Rev. Elizabeth Assenza (she/her) has served Unitarian Universalist congregations and in hospice chaplaincy in Eastern Massachusetts since 2017. She is passionate about building faith communities that respond to the needs of the world around us through actions of love and justice, nurture our spirits, and blend beloved tradition and curiosity for the new. Rev. Elizabeth is excited to begin shared ministry with the members and friends of First Parish Church in August 2023.

Prior to ministry, Rev. Elizabeth was a teacher and worked in membership and program development for the Girl Scouts. She completed a chaplaincy residency at Sharp Memorial Hospital and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns in San Diego. She is a New York City native and was raised in Vermont, both of which shape her sense of where she is “from.” Rev. Elizabeth found her way to Unitarian Universalism as a young adult in Washington, DC–literally on a street corner, and she’ll be sure to tell you that story!

She graduated from Union Theological Seminary and has lived in Massachusetts for six years, where she has built a tight-knit community of friends and care. In her free time, Rev. Elizabeth enjoys knitting, reading speculative fiction, and running. She absolutely wants to hear about your favorite latte in Beverly. She shares her home with her very social cat, Ernestine.

She may be reached by phone at the church (978-922-3968) or by email: minister [at] firstparishbeverly [dot] org.