Yvonne Kuhlman
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, Yvonne Kuhlman.
Yvonne Kuhlman
How long have you been a parishioner at Saint Philip’s?
Since we moved to Tucson full-time four years ago.
But we attended before that as seasonal visitors. My husband and I visited Tucson in 1998 and asked some friends if they would recommend a church. They knew our priorities are good liturgy, good music, good preaching, and good outreach. We came to a service at Saint Philip’s and never went anywhere else!
How are you involved at Saint Philip’s?
I am currently involved with the Music Commission; other volunteers and I assist Justin and the music staff. A lot of work has also gone into preparing for the debut of Eschenwald’s work in the spring. For example, planning the reception to welcome and honor the composer.
What did you do professionally before you retired?
I had two careers. My first was as a church musician; I was an organist and choir director. My second career was as Director of Campus Programming at Luther College in Decorah, IA. I was responsible for the Distinguished Lecture Series, the Center Stage Performing Artist Series, and managing the 1,500-seat performing arts facility.
What is something that you’re passionate about?
Travel! My husband and I have visited 45 countries. We still want to visit China, Japan, and Africa.
What is it about travel that excites you?
We love experiencing new places, new sights, new foods, and meeting new friends. At the same time it’s very exciting to discover how small the world is. It’s often happened that we’ll start talking with folks and find out that we know people in common or have lived in similar places. And this happens thousands of miles from home.
What’s something that inspires you?
The performing arts. It doesn’t matter if it’s the symphony, theater, or chamber music. If it’s a live performance, it will be new because the artists will bring a different interpretation each time. I once heard that “good art is never repeated.” That’s been my experience.
Getting older can be difficult because things change—health or circumstances. But art keeps me fresh and looking forward. And that helps keep me young in spirit.