Member for

5 years 6 months
Photo
Cover Photo
bergamot blooms in a summer field
First Name
Deborah
Last Name
Haak-Frost
Biography

If you make a reservation for a retreat at GilChrist, you will most likely see my name on the email signature, talk with me on the phone, or see my face when you arrive. I’ve always delighted in being able to connect people with the natural world in ways that allow them to experience their environment deeply and meaningfully. My undergraduate degree in psychology and environmental studies paved the way for this beautiful integration of two passions of mine. The principles of permaculture – earth care, people care, and fair share – also shape my approach to my work. Making rest and retreat more accessible for all is something I try to work toward.

I also do a lot of the behind-the-scenes logistics and administrative work at GilChrist: working with group retreat facilitators, handling billing, managing social media, keeping the website up to date, cataloging the library, and also pitching in with cabin cleaning and feeding the goats.

When I’m not at work, you can find me volunteering in my Three Rivers community, cooking and baking in my kitchen, taking in thought-provoking television and movies with my husband, or daydreaming about grand garden plans for my backyard.

Job Title
Caretaker for Community Engagement
Cover Caption
Bergamot blooms in this summer view from the GilChrist office
Engagement Results Display
Off
Staff Department
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org

NOTE: This experience will be postponed until 2021.

This 12-week online training will provide the opportunity to develop Concentration, Clarity, and Compassion. As a developmental process, each week will build on the foundation created by the prior week. This training is appropriate for people with little to no experience. However, those with meditation experience will find the process one that will help them deepen their practice. A virtual closing retreat will take place online, and will be an opportunity to crystalize practice and clarify intentions for the future. 

About the Facilitator 

John Howie began meditating in 1975 when he read the book The Relaxation Response by Herbert Benson. He has continued practicing since then, including extensive training from Naropa University. John has led retreats and weekly meditation sessions and has provided spiritual guidance for GilChrist Retreat Center since 1995. He has also completed the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP), developed by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield and certified by both the Awareness Training Institute and the Greater Good Science Center. In addition to contemplative practices, John has worked as a counselor for over 35 years and has a doctorate degree in counseling from Western Michigan University. 

Event Type
Start Date
End Date
Join
On
Event Category
Location

United States

Geolocation
37.09024, -95.712891