In Memory of Patrick Russell

Patrick Russell, Chair of the Steering Committee of the ELCA Alliance for Faith, Science, and Technology, died peacefully of an aggressive form of cancer on January 26^th, 2007, at his home in Westlake Village, California, surrounded by family and friends.  His energetic and imaginative leadership of the ELCA Alliance was just beginning to bloom when he became ill, and we already miss him greatly.  We extend our sympathy to his wife, Kathleen, and to his father, Don. He was 43 years old.

Patrick had not only a scientist’s curiosity and rigorous intelligence but also a pastor’s heart.  He managed to combine both in his life and work. 

After receiving a B.A. in physics and astronomy from Boston University and a Ph.D. in particle physics from Princeton University, Patrick applied medical imaging techniques to the study of human brain function at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and the Neurosciences Institute in San Diego, CA.  A call to Christian ministry led Patrick to Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, where he earned has M.Div. degree in 2002,  He was then called as Associate Pastor at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Lafayette Hill, PA.

Patrick started his association with the ELCA Alliance for Faith, Science, and Technology after attending it’s 2004 Sunday Scientists Symposium in Chicago.  He soon was involved on its Steering Committee, sharing his energy and imaginative ideas.  He began to Chair the Steering Committee at the 2006 Ecumenical Roundtable, where the picture of him above was taken.  When his illness first surfaced, he was in conversation with the ELCA Staff Team on Faith, Science, and Technology about a possible consultation on the implications of neuroscience for Christian ministry.

Building on both his scientific experience and theological training, Patrick presented workshops and courses on science and religion to seminary, university, and congregational audiences around the country, including M.I.T., the University of Pennsylvania, and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.  In September 2000, while spending three weeks in China he gave lectures in Beijing and Hong Kong on topics including neuroscience and the relationship of science and theology.

Patrick also liked to communicate in writing with popular audiences about the intersection of faith and science.  He published three articles in The Lutheran magazine: “Epiphany's enduring question: What will we do with new Wisdom", “Religion and science are both about knowing and wondering” and "We entrust you to God"

At the time of his death, Patrick was an Advisory Group member of the Interfaith Forum on Religious Art and Architecture.  He was immersed in the details of planning a conference that aims to explore the relationship between neuroscience and religious architecture.

Patrick was also a gifted singer.  As a vocalist interested in sacred, operatic, and folk repertoire, Patrick appeared in operas from Carnegie Hall to Tijuana, Mexico, sang with the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra Chorus, sang African-American spirituals live on Chinese television and chanted Evensong in British cathedrals, among other experiences of pure, unexpected grace. 

He married his long-time friend and fellow adventure traveler, Kathleen Cleveland, on December 30, 2006.  They committed themselves to each other, to share the journey of his illness and treatment in hope of extended life together. 

May the memory of Patrick Russell be blessed, joyful, and full of thanksgiving.