Avena Ward, M.Div., believes each of us is a unique and diverse expression of Spirit’s creativity. As a spiritual guide she welcomes and accompanies people of all faiths, as well as those who don’t profess a recognized faith. She works with dreams, oracles, thoughts, feelings, and experiences — the content of your life — to help you discern new directions and increase your capacity to make a difference in the world, no matter who you are. A two-time cancer survivor herself, Avena is especially aware that what some see as disease is often a doorway to discovering life’s purpose.
Avena is an ordained minister and teacher in the United Church of Christ, a progressive Protestant denomination whose radical welcome encompasses all, no matter where you are on life’s journey. She attended Chicago Theological Seminary and, for 20 years, served as pastor at St. Pauls UCC in Chicago empowering people to care for each other and stand for justice. She received a certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Siena Retreat Center in Racine, Wisconsin. Two years ago she moved with her husband to Portland, Oregon, to retire and reinvent herself for the next phase of life. Avena and Tom, a practicing Shin Buddhist, host interfaith explorations and healing circles at their home in North Portland as one of the ways Avena focuses on creating opportunities for people to connect with Spirit through individual and group experiences.
She also creates personalized rituals to honor transitions including weddings, baby blessings, celebrations of life and memorial services. She weaves music, poetry and sacred philosophy significant to the individuals involved to inspire community participation and connection.
Avena’s phone: 773-294-5371 Avena’s email