Nina is passionate about moving hearts and minds and helping others understand their faith in practical ways. In addition to being an author and founder of two ministries, Nina is also an artist. She utilizes all her God-given talents to create a spiritual atmosphere that inspires attendees to more fully experience the presence of the Holy Spirit. One attendee summed it up: "I came to expand my knowledge, and I learned about expanding my heart." That's Nina's goal.
In May 2022, Nina successfully defended her doctoral dissertation and earned the title “Doctor of Ministry” from Fordham University. She will officially graduate in Summer 2022. Nina possesses a Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality from Loyola University Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts from Muhlenberg College. She also attained education certification in alcohol and drug counseling from Villanova University.
Nina is the founder of We Thirst Ministries and the creator of the popular educational DVD series, We Thirst (Christian Reflections on Addiction). Her video series is currently being held in seminary and universitity libraries in 7 countries and 25 U.S. states (and counting!). Her work has been noted in numerous Catholic media outlets, including America Magazine and the USCCB's podcast "Made for Love."
Nina is also the author of When on Earth: Discovering Christian Spirituality in the Daily Happenings of Ordinary Life (a book of reflections and illustrations) and Clear Bear (a children’s picture book). She is also the founder and executive director of AFIRE (Active Faith Implementing Relief in the Epidemic), a 501c3 nonprofit. Nina is a member of the Catholic Speakers Organization and a lifetime member of Alpha Sigma Nu, the honor society of Jesuit institutions of higher education. She resides outside of Quakertown, Pennsylvania with her husband Mark who helps her in her ministerial work.
Some of Nina's Talks. *All can be adjusted to fit your schedule, and all can be presented virtually (online):
- Hearts Open to God. Pope Francis has said that "Each one of us can experience wounds, failure, suffering, etc. that make us close ourselves off from God and others . . . but God wants to open our heart." Throughout this series of four talks* we will consider those things that may be closing us off from the fullness of God’s love. We will open our minds and hearts to consider what our faith has to teach us about accepting ourselves, others, suffering, and ultimately accepting God’s infinite love for us.
- Masterpiece in the Making. Our life's goal is to be saints -- God’s masterpieces. Like a fine work of art, the path to a holy life is often frustrating, messy, painful, and filled with mistakes and corrections. Throughout this series of three talks*, we will reflect on the disorder and imperfections of our lives and consider them as part of God’s creative process. We are not perfect yet, because we are God’s masterpieces in the making!
- Finding Peace in Uncertain Times: Our world often seems chaotic and turbulent, and as a result, we are often distracted, anxious, and confused. 1 Corinthians 14:33 reminds us that, “God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” This series of three talks* will explore ways to rediscover God’s peace amidst the turmoil. There is much we can do to nurture and protect our Inner peace, maintain peace in our relationships, and to cultivate peace in the world.
- Spiritual and Religious. Spirituality and religion go together. One without the other can leave us feeling incomplete and unfulfilled, with a sense that there is more for us to discover and to share. This talk will explore the nature of authentic Christian Spirituality and some ways to breathe new life into our faith.
- Choices: The Hinges of Destiny: A Journey of Discernment in the Footsteps of Christ. The decisions that Jesus made at pivotal moments in his life reveal much to us about who he is and who we are called to be. Join us as we walk closely alongside Jesus of Nazareth to learn from him how to choose wisely on the path towards authentic discipleship. A series of 3 or 4 talks, each session will include lectures, meditations, private contemplative activities, music, and plenty of tools for discernment!
- The Virtue of Hope in Times of Despair. Where is the hope when things are falling apart? This talk explores the virtue of hope in times of despair. We will explore those things that hinder and nourish hope. As always, the presentation will include lectures, prayer, music, and more! The Virtue of Hope in Times of Despair will leave attendees feeling renewed and hopeful!
- Spiritual Discipline. This weekend retreat focuses on topics such as spiritual training, desire, grace, habits, vices, perseverance, vigilance, detachment, humility, self-deception, spiritual guidance, prayer, meditation, and more! We will learn from those who have gone before us the importance of discipline in the spiritual life.
- Sowers of Hope. In his second letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul reminds us that "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6). One of the great challenges and responsibilities of Christians is to be sowers of hope for others. Throughout this series of 3 talks,*, attendees will reflect on the many blessings and real challenges of being sowers of hope. As always, the presentation will include lectures, prayer, music, and more for a contemplative and moving experience.
