The Divine Feminine is initiating a crucial new phase in our evolution: urging us to discover a new ethic of responsibility toward the planet; bringing us a new vision of the sacredness and unity life.
-- Andrew Harvey & Anne Baring

Who We Are

Esther Kennedy

Esther Kennedy is Director of Spirit Mountain Retreat and has been at the Center since 2002. Spirituality, meditation and the human search for the sacred has always been at the heart of her ministry.

In the mid-90’s, eager to reclaim a sense of the sacred and experience the spirituality of Eastern traditions, she traveled to India and later lived for a year in Java and Bali, Indonesia. This rich experience drew her more deeply into exploring the Feminine face of God, and to reclaiming a vision of the sacredness and unity of all life. It also shed light on the contemplative core, the very heart of her Christian tradition ~ Love. Esther’s work is to guide others on their unique path of awakening and of living from their deepest selves. Her spirituality is rooted in the knowing that we are all sourced from the One Source.

Esther has offered numerous retreats and workshops which unfold through presentations, meditation, creative process, and sacred dance. She trusts that when a group gathers there is an abundance of love and light available to heal and transform personal stories and embrace a deeper story emerging in our time. Esther has a masters degree in Social Work. She is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Adrian, Michigan.

Spirit Mountain Retreat Board of Directors

Trischa Clark, President, is a Realtor with Idyllwild Realty and brings to the board her business and management experience. She is a member of the Idyllwild Master Chorale and has had a rich history in the Performing Arts. She is secretary of the Idyllwild Rotary Club. Trischa brings enthusiasm and appreciation for the vision and work of Spirit Mountain Retreat. She lives in Idyllwild.

Kathy Halkin, Secretary, is a 25-year resident of Idyllwild. As a professional social worker, she brings an array of skills to Spirit Mountain Retreat including administrative, needs assessment, and the desire to help others become their true selves. She is involved in several community organizations including past president of the Idyllwild HELP Center, a non-profit helping more than 500 people in need. As a reverend, she also enjoys marrying people! Kathy enjoys hiking, traveling, dancing, and being.

Bronwyn Jones brings to the Board 30 years of experience in the world of publishing, during which she edited and co-authored a series of metaphysical books that focused on how to use the Viking Runes as a tool for Self-Counseling. An Idyllwild resident since 2001, she serves on several local boards, is a passionate gardener of native plants, enjoys singing, photography, and meditation, and is actively engaged in the development of Spirit Mountain Retreat.

Margaret Mary Leusch, Treasurer, brings years of experience as an educator, administrator, and consultant; and as a spiritual counselor at the Betty Ford Center. She was a board member of the Idyllwild Help Center serving as Secretary for five years. Margaret Mary is an Associate with the IHM Sisters in Monroe, Michigan. She lives with her husband David in Pine Cove, loves family and her two lovely granddaughters. Margaret Mary brings a deep commitment to the vision and mission of Spirit Mountain Retreat.

Carol McClintic, Vice president, is an educational consultant with 35 years of experience from pre-school through University Extension. She is presently working with the Caine Learning Center and is co-author of two books. Carol lives in Idyllwild and serves on various boards as well as sings, gardens, reads, writes poetry and explores her personal spiritual path.

Maxine Schenk is a family woman and retired teacher -aide for Hemet School District and for Morning Sky School. She is committed to her own growth and transformation and finds it a joy to serve on the Board. She appreciates Spirit Mountain Retreat and its vision of offering a place for spiritual growth and development of those who come for retreat.

Staff

Esther Kennedy - Director
Sue Harper - Administrative Assistant (part-time)