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In her early years the Rev. Pam was reared as a Presbyterian. While
studying at the University of Virginia
her roommate took her to an
Episcopal evening communion service. It was for her a very spiritual
and moving experience and evoked the beginning of her decision to become
an Episcopalian. Shortly after her graduation, she married a naval
officer and her career as a full time mother followed.
During their years in Hawaii, she was moved toward her call to become a
priest and began her studies at Shalem Institute for Spiritual
Formation, a school for spiritual
directors. She then worked as a chaplain at a state mental hospital.
As she survived a hurricane with
her children, her call to the priesthood was solidified and brought into
focus. That was followed by the question of, "How do I do it?"
Her bishop in Hawaii, the Rt. Rev. Richard Chang, knew of the Rev. Pam's
work at the hospital
and recommended that she attend
Seabury Western Theological Seminary at
Northwestern University,
in Evanston, Illinois. The teaching there
focuses on priestly identity and, while living in that
community, students attend church four times daily.
Prior to accepting her position as rector here at St. Michael's, the
Rev. Pam served five years as
rector of an inner city church in Detroit, Michigan. While there she
was a deanery representative, served as president of the diocesan
council, and was involved in social issues. During that time,
Pam completed her studies and received a D.Min. in Congregational
Development from the Ecumenical Theological Seminary.
When asked why she was interested in serving as rector at St. Michael's,
the Rev. Pam said she was "looking for a parish that is interesting,
theologically liberal, creative, and located in a beautiful place where
I'd like to live." She was familiar with the background of Bishop
Andrus and was eager to have the
opportunity to work with him. She wanted a parish with a lot of
activity and the potential for personal and parishional growth. She
enjoys learning new things and the enrichment it brings. Her special
interests also include walking and reading.
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