Averyn Payne, Associate Pastor for Faith Development and Intergenerational Ministries

Averyn Payne (they/them) is a passionate lover of Spirit, people, and creative expression. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Averyn holds an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School and a Ph.D. in Psychology. Due to their unique background in both psychology and religion, Averyn is particularly interested in the intersections of mental health and spirituality. Averyn identifies as Black, nonbinary, disabled, and millennial, and these aspects of their identity are also lenses through which they see and enact a theology of liberation, accessibility, and affirmation to all. 

Averyn’s deep passion for finding unique expressions of spirit has led to travels and experiences both far and near to their home in Eugene, Oregon, including music festivals, visiting other cultures, seeking the sacred feminine, attending Burning Man, and spiritual pilgrimage. They enjoy live music, watching anime, creating art, playing with their two cats, spending time in nature, and are learning how to play guitar.