Christ of the Forest: Spiritual Practices for Earth Connection
Live in-person
WEEK 2 July 17-22
M-Th 3PM-6PM
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.)
Mary Frohlich, RSCJ
Presenter
Mary Frohlich, RSCJ, taught Spirituality at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago from 1993 to 2020. The Earth called to her at a young age, and awakening others to Earth connection has been a passion throughout her career. She has offered many varieties of courses, workshops, and retreats on ecospiritual themes. During the pandemic, she trained to become a certified Forest Therapy Guide. She is the author of Breathed into Wholeness: Catholicity and Life in the Spirit (Orbis 2019), and is currently working on a book entitled A World with Heart: New Stories of the Sacred Heart.
5-day Workshop with Lunch Commuter Rate: $75
Workshop with Meals & Overnight Stays: $625
Learning Grant Rate: $125