SPIRIT IN THE DESERT - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Retreat Leader, Legacy Workshop
Alanna Mack is retired from a highly successful practice as a tax CPA. In her work with clients on estate and trust tax matters, she found that surviving spouses often feel unprepared to face new - and unexpected - financial responsibilities and realities. Helping clients understand and manage their finances after the loss of a loved one became a specialty for Alanna. She also has served on exempt organization boards and finance committees, most recently the Franciscan Renewal Center and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Always an avid reader, Alanna's interests the last ten years have focused on mindfulness and spirituality, and she follows a daily practice of centering prayer and meditation. Alanna brings to these retreats a wonderful balance of financial wisdom and a spiritual understanding of legacy.
Job Titles:
- Representative for Portico Benefit Services
- Retreat Leader
Andrea Arey is a regional representative for Portico Benefit Services, serving Regions 1 and 2.
As a regional representative, Andrea's position provides sponsors and members with information, education, and support to those who serve in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and other faith based organizations. Andrea encourages wellness in all aspects of the Wholeness Wheel and looks for opportunities to teach and assist those she serves in leading healthy lives and achieving financial security.
Andrea has an extensive background in both stewardship and financial services, having served for three years as the Director of Stewardship Resources and Marketing with the ELCA Churchwide Organization. In the previous seven years, Andrea worked for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.
Andrea has a passion for a Christ centered approach to wellness. She enjoys time spent with family and friends, the arts, traveling, and hiking. She resides in Tempe, is married and has two grown sons and five grandchildren.
Andrea is a presenter at the Wellspring in the Desert Retreat: A Call to Be Whole at Spirit in the Desert in February, 2023, facilitated by colleague Tammy Devine.
Rev. Audrey Lukasak first learned about Healing of Memories while studying the culture context of leadership in South Africa. She returned the following year for facilitator training at HOM after leaving a toxic ministry. She knew the importance to heal before entering a new ministry in order not to hurt others. Pastor Audrey earned her MDiv from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). As a retired ordained Lutheran pastor (ELCA) and an emeritus board-certified chaplain for over 30 years, she…
Beth is a licensed professional counselor and a Veriditas trained labyrinth facilitator.
By utilizing a combination of spiritual traditions and experiential spiritual and therapeutic techniques we will work together during retreats on what is stopping you from making your life what you want it to be now … and in the future. I will be with you in your process - whether it is working to improve an experience of depression or anxiety, walking with you as a spiritual companion, caregiving, a journey of personal healing, dealing with the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of cancer or another long-term disorder such as immune disorders, or change in life such as nearing retirement.
Dr. Sikora is a PhD level psychotherapist who has over 25 years of private practice therapy experience, often working with clients facing complex medical issues, caregiving burnout, depression, and development of their own spiritual practices. She customizes the process, whether therapy or retreat, for the needs of the individual or group. In 2018 she became a Veriditas trained labyrinth facilitator and enjoys bringing the labyrinth into spiritual retreats. For more information, please visit her website at: www.bethsikoraphd.com and call her at 602-508-9190 or her practice manager, Angie Read at 706-414-0898 for more information.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior
- Retreat Leader
Christopher Njunge is an Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior and Leadership in the Bachelor's Degree for Professionals Program and the School of Management at California Lutheran University. He has a PhD in Information Systems and Technology from Claremont Graduate University. Njunge has more than ten years of experience in Industry having worked in the Financial Services and Software Industries. He has held various roles as a Business Analyst, Project Manager and as a Manager. His research interests include sports analytics, global development, and organizational behavior and leadership.
Job Titles:
- Founding Director of the PLTS Center for Climate Justice
Dr. Moe-Lobeda is Founding Director of the PLTS Center for Climate Justice and Faith, and is a co-founder of Seattle University's Center for Environmental Justice and Sustainability. She is one of three North Americans appointed to a global team to advise the World Council of Churches and Lutheran World Federation on their work toward a new international financial architecture. Her numerous awards include the Provost's Outstanding Scholarship Award from California Lutheran University (CLU) in 2019, the Outstanding Scholarship Award from Seattle University (College of Arts and Sciences) in 2013, appointment as Seattle University's Wismer Professor of Gender and Diversity Studies from 2011-2013, the St. Francis Award from Earth Ministry, and the Public Leadership Award from Lutheran Public Policy Office. She was appointed theological consultant to the Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and has served as a health worker/church worker in Honduras and as Director of the Washington, D.C. office of Augsburg College's Center for Global Education. She has served on the editorial boards of the Journal of the Society of Christian Ethics, Tikkun Magazine, and Dialog: A Journal of Theology. Moe-Lobeda currently serves as Professor of Theological and Social Ethics at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS), Church Divinity School of the Pacific, and the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley where she is a member of the Core Doctoral Faculty. Her doctoral degree in Christian Ethics is from Union Theological Seminary. She loves hiking in the woods and mountains, and spending time with family and dear friends.
