Susan Fendley is a retired federal attorney, lifelong Baptist, wife, mother and grandmother.
Having no artistic ability, Fendley became a Christian clown for 20 years. She has enjoyed serving as a deacon and Bible study teacher and serving in committee leadership in her local church, local and state associations, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and several nonprofit groups and boards.
She is currently serving on Good Faith Media’s strategic advisory board for news and opinion.
1. What story, verse or passage from your faith tradition’s sacred texts has significantly influenced / shaped your life?
One of my favorite passages of scripture is 1 Corinthians 5:17.
As I worked with young people in our church to help them develop whole new characters as Christian clowns, we used this verse to help them understand that just as becoming new persons in clown face, they were becoming new people in Christ.
This verse continues to resonate with me as I realize that, even as we grow older, God is continuing to make us new people in God’s image.
2. Who are three people (other than your family) who have shaped your life and worldview?
Ed Patrick, senior attorney in my first position as an attorney who showed me not just how to learn the law but how to practice law.
Bill Bruster, my pastor at the time of many changes among Baptists, who helped me understand the real meaning of being a Baptist Christian.
Joyce Cope Wyatt, retired missionary of 40 years and Bible study teacher extraordinaire, who has shown me how to study and teach the Scriptures.
3. List three of your “desert island” books, movies or TV shows.
The Bible in several translations; The Shawshank Redemption; The West Wing.
4. What is one of the most critical issues people are facing today?
Showing the grace and mercy God has shown to me to every person regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or political affiliation.
5. What are a few of your hobbies?
Reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with grandchildren.
6. If you could freeze your life into an already-lived 10 seconds, what would they be?
The birth of my children and grandchildren.
7. Our tagline at Good Faith Media is, “There’s more to tell.” What’s your “more to tell”?
God is not through with any of us yet. We are continuing to become new people as we seek the mind of Christ.
Reflection and resources at the intersection of faith and culture through an inclusive Christian lens.
