Welcome To Wellspring
We are an independent, inclusive spiritual community that supports each person on their quest to discover his or her True Self. At Wellspring, there is a modern, relevant logic in the message of living by the power of spiritual laws. Whether new or long-time students of metaphysics or Religious Science, all are thrilled by the discovery of a message that resonates with their spirit. As many say, "It's like coming home!" We invite you to share in the joy of our community, to see if Wellspring might be the door that opens to a fresh life-path for you.
Our History
As with all physical forms, Wellspring began as a thought. During the summer of 2002, Rev. Sam Ritchey hosted a Sunday morning gathering of men in the cool shade of his Las Cruces patio. The focus was on men’s issues, those rooted in earliest boyhood through to adulthood. These powerful sessions stirred a somewhat dormant calling within him that could not be denied. In October 2002, approximately forty-five unchurched and encouraging friends attended an exploration event. The result: Wellspring held its first Sunday Celebration on November 24, 2002.
Rev. Sam Ritchey
His earliest religious roots are set in the Lutheran tradition, followed by nearly thirty years as a Methodist, including his training at The Iliff School of Theology, a United Methodist seminary in Denver, Colorado.
“Fortunately, Nancy and I were introduced to New Thought in the early 1970’s by a grand Methodist minister and his wife, Clytus and Mary Mowry. And we came to realize that this metaphysical path was leading us, not to a new religion, but into our true Self. Science of Mind resonates with our innate spirituality, so in a roundabout way, we have been guided home.”
Rev. Sam brings a rich and varied background to his vocation: Corporate executive, marketing communications consultant, and minister. His seasoned wisdom, humor, and insightful illustrations capture the attention and imagination of children and adults alike. Our community has come to expect the unexpected, especially from his ventriloquist puppets: Winston, our church mouse, and Ernie Ray, the hound dog.
Rev. Bonnie Smith
Rev. Bonnie, is a Religious Science Practitioner, and a 2007 graduate of The Holmes Institute, the ministerial school of the United Centers for Spiritual Living in California. In addition to her knowledge of New Thought principles and their application, she is a skilled counselor, a gifted teacher and administrator, and a human being with a strong social consciousness. Her ministry also extends to the hearing impaired population, which she serves as an interpreter.
Rev. Pat Conway
The Coordinator of our Youth and Family Ministry, Rev. Pat Conway, is a licensed Unity teacher and ordained Unity minister with over 30 years experience as a public school teacher. She is driven by her enthusiasm for children of all ages; energized by the power of education, and devoted to her own spiritual path.