Rev. Dave Ellingson, the Paddle Pilgrim, has taught courses in spirituality, environmental ethics, human development, and youth ministry at Trinity Lutheran College in Everett, Wash. He is a Lutheran pastor, author, Master Gardner, former distance runner and triathlete, and has a Doctorate in Holistic Health.
Dave is married and is the father of five grown children. He readily admits that from the earliest age, his middle name has been activity!! He lives in Edmonds, WA.
Dave Ellingson is the author of eight books:
Paddle Pilgrim: Kayaking the Fjords of Norway;
Paddle Pilgrim: Kayaking the Erie Canal and Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty;
Paddle Pilgrim: An Adventure of Spirit and Learning Kayaking the Mississippi River;
Say What? A Fresh Look at Old Sayings;
Biblical Wisdom for a Digital Age;
My Body, My Life: How you can combine prayer, praise, and the spiritual with work, play, and the physical for a healthier and more joyful Christian life; and
Grizz and His Friends, about a big, old bear with lots of friends.
Paddle Pilgrim: Kayaking the Mississippi River Headwaters in a Time of Climate Change
Dave is the retreat leader for Go Outside at Play in March, 2022.
Job Titles:
- Treasurer
- Treasurer of the Board of Directors
Mr. Schoenbeck was elected as a member of Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors in 2018. He brings to the organization his experience as a senior corporate executive and business coach.
His personal values of respect for customers and co-workers were integral to his success as an executive with major national companies; those values harmonize with Spirit in the Desert's mission of welcoming hospitality for all retreat guests.
Dave was one of the co-founders and the Senior Vice-President of the specialty retail chain Babies "R" Us. He is currently founder and owner of a business coaching firm, daveschoenbeck.com that is focused on significantly improving small and mid-size companies across the globe. Dave's mission is, "To simplify your business and drive better results."
The foothills of Cave Creek, Arizona is now home for Dave and his wife Ellen, his sweetheart from high school in Arlington Heights, a suburb of Chicago. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southeast Missouri State University and an Executive MBA from the University of Southern California. Dave and Ellen have moved often, living in more than half-a-dozen states. One of their stops on their corporate journey was Tucson, Arizona. When it was time to end travel with
Respect. Mr. Schoenbeck was elected as a member of Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors in 2018. He brings to the organization his experience as a senior corporate executive and business coach. His personal values of respect for customers and co-workers were integral to his success as an executive with major national companies; those values harmonize with Spirit in the Desert's mission of welcoming hospitality for all retreat guests. Dave was one of the co-founders and the Senior Vice-President…
Job Titles:
- Director
- Member of Board of Directors of Spirit
The Rev. Deborah Hutterer has been a member of Board of Directors of Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center since 2013. In June 2018, voting members of the Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America elected Deborah to be their bishop. She will leave left her position as Chief Development Officer for Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest to serve a six-year term as bishop, while continuing as a board member of Spirit in the Desert.
Deborah's connection with the retreat center began in 2009 when she attended a leadership retreat and came to the surprising conclusion, "this is a holy place."
When asked what she meant by the powerful word "holy," she said, "The setting was God's beautiful High Sonoran Desert, and I experienced warm and welcoming hospitality. I had meaningful conversations with interesting people from across the country, who were focused, as was I, on reflection and personal renewal. I loved it. The whole experience was so special it felt holy."
She said, "I want to be a part of the Center's mission of providing a place where a person from any background can safely step away, quietly look within themselves, and leave with a renewed sense of calling for their spot in the world. Our world is difficult for many and brutally traumatic for some. I am confident Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center will continue to be a place of renewal and healing for thousands from all over the world."
Deborah has had a career of accomplishments beginning with entrepreneurial skills at the age of eighteen when she started a commercial and residential cleaning service. She has worked in the insurance industry, was a public relations associate for Augsburg University in Minneapolis, and served as Augsburg's coordinator of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum. She was also executive director of Faith in the City, a collaboration of Lutheran institutions in Minneapolis-St. Paul contributing to community well being.
Deborah's interest in helping others find a renewing relationship with God, appeared at a young age; she was in the eighth grade when she told her minister she wanted to be a pastor. In 2004, she finished her theological education with additional training in transformational ministry.
