The grandson of Mexican immigrants, Justin grew up among the yucca and sage of the Mojave desert. Raised in Las Vegas, NV, the family religion was Roman Catholic with Justin even contemplating being a priest. Which brought him to the University of San Diego where he received a BA in philosophy and theology. Choosing a different path, he worked in broadcast journalism until marrying his partner Heather, whose dream was to serve in the Peace Corps.
Six months after marriage, Justin and Heather left the US for Romania for 2 ½ years. While there, Justin encountered Hungarian Unitarianism in the Hargita valley of Transylvania which opened him to a new relationship with spirituality and religion. On returning to the US, they moved to Seattle and found University Unitarian in 2012. Inspired by Unitarian Universalist principles and sources, and the ministers and mission of the congregation, Justin entered seminary in 2014 at Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry. He graduated in 2020 with a Master of Divinity (Chaplaincy).
Justin was ordained by University Unitarian church to Unitarian Universalist ministry in 2021. He serves as a hospital chaplain specializing in palliative care and hospice. He is also involved in UUC’s equity team, religious education, and the UUA Pacific Western Region’s youth and emerging adult activities.
Rev. Justin Almeida, MDiv (he/they)
Palliative Care Chaplain Fellow, VA of Puget Sound
Spiritual Care Provider, Harborview Medical Center
Affiliated Minister, University Unitarian Church
justinalmeida.com