Board Meetings
The Board of Directors usually meets on the first Sunday of the month following Chapel services, from 1pm-3pm.
Members (and visitors) are welcome to stay and observe the meetings.
Proposals for the board of directors must be submitted in writing at least two weeks prior to the meeting.
You can find instructions on how to do so here.
Our Ministers also participate in our Board Meetings as they are able; Ministerial review and approval is required for all spiritually-related actions at the Chapel, including new or guest speaker approval, class/teaching event approval, etc.
Members (and visitors) are welcome to stay and observe the meetings.
Proposals for the board of directors must be submitted in writing at least two weeks prior to the meeting.
You can find instructions on how to do so here.
Our Ministers also participate in our Board Meetings as they are able; Ministerial review and approval is required for all spiritually-related actions at the Chapel, including new or guest speaker approval, class/teaching event approval, etc.
Who We Are
2023 Board of Directors
Dawn Byrd
President Board of Directors |
Dawn Byrd began attending the Metaphysical Chapel of Life in 2012 and became a member in December 2014. She served as Secretary of the 2019 Board of Directors.
She has also been a speaker and has assisted with many various activities at the Chapel. Dawn worked more than 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry as an Account Executive, District Sales Manager, Regional Manager Government and Hospital Accounts. She was Director of Managed Care with a chain pharmacy co-op. Having an interest in hypnosis for many years herself she learned many doctors and medical professionals also appreciated the benefits hypnosis offers. Dawn began her studies and received her ACHE (American Council of Hypnotist Examiners) certification as a Clinical Hypnotherapist. She was certified as a Consulting Hypnotist by the National Guild of Hypnotists. Dawn was also certified as an NLP practitioner and Life Coach by NATH (National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists). She was a presenter four times at NAH Annual Conferences and received the NATH 2013 Significant Clinical Contribution award. |
Dawn has appeared as an expert guest multiple times on Doc Gallagher’s KAAM radio show to discuss hypnosis. She served two terms as President of a regional chapter of the National Guild of Hypnotists. While she works with all hypnosis clients, she is especially drawn to pain management and phobia release.
She is an Ordained Minister registered with the Universal Life Church.
She is an Ordained Minister registered with the Universal Life Church.
Pam McIntyre
Vice President Board of Directors |
Pam McIntyre (currently serving as a Director at Large) joined the Chapel April 2018 and is an active chapel member and board member.
Mother of two adult children and retired high school teacher, Pam enjoys roles of mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, teacher, writer, seeker, dreamer and anam cara (Gaelic word for soul friend or guide). Over the decades, she has explored many spiritual paths which led her where she is today, grounded in 12 step principles, devoted to daily practice of Mindfulness, and training as an Evolutionary Astrologer. She has studied with Evolutionary Astrologer and Spiritual teacher, Ari Moshe Wolfe, and is currently working with Evolutionary Astrologers Martha Hines and Verena Borell in intuiting and understanding the influence of Divine Feminine within the natal birth chart (human psyche). Helping others gain perspective, insight and self-compassion for their own unique Soul journey - this incarnation and past - is an honor. She is deeply grateful for all of it. |
Lashannon Armistead
Secretary Board of Directors |
Lashannon Armistead is a passionate and devoted Wholistic practitioner, whose life's purpose is to empower individuals to awaken to their true selves and unlock their full potential. A true seeker and mystic, Lashannon has held a lifelong affinity for all things spiritual and metaphysical. Her profound connection to the Divine, fortified by the wisdom and guidance of her elevated Ancestors, along with a tapestry of deeply impactful life experiences, has set her on a transformative journey to discover ancient, time-tested wellness therapies and the profound healing arts.
Through her own personal healing and profound transformative growth, it became abundantly clear that every lesson and insight Lashannon has learned and gathered was a gift intended primarily for her own self-realization. As an embodiment of Divine Love, she extends this same message to all those whom she is Divinely assigned to guide, generously assisting individuals on their path to becoming the very Center of their own Universe. |
Lashannon dons many hats, each with a unique and vital role. She is Mother, Daughter, Sister, and Wife, embodying the rich tapestry of human relationships. She is the Priestess, the Oracle, the Counselor, the Spiritual Hygienist, and the Sacred Witness, guiding souls through their life journeys. Lashannon is a Coach, a Healer, an Educator, a Student, a Novice, an Adept, and a Master, symbolizing her ever-evolving commitment to learning and growth.
