My Background
My parents came from Ohio but I was born in Montréal
(Québec). I have lived in Canada most of my life, and am
the only Canadian in my family. I graduated from an
American university and lived in Montréal until politics
and cold winters led to me moving to Ontario in 1978. In 2015,
I settled in Prescott.
I discovered I did not fit in with either the
Anglo or French-Québec communities in the province; I
was too American. In the States, however, I didn't fit in
either; I was too Canadian!
Without knowing it, I had been introduced to
multiculturalism. My interest is exploring how people from
different cultures communicate and negotiate shared spaces, and
how religions change as they spread across cultures.
My Education
I have several degrees: BA in French Literature from Vassar
College; MA in Religion & Culture from Wilfrid Laurier U; MDiv
from Knox College/TST; and PhD in Religious Studies from
UOttawa. Also have certificates from the Centre for
Jewish-Christian Relations (UK); Ryerson U and Sheridan
College.
My doctoral thesis explored what was happening in northern
Anglican congregations in the aftermath of residential schools
and the church apology. Had anything changed? What was the
current relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
peoples? I discovered that, despite considerable goodwill and
lingering racist tendencies, cultural differences continue to
challenge that relationship.
My Work
My work background is eclectic. I have taught a variety of
courses (World Religions, Indigenous studies, Global Studies,
and Business English) at different colleges and universities;
worked as Administrator, database designer and branch webmaster
at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) in Mississauga; and
served as Youth Ministry Co-ordinator in an Anglican Church
before moving to Prescott and returning to Presbyterian
ministry.
Currently, I am Presbytery Ministry Animator for the
Presbyteries of Ottawa and Seaway-Glengarry, and Stated Supply
Minister for the Pastoral charge of Finch-Avonmore-Gravel Hill
in Seaway-Glengarry. I am still an Adjunct Professor at
UOttawa.
