Every Monday we profile one of our Members. This week we are joined by Proprietor 68, Reverend Philip Waldron
Who are you?
The Rev. Philip Waldron, Minister for Ullet Road Unitarian Church, Wirral Unitarians, Southport Unitarians. For those who don’t know William Roscoe one of the founders of the Athenaeum was a Unitarian. He attended the Renshaw Street Chapel. Its congregation moved to Ullet Road Church in 1898. I have been a member of the Athenaeum since 2013
What is your greatest achievement?
My Baby Boy! He is 18 months; his name is Emerson; named after Ralph Waldo Emerson not the progressive 1970s rock back Emerson Lake and Palmer. Something I point out all the time.
Can you give one interesting fact about yourself?
I am the first ordained minister in Liverpool to do a same-sex wedding.
What brought you to The Athenaeum?
I was doing some research and a friend told me about the Athenaeums Library. I emailed the athenaeum and they were happy for me to look around.
Is there anything you would like to change about the Athenaeum?
For me, the strength of the Athenaeum is its serenity and gentle fellowship. Reinforcing a culture of hospitality and fellowship will create the foundation for growth. Growing or changing on a rocky foundation will never work long term. I wouldn’t change anything; I would focus on welcoming, hospitality, and fellowship. It will grow naturally if the foundation is welcoming.
What would you say to anyone considering joining the Club?
It is a place for potential like-minded free thinkers to relax, converse and debate in peace.