In Lashannon's diverse array of roles, her extensive education and training shine brightly as:
● An Energy Healer and Reiki Master Practitioner and Teacher
● A Spiritual Hygienist certified through Eternal Light Institute
● A Certified Global Sisterhood Sacred Facilitator
● A Certified Born To Transform Institute Life Coach
● A Certified Breathologist under Sekou Ayo Handy Kendi of Positive Energy Works
● An ordained Priestess of The Order of Melchizedek
● A Certified Womb Sauna Practitioner
● A Professional Intuitive Psychic Advisor for Expert Link Inc
Her work revolves around supporting her clients as they traverse the liminal space of transformation, helping them transition from who they once were to who they are destined to become. Lashannon is the creative visionary and the genius behind "The Spaces In Between," a sacred sanctuary that provides women with much-needed respite. Within this space, she offers mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual
nourishment, employing an array of modalities in the Healing Arts.
With unwavering devotion and boundless love, Lashannon stands as a guiding light, leading individuals towards self-discovery, empowerment, and spiritual growth. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact of holistic healing and the enduring beauty of the human spirit's transformation.
In Lashannon's diverse array of roles, her extensive education and training shine brightly as:
● An Energy Healer and Reiki Master Practitioner and Teacher
● A Spiritual Hygienist certified through Eternal Light Institute
● A Certified Global Sisterhood Sacred Facilitator
● A Certified Born To Transform Institute Life Coach
● A Certified Breathologist under Sekou Ayo Handy Kendi of Positive Energy Works
● An ordained Priestess of The Order of Melchizedek
● A Certified Womb Sauna Practitioner
● A Professional Intuitive Psychic Advisor for Expert Link Inc
Her work revolves around supporting her clients as they traverse the liminal space of transformation, helping them transition from who they once were to who they are destined to become. Lashannon is the creative visionary and the genius behind "The Spaces In Between," a sacred sanctuary that provides women with much-needed respite. Within this space, she offers mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual
nourishment, employing an array of modalities in the Healing Arts.
With unwavering devotion and boundless love, Lashannon stands as a guiding light, leading individuals towards self-discovery, empowerment, and spiritual growth. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact of holistic healing and the enduring beauty of the human spirit's transformation.
Barbara Moen
Treasurer Board of Directors |
Barbara Moen first came to the chapel in April of 2008 when she attended the Psychic Fair. It had such a profound effect on her that she spent the rest of the afternoon driving the backroads of Smithfield in deep contemplation of what was taking place inside of her. She didn’t know what it was but she knew that her life had changed.
She began attending services and classes and officially joined the chapel on August 3rd, 2008. It wasn’t long before she was “encouraged” to run for the treasurer’s position in the upcoming election. She began her commitment to the board in January, 2009. Little did she know that this would be a lifetime commitment. Barbara had previous experience as the untitled treasurer with the Tidewater United Church of Christ in Virginia Beach. TUCC was a new church start at that time and met in schools and various other places until they were able to purchase land and build their own church building. Barbara assisted the pastor in counting the offering and keeping track of donators for tax purposes. Her duties were not as extensive as her current ones but it did provide a solid foundation to build from. |
Barbara is a proud veteran of both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army and retired from the U.S. Army Reserve with credit for 26 years of service. She also retired from the Department of Defense as an Army Civilian after 27 years of service. She was responsible for the maintenance of both aircrew and aircraft survival equipment and first aid kits as well as the property book NCO (noncommissioned officer) for thousands of dollars of equipment.
Susan Bauer
Director-at-Large |
Susan joined the Chapel of Life in 1987 after attending chapel services and classes starting in 1985. She transferred her membership to the Metaphysical Chapel of Life in 2019 after returning to the Peninsula and is currently serving on the Chapel’s Board of Directors. Susan retired from the Department of Defense as an Army civilian after 35 years of service. In her roles as a manager or supervisor she combined her skills and knowledge as an analyst, problem solver, mentor, and coach along with her spiritual focus to bring positive vision and energy into every project or situation.
