Spirit in the Desert’s exceptional retreat leaders are selected for their professional knowledge, communication skills, and ability to engage our retreat guests in insightful conversations. They are invited to return by popular demand to lead Desert Sojourn Retreats and private retreat of all kinds.
Spiritual Companion, Retreat Leader
Sue Palmer
Sue is a Spiritual Companion/Director, trained and certified through John Carroll University’s Ignatian Spirituality Institute, where she also received training in leading Silent Retreats. She has an MS in Mental Health & Wellness with an emphasis in Grief & Bereavement and has a heart for those experiencing the many griefs and losses that a life well-lived brings. Sue has experience as a Stephen Minister, a hospital Spiritual Care Aid, a divorce support group leader, and a hospice volunteer. Her passions…
Head Chef
Karl Schwirian
“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 it’s own, in it’s beauty and glory.”
Spiritual Director, Retreat Leader
Henry Rojas
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…
Retreat Leader, Gift Planner
Lisa Higginbotham
Lisa Higginbotham is a regional gift planner with ELCA Foundation, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Gift Planner
Josh Kerney
Josh Kerney is a regional gift planner with ELCA Foundation, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.