Responsibilities

Rachael and the administrative team are at the heart of the region’s relationships.  While she describes her role as “paper pusher”–“whether it’s actual paper or digital paper, I’m pushing it around”—Rachael also plays a critical role as first contact for inquirers and salvation for the lost. She responds to email and directs people to the resources that they need.  Rachael enjoys this part of her work and takes the time to assist, including seeking out an answer that she doesn’t know and getting back to people. Rachael finds satisfaction in being able to help colleagues, regional volunteers and those who call.

She is a critical part of the administrative team that keeps the whole show on the road, including ensuring record-keeping, providing support to communications, handling event registration, maintaining databases, and managing offices.

Rachael provides support to the Executive and its committees, the Communities of Faith Commission and its committees,  the Social and Ecological Justice Commission, and the Intercultural Diversity Commission.

Rachael Howes (she/her) Experience and Biography

Rachael’s professional background is in the legal field where she worked at a community clinic that advocated for low income people.  This work solidified her commitment to social justice which made her a good fit with the United Church and its mission.

Rachael brings a solid administrative background to her work in the region.  Her United Church employment began about 15 years ago when she started out as a church secretary in her home congregation before moving to join the Toronto Conference Staff Team in Living Waters Presbytery.

Raised in the Anglican tradition, Rachael was drawn to the United Church by the opportunity to sing in St. Paul’s excellent choir.  In love with choral singing, St. Paul’s has been her church home ever since. Rachael is an active member of her community of faith and serves as Chair of the Worship Committee.

Rachael lives in Orillia where she was born.   She has two grown children and she delights in her grandchildren.