Caroline Shipton

My name is Caroline Shipton. I am the Chairperson and Treasurer of Ullet Road Church Council. I am responsible for double-checking that bills, salaries, pensions, wedding disbursements etc are accurate and paid on time, for overseeing our Bank Accounts to ensure there is enough income to cover our many outgoings as well as overseeing the production of the Annual End of Year Accounts. I work closely with the Church Administrator to do this. I am also the Chairperson of Ullet Road Church Council and work closely with the Minister to oversee the administration of church business. These roles cover a wide range of activities: from dealing with Covid & Lockdown, Furloughing staff & overseeing Roof Repair Quotations to counting the weekly Collection to name but a few. As a representative of the church, I sit on many external committees (MUMP, MDMA, and LDMT) to ensure continuity of approach.

Why do I attend Ullet Road Church? I still consider myself a newbie! I'd never even heard of Unitarianism before I came here. I first came to Ullet Road Church for a Christmas Concert in the fabulous Hall in 2016. I was struck by the amazing Grade 1 listed buildings but mainly by the maverick and energetic Minister who, dressed as Santa Claus, sang the 12 Days of Christmas very robustly and with no trace of pious, stuffy vicar which had hitherto been my experience! I was therefore motivated to come to Sunday Worship for the first time in my adult life. I was astonished to learn about Unitarianism. No Dogma. Instead Freedom, Tolerance, and Truth. Deep spirituality draws on many traditions, not just Christian ones. Really thought-provoking Sermons. Have I found my spiritual home after all this time? I think I have. Furthermore, there were 5 Hymns! I love singing and very soon was asked by Rev Phil to form a choir which was a challenge but I did. Sadly, this folded when all the Final Year Students left Liverpool! (If you have experience of running a choir, please let us know!!) I was then asked to become a Member of the Church and then to sit on the Council in 2018 to take on the role of Chairperson and Treasurer, which built on strengths learned in my former role as Senior Administrator at The University of Liverpool. I love being part of this community!! Come along and join in!! You are very welcome!