Betty & Leonard Guarraia
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 parishioner and volunteer, Betty Guarraia, (with input from her husband, Leonard).
How long have you worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
Since 2006.
How did you find your way to Saint Philip’s?
My husband, Leonard, and I attended different churches in the Tucson area before committing to Saint Philip’s. This is where we felt most comfortable—and most stimulated. That continues through today.
What made Saint Philip’s comfortable for you?
The liturgy, the music, and the people. We are still getting to know folks but we’re putting ourselves “out there” because that’s the only way to make new connections happen.
How would you describe Saint Philip’s to someone unfamiliar with the parish?
It’s a parish that has a mission; it reaches out beyond its campus. And it’s a very warm and welcoming place.
Which service do you attend?
The 9:00am service.
What volunteer activities are you involved with?
We help decorate the church for Christmas services every year and we’re part of the First Sunday breakfast volunteer team.
It’s not a volunteer activity but I also enjoy the Literati book club that meets the second Monday of every month in the library. (Beth Brouillette is the contact person; her email address is bethbrouillette@outlook.com.)
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I was raised in the Methodist church.
How did you and Leonard meet?
He saw me in the university’s lunch line and chatted me up.
Leonard: I saw Betty in line and told my friend, “I’m going to marry that girl.” I was hit by a thunderbolt.
How much time passed between meeting and getting married?
We met in November, were engaged a month later, and married six months later. We’ve been together for 56 years.
What did you do professionally before you retired?
I have a nursing degree. After working in a hospital’s operating room for a few years, I was asked to revive a defunct nursing school. I did that for about three years and then moved to public health nursing.
My team and I worked in very poor areas of rural Georgia; I’m proud of the good work we did for the people there.
What’s something that you still want to do that you haven’t yet?
Visit Australia. We’ve been to every other continent (except Antarctica) but not Australia. COVID kept us at home and we want to resume traveling.
How do you refresh yourself?
We enjoy gathering people together who might have a connection. In another life, I probably ran a salon to exchange ideas. We’re idea people who love to create something. The ability to create is a way to contribute.
What are you proud of?
The people our three children have become and how connected our family is.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m shy.
Leonard: Despite being shy, Betty was a docent at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., and also at the Missouri Botanical Garden for 30 years.
What is one of your guiding principles?
Betty: Never be afraid of change. You can’t let fear make you a prisoner. You have to be open to change throughout your life—with your children, your job…everything.
Leonard: You have to be able to look at yourself in the mirror when you shave. Be honest. It’ll hurt sometimes but at the end of the day, you’ll be happier for having been honest.
And listen to Betty! 9 times out of 10 she’s right.
Missed an interview? All previous interviews can be found on Saint Philip’s website under the “About Us” tab. Click here to visit that page.