Pastor
Our transitional minister is the Reverend Dr. Louise Barger. She was a nurse and served on the faculty of the St. Louis University School of Nursing before attending Southern Theological Seminary and being ordained to ministry by the American Baptist Churches in 1986. She has served churches in various positions including pastoral, executive, and for the past 10 years, as a transitional minister.
Pastor Louise is working with the church as the congregation determines its future goals and looks for permanent pastoral leadership. Office phone: 607.587.9288. Email: louisebarger21@gmail.com.
Administrative Secretary
Our Administrative Secretary and Newsletter editor is Rima O’Connor. Rima came to Alfred in 1991 to serve as a librarian at Alfred University, but her interests, skills, and experiences are many and varied. In addition to being a librarian at AU’s Herrick Library and at the Alfred Box of Books, she is a Veterinary Technologist who worked in a veterinary office in the area for several years. As Rima puts it, “I love books and libraries, and all creatures Great and Small!”
Rima is in the church office on Thursdays and Fridays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Office phone: 607.587.9288. Email: uucalfred@gmail.com.
Musicians
Our pianist since 1996 is Peter O’Conner. Peter has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Theory and Composition and he specializes in jazz piano. Frequently our congregation is treated to a gospel swing postlude. In addition to his work at the church, Peter also teaches private piano lessons.
Our organist is Laurel Buckwalter. Laurel has a Bachelor of Music in piano, a Master of Science in Education and Carillonneur certification with the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America. She and Peter frequently play organ-piano duets for the prelude and at other times in worship. Laurel was a technical specialist in music at Alfred University but is now retired. Laurel is a church Trustee and is currently the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.
Maintenance
Maureen Wilsey is responsible for cleaning the Church and the Church Center, which means not only cleaning the buildings following the typical Sunday use but also maintaining them during the week for the groups that use the Church Center. Maureen has been on staff since August 2022.