Mary is the back-end support system for all things administrative, financial, and operational at Eden Invitation. She is passionate about serving mission-focused nonprofit organizations, tackling the "boring stuff" so others can focus on the vital work of the mission. A graduate of the University of St. Thomas, Mary brings over a decade of experience working in an administrative capacity for faith-based organizations, from Catholic healthcare initiatives in memory care and substance abuse treatment, to more recent adventures integrating Theology of the Body formation in the great outdoors with Into the Deep.
"On the Porch" with Mary
We’re more than what we do or what we’ve done– we’re unrepeatable people with unique stories to tell.
So if you have a moment, pull up a chair on our metaphorical porch here and get to know us a bit more!
How have you seen God moving in your life?
He’s always doing everything all the time. Blink and you’ll miss it.
How did you connect with EI? Why is serving this mission important to you?
I have so many friends who have connected through the years and been blessed by the mission of Eden Invitation. I’m so grateful to serve this mission that helps to build a church where those with an LGBT+ experience feel truly welcome, empowered, and at home in the church.
Who has inspired you on this Journey to Heaven? Patron Saints, role models, cool authors?
Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus are my heavenly dream team. I strive to embody their spirit of hospitality, radical love, and deep conversion both interiorly and exteriorly.
What’s a beautiful part of your job? Perhaps something that people may not see from the surface level of your job description?
I love seeing the notes and prayer requests that come in with our donations. Watching our web of support grow is inspiring and each new gift is such a joy.
Can you show us a glimpse of your experience in this mission, like videos, links, interviews, etc?
Donation Page | I process our donations!
How can people be praying for you and your work?
That our network of support continues to grow! And that we can steward our gifts well.
Porch Events are opportunities for people to get to know our community better. If we did a Potluck for a Porch Event, what are you bringing?
It’s not a potluck without buffalo chicken dip.
Book Clubs are centered on walking together as striving Disciples with LGBTQ+ experiences, usually reading a spiritual classic or Eden Invitation blogs. BUT if you could do a Book Club with Eden Invitation people, on ANY book, which book would you choose?
Heart of the World by Hans Urs von Balthasar
We love seeing the beloved and unrepeatable talents of our Community and Pastoral Team during our Retreat TalenTED show! What would you do for TalenTED?
I would love to find a way to bring my pottery wheel and do a live pottery throwing demonstration on stage!
It’s time for Toasts! When we raise a glass to celebrate God’s Graces in our lives, what bevvy are you lifting up?
A nice, refreshing glass of water. Or tea.
What’s your favorite piece of EI gear?
Personally? It’s gotta be the hat or the “Unrepeatable Ones” sweatshirt. But my favorite thing is to see priests/parishes/individuals ordering contact/”confessional” cards!
We love building playlists for each year’s Retreat theme– what are some top songs on your playlists?
Something from The Porter’s Gate probably.