Prior to his call to Trinity Cathedral, the Very Reverend Terence Alexander Lee most recently served as the Priest-In-Charge of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in South River, New Jersey. His tenure in this role was preceded by his appointment as the 10th Rector of The Historic St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Harlem, NY, where he served from 2018 to 2023. Prior to that, Fr. Lee was the Rector of St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Hollis, NY, within the Diocese of Long Island, from 2010 to 2018. His inspirational leadership and nurturing presence in these parishes earned him recognition for his positive influence as a spiritual leader. Notably, he was appointed by the bishop as Priest-in-Charge of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Springfield Gardens, NY, while continuing his service at St. Gabriel’s, reflecting his capacity to guide multiple congregations simultaneously.
Fr. Lee is a member of the Diocesan Council for the Diocese of New Jersey. He has also been appointed to the Reparative Justice Task Force, highlighting his ongoing commitment to justice and equality within the church community. His dedication to the church’s broader mission is further demonstrated through active collaborations with a variety of Community Based Organizations and initiatives throughout New York City. These partnerships underscore his efforts to foster community engagement and advance the church’s mission beyond parish boundaries. Fr. Lee’s collaborative work included engagement with the National Black Leadership Commission on Health and participation in New York City’s Taskforce on Racial Inclusion and Equity (TRIE).
In addition to his regional responsibilities, Fr. Lee serves as the convener of the National Chaplains for The Order of the Daughters of the King. In this capacity, he supports the spiritual growth and guidance of the organization’s members, fostering unity and purpose among chaplains nationwide. Internationally, Fr. Lee is recognized as a Canon in the Cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of Wiawso, Ghana, West Africa, where he has both served and preached. His previous roles include service as Canon Pastor of The Cathedral of St. John in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and as Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bennettsville, South Carolina.
Fr. Lee is a graduate of Nashotah House Seminary in Delafield, Wisconsin, where he was recognized as a Chapel Scholar. He brings to his ministry a diverse set of specialized gifts and skills, including preaching, spiritual formation, pastoral care and counseling, church administration, church growth, community involvement, and conflict resolution.
A resolute educator, Fr. Lee has served as an Elementary School Teacher in South Carolina, teaching Kindergarten as well as 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. His role as a spiritual counselor and advisor is further highlighted by his work with The Children’s Defense Fund, a leading children’s advocacy organization.
Fr. Lee’s service extends to chaplaincy, having served as Chaplain for the Bennettsville, SC Police Department and Rotary Club International. He has also held the position of Vice President of the Board of Camp DeWolfe, the Diocese of Long Island’s camp and conference retreat center, where he played a role in transforming camp fundraising and participation. Additionally, he served as Chaplain of the Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., of which he is a committed member. His ministry is distinguished by a keen awareness of the wider church community, a passion for liturgy and worship, and a deep commitment to community activism and social outreach.
A native of Charleston, South Carolina, Fr. Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, with a certification in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston. He enjoys music, traveling, reading, and golfing. Fr. Lee is married to the Reverend Violet L.D. Lee, Ph.D., who serves as Chaplain and Teacher of Religion and Philosophy at The Lawrenceville School. Together, they are the proud parents of two children, Gabrielle and Noah.