Minister, Rev. William Zelazny
Bill Zelazny is our minister, a Unitarian Universalist with a broad range of experience with parish ministry and church organizational development. He joined Channing Memorial Church in 2016 after working with UU congregations in a variety of roles since his ordination in 1992. Read more about Rev. Zelazny and his theology. Email: minister@channingchurch.org
Music Director, Janet Grant
As Music Director Janet is responsible for the music program at Channing: planning the music, playing the piano and organ at Sunday services, directing and accompanying the Choir, playing for weddings and memorial services, and occasionally playing the steeple bells. Janet has been with Channing since 1991. Email: music@channingchurch.org
Family Ministry Coordinator, Joanne Ritchie
A former public and private school teacher, Joanne has been a long-time religious educator in the Newport community and is a graduate of Salve Regina University with a degree in special education. She joined the Channing staff in 2018. She is the Family Ministry Coordinator responsible for Youth and Family Programs. That includes managing and leading the children’s religious education program, overseeing the youth program and working with volunteers to develop and coordinate activities in the parents’ program. Email: familyministry@channingchurch.org
Administrator, Michele Dubuc
Michele serves as the Church Administrator. She joined the staff in 2008. As the Administrator, she manages the church office, edits the Catalyst, prepares the weekly order of service and annual report, maintains the congregation events calendar and buildings-use scheduling, maintains church membership information, and supports the annual stewardship campaign. Michele maintains the church Facebook page and assists with the maintenance and update of the church’s website. She also performs functions of Wedding Coordinator to include scheduling, showing the church to prospective wedding clients, coordinating day-of-event activities and related tasks. Email: office@channingchurch.org
Sexton, Pat Padillia
Pat joined the staff as Sexton in 1996. He is responsible for the general upkeep and cleaning of the church buildings and grounds.