Mother Pilar is a native of Upstate New York and moved Lancaster County, Virginia upon graduating from Virginia Theological Seminary in May of 2017. In July of 2018, Pilar and The Reverend Scott Parnell married. They welcomed their first daughter, Charlene, into the world in June of 2019 and their son George in October of 2021. Pilar received her Bachelor of Arts degree from SUNY Fredonia in English, with a minor in religious studies. She received her Master of Divinity upon completing three years of study at Virginia Theological Seminary. Prior to her call to St. James’, Pilar served as the Rector of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Heathsville, VA and as the Associate Rector of Grace Episcopal Church, Kilmarnock. Pilar came to her calling through mission work in El Salvador and strong sacramental experiences of the Eucharist.

As she has grown in her call, she has felt a pull towards intergenerational and family ministry, racial reconciliation and healing, as well as pastoral care particularly to the sick and dying. Her ministry has largely focused in these areas since her ordination. In addition, Pilar is a classically trained vocalist. She enjoys all things singing and music.

In her times of sabbath, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, traveling, and most recently learning how to brew kombucha.