Knightly News

For nearly 13 years, Father Skully Knight has prayed with us, uplifted us and served us during good times and times of challenge. The Episcopal community gathered recently for a Celebration of Ministry with Holy Eucharist to give thanks for Father Skully’s ministry in our community.  As he transitions to a new ministry in North Carolina, we give thanks to him for his support, love and guidance. 

Thank you to The Right Reverend Shannon Duckworth, The Reverend Charles Degravelles, The Reverend Tommy Dillon, The Reverend Drew Harmon, The Reverend Drew Rollins, The Reverend Chris Duncan, The Reverend Dan Krutz, The Reverend Bryan Owen, The Revered Ralph Howe, The Reverend Don White, The Reverend Lynn Hooks, Assistant Chaplain Casey Duncan and senior Risley Elliott for helping us celebrate Father Skully’s tenure. Many of those in attendance have known Father Skully for decades, stretching back to his formative years at Camp Hardtner. Read more about those years in a previous blog post here.

In a special moment during the service, Veronica Hallock and Kristen Kirschner presented Father Skully with handcrafted vestments. The details of the vestments are intentional and designed to serve as a reminder of Father Skully’s community at Episcopal School of Baton Rouge. The vestment description is below.

We will certainly miss Father Skully as he embarks on a new adventure. Please join us in sharing a special message with him in the comments section below.

Vestment description:

As we come together to celebrate Father Skully's remarkable journey with us and to wish him well as he embarks on his new calling to shepherd another flock, it gives us great pleasure to present these vestments, as a symbol of our gratitude and reverence. Designed and crafted by me, Veronica Hallock,  and Kristen Kirschner, each element of these vestments carries a profound symbolism that resonates with Father Skully's legacy.

Firstly, the flowers are inspired by the frieze of the Baton Rouge Capitol Building. These blooms, resembling the Fleur de lis, symbolize the Holy Trinity, a central tenet of our faith, and are subtly tinted in LSU colors, blending spirituality with a touch of team pride.

On the stole, the pelican adorned with greenery is a Louisiana take on the dove heralding new beginnings and hope while the pelican dripping blood mirrors the Louisiana State Flag and, with the addition of the crown of thorns, serves as a  poignant reminder of Christ’s sacrifice.

The outer fabric, Bengaline, playfully calls to mind the Bayou Bengals, while the Carolina blue color signifies his new destination. The cross, in hues of blue and gold, not only represents Episcopal School of Baton Rouge but also evokes the gentleness of water from the swamps and the sanctity of baptisms.

The wool used in the panels and the raw lamb curls on the stole are emblematic of Christ, the Lamb. They serve as a gentle reminder of the flock Father Skully has shepherded with such devotion and love here.

The lining inside is a tribute to Father Skully's unique personality. It features the rose window from the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, rendered with a touch of whimsy, much like Father Skully's trademark socks.

Lastly, the unseen stitches in these vestments are woven with our love. They are a testament to the affection and respect we hold for you, Father Skully. As you embark on this new chapter, know that our love and prayers accompany you.Thank you for being a beacon of light in our lives. May these vestments be a reminder of your invaluable impact on our community and our everlasting gratitude. Wherever you go, you will forever be a Knight- and not just because it is your last name.  We love you. 

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.