Director of Faith Formation

Karen
Bellavance-Grace
(413) 388-4737
kbellavancegrace [at] uua [dot] org

Karen joined the Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence (MA) soon after becoming a parent, seeking a community which would support and promote her family's values in the wider world.  She soon became involved as a lay leader in the congregation, serving over time as an RE teacher, youth advisor, and on committees including Religious Services, a Ministerial Search Committee and as a member of the Board of Trustees. 

She served for four years as the Director of Religious Education at the Keene Unitarian Universalist Church in New Hampshire, during which time the program grew from 30 to 85 children and youth.  Karen also served on the staff team of the youth program at the Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence. 

Karen was an educator in the Northampton public schools and co-owned a community-centered small business until January of 2000, when she began serving as an Aide to the Mayor of Northampton. In her professional role in the Mayor's office Karen has worked with some 25 department managers, scores of volunteers on city boards, representatives of local non-profit agencies, visitors and residents.

Karen is an outstanding preacher, a creative educator and worship leader, and a prophetic voice for social justice.