Ministry

Rev. Jamie Boyce
Minister

I grew up in Lansing, Michigan surrounded by lakes, rivers, streams, and the working rhythms of General Motors factories.  As a young adult I lived in Istanbul, Turkey for seven years where I discovered the heartbeat of my own religious life at the intersection of Islam, Christianity, Roman and Greek ruins, and the mysticism of Anatolia.​ Returning to the United States, I searched for a community that would harmonize with my emerging spiritual life.  When I attended services at Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Oak Park, Illinois, I discovered a community of deep belonging, justice, and a spirit that inspired my own call to ministry.  Unitarian Universalism offers a life affirming, lifesaving, message of hope, joy, and love. More than ever, I believe in the power of our faith to change the world. I have served congregations in New Jersey, New York, Chicago, and most recently Hamilton, Ontario where she was the interim minister for The First Unitarian Church of Hamilton.

Faith Formation

Sharon Mignerey
Family Ministry & Faith Formation

A summer resident for many years, Sharon returned to Durango after 16 years in Houston and 30 in Denver. She was a licensed practitioner with the Centers for Spiritual Living for 12 years, has taught college-level English and Composition, has worked as a technical writer, and is the author of twelve novels. She regards herself as a writer, teacher, and spiritual seeker always ready to explore new ideas. One of the principles she strives to live by is “Look for the Good and praise it.

Music

Marilyn Garst
Classical Pianist & Artistic Director, concert series

Marilyn Garst holds three degrees in music including a Ph.D.  She spent most of her career teaching and performing at Pittsburg State University in Kansas and at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.  She is a classical pianist. Music has always served as Marilyn’s spiritual grounding, and she believes that music is an important part of a church’s ministry.

Operations

Nikki Bauer
Office Administrator

Nikki moved to Durango from northern Minnesota in 2021. She quickly became involved in the local community and these connections brought her to UUFD. Nikki currently studies computer science at Colorado State University. In her job as the UUFD office admin, she enjoys the ability to see the office and its functions move smoothly to ensure congregants have a wonderful experience at all levels. In her free time, Nikki enjoys camping in the mountains, attending drag shows, hiking, and paddleboarding. She welcomes you to stop by the office and say hello!

Tricia Bayless
Finance Clerk

Tricia has been a member of UUFD since 2003 and values its guiding principles. She served twice on the Board as secretary and member at large and has also been on the Sunday Service, Music, Caring, Frolic, and Nominating Committees. She has enjoyed being a Worship Leader, the Greeter Chairperson, and an RE teacher for middle/high school. Tricia is a retired secondary Speech, English, and French teacher and currently works part time at the Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall.

Caesar Sanchez
Sexton

Caesar brings a palpable exuberance to the facilities and space of our Fellowship. You’ll see his smile during the week, or on Sundays during coffee hour, in addition to supporting youth, kids and faith formation activities..