Rev. Joel Baehr - In Memoriam

The universe became reunited with an old soul full of love, knowledge and wisdom when Rev. Joel William Baehr made his transition on Sunday, January 6, 2013. At 5:15 in the morning his wife and love, Robin, and dear friend Ray held their hands on his heart and smiled with him as he passed.

After serving his country in the Korean War and obtaining a Masters Degree from the Cranbrook Academy of Arts, in 1956 Joel experienced what was to be the beginning of his life's calling. While traveling through Montana he encountered Mary Wessel at the Black Butte Ranch. There he learned and studied the teachings of the Unity Movement and was called to Unity Village, Lee Summit, Missouri.  Joel was ordained in 1960 by Lowell Fillmore, son of Unity founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. He spread his vision through Unity Churches in Detroit (with Eric Butterworth), Dayton, OH, Bellingham & Tacoma, WA, St. Louis, MO, Butte, Great Falls & Missoula, MT, before joining Unity of Mesa in 1975. (Note: in 1975 Joel changed the spelling of his last name from Boehr to Baehr to facilitate easier pronunciation). After 37 years as the Senior Minister in Mesa, Joel retired on June 30, 2012. From 1995 - 1996 Joel served as President of the Association of Unity Churches (now Unity Worldwide Ministries) as well as two terms on the board and multiple ministry teams.

In describing facing death to 7-year old grandson Grady, Joel let him know that he was not afraid, had no regrets and no unfinished business in this lifetime. And that while they would no longer be able to see each other and talk, he would still be with us all. Like changing a TV channel - the show on the previous channel is still there - we just can't see it anymore. Joel remains with us, just on a different channel.  He was a student and teacher of how to live a better life through unconditional love and forgiveness. He continued his teachings until his last breath.