Tyler is from Pennsylvania and grew up in the suburbs north of Pittsburgh. They received their BA in Congregational Ministry in 2014, and their MDiv from Yale Divinity School in 2017. Professionally, they have been shaped by their work in hospital chaplaincy, progressive faith communities, and the National Setting of the United Church of Christ. Tyler’s interests are in progressive theology and ethics, spiritual development, and pastoral care. Their hope for Umstead Park UCC is that it can be a place for all to build transformative relationships with our neighbors, our natural world, and the Divine, and to put our faith into action both individually and collectively.
Tyler moved to Durham in 2021 with their partner, Shannon, and enjoys life in the Triangle with their two cats (Claudette and Juniper) and dog (Atlas). When they aren’t at church, you can find them reading, cooking, camping, or exploring State and National Parks.
Paula has been a part of UPUCC since day one of the congregation in 1999, and joined the staff in August 2024. She has served for many years as a hospice chaplain and as a facilitator of Parentcare, a community grief support group for parents who have had a child die at one year of age or younger. Paula previously worked as a writer and editor, including on the staff of the Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America, a religious social justice agency.
A native of Memphis, TN, Paula grew up in north Mississippi and holds a BA in Communication from Mississippi College and an MDiv from Memphis Theological Seminary. She completed her chaplaincy residency at WakeMed in Raleigh. Paula has been ordained and endorsed since 2008 through the Alliance of Baptists, the group of progressive justice-seeking Baptists. In October 2025, she was granted Dual Ministerial Standing in the United Church of Christ.
She and her wife of many years, Jane Weidig, reside in Garner, find joy in Canes hockey and trips to the ocean and share life with their spicy orange cat, Milo.
David Wilson, a native of Raleigh, began his piano studies at age 10, following in the footsteps of his mother and sister. These lessons, as well as his music experiences in public school, set him on a musical path that would eventually lead to Appalachian State University, where he graduated with a B.M. in Music Education, with concentrations in both Piano and Voice. Since his graduation in 2014 he has maintained a close working relationship with the teachers and students of Wake County, and frequently collaborates with high schools on musicals, concerts and other educational experiences. He has a passion for empowering growing musicians through the acquisition of music literacy skills and, as a pianist, serving as a knowledgeable support in their musical endeavors. David joined the staff of UPUCC in September of 2016 and became Director of Music in August, 2022.
Gwen has been an active member of UPUCC for over 12 years with her husband, Lee Harrison. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Gwen dedicated four decades to a fulfilling career in public accounting, primarily working with various not-for-profit organizations. Three years ago, she embarked on a rewarding journey into retirement and is thrilled about contributing her financial expertise as the Financial Administrator at UPUCC.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Gwen finds joy in traveling, hiking, and continuously expanding her knowledge. She enjoys square dancing and line dancing.
Lindsay subbed in the nursery at UPUCC for over seven years before permanently filling the role of Nursery Director.
Lindsay is a Raleigh native but resides in Wendell with her husband and 5 children. During the week, she teaches preschool at a church in Wendell.
She loves all things nature, cooking and crafting; as well as caring for and teaching children of all ages.