Deborah's election to the leadership position of bishop is God's on-going call to her new "spot" to make a difference in the lives of all people. Alongside of her new opportunities, she will continue to provide guidance to Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
Denise said, "I grew up on a dairy farm in Minnesota where I learned a strong work ethic and the importance of working together. Denise describes her employment at Spirit in the Desert as a family where everyone pitches in for the common purpose of serving retreat guests. "At the end of the day, I go home feeling that we have made an important difference for our guests. It is ministry for people from many states and countries."
The family experience extends to guests. When people inquire about bringing a group of people for a retreat, Denise invites them to take a tour of the campus. She said, "During the tour the guests are introduced to the beautiful campus and stunning desert scenery. It is exciting to welcome them to their retreat and when they return a year or so later, it is like a family reunion."
For many of Spirit in the Desert's guests, the Retreat Center's well-known welcoming hospitality begins on the phone or in person with Denise Berberich, Guest Services Director. "My job starts with identifying what people need for a successful retreat, whether that is a group of 50 people, or an individual, couple, or family wanting a renewal experience. I gather their information and put together a package with all of the details for guest rooms, meals and snacks, meeting rooms, equipment, and…
Job Titles:
- Vice Chair
- Vice Chair of the Board of Directors
Broadening the Reach of This Exceptional Place Doug Yock, M.D., was elected to the Board of Directors of Spirit in the Desertin 2018, bringing his leadership experience from healthcare to the retreatcenter. He graduated from Harvard College and Harvard Medical School andcompleted internship and residency at Stanford University and fellowship atthe University of California San Francisco. Prior to retirement, Dr. Yockpracticed neuroradiology at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis,where he directed Magnetic Resonance Imaging and led the development of the neuroscience…
Rev. Dr. Cathy Harrington's transformative experience at a Healing of Memories workshop with Father Michael Lapsley in 2013 led her to become a lead facilitator with IHOM. She currently serves as the Interim Lead Minister in a congregation in Buffalo, NY. Cathy earned her MDiv at the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley, CA, and later earned a DMin focusing on Restorative Justice. Cathy's experience as a volunteer police chaplain and victim outreach specialist and her 20-year career in parish ministry affirms her belief that Healing of Memories workshops are a powerful tool in helping people begin their inner journey towards wholeness and healing.
Prior to becoming a minister, Cathy was an award-winning hairdresser for 25 years and owned Miller's Daughter Bakery/Cafe in Seward, Alaska, which is where she recognized that her call to feed people was a call to ministry. She drove the Al-Can Highway to Berkeley, Calif., where she spent five years (including a one-year internship in Austin, Texas) to study at Starr King School for the Ministry.
While in seminary and beyond, Cathy's ministry has been deeply informed and creatively shaped by her involvement with the Faithful Fools Street Ministry in the Tenderloin District of San Francisco.
Dr. David Tiede earned the B.A. degree from St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., in 1962, attended Princeton Theological Seminary in 1962-63 and received the B.D. degree from Luther Seminary in 1966. He earned the Ph.D. degree from Harvard University in 1971. His service as President of Luther Seminary has given him opportunities to sustain his New Testament scholarship, especially in Luke and Acts, and to draw upon these resources in his leadership in theological education. His books, articles, and lectures focus upon the leadership the church needs in a new era of apostolic mission in a world of many cultures and religions.
He is a former chair of the Board of Directors at Spirit in the Desert.
Dr. Diane Jacobson is professor emerita of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in Saint Paul, MN where she taught from 1982-2010. She also served as director of the Book of Faith Initiative for the ELCA from 2008-2015. She is a rostered deacon of the ELCA. Jacobson has been a frequent speaker throughout the Church, including the 2011 and 2013 Churchwide Assemblies, the LWF 50th Anniversary Assembly in Hong Kong, and numerous synodical assemblies, rostered leaders gatherings, and churchwide consultations. Dr. Jacobson currently serves on the boards of lutheranarts.org and Augsburg College and also served on the consulting board and as a contributor to the Lutheran Study Bible (2009).
Jacobson is, first and foremost, a lover of Scripture. "I'm in love with this Book," she says. "My calling is to teach Scripture for the sake of God's world, and to invite others into the wonders and rewards of exploring the Bible together."
Dr. Robin B. Dilley is an Arizona Licensed Psychologist, Author, Speaker, and Advanced Veriditas Labyrinth Facilitator. Arizona Labyrinth Connections is the newest arm of her psychotherapy and spiritual consulting practice and she is excited to share the transformational power of the Labyrinth with you. She offers themed workshops, such as the Wizard of Oz or Lesson's from the Miller's Daughter, while specializing in cancer and healing workshops for body, soul and spirit. Dr. Dilley will also create workshops for your specific needs for your group or corporate needs.
