Spirit in the Desert Update: Garden Tribute, ThanksLiving Music Fest, and More

Honoring longtime mentor Jim Hanson, Spirit in the Desert is just $3,000 away from creating a new contemplative garden. Also in the works: the ThanksLiving Music Fest (Nov 28–Dec 1), building upgrades, and community events like book clubs, devotions, and the return of Community of the Wild Goose. Read the full newsletter.

The Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona, shares heartfelt updates this month—from a new contemplative garden to a first-of-its-kind Thanksgiving weekend music festival. These stories invite our synod community to celebrate, connect, and participate.

Honoring Jim Hanson with a Garden of Peace

The board of directors recently voted to name the garden outside the Sunset Chapel in honor of Jim Hanson, Spirit’s longtime Faith Mentor. With over $17,000 already raised for the $20,000 project, only $3,000 remains to fully fund the transformation. Thanks to a matching donor, gifts now go twice as far. Construction begins Tuesday, May 6, with a fall dedication planned.

ThanksLiving Music Fest: Nov 28–Dec 1, 2025

Escape the frenzy of Black Friday and gather in the desert for Spirit’s 1st Annual ThanksLiving Music Fest, featuring Trop-Rock artists Mark Mulligan, Kelly McGuire, and Rudy B. Enjoy live music, daily meals, and a relaxed, BYOB retreat setting. Packages start at $399 per person and are expected to sell out quickly.

Ongoing Improvements & Needs

Spirit also seeks support for other key upgrades, including carpet replacement in the Estrem building, new bedding across campus, and long-term plans for door locks and guest room expansion. Executive Director Eric Simonson assures donors that every dollar is stretched with care and stewardship.

Food, Devotion, and Community

Head Chef Karl Schwirian shares seasonal recipes and cooking reflections—including a much-requested guide to his famous roasted beets. Meanwhile, Spirit’s free daily devotions by Pr. Steve Holm and upcoming book discussions continue to nurture faith from afar.

Mark Your Calendar

  • Spirited Book Club continues May 8 & 22 with See No Stranger by Valarie Kaur.

  • Community of the Wild Goose meets again on Sunday, June 1.

  • Stay connected and subscribe to Spirit’s daily devotions, book clubs, or explore the unique theology of the Wild Goose community.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment