After the Rain: New Life at Spirit in the Desert
Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s latest newsletter shares stories of renewal, upcoming retreats, worship opportunities, and ways to sustain this ministry of hospitality in the Arizona desert. Read the newsletter in full.
In her reflection, “After the Rain,” Executive Director Rika Beckley compares the desert’s monsoon blooms with the renewed activity at Spirit. After a quieter summer, groups are returning, weekends are filling, and the center continues its ministry of rest, healing, prayer, and reconnection. More than 3,700 people came to Spirit in the Desert last year—a reminder of the many lives touched through its 33 years of ministry.
The newsletter also highlights several opportunities to participate:
Healing of Memories Workshop for Veterans, November 20–22, 2026. This workshop, facilitated by Mike Wold, supports veterans as they address anger, loss, grief, and guilt. Learn more.
Executive Skills for Church Leaders, January 4–8, 2027. Designed for pastors, deacons, and church leaders, this continuing-education week will explore hybrid ministry, congregational vitality, artificial intelligence in ministry, and communications tools. Registration information is available from Spirit in the Desert at 480-488-5218.
Play Ball & Connect!, March 16–20, 2027. This Spring Training retreat, led by “Paddle Pilgrim” Dave Ellingson, brings together baseball, fellowship, worship, and faith-filled conversation in the Arizona desert. Space is limited to 10 participants; call 480-488-5218 for registration.
Readers can also subscribe to free daily devotions from Pr. Steve Holm, join Wednesday Respite—a free, 30-minute online service of Scripture, prayer, communion, music, and reflection—and learn about the second annual ThanksLiving Music Fest during Thanksgiving weekend.
As people of grace, we know renewal is not something we manufacture alone. God’s Spirit meets us in prayer, community, rest, and service, bringing forth new life in places that may seem dormant. The newsletter invites supporters to help Spirit in the Desert continue this ministry through giving, Thrivent Choice Dollars, Action Teams, planned gifts, and other forms of partnership.
Read the full newsletter and find a place to rest, reconnect, and participate in this growing ministry.