Elaine Averitt's education background includes a BS in Botany and Master's degree in Environmental Planning. Her experience ranges from working at the Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix), Arizona State Parks, and landscape architecture and planning firms. Moving to northern Arizona in 2005 provided an opportunity to work as a planner for the City of Flagstaff (retired 2020). She helped implement the city's plans to create walkable, safe and visually appealing commercial and residential development, including preserving forest resources. A love of nature (and need to make a living!) has drawn Elaine to most of these positions.
As a child, her parents regularly took the family out of the Phoenix desert to creek-side places where they were free to explore flowers, bugs, birds, and mud. Also, she was taught that "we are made in God's image and likeness" and "healing is a natural law." As she progressed through her adult life with its challenges, she sought to expand her capacity to cope with hardships, learn how to love better, appreciate and seek diversity, and cultivate a feeling of oneness with all forms of creation.
Eric Simonson has been engaged in several capacities at Spirit in the Desert over the past few years. Encouraged by his ongoing friendship with Spirit's Faith Mentor, Jim Hanson, Eric and his wife, Michelle, met the late executive director Richard Andersen, who introduced them to the mission and vision of the retreat center's ministry. Their lifetime connections and engagement in Lutheran congregational service sensitized them to discover and embrace the impact and value of Spirit in the Desert. From there, they began attending the weekly Wednesday afternoon contemplative service, and they volunteered in Spirit's food service program when the crew was short-handed.
During this time, Eric sold his company, with a deep-seated openness to his next calling in life. After Richard's untimely passing, Eric was hired to manage the food service, kitchen and dining room and, six months later was invited to serve as Operations and Finance Manager. Through these key roles, Eric embraced the opportunity to align his 35 years of business management experience with his passion for integrating Christian faith into all parts of his life.
In April of 2020, the board of directors unanimously voted to offer Eric the position of Executive Director. During most of his first year, Eric focused his attention on making the necessary changes to get through the Covid hiatus and put Spirit in a position to not only continue, but thrive in its mission and ministry.
"This is a very special place and a unique ministry and I feel extremely fortunate to be a part of it," Eric explained. "To create an environment where people can experience healing and renewal of body, mind, and spirit is very rewarding."
On a personal note, Eric is married to Michelle and they have twin daughters, Ashley and Nicole. They both enjoy traveling, boating, and spoiling their two grandchildren.
Job Titles:
- Founder of Healing of Memories
Father Michael Lapsley is an Anglican missionary priest who was active in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. In 1990, after being ejected from South Africa, he suffered the loss of his hands and the sight in one eye from a letter-bomb that was sent to him in Zimbabwe by a supporter of the pro-apartheid government in South Africa. After a long recovery from the bombing, Father Lapsley decided to dedicate his life to helping victims of emotional, psychological, and spiritual wounds inflicted by war, human rights abuses and other traumatic circumstances. He founded the Institute for Healing of Memories in South Africa in 1998, http://www.healing-memories.org, whose mission is to facilitate the healing process of individuals, communities and nations.
His story of how, accompanied by prayers, love and support from around the world, he was able to navigate a journey from victim to survivor to victor is as riveting as it is moving and hopeful. Nelson Mandela has said, "Michael's life represents a compelling metaphor - a foreigner who came to our country and was transformed … his life is part of the tapestry of the many long journeys and struggles of our people."
Job Titles:
- Administrator
- Chief Executive Officer
- Member of the Board of Directors
"Very few people want to come to my workplace," said Gordy Griller of Scottsdale, Arizona whose life work has been as a court administrator, a place where the legal resolution of disputes are usually emotionally charged.
Mr. Griller has served as administrator and chief executive officer for various courts in Hennepin and Ramsay counties in Minnesota and Maricopa County in Arizona.
He was appointed in May, 2021 to the Board of Directors of Spirit in the Desert as he continues consulting part-time for the National Center for State Courts improving management systems in trial courts throughout the country. He has worked with courts in more than 20 states and territories.
Gordy is passionate about access to fair justice in our nation's courts for everyone regardless of financial ability, race or status. While providing overall management for the Superior Court of Arizona in Maricopa Country, from 1987 to 2003, Self-Service Centers were developed to provide information and forms for persons who are representing themselves. Internationally recognized, the widely replicated Centers assist litigants who are without lawyers.
Deeply concerned about racial biases built into the rules, procedures and practices of the justice system, Gordy is active with the National Association for Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers to bring about change making the acquisition of justice available for all.
