who we are
heather penzel
Originally from the north central region of the US, Heather has lived in Aotearoa since January 2019. Heather uses they/them pronouns, is a cat person with tattoos, and has a startlingly loud laugh. Heather was a secondary school teacher for 5 years before working with homeless young adults and taihoi in care for 15 years following. In the meantime, Heather also earned a Master’s degree in Spiritual Formation from Portland Seminary, a school founded in the Quaker tradition. They grew up in a conservative Christian context and has engaged in the the hard work of deconstruction and reconstruction of their spirituality. Over the years, Heather experienced a rich variety of spiritual expressions and faith traditions. They have been trained as a Spiritual Director and a reiki practitioner in the Takata lineage. Heather has also been learning the traditional Māori practices of mirimiri and romiromi.
Undeniably aware of the privilege of being a white American, it can yet be difficult being a non-binary queer person who has experienced mental health challenges. These experiences have given Heather a soft heart for people who struggle. A sacred text that has long been a touchstone for them reads, “I am certain that God, who began the good work in you, will carry it on to completion...” Their hope is to help others to see themselves as whole individuals – body, mind, emotions and spirit. The values that drive Heather’s life are simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equity. Whether it be with family, friends, or the community one is a part of, their wish is to be a welcoming presence, hospitable and safe for all.
rooted in
quaker tradition
There are nine core beliefs of Quakerism:
There is a living, dynamic presence at work in the world which is both within us and outside of us.
There is that of Spirit in everyone.
Each person is capable of the direct and unmediated experience of God as you understand God.
Our understanding of Creator is nurtured and enlarged in community.
The Bible is one important spiritual resource, and the life and teachings of Jesus are relevant for us today.
The revelation of eternal truth is continuing and ongoing.
We welcome truth from whatever source it may come.
Our inward experience of God transforms us and leads us into outward expressions of faithful living, witness, and action.
Modeling God’s presence in our lives is more important than espousing our beliefs.
what people are saying
“Heather created such an amazingly safe and welcoming space for me. I have had several interesting revelations while working with her. They are a kind and wonderful soul. Looking forward to more. Thank you, Heather!”
- Michelle, Portland
“I felt warm and welcome when I met Heather. I took with me two intentions to the reiki session and came away with a positive mindset towards both; this carried on to positive outcomes in my own life. Heather was thorough in identifying her own perspectives and insights which were quite applicable to my own life.”
— Rhihanna, Ōtautahi