Clergy & Staff

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The Reverend Joan Testin, Rector Email

Joan+ (Rev. Joan or Vicar Joan, for those who prefer to be formal) went to seminary after teaching music and drama for 23 years. She was ordained in 2010, and served in the Diocese of Easton before coming to Rhode Island. She lives with her spouse Barbara, and their two rambunctious Norfolk Terriers, Skipper and Abbey.

The Rev. Noël Bailey, Associate Rector for Pastoral Care Email 

Noël (or Pastor Noël for those who prefer to be formal) was ordained to the priesthood in 1989 after attending Episcopal Divinity School. She, like Joan, is a second-career priest. Her passion is for pastoral ministries – particularly small group ministry. She has two grown children and three grandchildren, and lives in Providence with her cat, Shadow.

The Rev. Joyce T. Thorne, Parish Administrator Email

Joyce (or Deacon Joyce for those who prefer to be formal) was ordained in 2010 as a vocational deacon and is currently serving in that capacity at St. Paul’s in Pawtucket. Before taking the role of Parish Administrator, Joyce spent four years as Emmanuel’s bookkeeper.  Joyce also ministers to the wider community by sending out job postings to the various parishes in the diocese as well as to those who have contacted her who are need of employment.  Joyce has a grown son and four granddaughters.

The Rev. Grace Swinski, Regional Deacon Email

Grace (or Deacon Grace for those who prefer to be formal), is piloting a new type of ministry for our deacons. She is working with us, Christ Church, and St. James, to help us grow and coordinate our ministries to the wider community. Grace interned with us before she was ordained and we are thrilled to have her back as an official part of the leadership in this parish!

Ms. Karen Zuniga, Sexton

Karen (or Ms. Zuniga for those who prefer to be formal) keeps the church building and offices clean. During the day, she is the Assistant Director of Community Health at One Neighborhood Builders, a backbone agency to the Central Providence Health Equity Zone.Although we do not often catch a glimpse of her as she works off-hours, the evidence of her presence is clear in the beautiful maintenance of our buildings and offices.