Minister Candidates Biographies

Ministerial Candidates -- Biographies

Meet the Rev. Leslie Takahashi Morris

"The importance of openly sharing passionate and honest differences, as part of commitment to community, is perhaps the most crucial lesson of congregational life."

Master of Divinity degree from Meadville-Lombard Theological Seminary, 2004; internship at the First UU Church of Richmond
Master's Degree in Public Policy and Environmental Studies from Duke University; Bachelors degree in Journalism and English from the University of North Carolina in 1984
After her first career in journalism, she devoted her energies to educational and equity issues--including leadership training and economic development--primarily with non-profit organizations.
She is a past congregational President, chair of social action and canvass, religious education teacher for adults and children, and member of a Committee on Ministry
Leslie is currently writing a book for Skinner House Press on the history of anti-racism efforts in the UUA, and is also editing a book on Universalist theological heritage.
She has a passion for photography, loves biking, hiking, camping and canoeing and is an "over-zealous recycler."

"I am passionate about UU and spreading its message of hope and promise to those not yet touched by its power."

David Takahashi Morris nad Leslie Takahashi Morris

Meet the Rev. David Takahashi Morris

"The importance of openly sharing passionate and honest differences, as part of commitment to community, is perhaps the most crucial lesson of congregational life."

Master of Divinity degree from Duke Divinity School, 2001; internship at the Community Church of Chapel Hill UU
Bachelor of Music degree from Michigan State University in 1978; Graduate studies in music at the University of South Carolina
In his first career, he was band and chorus director at a private school in Tarrytown, NY. He then spent 10 years in college textbook publishing as an editor and field rep at Random House.
He is a past congregational President and chair of a Sunday Services, an RE committee member and a student minister.
David and Leslie were founding members of the Thomas Jefferson UU District Anti-Racism Transformation Team. He serves on the South East Regional Subcommittee for Candidacy of the UUA's Ministerial Fellowship Committee.
He loves reading, music and "cooking for those who freely enjoy food."

"I am a Unitarian Universalist without prefix, suffix or modifier."

55 Eckley Lane
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
(925) 934-3135

info@mduuc.org