Getting to know you...Getting to know all about you...Part 1

Let's get to know Living Stones Ministries Rock On's Founder, Julie Shaffer.

The follow article was written about Julie for the United Christian Church, Renton, Washington by Swannee Rivers for their church's newsletter, "The Weathervane" in early 2013. 

The eldest of three children, Julie Shaffer grew up in a small neighborhood of approximately 80-families within a square mile radius in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Though the summer Midwest days were often humid, corn fields stretched on for miles, and the stench of manure often filled the air, she is proud to boast about her home. From the ages of 7-11 Julie developed a knack for business, and used her parents’ garage as her starting ground. She began performing weddings for older neighborhood children, while charging 5 and 25 cents per ceremony. Utilizing her kazoo for music, she eventually added pet funeral services to her roster. 

A graduate of Purdue University, Julie finds her Hoosier roots travel deep. When questioned she will give you a blaring “Boiler up,” as evidence. 

Siblings: Kristine (13-months younger,) and brother, Tim (3-years younger) currently reside in Fort Wayne. Julie departed her hometown for Seattle in 1999. For the past 13- years she has resided in the First Hill and Capitol Hill neighborhoods, where she currently lives in a Capitol Hill neighborhood known as “The Camelot.” 

Julie’s current living location allows her to purse her love of Broadway musicals, as well as enjoy many adventures in surrounding Seattle neighborhoods which she loves to share with others on her Facebook page. During the moments she remains in silence, Julie loves to allow her creativity to flow. As words engulf her, pen is put to paper as she begins to scribe poetry which is an enjoyable pastime. 

Having attended United Christian Church for the past 6 years, Julie notes comparisons of family in Fort, Wayne Indiana, and describes the congregation as “Caring, compassionate and Indiana nice.” For this she is thankful for the meeting of Bill Utterback when they were Resident Chaplains in the Swedish Medical Clinical Pastoral Education program. During the time of Bill’s ordination service, Julie was a communion server and this was held at United Christian Church. The City of Renton with its picturesque Cascade Mountains and beautiful Lake Washington views are reminiscent of hometown memories as well according to Julie. 

Currently the Director of Pastoral Care and Volunteer Services for Presbyterian Retirement Communities Northwest, Julie prides herself in being a staunch supporter of the senior population, as well as those in need of healthcare and rehabilitation services. She continuously works to educate family members and caregivers regarding services available to enhance daily living, as well as quality of life. Regardless of one’s health condition, socioeconomic class or other issues, her belief is elevating the intellectual, spiritual and emotional needs within the senior living industry can improve life quality. 

As a single woman, Julie has devoted her life to volunteering as well as having had the opportunity to work in numerous ministerial roles since her Seattle arrival. This has allowed her to embrace spiritual growth as well as acquire much knowledge and awareness towards herself and others. Several of these opportunities have included maintaining a position of Director of Youth and Children’s Christian, acting as a facilitator for: the Lesbian Resource Center and Lambda Ministries for Pilgrim Congregational Church. Each position provided safe havens for the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community to openly discuss their spirituality beliefs, journeys, and struggles while having a support unit. 

In 2003 Julie completed her Clinical Pastoral Education Chaplaincy internship and residency at Swedish Hospital. During her time of training she counseled patients and families, as well as performed baptisms and funerals. The delicate moments she shared with families during their most vulnerable moments elevated her conviction of God’s call for her ministry. 

After having established a chapel (Open Door Chapel) in Fort Wayne during her adult years with a few acquaintances, Julie continues to be an advocate for those who choose alternative lifestyles from those considered the society norm. In United Christian Church she has found a congregation where all are welcome.  

Today's Reflection: "Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." - Colossians 3:14 New Living Translation (NLT)