Theology

My appreciation of mystery and wonder is not limited. Nor is it how we might expect the world to be. My queer theology helps me question the status quo and examines how the universe is continually undergoing change, transformation and dissemination. I am always examining if one way is the only way or is there a different path. My identity as a religious naturalist with transcendental tendencies dominates my spiritual practice as does my theology of beauty. I feel comfortable taking what is valuable from my Christian upbringing and interpreting that for myself and my congregation. My studies of Humanism give me appreciation for its roots and an understanding of its limitations. I honor earth-based traditions.

I am constantly challenging myself to learn more about both history of a place and people to guide my studies. From digging into the Lotus Sutra, or spending more time examining how transcendentalists influenced the Hudson Valley School and the arts, I love exploring connections that benefit me and my congregants. Theological studies assist in pastoral care, worship and at times of great change. It is important to me to continue my studies around race, marginalization, anti-oppression, gender and family.

Both my congregational experience, being a Unitarian Universalist for over 20 years in a Humanist congregation, work as a chaplain, my Christian upbringing and my decades of religious education in multi-faith settings gives me an ease operating within numerous theologies. I also draw on extensive religious education training from my childhood to the present to nurture people in developing their own theology and growth.

I found Rev. D to be an exciting spiritual guide during the past year.  A year that has been difficult for all.  Her fresh perspective on many aspects of spiritual growth has allowed me to spread my wings and solidify new spiritual truths. 

Having years of church governance and fund-raising experience, I have found her leadership to be spot on.  She quickly assessed this church’s needs and focused on some long-term issues in organizational process and stewardship, Naturally, there was some push back from some entrenched viewpoints.  But I found her facilitation in these matters as textbook.  The short-term outcome has exceeded all expectations in stewardship and brought significant accountability in congregational covenant and governance.

Rev. D is a 21st century UU leader.  Her passion and pizzaz cannot be missed.  She is a strong woman with a deep understanding of spiritually and social action issues of today. 
Lorie Clark

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I sense in RevD a serious effort to review where UUCW is at this challenging point, coming out of a pandemic and with budget challenges. She is taking full advantage of her brief time as full-time minister to triage major tasks, envision new and creative ways to engage church members, and prioritize future developments within a tough budget forecast
Anne Deahl,Engagement & Membership Chair, UUCW Brookfield
 I am enjoying your mix of humanistic, esoteric, and practical spirituality. You are so good at encouraging and motivating parishioners to step up. Thanks for the nudge.
Jude ChristensenLay Pastoral Care
Rev. Denise has strong planning skills. We were able to plan many weeks in advance which gave me time to be successful planning RE lessons and to find suggestions for TFAA. Rev. Denise made time for me. I appreciate the time she spent collaborating with me.
Christine HindererRE Coordinatior, UUCCWC Hillsboro, OR
Denise goes out of her way to include material sources from marginalized people (disabled, people of color, LGBTQ+, poor, immigrants and more) to remind us of our opportunities to welcome all.
Katie Traxelo-chair Internship Committee, Finance Committee, Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist, Kenosha, WI
I see Denise as a thought leader in a larger congregation. She holds the big picture, has a great handle on the mission and can raise positive energy.
Carolyn FeldtBoard of Trustees, Finance Director, Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist, Kenosha, WI
Denise’s extensive network and relations with other faith leaders and community activists, brings a voice of authenticity to discussions of issues within our faith and the wider world.
Jennifer BurnsCo-chair Internship Committee, Worship Arts, Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist, Kenosha, WI
Cheerleader Denise provides inspiration, energy and power to help us achieve ends in our strategic plan
Katie TraxelCo-chair Internship Committee, Finance Committee, Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist, Kenosha, WI