Janie A. Spahr

A Gracious Heresy

History & Biography

“Connie welcomes us into her personal and communal faith explorations, from her childhood to adulthood. We experience her call to ministry as well as her search for her true identity where she embraces both in the face of systemic opposition.”

Together at the Table

Church Leadership & Ministry

“Karen Oliveto’s story of faith, compassion, and love gathers us with our great diversity to meet one another face-to-face over a sacred meal. Her clarity and commitment to stay and welcome all to the table give us hope amid profound angst, fracture, and violence in our faith communities, country, and global village. Her faith is undergirded by Christ’s welcome to break through unjust policies and oppressive systems that label anyone as ‘less than’ or participate in making anyone ‘the other.’ As pastor, preacher, prophet, and bishop, she lives into and means all are welcome and all are invited equally.”