Gordy said he accepted the opportunity to be a member of Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors because, "it provides a safe haven where people can re-connect with what is most important." He hopes to bring his management experience from large complex organizations and his perspective of fairness and justice to Spirit in the Desert.
Awards and honors have recognized Gordy's contributions to courts and communities, including the Warren E. Burger Award, named in honor of a former Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, who was the catalyst behind the creation of the National Center for State Courts. Gordy's youth and early career were in Minneapolis and he is a graduate of the University of Minnesota. He has lived in Scottsdale, Arizona since 1987 with his wife, Helen, a school teacher. They have been married 55 years, have two adult children, four grandchildren, and they plan to continue working and volunteering to make our communities better for everyone.
Fair justice for all. "Very few people want to come to my workplace," said Gordy Griller of Scottsdale, Arizona whose life work has been as a court administrator, a place where the legal resolution of disputes are usually emotionally charged. Mr. Griller has served as administrator and chief executive officer for various courts in Hennepin and Ramsay counties in Minnesota and Maricopa County in Arizona. He was appointed in May, 2021 to the Board of Directors of Spirit in the…
Job Titles:
- Lead Facilitator, Healing of Memories
Graciela Marroquin enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 18 in 1992, beginning as a plane captain. In 2003 Marroquin transferred into the Army National Guard, and in 2004 served a tour in Baghdad, Iraq, as a combat-medic and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. After serving 14 years in the military, she returned to her civilian job at a community mental health agency, while earning her Master's Degree in Social Work. She now resides in Tempe, AZ where she conducts post-graduate research, veteran outreach, peer mentorship, and group facilitation for women veterans.
As a post-traumatic-stress "Victor," she is pursuing her doctoral degree in clinical psychology, with an emphasis on trauma, stress, resiliency, and moral conflict/injury. She has been a Healing of Memories facilitator in the Phoenix area for two years.
Marroquin was a Top 25 Finalist for 2018 Ms. Veteran America.
Job Titles:
- Spiritual Director, Retreat Leader
Henry Rojas is a popular speaker and gifted spiritual director, currently serving as spiritual director at Spirit in the Desert. His unique brand of humor and insight has helped individuals and groups make transformational change for more than 20 years. Henry was the creator behind the most recognized of all NBA mascots, "The Gorilla" of the Phoenix Suns. His engaging parody, dancing rhythm and visual comedy is still unrivaled in sports and won him a place in the Hall of Fame. He is equally known for walking away at the peak of his popularity to explore his true identity and intrinsic worth. Today, unmasked, Henry has become a powerful voice and resource for recovering performers, addicts, and leaders who have been called to a journey of inner freedom.
Job Titles:
- Chairman
- Chairman of the Board of Directors
"Spirit in the Desert is welcoming retreaters again. In January 2020, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, its Board of Directors, and staff, were still reeling from the sudden and unexpected death of its dynamic Executive Director, Richard Anderson, who had been leading the exciting growth of the Carefree, Arizona retreat center. The Board turned to Jennifer Braaten, Ed.D., of Sedona, Arizona to serve as Interim Executive Director with a portfolio of tasks including leading the search for a new…
Job Titles:
- Executive Clinical Director at Soberman 's Estate
- Retreat Leader
Jerry Ehmann is currently the Executive Clinical Director at Soberman's Estate in Cave Creek and operates a private practice, Ehmann Counseling Services in Phoenix. He has worked with individuals in both residential and out-patient treatment facilities and counsels from a person-centered approach. He is trained in EMDR therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and stresses the treatment of underlying conditions and past traumas when working with clients. Jerry is a member of International Society of ART, the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, the American Counselor Association, the AzCA, and Chi Sigma Iota Honor Society for Counseling.
Ehmann holds a BS in Psychology and earned his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Jerry is licensed by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health as an LPC and LISAC, is a member of the Arizona Supervisor Registry, and is a National Certified Counselor with the NBCC.
For nearly 7 years, Jim Hanson served as Spirit's "Faith Mentor." The dictionary defines a mentor as ‘an experienced and trusted advisor'.
Jim has worked with churches and individuals as far away as in Japan, as well as churches in the U.S. involved in Chinese, Hispanic, and other ministries. No matter where you are in your life of faith, just beginning or far along, Jim is available to spend time with you, hear your story, and reflect with you on the depth and mystery of your experience with the Divine.
