Meet Lester Mackenzie

Meet Lester, our July summer chaplain at The Chapel of the Transfiguration. The Rev. Lester V. Mackenzie is an Episcopal priest, public speaker, executive coach, and musician currently serving in Laguna Beach, California. Born and raised in South Africa, Lester is a third-generation priest, deeply rooted in the South African Anglican Church amidst the era of Apartheid in Johannesburg and Cape Town. His educational journey led him to Diocesan College (Bishops), following which he attended the University of Cape Town. Lester presently serves as Rector, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Los Angeles.

His fervor for reconciliation serves as a catalyst to foster bridges of hope and healing amongst diverse groups of people. He pursued theological studies at the Virginia Theological Seminary, graduating in 2007 and 2023. Lester blends his South African heritage, Ubuntu philosophy, and African musical influences into a symphony of self-expression and reconciliation. He encourages the concept of praying with mind in heart, making sure that each beat resonates with a rhythm of healing and peace on a blockchain of blessings.