt Farr
After a year with talented and creative teachers standing in as chapel leaders, we are thrilled to welcome Father Matt Farr to ESK as the new full-time chaplain. He’ll lead our students in spiritual development and provide critical mentoring to our community this upcoming school year through chapel and religion classes.
Q&A with Father Matt Farr
What is your favorite summer memory?
Father Matt: For the past 13 years or so, I’ve joined Elizabeth (Father Matt’s wife) and her family on trips to Edisto Island (a few islands south and west of Charleston). It is a place blessedly free of major development and high-rises. Subway is the only chain eatery and there’s a single grocery store. The only thing to do is relax and enjoy exploring the beach and the creeks. Now I get to take my family there; Rohen is a beach bum, and I love watching him play in the tide pools and laugh at the porpoises in the salt marsh!
Who was your favorite teacher?
Father Matt: It’s a tie. David Harris and David Padilla were AP teachers my junior year of high school. One made history relevant and fun, the other taught me to write, and both instilled a passion for exploring the world and seeking understanding.
Writing is a lifelong skill that we prioritize here at ESK. I know you’ll get to share your passion for exploration and discovery with kids here, too. Do you have a favorite book or movie?
Father Matt: Favorite book: A Walk in the Woods, Bill Bryson; favorite movie: I have commitment issues when it comes to narrowing down a favorite movie. If I had to choose one movie for which I will always stop what I’m doing and watch, then I’d choose You’ve Got Mail. Raising Arizona and Guardians of the Galaxy receive honorable mentions.
I haven’t seen Raising Arizona so I’ve got it on my shortlist. I love new movie recommendations! What are you most looking forward to about ESK as you prepare to serve students here?
Father Matt: I’m excited at the opportunity to join a talented faculty and staff and at the chance to be amazed at the insights and humor of the students.
Kids are the best part of this job, hands down. They constantly amaze and entertain me. Welcome to ESK! We can’t wait to see you on campus. We’re all grateful to have you as chaplain here to provide spiritual direction and leadership to our students, faculty and families.