An award-winning novelist, children’s book author, and spiritual writer, Amy is also a speaker, retreat leader, and pilgrimage coordinator / leader. Amy has published numerous novels, picture books, devotionals, and a Bible study. She spent twenty years leading women's Bible studies before a pilgrimage to the Holy Land changed her life forever and led her to the ministry she runs today. Her mission and passion is helping people deepen their understanding of the faith and form an intimate relationship with Christ.
Retreat attendees describe Amy Schisler as "very knowledgeable about scripture and history who easily weaves humor and real life into her presentation" and "a wonderful speaker who presents the material in an easy-to-understand way." Amy has published two children’s books and numerous inspirational novels, including the award-winning Whispering Vines and Chincoteague Island Trilogy. Amy was raised in Southern Maryland and holds a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of Maryland and a Certificate of Theology from the Augustine Institute.
The recipient of numerous national literary awards, including the Illumination, LYRA, Independent Publisher, International Digital, Indies, Golden Quill Awards, and the Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Award, as well as honors from the Catholic Press Association and the Eric Hoffer Book Award, Amy’s writing has been hailed “a verbal masterpiece of art” and “Everything you want in a book.” Passionate about writing from early on, Amy has been telling stories her entire life, and her talent for storytelling enhances her ability to teach about the Bible, the saints, and important women in the Church. Her ability to connect with women on retreat and pilgrims on a spiritual journey help Amy to be “incredibly blessed as a presenter, storyteller, and woman of faith. She is inspiring!” (Ellen in Arkansas).
Amy enjoys a busy life on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She schedules the altar ministry for the Chapel of St. Michael (Saints Peter and Paul Parish), leads the Saints Peter and Paul Women of Faith Study Group, and organizes parish and small-group pilgrimages. She and her husband, Ken, teach Marriage Prep classes for the Diocese of Wilmington. In 2017, Amy was honored by Bishop Malooly with the Merit of Order for her contributions to Saints Peter and Paul Parish and the Diocese of Wilmington. Amy and Ken raised three daughters and find every opportunity to spend time with their granddaughter, Evelyn Ruth.
Amy’s retreats are built a little differently than others. They combine the elements of a retreat – a day of prayer, reflection, and self-discovery – with the elements of a women’s Bible study. Beginning and ending with prayer, the day vacillates between short lectures, small group discussions, and group prayer. Each retreat is unique, covering topics from Women of the Bible to the Holy Rosaries to deep probes into Biblical stories and players and how they shape our life journeys. Traditional retreats are also available and could be done over a weekend or a few days during the week.
Retreat Topics:
Enlightened: Understanding the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary (new for 2025) Finding the Joy in the Joyful Mysteries Jesus and the Elevated Status of Women Ten Lessons From Mary Magdalene (can be done as a short talk) How Mary Magdalene’s Story Can Transform You From Sinner to Saint Set the World Ablaze – Discovering Your Path Through Women of the Old Testament Women of the Old Testament – 1 or 2 day Bible Study Retreat Women of the New Testament – 1 day Bible Study Retreat Clothed With Strength and Dignity – Women of the Bible – 3 day Bible Study Retreat
Morning or Afternoon Talk with Question Period:
What the Women of the Bible Can Teach Us Today Imitating Mary in Words and Actions How to be a Martha and a Mary My Faith Journey The Mysteries of Emmaus Explained Happiness vs Joy In A World That Doesn’t Know the Difference The Importance of Catholic Literature in Today’s Fallen World
Testimonials:
Retreats:
“I loved Amy’s faith, her tenacity, and her belief in God’s plan for her life.” - St. Norbert’s Parishioner, Paoli, PA
Amy's passion and faith show through all aspects of the retreat. She implants a want for more and wakes up the group with love in her words and examples." - Retreat Attendee, Harrison, AR
Not only did I learn a lot, but I also found it lively and engaging, thanks to the energy and personality Amy brought to the presentation. I have always found the Bible rather intimidating (and sometimes unfathomable), so I really appreciate her interpretation of the readings and ability to make them personal. - Janet, Silver Spring, Maryland
Pilgrimages:
I have been to the Holy Land 6 times in my lifetime and have found it such an uplifting and spiritual experience but the time with Amy as leader and David as our guide was by far the best. Everything went so smoothly from the trip to the airport to the ride home. The highlight of the trip was certainly our tour guide David. He was so knowledgeable of not only the land and its history but of Catholicism. cannot wait to return with Amy and David. Thank you both so much for all you did to make our experience absolutely amazing. - Father James Nash, Saints Peter and Paul, Easton, MD
This trip with Amy well exceeded our expectations. It was a faith filled experience by being able to assist in mass, see previous sites which I could just let sink in and some new sites which fascinated us even more. From a faith and historical perspective, learning from local guides, food and accommodations everything was top notch. Amy’s knowledge, deep faith, willingness to share and ability to coordinate every detail was exceptional. Absolutely an experience of a lifetime. A true faith filled and fun pilgrimage. As a result I walked away being able to see scripture more clearly and enlivened in my faith. Thank you Amy. - Deacon Steve, Saints Peter and Paul, Easton, MD
Bible Study:
I recently completed a transformative Bible study that will resonate with women from all walks of life and with diverse vocations. The parallels drawn between biblical stories were enlightening, and the discussion questions provided were not only thought-provoking but also fostered deeper reflection. The videos, featuring stunning locations in the Holy Land and meaningful art, brought the biblical stories to life. Each session closed with a moving prayer, which helped me to apply what I had learned. This Bible study has been an invaluable part of my spiritual growth, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their faith. - Mikelyn, Fairfax, VA
As a woman I found myself feeling seen and heard in each digestible narrative. Amy Schisler presents her points with ease to the reader. I never felt intimidated reading her words. For the first time, I felt welcomed by women who have always been there, because. These stories are not just for women, they are filled with virtue for every human being. Finally, there is a trove of these treasured stories in one place. Thank you dear sister Amy, you have done a service for us all. - Liv Harrison, author, speaker, podcaster, Houston, TX
