Reverend Audrey Hartness-Reese

“A Civic Calling Reconsidered”

Three years ago, I had a conversation that changed everything.

It was just after a keynote I delivered at the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s annual conference in Charleston when a local pastor and newly elected councilmember introduced herself. Her name was Audrey Hartness-Reese. We talked about faith, leadership, public trust, and the tension that sometimes exists when you're called to serve in more than one way.

That conversation sparked the idea for this podcast—and Audrey became my very first guest.

Today, she returns to Community Catalysts with a new chapter to share.

Audrey still holds dual roles: she’s the Reverend at Westminster Presbyterian Church and—until recently—a councilmember in her small South Carolina town. But in this conversation, recorded in person at this year’s MASC conference, she opens up about the decision to step away from public office.

This is not a story of burnout or conflict. It’s a story of discernment. Of knowing when two callings begin to pull in different directions. And of having the courage to say, “It’s time.” Audrey speaks with grace, humility, and the kind of grounded wisdom that makes you stop and reflect on your own path. What does service really mean? When do we stay? And when do we let go?



If you’ve ever wrestled with those questions—or just want to hear from someone who’s navigating them with heart—I hope you’ll listen.

🎧 Listen to "A Civic Calling Reconsidered" with Reverend Audrey Hartness-Reese.

Thanks for being part of this journey.