Barbara A. first joined First Unitarian Portland during Marilyn Sewell’s ministry and later spent many meaningful years with the Vancouver Unitarian community under Mark Gallagher’s leadership. After completing Spiritual Direction training, she reconnected with familiar UU faces who led her to the Monday Night Loving Kindness Meditation, which she now co-leads. She also participates in Caregiver Support and occasionally reads for Vespers.

A lifelong gardener and writer, Barbara has published seven books of memoir, gardening nonfiction, and poetry. She continues to nurture her love of nature, meditation, and community through her creative work and volunteer roles with Loving Kindness Meditation, Vespers, and the Ukrainian Café.