Taking Root: News and Invitations from Spirit in the Desert
A free retreat for veterans, Thanksgiving weekend music, and opportunities for prayer and renewal are among the highlights in Spirit in the Desert’s newsletter. Executive Director Rika Beckley invites readers to help others discover the Carefree retreat center and its ministry of hospitality. Read the full newsletter.
In her reflection, “Taking Root,” Beckley compares the spread of good news to cactus offshoots that take root in new places. Drawing on Acts 1:8, she encourages readers to share Spirit’s invitations with people and organizations who could benefit from time to rest, gather, and reconnect.
For 33 years, Spirit has welcomed congregations, nonprofits, leadership teams, veterans, recovery and grief-support groups, and people from many faith traditions. For Lutherans, this hospitality offers a tangible expression of love of neighbor and space to listen for God amid busy lives.
Upcoming opportunities include:
Healing of Memories Workshop, November 20–22, 2026: A weekend of healing and connection offered free to veterans.
Second Annual ThanksLiving Music Fest, November 27–30, 2026: Celebrate with Mark Mulligan, Rudy B, John Patti, and Carrie Welling. Three-night lodging packages and individual meal-and-concert tickets are available. Limited $250 and $500 sponsorships are also available; contact rika@spiritinthedesert.org.
Executive Skills for Church Leaders, January 3–8, 2027: A week focused on practical leadership skills for ministry.
Play Ball! and Connect, March 16–20, 2027: Enjoy baseball and fellowship during Arizona’s spring training season.
The newsletter also connects readers with free daily email devotions by Pastor Steve Holm, Centering Prayer with Sheri Brown on Mondays at noon Arizona time, and Wednesday Respite with Henry Rojas at 3 p.m. MST. The 30-minute Wednesday Zoom gathering includes scripture, prayer, communion, music, and a Touchpoint homily.
Local visitors can explore Spirit’s labyrinth, Prayer Path, and Islands of Silence meditation path, all open to the public.
Read Spirit’s newsletter in full for program details, registration links, and devotional subscriptions. Share it with a veteran, ministry leader, friend, or group seeking a place for renewal.