Meet Tara Converse

Earlier this year, we welcomed Tara Converse as our new director of parish giving. Tara has over eight years of nonprofit experience and loves finding ways to help people build meaningful connections within their community. A word nerd and data enthusiast at heart, she enjoys problem-solving and bringing people together through thoughtful communication. We are grateful to God that she has been called to serve at our church!

What drew you to St. John the Divine and this role?

I was drawn to St. John the Divine because of its deep commitment to both spiritual growth and community engagement. The church’s mission resonates with me, particularly the way it fosters a welcoming environment for everyone to connect with their faith and each other. This role presents a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the stewardship and generosity of the parish, helping people live out their faith through their giving. I’m excited to be part of a community that values both tradition and innovation, and I look forward to helping guide the parish through the upcoming stewardship campaigns.

How do you hope to engage new and younger members in the life of giving?

Engaging new and younger members is key to the future of parish giving. I believe in making giving a part of everyday life and showing how it can be a fulfilling, tangible expression of faith. It’s important that giving feels meaningful and personal—whether someone is contributing to a favorite ministry, supporting a cherished fellowship time, or giving to strengthen a sense of belonging within the community. We can encourage them to see how their contributions—whether big or small—can make a difference. I also want to make sure that younger members feel that their voices are heard and that they can contribute in ways that reflect their values.

What does “parish giving” mean to you?

Parish giving, to me, is an expression of faith and a commitment to support the church’s mission. It’s not just about financial contributions, but about investing in the life of the church—whether through time, talent, or treasure. It’s a way for members to participate in the spiritual and community life of St. John the Divine and to help sustain and grow the church’s outreach, ministries, and programs. Giving is an act of gratitude and trust, recognizing that all we have comes from God, and we share it to support the work of the Kingdom.

What are your hopes for parish giving in the coming year?

In the coming year, I hope to see a deeper connection between our parishioners and their giving. My goal is to encourage a culture of generosity where everyone feels inspired to contribute in a way that aligns with their faith and values. Ultimately, I’d love to see our community come together to support the vision of St. John the Divine, making a meaningful impact both within the church and beyond.

Is there a scripture or experience that shapes your view of generosity?

One scripture that deeply shapes my view of generosity is 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse reminds me that generosity is a choice made from the heart. It’s not about the amount given, but about the spirit in which it’s given.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Something people might be surprised to learn is that I learned to swim before I could walk. My dad loved to tell the story of how, as an infant, I cleared the pool aboard a cruise ship because everyone wanted to watch me swim! Outside of work, I enjoy participating in creative writing contests, as it allows me to express myself in a different way. It’s a fun and personal outlet I don't often talk about.

If you have questions about parish giving, Tara is your new go-to! Please feel free to email her with any questions!