Rev. Patricia Berry (’21) serving as UCC of Newport’s First Woman Pastor
The following is an excerpt from the What’s Up Newp article by Ryan Belmore, “Historic Ordination: United Congregational Church ordains first woman pastor in 330 Years,” published on January 8, 2025. Click here to read the full article.
“While raising three children, Berry earned her Master of Divinity degree from Boston University School of Theology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she joined United Congregational Church of Newport in Middletown, initially as Minister of Faith Formation and now as Bridge Pastor.
Rev. Berry’s ministry, defined by a welcoming 
and inclusive approach that honors each person’s unique journey, was shaped by her childhood. Her grandmother’s deep spirituality had a profound impact on her, as did early church experiences. A pivotal moment at age nine—when she was told that girls couldn’t serve at the altar—motivated her to speak out against injustice. From that early age, Rev. Berry recalls, ‘I felt drawn to speaking up for equality, justice, and God’s love for all.’ Her early work in community organizing, advocacy, and missions further deepened her commitment to these values and paved the foundation for her transformational ministry, rooted in social justice and expanding God’s circle of love.”