Sonnie Swenston

This stole was one of the original 80 stoles that were on display on Sept. 16, 1995 when I set aside my ordination before Heartland Presbytery (see stole #1 for details).  Measuring little more than two feet long overall, and less than two inches wide, it may very well be the smallest stole in the collection.  It is a miniature symbol for a woman who is small of stature, but has has an enormous heart and spirit about her.  For many years Sonnie has been active in the More Light movement, in the Lazarus Project where she was honored for her volunteer services, and in many other efforts for social justice and equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender folk.  Sonnie is an ordained Presbyterian elder, and has served as Clerk of Session at Baldwin Park Presbyterian Church in the Los Angeles area.

Martha Juillerat

Founder, Shower of Stoles Project

2006