Carolyn Bjerke – Minster
Before entering parish ministry, Carolyn served for eleven years as Music Director at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura, where she learned firsthand how song can open hearts and weave people together. Her ministry continues to be shaped by that conviction: worship is participatory and alive, grounded in presence and shared experience.
Carolyn completed her ministerial internship at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara. She also served for two years as a hospice chaplain, accompanying individuals and families through end-of-life transitions. She volunteers as a chaplain with the Ventura County Fire Department, offering spiritual support in times of crisis and community trauma.
Her preaching often explores themes of resilience, attention, liberation, and the sacred work of staying present in a restless world. She is committed to congregations that are spiritually grounded and justice-oriented.
Beyond the pulpit, Carolyn is actively engaged in the Santa Paula Ministerial Association and local community partnerships that support immigrant families and food justice efforts. She has served on the board of CLUE Santa Barbara (Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice) and on the UU Wellspring board for the past seven years, supporting and facilitating small-group spiritual deepening programs. She believes the church exists as a force of compassion and repair in the wider world.
Carolyn finds renewal in making music, meditation, travel, and watching her children grow into adulthood. She is grateful to walk alongside this congregation as together we ask what love requires of us now.