Steve Garnaas Holmes

I’m a retired United Methodist pastor with 40 years of ministry experience, serving churches across Montana and New England. My wife, Beth, and I now make our home in Maine, a place where the rugged beauty of the outdoors inspires our lives. We have three grown sons, each of whom I love dearly and hold as one of life’s greatest blessings.

Throughout my ministry, I sought to engage communities deeply, fostering connections through worship, pastoral care, and creative expression. I’ve also lived in South Dakota, California, Washington, and Minnesota, each place shaping my perspective on faith, life, and the diverse beauty of creation. These varied experiences have fueled my passion for leading retreats on prayer, poetry, and renewing the language we use to talk about God—explorations I find both deeply spiritual and endlessly enriching.

For 37 years, I also wrote and performed with the Montana Logging & Ballet Company, a quartet known for blending music and comedy to entertain and provoke thoughtful reflection across the country. While the group’s run has ended (people laughed us off the stage—our goal all along!), it remains one of the most joyful and meaningful chapters of my life.

As a musician, I write church music, channeling my faith into melodies that inspire worship and reflection. These creative endeavors have been a natural extension of my ministry, helping me—and others—express what words alone often cannot.

In retirement, I strive to embrace life fully, practicing mindfulness and learning to be present in each moment. Whether through prayer, music, or simply being, I aim to nurture a life grounded in gratitude and openness to God’s presence. Each day is an invitation to explore faith, creativity, and community in fresh and meaningful ways.