Today Executive Director Dan Oberg of St. Andrew’s House speaks about his work. We often catch a glimpse or two of Dan during our weekend; he’s the one who makes sure the legendary St. Andrew’s House hospitality is the foundation of our stay. (Please note that while St. Andrew’s House is owned by the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, our retreat does not have a specifically religious focus.)
1.What are three of your favorite things about your work?
The best parts are with my staff, sharing the sacred space with our guests, and connecting with the local community.
2.What made you want to do what you do?
My wife and I have always valued hospitality and local community as the best expressions of our faith. After moving into administrative positions, I came to see the importance of creating a culture in which people could dip into (at whatever level they choose) and enjoy the current of the culture. I see cultivating that culture as my number one responsibility.
3.What is “full-bodied” about creativity? In other words, how would you connect what you do with writing and other creative processes?
My writing is a reflection of my life, in all aspects. The pictures and feelings I express come from the daily air I breathe, the sights and sounds I take in, and how I see and process the world around me. I don’t know any other way.
4.What’s a book you’ve read—recently or a long time ago–that delighted you?
I’ve recently been reading “Devotions: The Selected Poems of Mary Oliver”, sort of as an homage to her since she died.
Quick Retreat Facts:
- faculty includes Katherine Grace Bond, Janet Lee Carey, Andrew Bond, and Peter Kahle
- thought-provoking craft sessions
- manuscript critique
- gourmet meals by Chef Treacy
- stunning views
- a healing massage by Rene Pinkham, LMP, or a choice of massage or wellness consult with Dr. James Drake, LMP, ND.
We have only two spots left.
The final discount code is SPRINGSPCL and gives you $70 off.
The retreat takes place on Hood Canal in Western Washington.
Transportation from the airport can be arranged.
Dan Oberg serves as Executive Director at St. Andrew’s House, a retreat & conference center owned by the Episcopal Church of Western Washington.Dan was previously Director of the Grünewald Guild, an art & faith community near Leavenworth, for 10 years. Prior to that experience, Dan served as a lay minister in a number of nonprofits over the past three decades, as an administrator, counselor, program coordinator, Board member and consultant. With his MA in Marriage & Family Ministries from Fuller, Dan is a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy, and also received a Certificate in Leadership in the New Parish with The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. Dan is married to his lovely wife, Lois, and has two grown sons, embarking on adventures of their own.
Dan Oberg serves as Executive Director at St. Andrew’s House, a retreat & conference center owned by the Episcopal Church of Western Washington.Dan was previously Director of the Grünewald Guild, an art & faith community near Leavenworth, for 10 years. Prior to that experience, Dan served as a lay minister in a number of nonprofits over the past three decades, as an administrator, counselor, program coordinator, Board member and consultant. With his MA in Marriage & Family Ministries from Fuller, Dan is a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy, and also received a Certificate in Leadership in the New Parish with The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. Dan is married to his lovely wife, Lois, and has two grown sons, embarking on adventures of their own.