Lauren Martinez.
As we turn a corner and wait for a new year to begin, many people tend to reflect on how to optimize their year ahead. Most of the ways we attempt to act on this lose steam quickly, as people return to habitual behaviors, thoughts and beliefs. Yet as we continue to be challenged, saddened, heartbroken, confused and lost by external forces in the political, social and environmental climates we have been facing, how can we show up for change? The call is there for us to act, be and live differently – but how? How do we make what seems inaccessible, overwhelming accessible?
Lauren Martinez is the child of our own friend and Choir member Dr. Gloria Walker, and is visiting town for the holidays. They are currently in their first year of seminary in Berkeley, Calif., at the UU affiliated divinity school, Starr King School for the Ministry. Although Lauren’s interests and desires are vast, the focus of their future work intersects social/healing justice through ancestral ritual and embodiment practices loosely inspired from liberation and queer theology teachings. Lauren believes the most optimal form of healing starts with the individual’s connection with Spirit, and constant inquiry and reflection. They hope to explore their many creative talents in writing, music, athletics and education alongside their journey in seminary. Their pronouns are they/them/theirs. They grew up in Cincinnati and Batavia, and attended Denison University for undergraduate studies.
Worship Associate: Regina Pugh.
2018.