Susan holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics, a Master’s in Public Administration, is a graduate of the Army Management Staff College and completed Dept of Defense Executive Training. Her most treasured recognition is from The Church of Enlightenment as “Healing Practitioner.” |
Susan has been a practitioner of Jin Shin Jyutsu®, an energy harmonizing modality since 2001. She is a Cayce Certified Life Coach, a National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, practices BodyTalk® “Brain Balancing”, Accunect® Emotion Releasing Techniques, and is a dowser. She most enjoys receiving and sharing self-help information.
Susan wishes everyone a personal connection with The Source.
Susan wishes everyone a personal connection with The Source.
Elizabeth Cutshaw
Director-at-Large |
Elizabeth Cutshaw (Liz) (currently serving as Secretary) is the proud mother of three adult children, stepmother to three children, and grandmother to five. A retired elementary school teacher, she currently enjoys having the time to appreciate being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, artist, traveler, and active learner.
She has been a member of the Metaphysical Chapel of Life since 2000. She has served as Director at Large during the early 2000’s as well as Secretary of the Board of Directors in 2022 and 2023. Having served on the Board at two very different times in the Chapel's history, she says it has been interesting to see the many changes that have occurred. Being a current board member, she also says, she has gained insights into the Chapel’s future and looks forward to its growth and progress. |
Malaika Yemanje
Director-at-Large |
Kween Malaika Yemanje: Metaphysics Practitioner, intuitive reader, empath, and, spiritual consultant deeply rooted in a family lineage of spiritual practitioners.
My spiritual journey commenced in the enchanting city of New Orleans, Louisiana, where spirituality, history, and the supernatural intertwine, making it a Mecca for a spiritual journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary. My journey through life has been enriched by a diverse employment history and a strong commitment to education. In 2002, I embarked on the pursuit of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Hampton University. My academic journey also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Peru State College, an Associate of Arts Degree in Health Science from the Medical Careers Institute, and an Associate Degree in Military Science/Air Force Leadership Enhancement from the Community College of the Air Force. |
The Metaphysical Chapel of Life holds a sacred space, cultivating an environment of spiritual growth and self-development. Here, I have maintained my unique individual practice rooted in ancient African traditional healing, divination, and spiritual exploration while making significant contributions to the chapel and the community through Metaphysics and Energetic Healing. My spiritual gifts have been forged into powerful tools of compassion, resilience, and creativity. Since 2018, under the Chapel's embrace, I have cultivated and harnessed my innate intuition, psychic abilities, and profound metaphysical insights. These are not mere skills; they are the essence of my being, the conduits through which I channel profound empathy and wisdom.
My spiritual gifts are not a casual addition to my life; they are the vibrant threads that weave through the tapestry of my existence. They empower me as a communicator, a problem solver, and a strategic thinker. These gifts are the compass by which I navigate the vast tapestry of humanity, helping me bridge cultures, understand the depths of the human soul, and share messages that resonate with profound clarity.
Over the years, I have dedicated much of my time and energy to the chapel, becoming an active member in 2018. My relationship with the chapel has evolved, as I've taken on various roles, including serving as a facilitator of Spiritual Development Classes and as a director at large on the Board of Directors. Through these roles, I've had the privilege of presiding over chapel events and facilitating a Spiritual development class. I have been a speaker and served the role of presider. My journey with the Metaphysical Chapel of Life has been profound, lasting over a decade.
As a traveler who has ventured across the globe, I've continued to embrace the principles and teachings of the Chapel, all while remaining committed to my own spiritual path. The Metaphysical Chapel of Life has played an instrumental role in shaping my spiritual growth and personal transformation. It has been a sanctuary where I could embrace and express my divine intuition, psychic abilities, and metaphysical knowledge without discrimination.
My journey is enriched by a diverse background, including a decade of service in the United States Air Force, assigned to Langley Air Force Base where I honed my skills in aircraft maintenance, quality assurance, operations management, training, and systems maintenance.
My career expanded beyond the military, as an adoptive/foster resource parent with Hampton Social Services and my role as an Athletic Director at the Warwick YMCA. My empathetic abilities allow me to feel their unspoken fears and aspirations, and my divination skills provide me with profound insights into their unique needs. In this sacred role, I become the protector of innocence, offering a haven of love and understanding.
