Founded by Howard Butt, Jr. in 1961, Laity Lodge has welcomed guests to retreats designed to reawaken a sense of the sacred—the nearness and goodness of God in all of life—for more than six decades. Tucked deep in the Texas Hill Country, along the banks of the Frio River, the Lodge offers a setting of extraordinary beauty. Yet what happens here is strikingly simple: we converse, sing, walk, pray, eat, and rest. We believe these ordinary practices shape a truly good life—a life of faithful stewardship and love, lived among friends and before God.
The Most Comfortable Living Room in the Hill CountryThe Great Hall—our main gathering space—was built to be “the most comfortable living room in the Hill Country.” That phrase matters to us. It means you’re not just attending an event; you’re a guest in our home—a place we love deeply and have prepared with care, just for you.
“On my first visit to Laity Lodge, I knew it was a holy place. The high hills spoke of it. The river spoke of it. ... I don't believe I have ever known a place as full of human kindness and openness and grace as I have found in virtually everyone I met there.”
Frederick Buechner
We Don’t Have an Agenda for YouFor decades, we’ve opened every retreat with these words: “We have an agenda, but we don’t have an agenda for you.” This is your retreat. While we thoughtfully design each gathering to serve you well, we trust you to engage with the experience in whatever way feels right for you.
Of the People“Laity” comes from the Greek λαϊκός (laikos), and means “of the people.” Laity Lodge is built on the conviction that all people, in all places and occupations, are called to be witnesses—steadfast, caring visionaries of hope in a world of shadows.
The Laity Lodge SymbolOriginally designed in 1978 by Richard L. Casey with oversight from Howard E. Butt, Jr., the Symbol of the Congress of the Laity was reworked in 2013 and is used today exclusively as the program symbol for Laity Lodge. The symbol was originally described in this way:
“…it is made up of four adjoining circles: the top circle stands unadorned, representing God; the right circle holds a square, symbol for earth; the bottom circle contains the triangle which stands for the spiritual world, triunity, and creativity; the left circle embraces the cross, reminder of God’s reaching to man in the person of Jesus Christ. Bordering the four circles is the architectural shape of the early Roman Senate where representatives discussed major issues face to face. The Congress of the Laity, too, was a gathering of important people discussing major issues within a Christian context of leadership through servanthood.”
Executive Director
Steven Purcell came to Laity Lodge in 2006 by way of Seattle. From 1997-2002, he was the Director of Conferences and Retreats at Schloss Mittersill, in Mittersill, Austria. Prior to that he attended Regent College in Vancouver, B.C., where he studied Spiritual Theology with an emphasis on its integration with the arts. Steven lives with his family in Boerne.
Associate Director
Kevin provides pastoral leadership and presence during retreats. He received his Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. After graduating, he was called to pastor Christ Presbyterian Church in Richmond, VA — a vibrant, diverse, and eclectic congregation where he served for seventeen years. Born and raised in San Antonio, it is a full circle moment for Kevin to be back in this area. Kevin loves backpacking, birding, and drumming, and wants to play pickleball with you at the Lodge. Kevin and his wife Libby have two sons and live in Boerne.
Executive Chef
Ryan Hernandez maintains the Lodge’s commitment to great meals. He has worked in some great kitchens and brings an experienced passion to the job. Ryan came to the Lodge from just down the river at Laity Lodge Youth Camp where he oversaw kitchens for five summers. Next time you are at a retreat, please feel free to step into the kitchen to say hello. Ryan and his family live in Kerrville.
Hospitality Manager
Hannah Smith provides frontline hospitality and service to all guests of the Lodge. There is a very good chance that Hannah will be the first person you meet when you arrive here—she’ll be the smiling face behind the desk in Reception. Forgot what time dinner is served? Just ask Hannah. Forgot your toothbrush? Again, Hannah. Originally from Kansas, Hannah comes to the Lodge after recent stints in Washington, D.C., and at English L’Abri.
Program Relations Coordinator
Muffin Camp works behind the scenes to make sure you have a wonderful retreat. She grew up and lives in San Antonio, where she’s been a longtime participant in church ministry, community outreach, and hospitality work. She’s been married to Morris Camp for over three decades. Her children attended camp at LLYC, and they are the reason Muffin fell in love with the Canyon. If you have questions about how to register or what to expect during your retreat, Muffin is here for you.
Program Associate
Drew Gullahorn is no stranger to the Frio River Canyon. He started attending Laity Lodge Youth Camp when he was a sophomore in high school, and then worked for LLYC from 2018-2023. Drew grew up in a household (and a city) full of artists, and inherited a love for music, books, and movies. He joins our team after completing his degree in philosophy and global studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
