About | Bio
Amanda Udis-Kessler
she/her/hers; PhD, Boston College, certificate, Iliff School of Theology
Amanda Udis-Kessleris a sociologist, author, speaker, trainer, and award-winning and multiply published hymnwriter, sacred music composer, and liturgist. She has three traditionally published books, has contributed essays to another 13 books, and is a core contributor to the 2023 anthology A Liturgy for All Bodies: New Words for a New World. She has preached over 150 sermons. Amanda has created and led workshops and trainings on topics ranging from inclusive liturgy to creativity, as well as offering trainings to help white people understand and work against anti-Black racism. She brings more than 20 years of institutional research and program evaluation experience in religious and higher education contexts to her work.
Amanda is the Transitional Pastor at Vista Grande Community Church United Church of Christ (Colorado Springs, CO) and a regular visiting speaker at the Progressive Christianity Network Britain St. Albans group.
Additional Links:
(featuring music, sermons, workshops, talks, and podcast appearances)
“If you're a progressive Christian leader looking for resources and insightful guidance in inclusive music and liturgy, social ethics, antiracism training, and strategies for prophetic action, then I ask you: why haven't you contacted Amanda yet? Amanda Udis-Kessler is an award-winning composer, an author, and sociologist who brings a unique blend of scholarly insight, practical experience, and a passion for justice to her consulting work. You'll find her collaborative approach to discerning thoughtful, inclusive, and transformative strategies for your congregation, non-profit, or other organization to be energizing and inspiring. Whether you're looking to deepen your expressions of inclusive practices, explore new possibilities for sacred music, or hone the impact of your social justice efforts, Amanda's wisdom and vision will undoubtedly enrich your work” ”
— Rev. David Felten, Co-creator of livingthequestions.com & Pastor of The Fountains UMC (Fountain Hills, AZ)