Retreat Testimonials
"The best retreat I have been part of in a long time!
Carol Owns, St. Eugene’s Ladies’ Guild Retreat, Wendell, NC
"Olivia has been to our parish on numerous occasions: for women’s retreats, adult events, and intergenerational gatherings. Each time she has transported her audience to another space and time with her dramatic presentations of Biblical characters and events. Her inspiring and imaginative interpretation brings light to Scriptures and leads her audience into rich discussions and to “ponder these things in (their) hearts”. (Luke 2:19)
Lynn Sale, Director of Faith Development
Holy Infant Catholic Parish, Durham, NC
Olivia, through her writings, research and presentations, brings scripture to life in such a way as to open up channels of insight, healing and growth..
Pastor Jill King,
Our Savior Lutheran, Durham, NC
"Our Women's Ministry hosted Olivia for a one-day Lenten retreat. Carefully researched and thoughtfully written, her play was moving and transformative, and the discussions were illuminating. We received so many positive reviews from the women who attended the retreat. I highly recommend hosting Olivia for an event at your church."
Mary Beth Hribar Deitz, Co-Coordinator,
St Joseph’s Women’s Ministry, Seattle, WA
The best retreat I have been to – informative, funny, reflective. Loved it!
Esther Bowling
St. Eugene’s Ladies’ Guild Retreat, Goldsboro, NC
Olivia brings to life, not only the reality of these Biblical women, but a connection with who I am as a woman today in God’s kingdom…in hearing the possibilities of who these women were, I gave myself permission to ask “who am I today?” and what is it about me “that cannot be taken away”
Sue Kiryluck,
Zebulon United Methodist, Zebulon, NC
I want to go home and read the other passages (provided) and learn more. It has made me excited about the Bible again.
Susan Pfeffer
St. Michael’s Catholic, Cary, NC
Hearing the Gospel from a woman’s point of view is life-changing. Olivia’s insight into the lives of the women… gave fresh look at the Scriptures.
Suzanne Hoades,
Church of the Brethren, Boones Mill, VA
Olivia's works give those who hear her hope and joy. Her talents reflect the Lord’s splendor
Deacon Phil Rzewnicki, Managing Director
Avila Retreat Center, Durham, NC
The combination of the plays with discussion was invaluable, as was the facilitator’s understanding that sometimes also called for individual meditation/solitary response.
Louise Hawes,
Avila Retreat Center, Durham,NC
Olivia opens your heart and mind to experience the Gospel women. Olivia takes the familiar and helps us to see it in another way.
Susan Denault
Our Savior Lutheran Church, Durham
I’m stronger in my faith for having attended this retreat [with Olivia].
Nadine Troccoli-DiNizo
St. Francis of Assisi, Raleigh, NC
It was an opportunity to experience the life of Jesus and his disciples, family and friends in a very ‘alive’ way.
Terry Hamlet
Terry University United Methodist Church, Chapel Hill, NC
It is a great subject matter and Olivia presents these ideas very realistically. She is very knowledgeable and often funny. Very engaging.
Jody Zeillman
Holy Infant Catholic, Durham, NC
Olivia’s faith, love and compassion shine forth! She is a true artist! …(The highlight of the retreat) was certainly the presentations – but also the chance to discuss, reflect, affirm, and support one another.
Dawn Mitchell,
Avila Retreat Center, Durham, NC
I am at a time where I have gotten away from my faith. Life has gotten in the way, but I realized during this retreat how much I want it in my life and need to make time for it.
Carol Wilson
Avila Retreat Center, Durham, NC