Our Ministers & Staff

Rev. Julia Hamilton

Lead Minister
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(805) 965-4583 ext. 222

“The world is too dangerous for anything but truth and too small for anything but love.” -William Sloane Coffin

I am thrilled to be serving the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara as your Lead Minister. I joined this wonderful congregation in 2011, starting as the Assistant Minister and now settled here and extending our horizons together. Prior to arriving at USSB, I served as the Executive Director of the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry of New Jersey. A lifelong Unitarian Universalist, I earned my Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School in 2008, completing a trajectory that started when I led my first worship service at the age of 13, at my home congregation in New Orleans. I am passionate about bringing our values to life in the world and have co-authored two adult education curricula focusing on justice and our tradition: UU Tapestry of Faith “Resistance and Transformation: UU Social Justice History,” and the UU College of Social Justice “Study Guide for Service Learning.”

Before ministry, I lived in New York City and Los Angeles, working in theater and television – and a few restaurants along the way. I received my B.A. in 1998 from UCSB with a degree in Theater Arts. My husband, Adam, my daughter, Cassia, a dog named Luna, and a cat named Pumba are the others in my household.

I am continually inspired by the smart, caring, dedicated and delightful people in our congregation, and I am honored to walk with you on this journey through life. Please let me know if you would like to set up an appointment for coffee (or tea!) and conversation.

In gratitude,

Rev. Julia