Meet The Team

Reverend Mary is on a lifelong journey in the spirit of progressive Christianity. She is dedicated to guiding spiritual leadership and fostering worship practices that is all inclusive. She oversees sanctuary preparations for services such as Communion, Baptism, and intergenerational events. Her ministry spans Worship, Choir/Music, Kids United, Youth United, Worship at Care Facilities, Weddings, Funerals, guiding exploration of the Bible, and Library provisions. Reverend Mary is also focused on developing a clear music vision, preparing for Affirming Ministry, and encouraging a deeper individual understanding of the Holy Spirit's Love. Committed to nurturing spiritual growth, she continues to explore new ways to connect and inspire community.

 Marilynn works to promote and support Caring and Sharing within  the congregation and the community outside the church doors. This includes visiting Friends of the Church, collecting food and hygiene products for  the Community Resource Center, and coordinating FunRisers and Special Events.Other bubbles under this ministry are the Benevolent Fund, Refugee Sponsorship and membership lists. Marilynn is always looking forward to initiate new ways  to be inclusive and to Serve with Love in our community

Doe is dedicated to serving the community through food programs like Coffee Hour, Pasta Night, Soup & Bun, and special event meals. She also leads outreach efforts, and community support initiatives. In her communications role, Doe provides direction for the church’s website, social media, and other tools to connect the congregation and community. Looking ahead, she aims to sustain food services, grow outreach programs, and foster congregation growth through effective communication and meaningful initiatives.

Mac Fraser has been a resident of Powell River for the past 14 years, retiring as a municipal manager in 2018 after a distinguished 20-year career as a Military Engineer. Since 2019, he has served as Chair of the Ministry and Personnel Committee at PRUC, which is responsible for managing staff positions and ensuring processes are in place to create a positive and supportive working environment.

Grant Vaughan has been a resident of Powell River since 2017 and has been active in United Church governance for almost fifteen years first in Nova Scotia and then here in British Columbia.  Since 2017 he has been the Regional Representative for the PRUC providing the linkage with the United Church Pacific Mountain Region and the United Church national General Council.  As well he chairs the meetings of the PRUC Navigation Team.

Providing a welcoming space for the church's ministries and community activities ". This area of responsibility includes maintenance of the building, grounds including the memorial garden, fixtures and equipment. 

As PRUC Treasurer, Wendy is charged with ensuring that the church’s finances are managed responsibly; reported accurately and accountably; and budgeted in the best interests of the church’s ministry.  She is also responsible to explain current and future financial issues to the Navigation Team and congregation, as well as educating the congregation about the impact of their donations and any stewardship initiatives.  Wendy is fortunate to be supported in this by an excellent book-keeper, a faithful envelope secretary, steady offering-counters, regular cheque-signers, generous donors, and office management of building rentals.  Looking ahead, she focuses on maintaining the current financial structure while developing sustainable pathways for growth.

Brenda Pielle is the worker who offers a monthly Family Fun Night and connects with children, youth, and families by attending the Spaghetti dinners and providing toys and games in an informal setting after folks have enjoyed their meal.

Brenda was born in Victoria BC, moved to Powell River in 2001, and has been attending Powell River United Church ever since.  Brenda worked at Tla'amin Nation for seventeen years supporting families and facilitating program and activity groups.  She is currently full time employed with Community Living BC and is a mother to two adult sons.  

During the pandemic Brenda recorded songs and stories that are uploaded in video format on the Powell River United Church website.  If you are interested in viewing these with your children, please look for the video listings and choose ones called, "Sing with Brenda."

Allan serves a dual role.  As Chair of the Trustees, his purview according to the United Church of Canada (UCC) is to ensure that the property is cared for, appropriately insured, and used for the purposes listed in the UCC Model Trust Deed.  As main contact person for building maintenance, Allan, along with some much-appreciated volunteers, attends to ongoing maintenance as well as the many building issues that crop up regularly.