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PEOPLE OF PILGRIMAGE

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Ross & Amber McDuffie & Family

Members since 2025

Our family came to Pilgrimage looking for a church home where Amber and I could deepen our faith, where our children could grow up surrounded by a caring and open-minded community, and where all of us could find meaningful ways to contribute. We found that at Pilgrimage. Over time, it has become an important part of our family’s life — a place where our kids feel known and welcomed, where Amber and I have built friendships and been given opportunities to serve, and where we’ve felt encouraged to put our faith into action. Serving as deacons and, for me, now as Vice Moderator has only deepened that connection. We’re grateful to have found a church community that challenges us, supports us, and truly feels like home.

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Lynne Buell

Member since 2010

After coming to the realization that there was a significant void in my life, I made my way to Pilgrimage in 2009 after reconnecting with an old friend who was a member of PUCC.  As a result, I have ascertained a better understanding and became more knowledgeable about spirituality and the importance of having a supportive and loving community in one’s life.  I am at peace knowing that I am a part of this caring group of people who welcome everyone just as they are.  No one is turned away.  Here, you are respected and cherished for the simple reason that we are all children of God.  Here was the void that needed to be filled.

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Melissa Fadeley

Member since 2022

When my husband and I moved to Georgia, one of the first things we did was seek a church home.  The members of Pilgrimage UCC welcomed us with open arms and open hearts; and we knew we had found our new "family."  I appreciate the dedication Pilgrimage has for missions, spiritual growth, mutual support, and acceptance.  As an open and affirming congregation, all are welcome regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey.  Every week we are reminded that "Your prayer is now Our prayer."

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Fran Howard

Attending since 2001

"I was looking for a place to continue my faith journey in an open and affirming environment.  What I found at Pilgrimage was all the elements to enrich and deepen that journey.  At Pilgrimage, we live our faith caring for each other and our community.  We advocate for social justice and the environment.  Pilgrimage has provided me the opportunity to serve my community and the wider world."

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Juliann Heilhecker

Attending since 2004

At Pilgrimage UCC, I can always count on a profound message from the pulpit, inspirational music from the choir and friendly fellowship from the congregation.    I have been attending Pilgrimage UCC since 2004.  Our church, our community, our world has experienced many changes over the 20 years, but the constant that I cherish from PUCC is the love, grace, and care from our church family for everyone who walks through our doors.

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Chris & Julia Shiver

Attending since 2005

“We believe that God’s table is big enough to include all people.  Pilgrimage is a place where our faith is nurtured, our abilities and gifts identified so we can serve in the way God intends for us to serve, our need for community is fulfilled, and our joys and concerns can be shared with all and care, comfort, and support is provided.  Pilgrimage is a true Sanctuary for those who need refuge, a home, a safe place to be themselves.”

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