Job Titles:
- Gift Planner
- Planner
- Planner With ELCA Foundation
Josh Kerney is a Regional Gift Planner with the ELCA Foundation, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He serves congregations, ministry organizations and individuals in Northern California, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Western Texas, Utah and Wyoming, providing planned giving expertise as well as resources, financial education and endowment management services to help clients joyfully answer the call to love and serve our neighbor. Josh has a passion for providing clarity in philanthropic legacy planning and in helping donors to be intentional in decisions about their generosity. He and colleague Lisa Higginbotham partner with Spirit in the Desert on donor relationship development, gift policy implementation, stewardship of planned gifts, endowment, legacy gifts and more.
Josh lives in Paradise, CA with his wife, Renee, and their two amazing children, Eleanor and Fischer. Through God's grace and abundance, they continue their journey of rebuilding and restoration following the wildfires of 2018.
Josh Kerney is a regional gift planner with ELCA Foundation, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Joyce Rupp, OSM, is world renowned for her work as a writer, spiritual midwife, international retreat leader, and conference speaker. She is the author of numerous bestselling books, including Boundless Compassion, Praying Our Goodbyes, The Door, and Fragments of Your Ancient Name. Her book on aging, Fly While You Still Have Wings, is among her publications earning an award in spirituality from the Catholic Press Association. Joyce is a member of the Servite (Servants of Mary) community, and founder of the Boundless Compassion network of programs, retreats, writings, practices and people that encourage healthy self-compassion, explore compassionate living, and offer creative ways to nurture and sustain compassion. Rupp is the director emeritus of the Institute of Compassionate Presence (ICP). She lives in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Job Titles:
- Secretary
- Secretary of the Board of Directors
Julie brings her popular SPICE Retreat to Spirit in the Desert on December 9-11, 2022.
An International Perspective Julie Yates has managed commercial real estate properties in the UnitedStates and London. After living and working in London for fifteen years,Julie and her husband Steve moved back to Arizona in 2015 and becamere-acquainted with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. She said, "Weloved living in London and experiencing the perspective of aninternational community." In 1993, the Lutheran Church was given facilities and land in Carefreethat had been the International Restaurant and the Adobe Inn. Julie,because of…
Juliene Lemon, PhD, LMHC - Julie is the owner of Cedar Rapids Therapy in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and the creator of the Spiritual Program for Individual and Couple Empowerment (SPICE), a relationship education program. She's a constant seeker of all things well-being and a believer that relational satisfaction is the key to health and "The Good Life." She's been a practicing mental health counselor for over two decades and completed her PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. Julie strives to share her experience and knowledge to bring greater wellness to individuals, couples, families, and the greater world.
Karl Schwirian started in the restaurant business at age 15, working at a Chicago Beef stand called the Yellow Submarine. This led to jobs in hotels including 5 years at the Arizona Biltmore. While working at the Coyote Café in Santa Fe with Mark Miller, Karl assisted with many special events and cookbooks. After a stint at Scalo Northern Italian Grill in Albuquerque, Karl moved to Seattle and worked for Consolidated Restaurant Group, as Executive Chef at Pescatore. Upon returning to Phoenix, Karl worked with the Mastro Group at Marco Polo and Cocomo Joe's as well as starting Mastro's Catering.
In an effort to find balance in life to raise a family, Karl left the kitchen for several years, working in Food sales. Spirit is the newest addition to Karl's resume and he is up to the challenge. Karl believes that food is more than daily sustenance. It is with gratitude that meals are prepared with the best ingredients in simple ways, that let the food stand on its own, in it's beauty and glory.
In his spare time, Karl's loves to talk about food and music trivia, and enjoys going to concerts with his wife of 30 years, Karen, and his sons, Connor and Spencer.
Job Titles:
- Lead Facilitator, Healing of Memories
Linda L. Rich, DCSW, LSW, CSAC has been an Institute for Healing of Memories facilitator since 2010 and chairs the board of IHOM-NA. As a social worker she has worked in a wide range of addiction treatment, mental health and medical programs. She served in military hospitals with the American Red Cross in Vietnam and in the U.S. She believes deeply in each person's capacity to heal and to help others heal the wounds of the past. Linda is a member of a Just Peace, Open and Affirming United Church of Christ congregation, Church of the Crossroads.
Linda received the Distinguished Service to the Community Award from Wesleyan College in 2019.
Job Titles:
- Certified Fund Raising Executive
- Planner With ELCA Foundation
- Retreat Leader, Gift Planner
Lisa Higginbotham, Certified Fund Raising Executive, is honored to be a resource for us as the Regional Gift Planner for ELCA Foundation. Lisa successfully worked in the financial services industry for 25 years, including her financial advising practice specializing in retirement and legacy planning. In her current role, Lisa works directly with ELCA organizations and partnerships. Hoping to bring her experience and advocacy to each, she helps create and enhance gift and endowment policy and programming, works directly with donors to help them express generosity, and witnesses to discipled stewardship and biblical giving. Lisa hopes to use her experience and best practices to create sustainability and ministry funding for your congregation or organization! When not on a church campus, you can find her cooking for family or community gardening.
