Stephen Vail (priest)

Stephen Vail (1780-1864) was an American Presbyterian minister. He served as pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Orient, New York, for a remarkable 58 years, from his ordination in 1806 until his death. Born in Morristown, New Jersey, he graduated from the College of New Jersey (later Princeton University) in 1802 and studied theology privately under the Reverend Dr. Azel Roe. He was a respected figure in the Presbytery of Long Island and known for his long and faithful service to his congregation in Orient. He married Sarah Davis and they had several children. Vail's ministry was characterized by a commitment to traditional Presbyterian doctrine and a deep care for the spiritual welfare of his parishioners.