Jeanine Colini
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, Jeanine Colini.
How long have you worshipped at Saint Philip’s?
Since I moved to Tucson in 2018 with Tiny Bert.
Who is Tiny Bert?
My fifth rescue dog; she’s a Chinese Crested-Terrier mix. I adopted her when she was three years old and we’ve been together for seven years.
Where did you move from?
Los Angeles
Which Sunday worship service do you typically attend?
The 9:00am service.
How did you find Saint Philip’s?
I learned about the music program and came to a Lenten mid-day concert. That was my first visit. Music is a big part of what speaks to me in church.
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I was born into a non-religious Catholic family. Becoming part of the Saint Philip’s community motivated me to learn more about the Episcopal church. I attended the Episcopal 101 classes that Mosaic offered a few years ago. In addition to learning a lot, it motivated me to be Received into the Episcopal church.
Saint Philip’s is a very important part of my life—throughout the week, as well as on Sundays.
How would you describe Saint Philip’s to folks unfamiliar with the parish?
It’s very community-based; Saint Philip’s is a part of the Tucson community at large. It’s also a parish steeped in the arts and incredibly inclusive. The welcome extended by Saint Philip’s is like nothing I ever experienced before.
What do you do for a living?
I’m a graphic artist and designer. My specialty is creating whimsical alphabets and designing printed publications and books across a wide spectrum—from cookbooks to children’s books.
How do you volunteer at Saint Philip’s?
I serve on the Murphey Gallery Art Committee and am an usher on Sundays. Greeting people, seeing friends, and welcoming visitors is one of my favorite activities.
Are you involved in any other way at Saint Philip’s?
I attend Mosaic on Wednesday evenings. It’s helped me meet new people and make new friends. I love that it’s multi-generational.
Do you have a hobby?
I love jigsaw puzzles. The time I can devote to them and the space in my home to assemble them pretty much dictate that I work on puzzles that have 500 pieces. More pieces would make it harder for me to wrest myself away and do my professional work!
What is something you’re proud of?
I’m proud that I moved to Los Angeles in 1984—all by myself—and started a business in 1985 that continues to operate today. I’ve purchased two homes and made a life for myself. I’m not afraid of too much after that.
What does scare you?
Getting an MRI; I’m super claustrophobic.
Do you have any creative pursuits outside of your profession?
I play the flute and the oboe. I enjoy playing in different settings: small ensembles and really big groups with mixed instruments. I once played in a Japanese wind ensemble. That was challenging!
What is a fun fact about you?
I have Johnny Ramone’s guitar pick. He flipped it into the audience at a concert I attended in New York City.
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.