Rev. Shelley Washington, M.R.

Campus Pastor, St. Peter United – Houston Campus

Rev. Shelley Washington was licensed to preach the Gospel in July 2013 and has faithfully served in ministry for over a decade. She earned her Master of Religion from Liberty University in 2016, completed a Certificate of Ministry Preparation through Pathways Theological Education in May 2024, and was ordained in the United Church of Christ in July 2024.

Rev. Washington describes herself as “a work in progress.” Her spiritual journey has been one of transformation, discovery, and liberation—formed by lived experiences that have deepened her understanding of who God is and who she is called to be. Through this journey, she has come to fully embrace her identity as an African American, same-gender-loving woman of faith, chosen and affirmed by God to lead, serve, and love without condition.

Her theology centers on the belief that God is Life—the Creator of all things large and small—and that before any of us were formed, we were known, seen, and chosen by God. Rev. Washington’s ministry embodies this truth through her message of empowerment, belonging, and radical inclusion. She believes that God’s liberating love frees us from harmful theology and invites us into peace, purpose, and wholeness.

As Campus Pastor of St. Peter United – Houston, Rev. Washington leads with authenticity, compassion, and vision. Her ministry calls people into a deeper understanding of God’s love—one that deconstructs barriers, decolonizes faith traditions, and celebrates the sacred worth of every person.

Her guiding affirmation is simple yet profound:
“I no longer believe God loves me in spite of me. God loves me because I am me.”

Rev. Washington’s ongoing prayer is that her life and ministry will always uplift others and point them toward the God who grants life, offers liberty, and embodies love.