Hi, my name is Wendela Whitcomb Marsh, but you can call me Wendy, or Pastor Wendy if you prefer. I'm an ordained minister and I hold a religious studies doctorate in pastoral counseling, with a specialization in autism. I was raised in the Protestant Christian faith, and both of my grandfathers were Nazarene ministers. Over the years, I've worshipped with Methodists, Lutherans, and Quakers. My late husband, David, was an Autistic pastor, and I have close family members who are both Autistic and Transgender. In 2016 I retired from a career in special education and psychology and moved from California to Oregon. Now I love spending time with family, writing books, The SWAN Church, and the group practice I founded, Adult Autism Assessment & Services.
I love the rich breadth and depth of human experience and worship traditions from around the world, and I find all beliefs fascinating and valuable. At The SWAN Church we draw from many faith backgrounds and scriptures. You choose which articles or videos "speak to your condition", as the Quakers say, and ignore the rest. If there is a particular kind of message you want to hear, let me know in the comments and I'll do my best to meet your worship needs.
I'm glad you found us. You belong here, and we love you just the way you are, no mask required.