It has been a joy to see the way Carson Hawks has embraced and appreciated her UCC identity. When I first met Carson, she was aware of the UCC and its history due to her seminary training at PSR, but she was careful about diving into a church community because of experiences earlier in life with conservative churches. Carson’s love for Jesus and trust in an open-and-affirming congregation overcame this hesitancy and allowed her to take a deep dive, becoming not just a committed UCC member but becoming our welcoming coordinator—bringing numerous people into the church as a result of her kind and openhearted demeanor. She exudes the extravagant welcome that we talk so much about. In addition, she has been an effective teacher to our leadership team, showing us how to welcome people and gently fold them into our community so that their gifts and calling may shine.
Rev. Teresa Blythe, Spiritual Director at First UCC - Phoenix
I have known Carson Hawks since 2010. During those nine years, Carson developed an aspect of ministry that addresses, what many have ignored . . . individuals abused and traumatized by the church. She has heard this call as a mandate to heal the wounded and to open hearts and minds regarding spiritual trauma.
Carson has worked in a variety of community settings where she has practiced God’s radical hospitality, most recently in her church and previously while attending seminary. In her love of God’s people, Carson seems fearless - reaching out to everyone. This radical love is especially evident in individuals who have experienced spiritual and/or sexual trauma. Individuals seem to immediately sense a safe and non-shaming place with Carson. Not only have I experienced this personally, I have also witnessed this with others. Just sit and have lunch with her and observe how people begin to share their most intimate experiences of trauma. Carson cultivates this spiritual connection with trust, respect, kindness and affection. Throughout her engagement with others, Carson provides hope, often to individuals experiencing hopelessness and despair. Carson is wise to recognize that sometimes she can only walk with folks but even in this she truly embodies God’s radical love and hospitality.
Rev. Beverly Brook, Seminary Peer and Ordained UCC Minister
Community Minister at Peace UCC - Santa Cruz, CA
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