Pat Wakeley

How does your position express or serve the mission of UUFH?

The President presides at Board meetings and is an ex officio member of most committees. This sounds very left-brain and linear, but I also work holistically to create a climate in which we move together toward fulfilling our mission. This part of my work is a great privilege and responsibility—and often difficult. The mission statement serves as a roadmap by which my daily work is guided.

A Few Words about Your Background and Interests (optional):

As a sometime fiction writer and former textbook editor, I'm immersed in a world of words and books. What do I read? Whatever comes to hand, but quite a lot in comparative religion. And mysteries. I'm also interested in gardens, landscapes, far vistas, waterfalls, architecture. The visual arts powerfully inspire verbal and nonverbal thoughts.

What is it about Unitarian Universalism that really makes a difference in your life?

Unitarian Universalism gives me the freedom to explore many different spiritual paths, and it supports me in this never-ending exploration. It has also given me leadership opportunities I never had before, and they have led to unexpected personal growth. I'm very grateful.