Introducing UUMFE Intern Stephani Pescitelli

Hi there! I’m Stephani Pescitelli, and I’m thrilled to be joining the UUMFE community this summer as an Eco-Arts Ministry intern. I am a queer, interdisciplinary artist, theologian, and activist making at the intersection of art, culture, ecology, and spirituality. Born and raised in the Midwest, I currently live in Minneapolis, MN where I’m finishing an MDiv graduate program in Theology and the Arts at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities (UTS).

My undergraduate degree, early work and activist experience focused on ecology and environmentalism, and intersectional, interfaith climate justice continues to be the bedrock of my art and academic work at UTS. I am specifically motivated by repairing right relationship to place. 

Last summer, I had the opportunity to to join UUs from across the country to act in solidarity with indigenous-led Stop Line 3 movement. Near the beautiful wetlands, lakes, and rivers of the Anishinaabe territory in northern MN, I met kindred spirits from UUMFE and other faith communities and was inspired to put my story, relationship to place, and lineage in a larger ecosystem story.  The most meaningful moments in this experience were supporting other activists in spiritual discernment, as well as coordinating and supporting arts in several demonstrations and direct actions. I am grateful to be finding my role in the climate justice movement and put these passions to work with UUMFE. 

This summer, I’m supporting the development and piloting of the new “May You Survive and Thrive” curriculum, including related Eco-Art projects at General Assembly and beyond. What excites me the most about this role is getting to connect with other UUs and communities like you to learn about your ecosystem stories and home places. Please reach out–I’d love to hear about what draws you here and any art or ecology that’s inspiring you now! Email: biodiversity@uumfe.org