Rev. Paul Ortiz, Pastor (he/him/él)
As a child, Paul was heavily influenced by his Cuban, immigrant abuelita (grandmother) who was a Pentecostal church planter and ordained minister. However, like many people, he left the church due to the exclusion of LGBTQIA+ persons. He returned to the faith and to his call to pastoral ministry after experiencing radically inclusive, new expressions of United Methodist churches. After attending Garrett-Evangelical Theological seminary, where he completed a Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies, and serving in church planting for several years in Chicago, Paul is thrilled to live in Seattle and pastor University Gathering as they move toward the creation of something new. When not churching it up, Paul loves print-making, drinking coffee, reading theology, riding his bike, and spending quality time with his partner Kim and child Bee.
Contact: Paul.Ortiz@ugathering.org
Ben Fowler, Worship Leader (he/him/his)
Ben is excited to be joining the staff at U Gathering as a Worship Leader. His experience in the church is vast and varied and has at times been a bit rocky. Coming out late in life presented some challenges to his personal life and faith and he’s grateful to be joining a community that celebrates LGBTQIA+ people and where it’s ok to ask questions, doubt, and not have things all figured out.
Ben grew up playing music of all kinds and went to the University of Washington where he majored in clarinet performance and orchestral studies. He still plays a lot of music and has been getting into his roots and learning the Irish flute.
He loves to be outside and feels fortunate to live in such a beautiful area with access to all kinds of recreational pursuits. He grew up skiing and wakeboarding and likes to hike and camp. His latest hobby...sewing.
Contact: Ben.Fowler@ugathering.org
Jemina Marasigan, Family and Community Engagement Minister (she/her/hers)
Jemina is a PNW transplant from sunny California and a new member here at University Gathering. She is a proud queer Filipino American and daughter of immigrants finding her roots in the greater Seattle area. Jemina studied Early Care and Education at UW and is passionate about equitable quality education for all children. She has spent over 10 years serving in various children and youth ministries and is eager to connect with the youngest members of University Gathering. She is excited to bring her energy, playfulness, and child like faith to the children’s and family ministry. You can often catch Jemina biking, climbing, or on afternoon stroll.
Contact: Jemina.Marasigan@ugathering.org
Brian Hutchison, Administrative Assistant (he/him/his)
Brian joined the University Gathering staff in 2016. He is also the pastor of Emerald City Metropolitan Community Church.
Contact: office@ugathering.org
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