During this time of transition at Carleton Memorial United Church, we’ve been fortunate to have a dedicated group of worship leaders guiding us through our Sunday services.
These worship leaders have brought their gifts, wisdom, and spirit to our congregation week after week, and we’re grateful for their presence in our community. We wanted to give you the opportunity to get to know these leaders a little better.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll be featuring each of the ministers who will be part of our worship rotation over the next few months, sharing their stories, their approaches to ministry, and what inspires them.
We’re delighted to begin this series with Jeannie Taylor, LLWL, who has been a familiar and welcome face in our sanctuary. We asked Jeannie to share a bit about herself, her journey in ministry, and her experience with our Carleton Memorial community. Here’s what she had to say:
Carleton Memorial: Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from, and what’s your background in ministry?
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: I grew up in Ontario, lived in B.C. for 18 years, and came back in 1991. I have 2 children and 2 grandchildren. I was very involved with Emmanuel United Church; the choir, various committees, and Global Partners. I had the opportunity to travel on Mission Learning Trips with groups from Emmanuel to United Church partners in El Salvador, Cuba and Zambia, and also to a learning week in Iona, Scotland, all of which had a big influence on my faith. Around 2013, I was invited by Rev. Trisha Elliott to speak to Carleton Memorial about my recent trip to Zambia, as some youth from your congregation were planning to go there as well. This was the first time I gave a “sermon”. I found out then I felt called to lay ministry, to spread the gospel and share my experiences. When the opportunity came up to participate in the 2-year Licenced Lay Worship Leader training, I did so, graduating in Spring of 2015. In the last 10 years I have led worship in 31 different churches in the Ottawa area.
Carleton Memorial: What do you do when you’re not leading worship? (work, hobbies, interests, something we might finding surprising?)
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: I work as a part time Office Administrator at Riverside United Church. I also write poetry and play piano. I have a degree in Political Science and have worked for two Members of Parliament. In 2000 I ran as a candidate for the NDP in Ottawa South. I love to travel and used to be a travel agent. I like folk music and enjoy summer folk festivals. For several years I hosted house concerts with musicians from the Ottawa area and beyond.
Carleton Memorial: Is there a particular theme, scripture, or message that you find yourself returning to often?
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: I love Micah 6, verse 8: What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God. I like to preach about kindness and compassion.
Carleton Memorial: What has it been like being part of Carleton Memorial’s worship rotation during this transition time?
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: I have found Carleton Memorial to be warm and welcoming, willing to engage in meaningful conversations and participate in marking special days, such as Truth and Reconciliation Day. The staff and lay leaders in the congregation are always helpful and generous, and I have felt like part of the family.
Carleton Memorial: Favorite hymn or piece of worship music?
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: There are many, but what came to mind today was “Go, Make a Diff’rence”, by Steve Angisano and Tom Tomaszek from More Voices, because I believe we are all called to a faith in action.
Carleton Memorial: Any words of encouragement you’d like to share with the Carleton Memorial community?
Jeannie Taylor, LLWL: Carleton Memorial has a proud heritage, a caring and affirming community, and a spiritual heart. Though you don’t have a permanent minister, your congregation includes many people with gifts of ministry. Worship and music, support of Debra Dynes Family House, your community garden, turkey dinners, euchre and movie nights are all part of your faith story. Celebrate that!
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