I ventured into real estate where I serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Empress Estates, a real estate investment business dedicated to providing temporary housing and in-home care, contributing to community restoration and rehabilitation efforts.
As an Athletic Director, my journey is flavored with traditional medical methods, rooted in ancient African healing practices. My knowledge of the herbs and spices of West African and New Orleans cuisine infuses my approach to holistic wellness and nutrition, ensuring the athletes I work with thrive both physically and spiritually. Meditation, a tool of profound serenity, is used extensively with athletes on their journeys toward emotional equilibrium.
As a member of various organizations, including the Ausar Auset Society and Break the Cycle, The Council of Igbo States in America, and the Newport News Neighborhood Watch Coalition, I have actively contributed to community initiatives and offered my services to various organizations.
I am excited to contribute my energy, experience, knowledge, and passion to the continued growth and success of this esteemed institution. I humbly express my interest in serving on the Chapel's Board, where I hope to bring my unique perspective, to assist in guiding the institution toward its highest potential. As I strive to attain the role of a Minister with the Chapel, I appreciate the opportunity to deepen my understanding of metaphysical principles within the chapel community, upholding its core values, and serving as a beacon of light on the path to spiritual growth.
My spiritual gifts are not a casual addition to my life; they are the vibrant threads that weave through the tapestry of my existence. They empower me as a communicator, a problem solver, and a strategic thinker. These gifts are the compass by which I navigate the vast tapestry of humanity, helping me bridge cultures, understand the depths of the human soul, and share messages that resonate with profound clarity.
Over the years, I have dedicated much of my time and energy to the chapel, becoming an active member in 2018. My relationship with the chapel has evolved, as I've taken on various roles, including serving as a facilitator of Spiritual Development Classes and as a director at large on the Board of Directors. Through these roles, I've had the privilege of presiding over chapel events and facilitating a Spiritual development class. I have been a speaker and served the role of presider. My journey with the Metaphysical Chapel of Life has been profound, lasting over a decade.
As a traveler who has ventured across the globe, I've continued to embrace the principles and teachings of the Chapel, all while remaining committed to my own spiritual path. The Metaphysical Chapel of Life has played an instrumental role in shaping my spiritual growth and personal transformation. It has been a sanctuary where I could embrace and express my divine intuition, psychic abilities, and metaphysical knowledge without discrimination.
My journey is enriched by a diverse background, including a decade of service in the United States Air Force, assigned to Langley Air Force Base where I honed my skills in aircraft maintenance, quality assurance, operations management, training, and systems maintenance.
My career expanded beyond the military, as an adoptive/foster resource parent with Hampton Social Services and my role as an Athletic Director at the Warwick YMCA. My empathetic abilities allow me to feel their unspoken fears and aspirations, and my divination skills provide me with profound insights into their unique needs. In this sacred role, I become the protector of innocence, offering a haven of love and understanding.
I ventured into real estate where I serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Empress Estates, a real estate investment business dedicated to providing temporary housing and in-home care, contributing to community restoration and rehabilitation efforts.
As an Athletic Director, my journey is flavored with traditional medical methods, rooted in ancient African healing practices. My knowledge of the herbs and spices of West African and New Orleans cuisine infuses my approach to holistic wellness and nutrition, ensuring the athletes I work with thrive both physically and spiritually. Meditation, a tool of profound serenity, is used extensively with athletes on their journeys toward emotional equilibrium.
As a member of various organizations, including the Ausar Auset Society and Break the Cycle, The Council of Igbo States in America, and the Newport News Neighborhood Watch Coalition, I have actively contributed to community initiatives and offered my services to various organizations.
I am excited to contribute my energy, experience, knowledge, and passion to the continued growth and success of this esteemed institution. I humbly express my interest in serving on the Chapel's Board, where I hope to bring my unique perspective, to assist in guiding the institution toward its highest potential. As I strive to attain the role of a Minister with the Chapel, I appreciate the opportunity to deepen my understanding of metaphysical principles within the chapel community, upholding its core values, and serving as a beacon of light on the path to spiritual growth.
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The Metaphysical Chapel of Life is tax-exempt under IRS code 501(c)(3) as a church and your donations may be tax-deductible.
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