Cathedral Clergy, Staff & Chapter

The Reverend Canon Mike Alford
Canon for Congregational Care

malford@spcathedral.com

As Canon for Congregational Care, I am privileged to provide pastoral counseling and support to the Cathedral community. I am also engaged in addressing the needs of our neighbors beyond the church doors. Practicing the ministry of presence keeps me focused on my calling as pastor and priest. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be present with those in need as we walk our faith journeys together.

The Reverend Canon Brandon Peete
Canon for hospitality

bpeete@spcathedral.com

I began praying with my family at St. Peter's Cathedral over the summer of 2017. We sought and found a progressive and inclusive church that also values the beauty of formal Episcopal liturgy. I am pleased to serve at the altar on Sundays at the Cathedral, along with offering occasional opportunities in formation. During the week I can be found at Berkeley Preparatory School, where I serve as school chaplain. 

The Reverend Deacon Hillary Peete
Director of Christian Formation and Digital Communications

hpeete@spcathedral.com

I have been attending the Cathedral with my family since September 2017. We love the sense of hospitality and welcome at the Cathedral, especially for our children. I love working with all ages at the Cathedral — through our service in the community, leading Bible studies, creating intergenerational activities for children and families, and hanging out with the 20s/40s group. I was ordained as a transitional deacon in August of 2024 and serve part-time at St. Mark’s, Tampa as well.

Dwight Thomas
Canon for Music & Precentor

dthomas@spcathedral.com

I fell in love with the Episcopal Church and its music while in graduate school, and have been at the Cathedral since 2009. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve with the Cathedral congregation who support and appreciate the gift of music, and recognize how music can change lives and bring us closer together as a community.

Andi Gorton
Publications

agorton@spcathedral.com

I have been at the Cathedral as a parishioner since 1986 and came on staff in 2011. In my work with Publications, I work on a variety of projects ranging from bulletins for worship and weddings, coordinating with the Altar Guild, and updating monthly intercessions for birthdays, anniversaries and deaths. I also love rehearsing for and singing in the Cathedral, Chamber, and Festival Choirs.

Michael Ricciardi
Building and Grounds Coordinator

mricciardi@spcathedral.com

I am not new to the Cathedral, just new to this role! My wife and I joined in 2018 and I have volunteered as an usher, coffee-hour host, chef for Messy Church and VBS, co-chair of the Flower Guild, and member of the Chapter (2020-2023). In my new role, I coordinate routine maintenance and working with outside vendors. As we gear up work on the Reserve Study, I look forward to tackling significant building projects to ensure to long-term longevity of the Cathedral campus, and working closely with the Building and Grounds Committee. In my spare time, I enjoy mini getaways with my wife Lois — Christmas in Mount Dora is a must — spending time with friends, and attending Rays and Rowdies games.

Michelle Thomas
Cathedral Administrator & Associate for Christian Formation

mthomas@spcathedral.com

I joined the staff in 2020 but have been singing at the Cathedral since 2009! I love the liturgy and the broad scope of ministries and organizations that the Cathedral provides to our parishioners. I enjoy finding God’s love through life’s new challenges and opportunities to think and move outside the box. My background is primarily in music education, and I strongly believe that lifelong faith starts with strong mentors and Christian community.

Carla Escobar
Custodian

I am from Nicaragua, a small country in Central America. I came to Florida 4 years ago with my 23 year-old son, Goly Miguel. Since I started cleaning the Cathedral I have felt a special sense of peace. It makes me happy. I appreciate the harmony here and kindness from everyone on staff. In addition to my cleaning service, I have another small business, “Kelindo Design.” I make crafts, flowers, edible arrangements and charcuterie. I definitely enjoy making each individual order. Goly and I love Florida because of its beautiful beaches. We go there often and enjoy the spectacular sunsets. 

Nana Paultre
Hospitality Associate

I am a junior at Eckerd college majoring in human development and sociology. I look forward to being at the front desk on Sunday mornings to answer any questions people have and monitor the narthex area. I am a native of Knoxville and grew up Lutheran. I am involved with the Active Minds Club, a mental-health advocacy group. I have two cats, Apollo and Odysseus, too!

Cathedral Chapter

The Chapter is the 12-member lay board of directors that, with the dean, sets policy, watches the finances, and supports the spiritual life of the congregation. Each year four new members are elected to three-year terms.