As Pat Johnson prepares to retire from her role as administrator of Contemplative Outreach Ltd. at the end of 2018, the governing board agreed by consensus to appoint her to serve as a member of the board. The term of this volunteer position is for two years beginning January 1, 2019. The appointment would fill the vacancy left by Lois Snowden’s departure after four years of dedicated service.
The governing board is making this special appointment since Pat has lovingly served this community in a wide range of roles for 36 years. Her voice and service are still valued. Pat and her husband, Bob, were living at the Lama Foundation in New Mexico when Fr. Thomas went there in 1982 to do a retreat. Pat served when he returned to do retreats in 1983 and 1984. Fr. Thomas then asked her to come to Snowmass so multiple retreats could be offered. Pat served retreats at Snowmass for more than 30 years. Over the years she served as secretary, editor and advisor to Fr. Thomas. She was on the original Contemplative Outreach faculty and she has served several terms on the board of trustees. She and Sr. Bernadette Teasdale founded Contemplative Outreach of Colorado and she continues to serve that community.
Lois Snowden, who leaves the Board after four years of service, provided a graced, thoughtful, moderating influence and brought a spirit of kindness and appreciation during a time of many changes. She also provided great skill in her role as secretary. We are grateful to Lois for her service, and she will be greatly missed.