Last summer, God began to place upon my heart that a change was on the horizon. As He often does with guests, He spoke to me through nature.

When I first stepped into the role of Executive Director six years ago, a young Red Leaf Maple stood visible from the Chapel window, where the crystal bowl resides. That tree became a symbol of our shared journey—one of growth, transformation, and seasons yet to come. Through the years, I’ve watched the leaves change, mirroring the cycles of Well of Mercy: seasons of fallow and rebirth.

Seasons of Fall & Winter

• COVID closures and the challenges of reopening
• Sisters Brigid & Donna leaving the property
• Trail flooding on three occasions
• Concern over closure due to low guest numbers and limited donor support

Seasons of Spring & Summer

• Facility Upgrades: Carpeting, roofing, new mattresses, recliners, lamps, gift shop and massage area expansions, updates to the Sisters House, Community Room, and Activity Room
• Rebranding: New website, updated logo, mission and vision statements, and refreshed core values
• Publications: Where Can I Go? and the 3rd edition of the Well of Mercy Cookbook, along with enhanced newsletters and social media posts
• Property Improvements: Mother’s Garden, new trail signage, widened driveway, meadow maintenance
• Staff Expansion: Program Director, Program Assistant, and Development Director added to the team
• Programming Growth: Expanded from 16 to 65 groups and introduced virtual vespers
• 25th Anniversary Celebration
• Foundresses Garden: Honoring Sisters Brigid and Donna
• Record Success: The past three years have been the best in guest numbers and donations

A New Chapter

When the Red Leaf Maple was removed last summer due to dis-ease, God gently nudged me: “The time is approaching for you to leave Well; begin preparing for a smooth transition.” And more recently, I heard Him whisper, “Your final season as Executive Director will end mid-January 2025.”

I feel a deep peace about God’s perfect timing—for Well of Mercy and for whatever He has planned for my next chapter, still to be revealed.

Moving Forward with Confidence

It’s never easy to pass the baton, but I’m confident the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers deeply understand the ministry and are committed to nurturing Well of Mercy as a sacred place of quiet and renewal for many seasons to come.

I invite you to join me in continuing to support Well through your prayers, volunteer efforts, and financial contributions.

It has been my highest honor to serve you.

Well Blessings,
Sandra H. O’Brien
Executive Director