Ruthie Hooper
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 comprised 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 deacon, Ruthie Hooper.
How long have you worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
I’ve been coming to Saint Philip’s for 40 years. I’ve lived in Tucson for 35 years but before moving here I would visit my sister and we always attended Saint Philip’s.
What’s kept you here?
So many things! I love the people, the clergy, and the reverance of the liturgy with its beautiful music. I feel such peace when I’m here.
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I grew up in the Episcopal faith.
How are you involved in the parish?
I serve as the deacon at the 12:15pm Tuesday healing service and am a trained Catechist for the 1-3 graders on Sundays. I also share Holy Eucharist with people in their homes and in care facilities.
What did you do professionally before retiring?
So many things! I was in property management originally but felt God calling me to begin taking care of people. That prompted a move into health care. Later, I was an Activities Director at care facilities.
When I was invited to serve as Chaplain at a hospice facility, I accepted, and served in that role for the last ten years of my working career. I miss that ministry and plan to resume it.
What do you do to relax?
I journal. I’m 74 years old and I’ve been journaling since I was 19. I begin the day with a journal entry and end the day with one—even if it’s only one line.
Meditating, participating in Centering Prayer, taking walks, and listening to music are other ways I replenish myself, too.
What’s something you’re proud of?
That I’ve learned to stand up for myself.
From the time I was five years old I had a very severe stutter. I couldn’t speak. It was so bad I couldn’t answer the phone because I couldn’t even say, “hello.”
But I could sing. And that saved me. A doctor who heard me sing introduced me to the doctor who saved my life. He taught me how to talk. It took quite a few years, but I learned how to control my breathing and my vocal chords.
I consider myself a “recovering stutterer” because significant stress or trauma may cause my stutter to return. Thankfully, I still remember the tools I learned and I’m able to recover.
But before I learned how to talk, I was laughed at—by adults, as well as other children.
That experience was painful but it made me stronger. I chose not to be silenced because I wanted to be heard and understood—and share what God wants me to say.
What’s something you’re passionate about?
Prayer and the laying on of hands. I’m a member of the Order of St Luke’s Healing Ministry. OSL is an international religious order whose goal is wholeness of spirit, soul, and body alongside physical healing.
I love people, and am not afraid to touch them as part of their healing (when they want). That’s especially true for the dying. They often don’t get touched. Holding their hand lets them know they’re not alone. And they often grab my hand in return. I’ve had beautiful encounters with people during their deaths because of that.
What’s something you find challenging?
Practicing moderation. My instinct is to be an “all or nothing” type of person. I work on this every single day.
What’s one of your core values?
Authenticity.
I regularly visit an abbey in Santa Rita, in Sonoita, Arizona. During one of my retreats, a nun encouraged me to be all of who God made me to be. When I asked her how I do that she said, be intentional, disciplined (meaning pray and find quiet time), and authentic. She said, “Be who you are and don’t be afraid of it.” I keep her words close to my heart.
Do you have a favorite prayer?
The 23rd psalm: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want….” It’s the alarm on my phone.
What’s one of your guiding principles?
Trust in God’s plan.
My life has unfolded according to God’s plan. I wake up and ask, “What are we doing today? What do you want me to do?”
Years ago I was asked if I would consider working with children. I was surprised because I don’t have any children of my own. But I accepted the invitation—trusting that God had a plan—and now I have so many children!
I don’t know what the plan is but my job is to be receptive and patient to see where I’m led. That’s how I became a deacon (which still surprises me).
What’s something you’re grateful for?
First and foremost, the gift of faith that God has given me. And the love of my family and friends.
What difference do they make in your life?
They care about me and accept me as I am.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I have run over 35 full marathons. I got hooked and used to run four a year. I stopped counting after 35. I still miss them but my knees won’t let me participate. I now walk many miles a day instead.
What’s one of your super powers?
I’m very determined. I’m not a quitter.
During the last marathon I ran, I blew my knee out—but still finished the race in eight hours. If I start something I’m going to finish it.
What’s something you haven’t done yet but would like to?
I love to travel and have been to Israel, England, and Spain (where I walked the Camino de Santiago). But I’ve not yet visited Turkey. I don’t know why but I’m very drawn to that country and would love to go. And—closer to home—I’d also like to visit Central Park in New York City.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
That for 11 years (when I was 19-30 years old) I was a professional singer who traveled all over the Midwest. I sang jazz, big band, and ballads. My band and I performed at really high-end nightclubs. I still remember singing in the Grand Hotel in Mackinaw, Michigan wearing a long, flowing gown and entertaining the crowd. I loved it!
What have I not asked that you would like people to know?
A lot of people ask me how to pray. I always tell them that I think it’s simplest when you talk to God as you would a friend.
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.