What’s distinctive about your parish?
The wood and stone interior of St. Thomas à Becket Church in Reston may remind parishioners and newcomers alike of Christ’s sacrifice upon the wood of the cross on Mt. Calvary. Natural light and the circular structure of the church foster unity among parishioners during the liturgy and celebration of Mass.
The parish was established in 1970 as a mission of St. Joseph Church in Herndon after its parishioners desired to create a Catholic presence in Reston. Groundbreaking began in 1972 and the church was dedicated in 1973 by Richmond Bishop John J. Russell. The parish originally shared its space with the Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation until the NVHC purchased a parcel of the property and built a synagogue. For more than 50 years, the parish has grown from a mission parish to a thriving community of the faithful.
What’s something visitors should see?
The wooden outdoor Stations of the Cross lining the exterior of the parish invite prayerful contemplation. The lush greenery surrounding the church in the fall, spring and summer months allows parishioners to contemplate Christ’s Passion in a peaceful, outdoor setting.
What is a new ministry that you’ve started?
We have formed several new ministries this past year focusing on encountering Christ in the sacraments and in community, including ministries for men, women (including mothers of young children), seniors and young adults. We also opened Canterbury Cafe allowing people to gather to chat and share a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate. St. Thomas à Becket has long served the elderly and those in crisis. Parish volunteers serve at Catholic Charities Christ House in Old Town Alexandria, the Closet of the Greater Herndon Area thrift store and the hypothermia shelters in Reston. In addition to volunteering with these organizations, parishioners also support them through donations.
What would a visitor say about your parish, and how do new parishioners get involved?
Visitors quickly become acquainted with the richness within the parish community, and new faces are always welcome to join parish groups. Anyone interested in becoming a parishioner can receive a registration form from one of the greeters, by the parish office door or on the parish website.
What’s something we should know about your clergy?
Father Richard E. Dyer Jr. was named pastor in 2023. After growing up in a military family, he also served in the U.S. Air Force. After getting his MBA he settled in Northern Virginia and began working for an independent power company. It is during this time that he discovered his priestly vocation. He was ordained to the priesthood early, Dec. 27, 2011, at St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton, so his ailing father could attend. His father died the next day at the precise moment his son was processing out having celebrated his first Mass. Prior to St. Thomas à Becket, Father Dyer served as parochial vicar of Blessed Sacrament Church in Alexandria, St. Charles Borromeo Church in Arlington and St. Veronica Church in Chantilly.
Quick facts
St. Thomas à Becket Church
1421 Wiehle Ave.
Reston
703-437-7113
Website: stbchurch.com
Mass times: Sat. (vigil): 5 p.m.; Sun.: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m.; Mon.-Sat.: 9 a.m.
Confession: Mon.-Sat. 8-8:45 a.m. and Sat. 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Eucharistic adoration: Wed.: 9:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; First Thursday: 7-8 p.m.
Pastor name: Fr. Richard E. Dyer Jr.
Year established: 1970
Total parishioners: 2,308
