Introducing two new Harbor pastors!
A little over a year ago, we took the plunge of going official. Our ragtag group of post-evangelical sojourners scattered across the country launched this website, created a board, wrote bylaws, opened a bank account, and incorporated as a non-profit. (Almost none of this would have been possible without the help of Launchpad Partners and our denominational friends at the PC(USA) and the UCC).
Over the last year, some of the faces on our calls have changed, along with our weekly practices together. But other things have remained constant—vulnerable dialogue that helps us connect to each other, explore faith in Jesus, and work toward justice and peace.
This sappy retrospective is occurring right now because Harbor has arrived at a really exciting moment. We are thrilled to announce not one but TWO brand new pastors to our team!
A few months ago, as Jon was being stretched a little thin juggling Harbor and his other job at the Christian Century, we floated a couple job descriptions out into the void. We were stunned by the response: A LOT of brilliant, caring, thoughtful people applied to work here. It was a bit surreal.
Without further ado, here are the first (of many) introductions to Harbor’s two newest team members…
Dawn Léger is an ordained priest in the Anglican Church of Canada. She sought us out several months ago as a participant because she is passionate about online churches and ministries, and, more broadly, new and creative ways to envision and create spiritual community. With over 15 years of parish and chaplaincy experience, Dawn brings a wealth of wisdom and skills related to interpreting Scripture, facilitating conversation, and working for justice and inclusion.
Dawn holds a Master of Divinity from the Atlantic School of Theology in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy in Human Relationships from Martin Luther University College in Waterloo, Ontario.
Dottie Oleson‘s graduate studies included extensive research on the intersection of theology and psychology, focusing specifically on social justice, women in ministry, and virtues and flourishing. She is passionate about using this knowledge in practical, pastoral ways, such as resourcing individuals for their holistic well-being and helping to create a corporate sense of inclusion and belonging.
Dottie holds a Master of Divinity with a specialization in Global and Community Engagement from Boston University. She currently serves as a pastoral resident at City Church of Long Beach in California.
I (Jon) could not be more excited!! This is not only a milestone for Harbor, but more importantly, a concrete blessing of wisdom and community-building for everyone who chooses to belong here. You’ll hear much more from Dawn and Dottie on this blog, at our Thursday gatherings, on individual Zoom calls, and at all the future retreats, meet-ups, and whatever else we dream up together.
If you’re part of the Harbor community, make sure to grab some time with them soon. (But not too soon—they don’t start until next week!)
