About the Author: Madison Shockley

Madison T. Shockley was a TCPC Executive Council member since its founding until 2013 and is currently the senior minister of Pilgrim United Church of Christ in Carlsbad, California, where he was called to ministry in May, 2004. Pilgrim is known for its commitment to social justice; its open and affirming stance toward persons of all sexual orientations; and its outreach to migrant workers, the homeless, and all persons in need. At Pilgrim, Madison continues an impressive career in service to progressive causes. Along with performing his pastoral duties with Pilgrim, Madison serves on the board of directors of American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of San Diego and Imperial Counties and the board of directors of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice. He also writes commentary for various online and print outlets. He holds the Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in New York City and has done advanced graduate work at Claremont Graduate University in New Testament Studies. He is married to Gayle P. Shockley née Welch, and they are the parents of four adult children.