Lisa Higginbotham is a regional gift planner with ELCA Foundation, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Job Titles:
- Lead Facilitator, Healing of Memories
After starting her career as a successful family law attorney, Lori Rubenstein, JD, PCC, came to the understanding that the well-being of divorced families was clearly not the task of the legal system. She realized that she was like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole as a divorce attorney. Instead, she chose to follow her own mission - empowering people to heal from their relationship wounds, eventually becoming a certified coach. While seeking that goal, she learned that forgiveness truly is the cornerstone of all healing. On a personal level, Lori has been twice divorced and today is happily remarried. Her children are grown and she lives a life filled with love and laughter, walking her talk and always striving to make a difference in the world.
In addition to her private practice, Lori is a facilitator for Healing of Memories North America, teacher of Divorce Recovery Coaches for Impact Coaching Academy and is a facilitator for Northern Arizona Restorative Justice. Lori was a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Abused and Neglected Children, is an Ambassador for Shared Hope International, a member of the Sedona Advocacy Team for FCNL (Friends Committee on National Legislation) and was a member of the board of the Sedona International City of Peace. She has a unique ability for holding sacred space for people to heal and mend their past, and to transcend their own "stories." Inner peace, she teaches, starts with self-love, acceptance, non-judgment and self-compassion. She is the author of three transformational books, including the bestselling Forgiveness: Heal Your Past and Find the Peace YOU Deserve.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
The Reverend Lowell Nelson, an engaging and energetic leader, was appointed to Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors in August, 2022. He brings a depth of senior leadership experience in business, healthcare, and church organizations. He describes his life as a journey of making vocational changes in response to a deep sense of calling. Supporting Spirit in the Desert as a member of the Board is a good fit and an opportunity for him to assist a very important organization.
He recently served as Senior Pastor of American Lutheran Church in Sun City, Arizona. After four years, it felt like the right time to retire and open a new life chapter. A bout of valley fever and its after effects was a part of the decision. American Lutheran Church has a strong connection with Spirit in the Desert. In 1993, Mac and Maybell Estrem, who were members of the congregation, provided nearly three million dollars to purchase property in central Carefree that became the retreat center. The congregation has continued providing support for Spirit in the Desert.
When speaking about Spirit in the Desert's location in the High Sonoran Desert, and its outstanding facilities, Lowell believes, "A peaceful physical place is vital for people to gather for a few hours or days to connect with oneself, others, and the Spirit."
The Rev. Lowell Nelson, a parish pastor with a strong business background, accepts post on board of directors at Spirit in the Desert.
Margaret Fell has worked with Fr. Michael Lapsley and the Institute for Healing of Memories since 2007. She was one of the founding members of a working group of the Minnesota's Warrior to Citizen Campaign which has offered the Healing of Memories workshops for veterans since 2009. She served as Chair of the Institute for Healing of Memories-North America from 2011- 2014 and has been a Healing of Memories workshop facilitator since 2011.
Margaret is an Episcopal priest. She holds a BA degree from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Divinity degree from United Theological Seminary/Seabury Western Theological Seminary. The focus of her ministry is working with Healing of Memories for Veterans workshops.
Mary Delaney, Ph.D. is a licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of experience as a Psychotherapist in private practice. She is a practical intuitive specializing in teaching clients how to listen to and apply their intuition and inner guidance. Mary has taught graduate classes at Arizona State University, been published in the Journal of Psychotherapy, and lectured nationally on a variety of topics which focus on healing the body, mind and spirit.
She is co-author of the children's book "Moose, Bear and Hummingbird," and has produced the breathing, relaxation and meditation CD, "Sacred Spaces." Mary believes that people don't need to be saved or rescued. People need awareness of their own power and how to access it. She feels that it is an honor to be able to accompany anyone who comes to see her on their healing journey.
