Christ of the Forest: Spiritual Practices for Earth Connection

When Jesus saw that his companions were faltering, he took them to the forests of Mount Hermon for rest and reframing. Both Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ and recent scientific research reveal how profoundly humans need to experience their interconnection with all creatures. This workshop provides opportunities to explore spiritual practices that foster such interconnection, while also taking note of emerging Christian theologies that support these practices. The workshop will include two sessions of Forest Therapy — a group practice in which participants are guided in a contemplative outdoor walk. (Note that the trails at Mercy Center may be rather rugged, so those who cannot safely join these walks will be offered alternative practices for these times.)