This is an exciting time for me. It feels as if most of my life I have been traveling toward ministry and now here I am, answering this call to ministry here at Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist with a joyful, resounding Yes!

Over the course of my life, I've pieced together a textured religious/spiritual quilt. I grew up loosely Presbyterian, but discounted all religion and embraced a purely secular Humanism in my early twenties.

I joined the Episcopal church in my late twenties. It was there that I first felt called to ministry, but in the course of applying to seminary, it dawned on me that I didn't actually believe enough Episcopal doctrine to be a priest, or even a Christian in the usual sense. I realized I believed what Jesus taught, but didn't believe many of the things the church said about him.. This crisis of faith and identity sent me into the silent hospitality of the Quakers to contemplate the gospel of my experience and to listen to that still small voice within.

In 1984 I found my way to the First Unitian Universalist Church in San Jose, California. Almost immediately I knew I'd found a faith tradition and a community that I could not outgrow. Each stop along the way had been rich and meaningful, but it was the Spaciousness, the holy Wholeness that Unitarian Universalism tries to encompass and reflect that drew me into its heart.

Theologically I am always reaching for a more complete or expressive metaphor, socio-politically for "a more perfect union." I like to quilt and knit and generally make and grow things. I dream of settling down and cultivating 'antique' apples. I love liturgy and literature and story telling, especially the ones we tell out of our own lives.

I have an adult son, Andrew, who is one of my dearest friends, a musician, a seeker, and a wonderful storyteller in his own right.

Although I was born in Texas, I grew up near Chicago, so I feel like I am closing a very large circle by coming to Kenosha. The adventure continues!

What others say...

Georgette...voice[s] and demonstrate[s] a respect for the holy in every person. She [is] able to move with those of different beliefs while maintaining a sense of her faith and calling to ministry. In the midst of suffering and pain,

Her religious heritage speaks of acceptance and a non judgmental presence that encourages exploration and honesty. Georgette listen[s] actively to the deeper meanings of dialogue while sharing of her own theological understanding when invited.

Georgette...listen[s], creat[ing] a safe place for sharing and exploration, and honored the feelings and perceptions of [others]...

Georgette's...personal faith journey enhanc[es] her care for others.... There is a sensitivity that Georgette brings to her ministry due to her risking in relationships and the development of a belief in how we can care for and trust one another...

Georgette has been engaged in "ministry "for much longer than her formal training indicates. She has demonstrated a commitment to open herself to continual growth and awareness. This desire to learn about herself and to continue to develop her ministry skills has led to the creation of opportunities for others to learn as well. This commitment to share and risk is anchored in a belief that all will benefit from the experience. Georgette will learn more about herself from the encounter and both parties will grow in relationship if there is honesty and integrity around the risking and critique.

Georgette...gently provide[s] a listening ear that encourage[s others]... to continue to open his/herself to the possibilities present in the moment.

...She brings a great deal of energy and life to her work. I believe that her strengths lie around building and nurturing relationship. She is available and committed to staying present to the relationship. Her faith and spiritual practice are strengths that help keep her balanced and aware of specific boundaries. Georgette is accepting of others while having expectations that others will risk and involve themselves in relationship.

I find that Georgette has a wonderful sense of humor. There is a calm presence to Georgette, one that is soothing and peaceful. She has good listening skills and is willing to risk and share of herself in an appropriate manner. Those she worked with have commented on her availability and compassion.

Rev. David H Wendleton

"...Georgette is a Unitarian Universalist through and through. She has very clear and cogent ideas about what our faith and tradition are all about. Shje's eloquent in describing and promoting our faith, she's passionate about it and she has a real vision for what we can and should become as a religious movement...

"...Georgette is a strong and mature person... [who] speaks the truth in love and is especially good at gently confronting ... attitudes that can keep us from growing spiritually.... She's fun and excited about life; she feels deeply and is not afraid to show it...."
   Rev. Amanda Aikman

"...When I think of Georgette, I think of her great empathy and support. I've seen her deal with sweeties and tough nuts, and Georgette handles them all with care -- that is, with caring....

"... I wouldn't miss an opportunity to hear Georgette speak. Her sermons are honest, inspiring, moving, and thought provoking...."
   Barbara Cornell
   Shoreline UUC D.R.E.

"... I didn't expect to be heard, but you heard me.... I realized the truth of what you said about our differences being one of the greatest gifts we bring [to a congregation]."
   Penni Marvel
   Member, Edmonds UUC

"...[Georgette] is an outstanding speaker.... She is able to weave together in a meaningful and moving fashion, strands both intellectual and from the heart, ideas from others as well as her own experience...."
   Judy Kalitzski
   Former Board Member, Shoreline UUC

"... I am moved by [Georgette's] 'heartedness' as she does the work of ministry. She has the ability to be with people on a heart-felt level.... There have been...[others] who have come through our congregation on their way toward ministry. Not one of them has come close to the kind of dedication, vision, and faith that Georgette possesses...."
   Rev. Thomas Anastasi
   Minister, Shoreline UU