Rev. Laura Barnes

Residence: Placerville, CA
Occupation: Senior Pastor, El Dorado County, Federated Church (a joint UMC/PCUSA congregation)

How would you describe your religious affiliation and/or spiritual background?

Raised in the Southern Baptist tradition in a megachurch in Dallas, I found that women could be ordained in the Presbyterian church. I returned to grad school for my MDiv and, when the PCUSA refused to ordain my LGBTQ siblings, I sought ordination within the United Church of Christ. I have been an ordained UCC minister since 2003, after graduating from the Pacific School of Religion in 2001. I also continued with my DMin at the University of Creation Spirituality.

In one word, how would you describe the way you feel about the GTU?

Jazzed!

What excites you about becoming a member of the GTU’s Board of Trustees?

To support the institution that provided me with the ability to engage with others on their spiritual journey; to continue to expand my understanding of the necessity and power of interfaith realities; and to be part of a world where anything is possible, and imagination is part of the daily conversation.

What do you find inspiring about GTU 2.0 and the future of the GTU?

I am excited about the commitment to diversity within the current seminary education experience, as well as within its student population and leadership. I look forward to encouraging others to participate in supporting the GTU and becoming part of its ever-expanding vision for preparing the next generation of world leaders. On a personal note, I get to work with Bill Glenn (again) and a world-class group of individuals who are serving on this board and leading this institution.