The Rev. Renee L. Fenner became rector of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on March 28, 2010. She matriculated from The General Theological Seminary in New York City in 2005. Rev. Renee was ordained to the transitional diaconate on December 22, 2004 and ordained a priest on June 24, 2005. She joined the staff of Christ Church Cathedral on July 1, 2005 as Canon Pastor and Liturgist. She also served as priest-in-charge at the Cathedral for a brief period. In addition to her ministry at Christ Church, Rev. Renee served on the Diocesan liturgical planning committee for ordinations and as Minister of Ceremonies for major events held at the Cathedral.
Rev. Renee is a native St. Louisan and graduated with a B.A. degree in Theatre Arts from Webster University (formerly Webster College) and attended dance classes at Southern Illinois University, East St. Louis. She taught acting and dance for many years in Springfield, IL. Upon returning to St. Louis in the early 1980's she enjoyed working for both PBS and CBS affiliates, first as a production assistant and later as floor director, associate producer for "Eye on St. Louis" and as a director for public affairs shows.
Rev. Fenner is passionate about her family and good liturgy. She loves listening to Gospel music and enjoys art in all forms.
"Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)
Debbie Haefner has filled the role as St. Barnabas’ secretary since August of 2018. She and her husband Dennis have been members of St. Barnabas' Episcopal Church for almost 30 years. She served for many years as church secretary to St. Mark's Methodist Church prior to her employment at St. Barnabas parish.
Leah Milton has been the St. Barnabas' Adult Choir Director since Fall 2002 and was named the Director of Music in January 2018. She graduated with honors from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville in December 2003, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education, with emphasis in piano accompaniment and voice. She studied piano with Dr. Linda Perry, voice with Ms. Sandra Bouman, and was a member of the SIUE Concert Choir and SIUE Madrigal Choir, both under the direction of Dr. Joel Knapp.
Along with directing the adult choir and providing keyboard support for services at St. Barnabas, Leah is a 5th and 6th Grade General Music teacher and chorus accompanist at Dorris Intermediate School in Collinsville, IL. She also teaches private piano and voice lessons to students in the St. Louis area. During her free time, Leah is an active member of the Bel Canto Chorus of St. Louis, under the direction of Dr. Bruce Vantine, and can often be found performing in musical theater with Summer Showbiz at SIUE and Hawthorne Players in Florissant.
