The Very Rev. Canon
Liam Helms

The Very Rev. Canon Liam Helms is an Anglican priest, theologian, educator, and chaplain whose ministry reflects a lifelong commitment to the service of Christ and His Church. His vocation has been shaped by a unique journey through Catholic, monastic, and Anglican traditions, providing him with a rich spiritual and theological foundation that informs his ministry today.

Formation & Vocation

Canon Helms began his formal preparation for ministry as a seminarian for the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge. Drawn to a deeper life of prayer and religious commitment, he subsequently entered the Society of the Divine Savior (Salvatorians), where he continued his theological formation and discernment. His journey eventually led him to Saint Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where he embraced the Benedictine monastic tradition and professed life as a monk.

Benedictine Years

It was within the monastery that Fr. Liam experienced some of the most formative years of his spiritual life. Immersed in the rhythm of prayer, work, and study that characterizes Benedictine spirituality, he developed a profound love for Holy Scripture, particularly the Psalms, which remain central to his personal devotion and pastoral ministry. The Daily Office, the Church's continual offering of prayer through the Liturgy of the Hours, became a cornerstone of his spiritual life and continues to shape his understanding of Christian discipleship and priestly ministry.

Anglican Catholic Priesthood

As an Anglo-Catholic priest, Canon Helms is deeply committed to the sacramental life of the Church. He holds a particular devotion to the Holy Eucharist, believing the Mass to be the source and summit of the Christian life, where God's people are nourished by Word and Sacrament and united to the saving work of Christ. His ministry reflects a reverence for the beauty of Anglican liturgy, the continuity of the historic faith, and the transformative power of worship grounded in the Church's catholic heritage.

Following a period of prayerful discernment, Fr. Liam returned to the Anglican tradition, bringing with him the spiritual depth, theological insight, and pastoral wisdom gained through years of Catholic and monastic formation. His diverse ecclesial experiences have fostered a deep appreciation for the unity of the Church and a commitment to ecumenical dialogue and understanding.

Ministry Today

Today, Canon Helms serves the Church in a variety of capacities, including pastoral ministry, liturgical leadership, theological education, chaplaincy, and ecclesiastical service. His ministry is characterized by a dedication to faithful preaching, sacramental worship, pastoral care, and the formation of vibrant Christian communities. He is particularly passionate about helping others deepen their relationship with Christ through prayer, study of Scripture, and active participation in the life of the Church.

In addition to his parish and diocesan responsibilities, Canon Helms serves in chaplaincy ministry, providing spiritual care and support to members of the United States Air Force and their families. Drawing upon his broad academic background, monastic experience, and years of pastoral service, he ministers to people from diverse backgrounds with compassion, wisdom, and a servant's heart.