A Woman Who Expanded Her Calling

The growth and development of the United Church of Christ has become more and more diverse. It preserves traditions. It honors various legacies and explores new assumptions.

Audrey Miller (1938-2019) began her vocation as a nun. As a Roman Catholic Sister of Divine Providence, Miller became an educational leader supported youth ministry programs and youth resources. As a teacher, librarian, and community organizer she served in many ways, and later she connected to the UCC.

In 1964 Miller graduated from Duquesne University and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later she earned a Master of Science and Library Science from Marywood University. She taught elementary school for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. She earned another Master of Arts in 1984 at Columbia University. In 1989 she was granted a Doctorate in Adult Education.

Miller believed that “The historic and theological streams that formed the UCC involved inclusiveness and openness, compassion and justice, peace and integrity of creation.”

One friend insisted that “Audrey Miller was a visionary who took no delight in denominational boxes that limit Christ’s embrace of the whole world. . . Her humility was real, her laughter winsome and her repertoire of smiles for diverse situations was amazing. She prepared thoroughly for the work entrusted to her care.”

After the UCC headquarters moved to Cleveland, Miller was elected General Secretary of the Division of Education and Publication and served the United Church of Christ Board from 1996 until 1999. She also became an ordained UCC minister.

Friends said that Audrey had a zest for life that was a deep and fast-moving river of convictions and celebrations. Life was never dull when she was near.

Contributor: Barbara Brown Zikmund
Nov. 2021