Visit the Abbey of the Arts online retreat platform to access your programs:

Login Here
Back to all

Welcome Liz Rasmussen!

We are delighted to have Liz Rasmussen now offering some support at the Abbey blog in the coming months. She will be checking in with our weekly blog post invitations to lectio, photography, poetry, and dance and offering support and responses to those who post. Liz had a stroke last year and I am beyond grateful for her process of recovery (even though it might be slower than she would like). Here are some words from Liz:

Alizabeth RasmussenJust before the stroke, Christine asked me if I would work for her. At that time she was switching over from Ning to Ruzuku and she was looking for part-time help. But I was so honored at the possibly, I didn’t care what the project was. To help Christine and the Abbey flourish, that was enough for me.

Now I’m back, to help out anyway I can.

Eighteen months after a stroke is not a lot of time for recovery. In fact, I will be recovering for the rest of my life. I have accepted that (most days).

I’m excited. But…

I’m scared, too. What if it’s too much? What if I leave out some words? Or mix them up?

So then I remind myself, I feel safe in this community of artists, dreamers, dancers, poets, painters, nature-lovers, all of whom prayed for me during these challenging times (whether you knew it or not!).

So, you’ll see my name pop-up in reply to your posts, and as long as love rules, then what’s the difference if I’ve missed a word or two?

Begin again, literally…start that sentence, start that word, start that thought. Start slowly…just start.

Thanks, Christine.

Please join me in welcoming her!

You might also enjoy

Feast of St. Francis

St. Francis at the Corner PubApproaching the door, you can alreadyhear his generous laughter.He stands on the bar upside down for a momentto get a new perspective on things,a flash of polka-dotted boxersas his brown robe cascades over his head,sandaled toes wiggling in the air

Read More »
October 2, 2026

Monk in the World Guest Post: Natalie Gould

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Natalie Gould’s reflection A Wooden Cross from Assisi. In October 2000, I traveled to Assisi, Italy. During a two-and-a-half-mile walk through the

Read More »
September 30, 2026

24 Responses

  1. Hi Liz,

    You and The Abbey of the Arts could not be a more perfect fit! Thrilled to hear you are intricately connected! I wish you the warmest and brightest gifts of grace in your newest venture. I know your radiant spirit will add so much to this process.

    “See you” this weekend in Portland!

    Warmest,
    Cristina

  2. Liz, I am filled with delight at hearing this! What I know beyond a doubt is that your presence and words (in whatever form they come!) are gifts beyond measure. :)