Stephanie T. Bell, ms
Spiritual Director
Permaculture designer
retreat facilitator
Stephanie is a seasoned expert in spiritual direction and holistic well-being. With over three decades of experience in spiritual formation and cross-cultural ministries, she holds a Bachelor degree in Missions and Education from Messiah University, a Master degree in Higher Education from Geneva College, a certificate in permaculture design, and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction and Leadership and a certificate in supervision of spiritual directors from The Pneuma Institute at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (PTS).
As a Spiritual Director, Stephanie has completed supervised training in Reformed and Ignatian Spirituality, individual & group spiritual direction, discernment and leadership while engaging in diverse theological perspectives on spiritual growth in the Christian life. She provides individual and group spiritual direction while also facilitating focused retreats and workshops using contemplative practices.
Stephanie excels in spiritual discernment, hospitality, and relationship-building, serving as an educator and mentor in Spiritual Disciplines, Contemplative Spirituality, and Missional Creativity. Her extensive experience spans the United States and extends internationally.
kevin m. bell, phd
Assistant professor
human-centered designer
retreat facilitator
kevin is an assistant professor in the department of Bioengineering at the university of pittsburgh, with over 20 years of experience in education, research, and creative design practices. as a bio-mechanical engineer, kevin is passionate about human-centered design, which is a creative approach to problem solving and building a deep empathy with the people you’re designing for. kevin’s research and teaching efforts have recently been recognized with multiple innovation awards (pitt innovator award, pinch, cmi, the sustainable healthcare challenge, etc.) and most recently the University of pittsburgh’s sustainability award.
The location: Ikaria, greece
Ikaria (or Icaria) is one of the largest islands in the eastern Aegean Sea. Its name is derived from the Greek myth of Icarus. Ikaria is a mountainous island with green valleys leading to the sea and to exotic beaches adding to its charming atmosphere. Ikaria has rich vegetation, biodiversity and an abundance of water.
Ikaria is one of the five designated “Blue Zones” in the world. Blue Zones are geographic areas in the world where people live statistically healthier and longer lives…making Ikaria an ideal location for retreat and restoration.
The island is rich with history and adventure. Come and enjoy local honey and wine, explore the ancient monasteries, or just lose yourself in the endless mountainous trails.
The location: pittsburgh, pa, usa
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, often described as one of the most livable cities in the United States, is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich industrial past and a forward-looking spirit. Once known as the "Steel City" for its pivotal role in America's manufacturing history, Pittsburgh has transformed itself into a hub of innovation, education, and sustainability. The city is home to world-class universities, cutting-edge medical research centers, and a thriving tech sector. In recent years, Pittsburgh has also gained recognition as a leader in green development, urban revitalization, and environmental innovation—blending its historic charm with a strong commitment to the future. Nestled among the hills and rivers of western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and community resilience.
"May what I do flow from me like a river, no forcing and no holding back, the way it is with children. Then in these swelling and ebbing currents, these deepening tides moving out, returning, I will sing you as no one ever has, streaming through widening channels into the open sea."
~
Rainer Maria Rilke