By Scott Cullen, CrossCurrents, Editor
This month, we’re delighted to introduce—or reintroduce—you to longtime members Penny and Denny Rodgers. Since joining UUCWC in 2016, Penny and Denny have become deeply involved in the life of our congregation, contributing their time, talents, and love in countless ways.
Denny, a self-described seeker “searching for truth,” who grew up in the Catholic church before joining an Episcopal church as an adult, was drawn to UUCWC after feeling the need to be “freed from the creed.” A meaningful conversation with Rev. Kim sealed the deal. For Penny, it was a realization that her spiritual beliefs had outgrown the words she once recited at the Episcopal church. Now, both find comfort and connection in the covenantal relationships they’ve built here—and in singing “Blue Boat Home” on Sundays.
From teaching RE and co-chairing committees to hosting potlucks and sharing their gifts of pastoral care, the Rodgers embody the spirit of community. They cherish family time, kayaking, game nights, and crusty bread with Kerrygold butter. With more than 57 years of marriage, Penny and Denny bring wisdom and warmth to our community.
We’re so grateful they walked through our doors—and stayed.
Let’s get to know them better…
If you had to describe your faith journey in one word, what would it be?
Denny – Searching (for truth).
Penny – Everchanging.
What committees/ministries at UUCWC have participated in during your time here?
Denny Beloved Conversations, UUCWC Audit team, Leave Minister Search team, Congregational Engagement, Pastoral Care Ministry, Racial Justice Ministry, Racial Justice as a Spiritual Practice, Stewardship, Facilities (FKA Grounds & Building) co-chair, pot luck host, Chalice Circle, Endowment Task Force, Finance Committee, Board Treasure, Sunday host.
Penny – RE teacher, Women’s Spirituality, potluck host, Sunday host, Auction volunteer, Earth Ministry, Pastoral Care Ministry, Indoor Plant Waterer.
What do you like best about being a member of UUCWC?
Denny – Being in a covenantal relationship with a wonderful congregation and staff.
Penny – The feeling of being surrounded by love and caring every time I’m at church.
What’s one thing about our church community that makes you feel at home?
Denny – Walking in the door.
Penny – The words spoken and the songs we sing every Sunday.
Do you have a favorite church memory that always makes you smile?
Denny -Meeting Rev. Kim for the first time.
Penny – Seeing Howard Bennett wearing his red socks, and Jane Root’s smile.
If you could switch roles with someone in the church for a day, who would it be and why?
Denny – Ruth Samsel – because I won’t live as long or as well.
Penny – Roberto – I’d have first crack at all the goodies at coffee hour.
What do you do for fun when you’re not at UUCWC or attending an online service or UUCWC-related meeting?
Both – Family meals, travel, card games & Rummikub, biking, kayaking, hiking, reading, movies and TV shows, and dinner with friends.
Denny Playing cornhole.
Penny – Gardening.
What’s a simple act of kindness that has significantly impacted your life?
Both – The first time being truly welcomed into a new group.
What’s one skill or talent you have that most people don’t know about?
Denny – I’ve flown an airplane.
Penny – I cut my own hair (and what Denny has left).
What’s a tradition in your family that you cherish?
BOTH – Christmas season all-day party with family and a special couple that visits from Virginia. Our annual Maine vacation for over 45 consecutive years.
If you could learn a new language overnight, which would you choose?
Denny – Spanish
Penny – A Native American language.
What was the last book you read (Title and Author) that you enjoyed?
Denny– “The Waiting” by Michael Connelly
Penny – “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman. “The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot” by Marianne Cronin.
In the spirit of Stephen Colbert’s Late Show Colbert Questionert, if you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Denny – “Over the Rainbow” by “IZ” Kamakawio’ole.
Penny – “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog.
Both – “Home” by Phillip Phillips. “Wake Me Up” by Aloe Blacc.
What’s one thing you’re grateful for this week?
Denny – Penny – every week for 57+ years.
Penny – The coming of Spring.
What are your words to live by?
Penny – “Leave your ego at the door.
Denny – “I want to be thoroughly used up when I die…” – George Bernard Shaw