In June 2025 Reverend Carolyn Patierno completed 24 years of ministry with All Souls New London. On June 22nd, 2025 at our Flower Communion service we also held a Release of Covenant ritual as Rev. Carolyn officially entered retirement.  Below is a little bit about Rev. Carolyn.  

The Reverend Carolyn Patierno served All Souls from 2001 - 2025.  This call was her first having graduated from the Pacific School of Religion in 2001.  In the course of her tenure, the congregation experienced a range of transitions including buying, renovating, and then settling into a new home, hosting and sharing space with a local non-profit that serves homeless men and women, staffing for growth and transitions, and an ever evolving congregation.  All of these kept congregational life interesting and dynamic!

Prior to seminary, Reverend Carolyn was an HIV prevention & sexuality educator.  This work meant traveling throughout the United States and abroad as a trainer and health advocate.   Previous experiences that also influenced her ministry include having been an actor and preschool teacher.  She was raised Roman Catholic and found Unitarian Universalism as a college student in 1981. 

Within our walls Reverend Carolyn had a particular commitment to children and youth and their spiritual and religious exploration.  She led the Coming of Age program and each week during the service shared the Story for All Ages.  As well, she took very seriously the connection between a faithful life and one that is dedicated to the creation of a more just world.  Beyond our walls she served as a founding Board member of the New London Homeless Hospitality Center as well as other ministries dedicated to creating peace.  She currently serves as board president of the Immigration Advocacy Support Center in New London.  

And she likes to have fun, celebrate, to pay attention and reflect on all that is our lives.  Worship engaged all of these commitments and Sunday mornings was Reverend Carolyn’s favorite time of the week.