Jane Prescott-Smith
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is comprised of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: a desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with parishioner and volunteer Jane Prescott-Smith.
How long have you worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
My husband, Jim, and I have been at Saint Philip’s about 20 years.
How would describe Saint Philip’s?
I would start with how inclusive the parish is. There is a huge variety of ages and interests; pretty much anything someone might want to be involved in can be found here.
But the main reason I love Saint Philip’s is that it honors how important learning and study are. I was raised as a Catholic and as lovely as my worship experience was, I never held a Bible in my hand or engaged in direct study of scripture. When I moved into the Presbyterian tradition that changed dramatically—and I wanted to keep that part of my religious experience.
I appreciate that Saint Philip’s values the study of scripture as much as secular topics, and invites me to consider how scripture is relevant to my daily life.
You’ve been an active volunteer for years at Saint Philip’s. What do you do now?
My biggest contribution right now is that I serve as President of the Preservation & Endowment Foundation. It was established in 1994 as a separately incorporated 501(c)3 and the church is the single beneficiary. This is my 9th year on the Board and 4th year as President. I will rotate off the Board at the end of this year.
I’m proud that four of the current nine Board members are under 50 years old. The future of our church is with younger people!
What’s something else you’re proud of?
I’m proud of the work I’ve done to promote social justice. We’re all equal in God’s eyes—God loves us all equally—so we should treat each other equally.
Can you share how exploring social justice has supported your relationship with God?
I am a white women of privilege and do not know first-hand the experience of people for whom discrimination is a daily reality. Saint Philip’s partnership with Saint Andrew’s in Glendale has made it possible for me to build relationships with people different from me.
When Saint Philip’s volunteers gather with parishioners at Saint Andrew’s, we all trust that we are motivated to act as people of faith. That kind of grace isn’t always offered in the secular world—and it helps me feel safe so I can put myself in situations that stretch me.
And here’s where God’s love manifests itself. The grace I experience from the parishioners at Saint Andrew’s carries over in how I try to be in the secular world. And, when I get it right, then transformation is possible—for everyone.
What’s something new in your life?
I think I might be called to do something with immigration so I’ve started taking the Spanish classes that Myriam Barrientos offers at Saint Philip’s. I’ve made it to the advanced beginners class and am learning the past tense. At my advanced age I’m proud of trying this!
What did you do before you retired?
I worked for the University of Arizona for 20 years; I held four different jobs during those years.
In my first position I raised money for pediatric research at the Steele Children's Research Center. Next, I was the corporate relations person for the Eller College of Business.
After Gabby Gifford’s tragic shooting an institute for civil discourse was created and I was tasked with securing the funding stream, staffing the search for the executive director, and creating the marketing and communications efforts.
My last job was with the University’s library. I worked for the dean and managed special projects. My favorite involved bringing one of Shakespeare’s first folios from Washington, DC to Tucson. We created partnerships with institutions and cities and presented a symposium that was not only engaging but fun. It was something I never imagined doing—and it was fabulous!
What is one of your guiding principles?
Keep learning. If it were possible, I would have loved to be a professional student.
What’s one of your super powers?
I’m very organized. I can usually look at a slew of information and connect the dots.
But I think a more valuable super power is that I’m not afraid to try new things. Curiosity, interest in learning, and embracing a challenge all made my professional career possible.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I once performed in a trapeze show. My role was the “flyer” and it was a blast.
Cake or pie?
Cookies—especially Christmas cookies. I love to bake them. Almost all are made from my grandmother’s recipes. One goes back to my great-grandmother. It’s not Christmas for me without those cookies.
Missed an interview? All previous interviews can be found on Saint Philip’s website under the “About Us” tab. Click here to visit that page.