The Theologian in Residence (TIR) Program was established to provide First United Methodist Church of Boulder and the surrounding community with intellectual stimulation and opportunities for spiritual growth.
Individuals are invited to apply for a stay of up to 2 months at Mountain Haven, First Church’s retreat house in the mountains near Rollinsville. In turn, participants contribute to the life and spiritual growth of the church and community by sharing their area of study and passion 3-4 hours a week via classes, preaching, weekend seminars, retreats, lectures and/or other approaches. Theologians are responsible for their own transportation and daily needs.
Interested in Being a TIR at First Church Boulder?
The TIR Program is a perfect opportunity to discover the beauty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains and the diversity of the Boulder area, and engage a progressive congregation whose parishioners are eager to learn and grow in the Spirit. Our TIRs have brought engaging conversation and opportunities for learning in many areas including the following:
- contemporary ethical and social issues including racism, immigration, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion
- mystical Christianity
- religious dimensions of the arts and popular culture
- comparative religion and interfaith dialogue
- Native American spirituality
- environmental justice and climate change
- the labyrinth as a spiritual practice
To Learn More about the TIR Program at First Church:
Please contact Rev. Mike Mather, Pastor of First Church Boulder.
CLICK HERE to read about some of our Recent TIRs.
Mountain Haven Retreat House
High in the Rocky Mountains (at an elevation of 9000 feet above sea level) sits the Theologian in Residence Program’s Mountain Haven. Mountain Haven is a perfect locale for sabbaticals, retreats, vacations, spiritual renewal, and space to write and create.
Surrounded by pine and aspen trees, the 2800 sq ft, Mountain Haven provides all of the modern amenities as well as the solace and solitude of the wild. Its 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, large kitchen, living room, meeting area and wood burning fireplace create an inviting, comforting and energizing environment.
Mountain Haven has year-round recreational opportunities – hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding in warm weather; skating, snowshoeing, downhill and cross country skiing and snowboarding when the beautiful Colorado snows arrive.
Conveniently located just 35 minutes from the church, and one hour to either Rocky Mountain National Park/Estes Park or Denver, a stay at Mountain Haven opens the way to some of Colorado’s most popular attractions.