About Joe
Joseph Shiel’s life has always been quietly threaded with Spirit. Long before titles, recognition, or public platforms, there was a boy growing up in Boston—raised in a traditional Irish Catholic family—who sensed that the world was far larger, thinner, and more luminous than it appeared. Spirit was not an idea to Joe; it was a presence. A companion. A calling that whispered early and patiently waited.
That calling first led him toward the priesthood, then into a successful career in business, and ultimately to a profound crossroads. Standing at the threshold of becoming a Catholic deacon, Joe made the courageous decision to step away from the seminary—not away from God, but closer to Spirit. He chose to trust the gifts that had followed him all his life and to dedicate himself fully to spiritual service, healing, and love.
More than three decades later, Joseph Shiel is internationally recognized as an evidential medium, Spirit Portrait Artist, and spiritual teacher whose work has brought comfort and clarity to thousands across the world. Known for his integrity, accuracy, and deeply compassionate presence, Joe stepped forward to serve as Pastor of the world-renowned Journey Within Spiritualist Church following the profound loss of its beloved Janet Nohave. Entering during a tender and pivotal moment, he offered himself as a bridge—holding space for grief, honoring Janet’s extraordinary legacy, and helping guide the church through transition. With humility, steadiness, and deep reverence for Spirit, Joe’s role has been to ensure that Janet’s vision could continue to unfold, evolve, and thrive, rooted in the same love, truth, and spiritual integrity that defined her ministry.
Among Joe’s most extraordinary gifts is his ability to create Spirit Portraits—detailed, unmistakable drawings of loved ones in Spirit, created without photographs or prior information. Often referred to as “Portraits from Heaven,” these images arrive as quiet miracles: moments of recognition, validation, and profound healing for those grieving or seeking connection. Each portrait is a prayer in line and form, a sacred collaboration between worlds. Over the years, Joe has created thousands of these works, earning recognition as one of the most accomplished Spirit Portrait Artists of our time.
Joe is also known for his vibrant Soul Journey Auragraphs—symbolic, intuitive artworks that reveal the unfolding story of an individual’s soul. Whether through art, spoken word, or gentle guidance, his work consistently illuminates the deeper truth beneath the surface: that love endures, connection remains, and Spirit is always near.
A lifelong student of wisdom, Joe’s spiritual path has woven through Catholicism, Spiritualism, Buddhism, and contemplative philosophy. He holds a BA in Philosophy from Boston College and completed graduate theological studies at Colgate Crozer Divinity School and St. Bernard’s Institute. This rare blend of intellectual rigor, spiritual depth, and artistic sensitivity allows him to meet people exactly where they are—especially those who question, doubt, grieve, or quietly sense there must be something more.
As a teacher, Joe is dynamic, heart-centered, and deeply respected. He has taught at Arthur Findlay College, serving as a tutor with the Spiritualists’ National Union International (SNUi), and is a Certified Medium with the Forever Family Foundation, an organization devoted to afterlife research and grief support. For over a decade, he also served as a Registered Medium at Lily Dale Assembly, offering readings, demonstrations, workshops, and healing within the world’s oldest and largest Spiritualist community.
Beyond his mediumship, Joe is a published poet, fine artist, sculptor, and recording artist. His book The Edge of Wilderness weaves prayers, poems, and songs that speak to the sacred interconnectedness of all life and the eternal presence of Spirit.
At the heart of Joseph Shiel’s work is a simple, enduring truth: love never dies. Whether through a drawing, a message, a teaching, or a moment of quiet recognition, Joe serves as a bridge between worlds—helping others feel seen, remembered, and deeply loved by those who continue to walk with them in Spirit.