Job Titles:
- Retreat Leader, Legacy Workshop
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Lead Facilitator, Healing of Memories
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Member of Spirit
- Member of the Mission and Development Committee of the Board
Involved from the Beginning Pastor Joel Bjerkestrand was appointed a member of Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors in April 2019, bringing thirty years of involved ecumenical experience with Phoenix area faith communities and civic organizations. He is a dynamic speaker, mediator, educator, and counselor, having served three Lutheran congregations in the Phoenix metro area, one as associate pastor and two as senior pastor. Since 2011 he has been on staff as visitation pastor at La Casa de Cristo…
Pastor Joel Bjerkestrand was appointed a member of Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors in April 2019, bringing thirty years of involved ecumenical experience with Phoenix area faith communities and civic organizations. He is a dynamic speaker, mediator, educator, and counselor, having served three Lutheran congregations in the Phoenix metro area, one as associate pastor and two as senior pastor. Since 2011 he has been on staff as visitation pastor at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, Scottsdale.
Spirit in the Desert's mission of welcoming and serving people of all faiths and backgrounds, is in sync with Joel's values. While pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, the congregation helped two Jewish groups launch their synagogues by temporarily using the church's facilities.
Joel's life began in India, the son of Christian missionaries, where he lived for twelve years. He graduated from high school in Peoria, Illinois, from Augsburg College in Minneapolis, and earned a Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. In college he met and became married to Sue Halvorson, who is now a retired elementary school teacher. They have two adult children and eight grandchildren.
The beginnings of Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center are familiar to Joel. In 1993, he was a member of the Executive Committee of the ELCA Grand Canyon Synod when the Synod received the gift of facilities and land in Carefree and also funds for additional buildings from Mac and Maybelle Estrem of Sun City, Arizona. Over the years, Joel has used Spirit in the Desert for church retreats and for various groups and programs.
Joel said, "Twenty-six years after its founding, the number and variety of retreats is growing and each year more people are benefitting from retreats. Spirit in the Desert is going in the right direction by meeting the growing need for retreats." He added, "I know from experience the deep benefits of retreats. Years later, people have shared with me how a retreat was life-transforming."
As a member of the Mission and Development Committee of the Board, Pastor Joel will be able to use his networking, fund-raising, and leadership communication experience to support Spirit in the Desert's mission of providing renewing and healing retreats.
Charitable funds are oxygen. "Spirit in the Desert is one of the most exciting and dynamic ministries of the church." That is the informed assessment of Paul Evenson who has spent years supporting Lutheran congregations, camps, colleges and institutions. When Paul was asked to serve a second term on Spirit in the Desert's Board of Directors he enthusiastically said, "Yes." He did so because he knows that the retreat center provides spiritual hospitality for guests of all people of faith. …
Sheila Laughton (USAF, Ret.) was a career Intelligence and Force Management officer who served from the Vietnam Era to 2000. She deployed to Saudi Arabia for the first Gulf War. After her military retirement, Sheila founded Welcome Home for veterans of all eras and their families, at the Loyola Spirituality Center in Minnesota. This unique program addressed challenging reintegration issues such as trauma, moral injury, life purpose, from a spiritual perspective. She has worked with men and women who have experienced or witnessed trauma…
Solveig Muus worked for a decade at Augsburg Fortress Publishers (Minneapolis) in marketing services before joining Christian Brands, a.k.a. Autom, a.k.a. CBC Group (Phoenix) where she was Director of Marketing, Director of Product Development, Creative Director and for the last 10 years, Brand Manager of the company's Catholic wholesale division. Solveig also is principal of Silk Road Asian Sourcing, a consulting firm that advises clients on marketing strategy, catalog design, and product development and sourcing. "I am thrilled to be part…
Each year, Steve Holm enthusiastically plays more than 100 rounds of golf and writes more than 400 inspiring daily devotionals. Steve is a retired Lutheran pastor and lives in Tempe, Arizona. He is the author of Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center's popular DAILY MEDITATIONS which are available 365 days a year by email and at www.spiritinthedesert.org. He is also the author of the popular Advent and Lenten meditationbooklets published by Spirit in the Desert since 2008. Golf is one…
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Empowering Women Suki Kisling's zeal for empowering women continues to find many opportunities. She lived in Las Vegas for 28 years where she opened her ownfinancial planning practice. Some of her clients were widows who were at aloss to manage finances. Some had never written a check or paid a householdbill. Suki was there for them with support and education. She said, "Teachingwomen to become independent became a passion. This passion combined withmy Christian faith became the focus of a…
Job Titles:
- Principal of Devine Coaching
- Retreat Leader - Wellness
Fostering wellness and healing is a passion and call for Tammy Devine, Principal of Devine Coaching. From nursing, to parish nursing, to health and wellness ministry, she has helped foster health, healing, and wholeness in the lives of God's people. Tammy has a Masters in Leadership from Luther Theological Seminary, and she is a Lutheran Deacon. She has served as the director of wellness for a long-term care facility, and until recently was the Wellness Manager for Portico Benefit Services,…