Edina Hall
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is composed of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: A desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with Saint Philip’s parishioner and volunteer, Edina Hall.
How long have you been a Saint Philip’s parishioner?
I attended Morning Prayer on and off in 2019 but I became a parishioner in June or July of 2020—right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What brought you to the parish?
Initially, it was Fr Mark. We met at diocesan lead meeting of Children’s Ministry Leaders in Tucson and we hit it off immediately. I was pleasantly surprised to see him when I started to attend Morning Prayer regularly and loved our post-prayer chats. I’m grateful I began that habit because when the pandemic hit, the daily office sustained me greatly. (Saint Philip’s offers Morning Prayer and Holy Eucharist Mondays-Thursdays.)
What about Saint Philip’s speaks to you?
Every parish has a personality, and I’ve learned that no parish can be everything to all people. What I appreciate about Saint Philip’s is that it takes a stand and it is one that is “in-line” with my own passions. Fr Robert writes about current events and offers a perspective that honors complexity and a Christian view point. As a bonus, the ancient rhythm here resonates deeply in my bones.
What volunteer activity are you involved with?
I’m a youth formation leader and mainly work with the 7th and 8th graders, but sometimes I have the pleasure of being with the older youth, too.
What about that role engages you?
My adolescence was one of the most important times in my own spiritual development. I grew up in the Episcopal Church and attended Sunday school at one church, Youth Group at another and was heavily involved in the Happening Movement (Cursillo for Youth) at the diocesan level. I have seen and know from experience that this is precisely the time when young people begin to grow into or away from the church.
It’s akin to when my children became young adults. My husband and I had to recognize that our relationship with them—how we interact with each other—had to grow and change as they have. They are NOT just big kids but complex “emerging adults.” Similarly, adolescents in the church begin to understand God within themselves. They are developing a more personal relationship with God that is their own—not just an extension (or expectation) of the one formed earlier with their parents or church. They become active participants who choose to be in their own unique and beautiful relationship. Quite frankly, many of them already have one! Youth formation just helps create the space and the encouragement to grow.
And the best part is that these youth are lots of fun. They are hysterical and fill my own cup!
What do you do professionally?
I’m a pharmacist at NW Medical Center and have just celebrated my 22nd year in this profession. Prior to that career choice/change, I was on track to obtain my PhD in Chemistry/Biochemistry.
What do you enjoy about your work?
I love helping people. Pharmacists are called the policemen of the hospital because every drug order has to be reviewed by a pharmacist before it’s dispensed. I take great pride in making sure patients are kept as safe as possible, e.g., preventing dangerous combinations drugs from being administered.
How do you refresh yourself?
I play the viola in the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra (a volunteer orchestra). It’s absolutely wonderful. In my viola section there are two math professors, a chemist, a composer, and a retired school counselor. All generations and walks of life are represented. So cool!
And because being a pharmacist is not the most creative thing, I also like to sew and have firmly jumped on the sourdough craze. But I always try to make time for friends and will meet for lunch or coffee.
What’s an experience that you’ll never forget?
The coolest thing I ever did that was church-related was when my husband and I learned how to “change ring” the big tower bells in Charleston, SC. As a history buff, it was very meaningful to be allowed to participate. To this day, I can’t believe they let me in the bell tower to pull the ropes. (They key is to “let go”… otherwise you will go flying!)
What’s one of your super powers?
My “can do” attitude when it comes to fixing (most) things. I figure if something is already broken, how much worse could I make it? Thank you YouTube “University.”