Instructor:  Nancy TannerThies,  is ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).  She has both congregational and judicatory experience.  Currently,  Nancy and her husband, Roger, are proprietors and teachers at Sapattu: A Sabbath Place.  Sapattu is a small retreat center located on their five acre farm.  She and her husband lead classes in spiritual well-being and provide private retreat space.  Nancy also offers spiritual companionship to interested individuals.

TannerThies' educational background includes a Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston, a Masters in Religious Studies and a Doctor of Ministry from the University of Chicago.  Perhaps more important than her academic credentials or her work experience is Nancy's long time commitment to her own spiritual journey.  She considers "dwelling in the presence of the Divine" to be the major focus of her life.  In addition to teaching at Sapattu and at MSR, Nancy has been the resource person in the area of spiritual life for church boards and retreats in various denominations and various Disciples' events as well as the Alban Institute.

Roger and Nancy enjoy their extended families including their grandchildren. Together they take pleasure in organic gardening and gourmet cooking.  Nancy's additional hobbies include knitting and sewing. 

Roger and Nancy's blended family includes four married children and six grandchildren.  They also have two nephews and three godchildren that they think of as grandchildren.