Minister
Interim moderator in Reverend Linda Patton-Cowie
The Rev. Linda Patton-Cowie has served God among the people of Orillia since 2011. She is passionate about living in such a way that God’s justice becomes a reality here on earth, and that God’s abundant grace is evident to all. Linda has served the Presbyterian Church in her roles as: Convenor of the Healing and Reconciliation Committee; Chaplain for two Healing and Reconciliation Journeys; Chaplain to both the Rainbow Communion and the Committee to craft an apology to the LGBTQI+ community, and as the PCC representative on the Taiwan Ecumenical Forum. She thoroughly enjoyed her many years as Chaplain and Community Life member for several Canada Youth events, and she is currently serving her second term as moderator of the Presbytery of Barrie.
Linda is the mom of two daughters, who, with their husbands have given her three grandchildren, who are a source of great joy! She enjoys spending time at her off-grid cabin in Muskoka, and has recently embarked on a learning journey of wildlife and landscape photography. Linda also enjoys woodworking, kayaking, music and travel.
Clerk of Session
Aubrey Hawton
Aubrey is a retired elementary school teacher with a passion for travelling – both internationally and within Canada. He recently completed his 17th student exchange, during which he has chaperoned students to Quebec City and three Inuit communities un the Northwest Territories and Nunavik (Inuit northern Quebec).
Aubrey and his husband Michael, along with their three children, have been attending St. Andrew’s since 2003. Two of his fondest memories are the baptism of his oldest son at their island cottage in Lake Couchiching, and the decision of the St. Andrew’s congregation to become an accepting and inclusive congregation within the PCC.
Pianist
Carol Archer
We are blessed that she has chosen to share her gifts with us and our choir. Carol began playing the piano at the age of four although she didn’t get her first piano until her 8th birthday. She was in 10 years old when she was asked if she would like to play the organ at church. That began her journey and has played in several churches and continues to do so now. She loves to sing and has been at St. Andrew’s for 15 years. She especially loves to learn new uplifting praise songs to lead us into worship.