Fr. Christopher Rigden-Briscall

Eastern Orthodox Chaplain

I am originally from the West Coast and moved to Waterloo in 2008. I was raised in the Anglican Church and journeyed through many different Christian traditions finally converting to Eastern Orthodox Christianity in 1996. I was ordained to the priesthood in 2005, after attending St. Vladimir’s Seminary in New York. I serve as the pastor of the Christ the Saviour Antiochian Orthodox Church here in Waterloo and I am thankful that our parish recognizes that serving the students and faculty and staff at UW is a critical part of my ministry and the life of our parish family. 

My greatest joy in life is my wife and four kids. Second only to them is discussing and wrestling with questions of theology, philosophy, and meaning, seeking out how to live by the insights of ancient wisdom applied today, right now. The more people in the conversation the better! When I am not busy with this or with my family you will probably find me reading or watching sci-fi, fantasy, or mysteries, working in my garden or down at the pub watching the game.

The Orthodox Chaplaincy provides UW students, faculty and staff with the opportunity to investigate and experience the Orthodox Christian tradition through regular liturgical services, group studies, office hours, and other activities, such as:
Weekly Vespers

Fermented Faith Wednesday, 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Wilf’s                       An open discussion of philosophy and theology in the public square.          (Food provided by the Chaplains!)

Special Events (REAL BREAK! Speakers. Feast Days. The WAY.)


For up-to-date information regarding any of these activities, visit xcsavior.com, the website of the parish that supports our campus ministry.

Affiliation: 
University of Waterloo