Kurt Wieser
Senior Pastor
Hi, I am Rev. Kurt Wieser. I have been serving in recognized ministries since 1995. These ministries have been to both called positions as well as some non-traditional pastoral positions. I have served as a trauma chaplain at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and as program director of outreach ministries at Old First in Philadelphia. I have also served as a homeless shelter monitor for a faith-based organization. Currently, I am at Liberation UCC in Lakewood, where I am serving as Senior Pastor. This is a relatively new call so that makes me new to Cleveland as well! I was born, raised and lived in the Greater Philadelphia area until moving here in January, 2003, to take the position at Liberation. I am fortunate to have a partner, Jim. We have been together since 1988 and have raised 5 children together. We now also have 3 grandchildren. One of the interests I like to pursue in addition to my ministry is third world immersion experiences. My first trip was in 1995 to Central Mexico, where I lived with a family in a squatter’s village, the second in 2000 was to India where I traveled with a group throughout the southern tier of the country living in a variety of settings. Each of these experiences were deeply meaningful to me and my ministry. Additionally, for fun, my main interests include reading, music, movies, gardening, weaving, cooking, and home brewing. Liberation UCC is a wonderful, welcoming place. I hope I have the pleasure of meeting you there.
Patti Verde
Associate Pastor, Outreach and Christian Education
Patti Verde, our Associate Pastor, has been serving Liberation UCC since 1997. She has primary responsibility for the ministries of Christian Education and Outreach. She also serves as a resource for the Worship & Music Committee, the Communications Committee, and the Deacons. She and Kurt share responsibility for worship leadership, pastoral care and counseling, and visitation.
A native of Elyria, Patti was ordained as a Lutheran pastor in 1987. After coming out in 1993, she thought she would never be able to openly serve as a lesbian pastor. However, upon learning of the UCC’s open and affirming stance and Liberation’s unique ministry, she transferred her ministerial credentials and was granted standing as a UCC pastor in 2000. Liberation is the fourth congregation she has served.
She and Linda Krasienko have been in a committed relationship for eight years and make their home in Westlake. They enjoy biking and traveling together. Although they have no children of their own, they enjoy being surrogate parents for and nurturing Liberation’s children.
While Patti’s call to Liberation is part-time, she also works as a Licensed Independent Social Worker for Applewood Centers, Inc. where she counsels children and families. When not involved in ministry or social work, Patti enjoys reading, making greeting cards, playing guitar and singing, and being an amateur photographer.
Patti has earned a BA in English from Kent State University, a MSSA in Social Work from CWRU, and a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary.
