Today, for the Women's History Month Project, we are celebrating the 19th woman of the month,
Meet this fabulous lady, Cynthia Maybeck, 61, wife, Pastor and innovative storyteller.
Cindy Maybeck grew up in Rochester, NY and even as a little girl, she loved church. She earned her BA from Hamilton College with a major in English and a minor in Women’s Studies. After college she moved to Boston and completed her Master of Divinity with honors at Andover Newton Theological School and was ordained at Old Cambridge Baptist Church in 1989. She loved everything about ministry, especially preaching. She demonstrated courage and grace and a remarkable savvy in church politics when she came out of the closet as a lesbian. In 1995, Cindy and Elaine celebrated their commitment ceremony at Pakachoag Church, the first Open and Affirming Church in Worcester County. Many people learned and grew in their acceptance of others, many attended and rejoiced as Cindy and Elaine’s story became part of their story.
Cindy was a pastor at two churches: Bethany Christian United Parish in Worcester followed by Trinity Church in Northborough. She then took the courageous step of leaving traditional ministry to create an innovative, entrepreneurial, inspirational, traveling ministry of storytelling. She blends scripture, stories and songs into presentations at churches and conferences. Her passion for all things spiritual bursts forth in joy and deep devotion. She helps others deepen their connection to God by providing spiritual direction to individuals and in groups. She cares deeply for those who are grieving and brings storytelling into celebrations of life working with 25 different funeral homes in Central Massachusetts.
Cindy solicited advice, support and prayer to help her overcome the many obstacles of inventing a brand new ministry to work ecumenically across a broad variety of communities. She told her own story of being faithful and free to follow her dream in an effort to inspire others to step out into new territory. Cindy’s advice is to be yourself; the world needs more of who you are. She also advises women to practice their spirituality in whatever ways they choose and to deepen their connection to the divine. Cindy and Elaine live each day to the fullest and especially love walking their dog Mack whether in an urban neighborhood or on the beach. Cindy loves to engage with story in multiple ways whether by reading a book, watching a movie, or listening to a favorite folk musician (like Don White).
Cynthia's favorite quote is from the scripture and is about Jesus’ baptism, when God says:
“You are my beloved child, with you I am well pleased.” Luke 3:22b
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Thank you, Cindy, for sharing your story with us all!
#whm #womenshistorymonth #womanoftheday #womansupportingwomen #mainephotographer
9 Comments
Mar 22, 2022, 10:19:51 AM
Paula Fletcher - I love reading your story. And I am glad that our paths have crossed. Very beautiful photos!
Mar 21, 2022, 10:21:10 AM
Shantia - Beautiful photos of a beautiful woman. Thank You Cindy and Thank You Renata!
Mar 21, 2022, 8:08:11 AM
Michael Harvey - Beautiful
Mar 21, 2022, 5:53:32 AM
Tony Toledo - Wow, great photos! Wonderful sharing of your life story, Cindy!
Mar 20, 2022, 11:55:26 AM
Pam Jones - What a wonderful writeup and tribute to a special lady. Well deserved recognition. Feeling deep respect and admiration you, Cynthia.
Mar 20, 2022, 8:55:50 AM
Elaine Gaetani - Wonderful article & feature! Gorgeous photos of a gorgeous soul & person!!!
Mar 20, 2022, 7:47:42 AM
Karen Christ - Thank you so much for sharing the wonderful story of this amazing woman! And the photos are awesome, too!
Mar 20, 2022, 7:32:25 AM
Wade Robbins - I love seeing this recognition of my dear friend.
Mar 19, 2022, 7:53:40 PM
Brian Brosnihan - Wow, Wow, I am so honored to know and work regularly with Cindy in the comforting funeral business. Of all the ceremonies I have been a part of, my best services have included Cindy. Such an amazing story teller, but more importantly, Cindy takes the time to KNOW each family. Her services are heartfelt and truly personal. So blessed to know Cindy and so proud of her accomplishments