Paul Rietmann — Ecumenical/Interfaith Spiritual Director

Paul is a retired Episcopal priest having served in the ordained ministry for over 40 years.  He has worked in parish ministry, ecumenical ministry and as a chaplain. Paul currently has three primary interests in ministry.

One is the art and practice of spiritual direction.  Paul received specialized training in spiritual direction at St. Placid Benedictine Priory in Lacey, WA. He is a Certified Spiritual Director.  He enjoys walking with people as they explore their spiritual journeys, deepen their prayer lives, and grow in their relationships with God.

The second is the practice of meditation and contemplative prayer in an inter spiritual context.   Paul is particularly interested in Buddhist mindfulness meditation and how it relates to the practice of Christian meditation. He often attends retreats at both Christian and Buddhist retreat centers. Paul is passionate about creating community for people who practice meditation and contemplative prayer. He is active in teaching, leading groups and retreats on the practice of meditation. In 2021 Paul became a commissioned Centering Prayer Presenter by Contemplative Outreach.

A third area of interest is the integration of spirituality into daily life.   Paul enjoys exploring the dynamic between prayer and service, contemplation and action. Spirituality can be found in everyday life experiences such as work, family, friends, relationships, community, service, social action, hobbies, artistic expression and enjoying creation.

Paul’s ministry in retirement includes spiritual direction, teaching meditation and contemplative prayer, offering retreats, workshops, classes, and engaging in interfaith dialogue. He is canonically resident in the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia.

Paul and his wife, Judie, live in Tacoma, WA.  Between them they have five children and ten grandchildren.  They enjoy traveling, being with family and friends, and hanging out at the beach.