Joann Nesser – founder and retired Executive Director of Christos Center for Spiritual Formation located in Lino Lakes, MN. She is an Associate in Ministry of the ELCA, whose credentials include a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Shalem Institute, an MA in Pastoral Theology and Ministry; and a D.Min. in Spiritual Direction. She is a member of Spiritual Directors International and served on the SDI Coordinating Council for 6 of the early formative years. As well as being a spiritual director she continues to teach contemplative prayer and spiritual formation in the Christos Center Tending the Holy Program. In the past she has taught and led retreats throughout the U.S. and in many places in Europe and Africa. Joann is also a writer and artist. She is married, has four adult children and eight grandchildren.

             Watercolor and Acrylic painting has been a hobby through her life. Since retiring from Christos Center she has painted more seriously and has shown her art in a gallery and coffee shops. As well as writing books on contemplative prayer Joann writes poetry reflecting events in everyday life.