Greetings, everyone! It is a privilege to introduce Pastors Mack Patrick and Mary Ann Harrison to the ELCA Disability Ministries advisory team. They join me, Chris, Pastor Brian, Anita, and Pastor Peter as we prepare for a great new period in the life of Disability Ministries in the ELCA. Read below for greetings and some background from these wonderful servants of Christ!
Peace,
Rev. Lisa Heffernan
ELCA Disability Ministries, coordinator
Pastor Mack Patrick (he/they) is currently serving as Assistant to the Bishop in the Northern Illinois synod, where he oversees communications, stewardship, and youth ministry. With a deep passion for social justice, particularly in advocating for transgender rights and the rights of individuals with disabilities, they strive to bring positive change to their community.
Known for his love of technology and his curiosity for tinkering with new ideas, Mack combines their technical skills with their pastoral calling, always seeking innovative ways to serve and lead. A natural problem-solver, they are highly motivated and detail-oriented, consistently thinking ahead about the next steps about how we might proclaim the Gospel in new ways.
Though they may be quiet in nature, Mack’s thoughtful and reflective approach drives their actions and leadership. Their quiet presence is matched by a strong vision for the future, committed to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Mack currently serves on the board of ReconcilingWorks and Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center in Oregon, IL. They are part of the Welcome Team for Proclaim, a ministry of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries. Mack has served on two cycles for The tAble pre-gathering to the ELCA Youth Gathering.
Pr. Mary Ann Harrison
Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church, Altadena CA
I am a Pastor currently serving in the ELCA with over 35 years of ministry experience. As a person with disabilities, I have first-hand experience of the discrepancies, discrimination, and lack of resources when it comes to including persons like myself.
A wife, mother and grandmother of persons with exceptional needs, I have become a fierce advocate for creating spaces and situations where those with difficulties can be self-sufficient, feel useful, and be seen in places where we are often overlooked or excluded.
An advocate for justice & inclusion, I do what I can to fight for those who have been marginalized. Whether through discrimination of race, religion, ethnicity, culture, or abilities.
I hope to bring my passion for justice, talent, and connections to the advisory team to assist in its work to support those who have been harmed by a world not created with people who have exceptional abilities in mind.