The Mount Olivet Conference and Retreat Center has been extending Christian hospitality to groups from within and outside our congregation for nearly forty-five years. Across that time, it has grown in both its size and the scope of its mission. But even as it has grown, the core values first articulated by Pastor Paul Youngdahl at the establishment of the Retreat Center continue to shape its purpose: that it be a place of natural beauty, Sabbath relaxation and renewal, and magnificent hospitality.
In the years to come, and as the number of retreat centers in the area (and therefore the amount of competition for clients) continues to grow, we will also continue to shape and extend the mission and ministry of this wonderful facility. In particular, we are excited to see the Retreat Center grow from being primarily a wonderful venue which hosts groups to increasingly being a place that also creates and provides programming and other opportunities for personal growth and professional development. Toward this end, I am excited to announce that we have identified and called the next Executive Director for the Retreat Center.
The Rev. Dr. Theresa Latini has significant experience as a teacher, speaker, leader, and administrator. An ordained pastor of the Presbyterian Church (USA), she holds advanced degrees in pastoral care and has taught Congregational and Community Care and Leadership at several seminaries, including Luther Seminary in St. Paul. She also has significant administrative experience, serving both as an assistant dean at Western Theological Seminary (Holland, MI) and most recently as president of United Lutheran Seminary (Philadelphia/Gettysburg, PA). She has received advanced training in facilitating conflict resolution and has worked with numerous congregations and other organizations as a consultant and resource. She is the author of several books related to congregational leadership, small group development, and conflict resolution. A compassionate and insightful leader, Theresa brings with her a vast network of educators and church leaders that will assist her and the whole team at Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center in becoming a premiere destination for individual and congregational growth, pastoral education, and professional development. She will begin her tenure at the Retreat Center in mid-May.
- David Lose, Mount Olivet Lutheran Church Senior Pastor