Rev. Tracy Kariya has been an ordained United Church of Christ minister since 2012. She has two teenage daughters and one grown step-son. She has served churches all over California and in Hawaii, primarily as a revitalization pastor. She earned her MDiv and MA in Biblical Studies at the Pacific School of Religion and Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, CA. She has published two books and blogs about growing progressive churches at howtogrowmychurch.com. She enjoys writing, knitting, reading, and exploring new foods, places, and languages. She currently lives in Culver City, CA with her husband Bruce, her mother-in-law Sawako, and their three dogs, Charlie, Oliver, and Squeaker.

Mark Abulencia was born in the Philippines and immigrated to California with his family in 1987.  14 years later, he graduated with honors from the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California.  Highlights include musically directing at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts and Rockwell Table & Stage, playing the role of Hannah Montana’s keyboardist/backup vocalist in the Disney Channel’s hit show Hannah Montana, and being the pianist for the historic wedding of Star Trek’s George Takei to Brad Altman.  In addition to serving at WeHo UCC, Mark is principal faculty at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in Hollywood.  Special thanks to his hubby Michael, their two kids Mavery & Mateo, and their dog Meeko.  To God be the glory!