Ask and You Will Receive GIK
Ah, another acronym. What the heck does GIK mean? It translates as gifts in kind, which may not mean much to you, dear reader, if …
The Positive Impact of a Missionary Mentor
I wish everyone could experience the young people the way I do. They have much to offer and I like to watch them come alive …
Change is in the air….
I gave all my energy into all the activities (I don’t normally do that). Grace, Teen Leader This morning, I didn’t want to get out …
Meet Mr. Chris Vance
I feel like I’ve been handed this very valuable treasure, and I can help to grow and sustain it. Chris Vance Perhaps it was a …
25 Years at Dunrovin With the Meeds
Not once but twice during 2024, the Dunrovin staff surprised Jerome and me with celebrations of our 25 years at Dunrovin. We are so grateful …
Our Happy Place
Have you ever floated down a river? Jerome and I floated with our kids down the Saint Croix River on a hot, hot Labor Day …
The Great Philanthropist
It is on trend to give generously to all sorts of charitable organizations during Christmastime. Big-hearted people sustain non-profits and the good work they accomplish. …
To Chip Hooley, with Gratitude
Few leaders demonstrate the diplomatic kindness that Chip Hooley exemplifies on the Dunrovin Board of Directors. Trying to glimpse into his inner workings, I asked …
Life at Dunrovin: A Week With Mary Meeds
My dear friend is coming to the end of her life. Filled with much physical pain for many years, Kathie often begged God to take …
Loving Our Guests
~ An interview with Leanne Esch, Guest Host ~ Leanne, you are known on our staff as someone who excels in offering love to our …
Matchmaking for a Cause
Introducing Rae Wood, who joined Dunrovin in February 2024 as our Director of Mission Advancement! In this role, Rae works alongside Dunrovin leadership, Board of …
The Only Constant is Change
a My Dunrovin Story by Jim Franzen Heraclitus, an ancient Greek philosopher, said “The only thing that is constant is change.” My life experience has …
Offering Exceptional Hospitality
In the summer of 2017, a July thunderstorm blew over more than 60 trees in our neighboring Camp Kiwanis, many falling mere feet away from …
Two Brothers
This year, Dunrovin celebrates her “Diamond” Anniversary as a retreat center. To celebrate 60 years, this blog will highlight some of the people and stories …
Through the Eyes of Paul
“Paul, if you could sum up Dunrovin in one word….” That’s easy. Peaceful.” Paul Moyer I nodded as other voices called to me out of …
Take Another Look
It’s just so fun to create these sweet spaces for our guests. I hope they love them!” Emily Squyres, Director of Guest Services If you …
I Have Not Left You Orphans
I’m so grateful to Dunrovin for hosting my art show during August 2023. The theme was “Fully Alive”, derived from the line attributed to St. …
It Was Kinda a Long Shot
Brother I. Damian Brown, FSC, dreamed of students having access to retreats. As the president of Cretin High School in the 1940s, he believed a …
Nestled in the Rosella Garden
With the end of winter, gardens are in full bloom. Sprinklers jet out water, seeds snuggle beneath the earth, and brilliant colors cover flowerbeds. Whether …
Come Away With Me and Rest
Imagine attending a Dunrovin Come Away With Me retreat for the first time. You enter the building, unsure of what will happen during the day. You leave …