Meet Our Pastor

 

Rev. Sandra Olewine

Born in Maryland and raised in California, Rev. Sandra Olewine (Sandy) is a graduate of the University of California, Davis and the Claremont School of Theology.  A clergy member of this Annual Conference for 26 years, Sandy served two congregations, First UMC in Fontana and Holman UMC in Los Angeles before accepting a call to work overseas.  For 9 1/2 years, she served as the UMC Liaison to Jerusalem through the General Board of Global Ministries, during which she given numerous awards recognizing her work for peace and justice. In 2006, Sandy was sent to downtown Long Beach to start a new urban ministry, The Neighborhood*La Vecindad. 

Known as an inspired preacher, writer and teacher, Sandy has worked across social, racial and economic borders throughout her ministry, attempting to create a sense of solidarity among diverse communities.
Driven by a passion for the Gospel, Sandy seeks the healing of creation through acts of compassion, justice and mercy. 

Sandy loves to read, go to movies, and hike in the mountains.  She took up running (some might call it ambling) upon returning to the US and at age 50 completed 4 marathons and almost 20 half-marathons!  She is an avid photographer, loves Peanut M&Ms (well, anything chocolate, really) and is a Steeler fan (but promises to root for the Chargers as long as they aren*t playing Pittsburgh!)  She has one nephew, Jared, who was born, raised and works in San Diego and joining her in Santee will be her 4-legged son, Higgins!