Learning and Reverencing the Life, Language, and Spiritual Lessons of Trees
Have you often wished to connect with nature on a deeper level? Do you already have a practice of spending intentional time in nature while gardening, hiking, or being active? Responses to these questions reveal a frequently-expressed desire — shared among so many of us who have experienced the impact of stress and busyness — to pause and immerse ourselves in the rhythms and lessons of the natural world around us. If this resonates with you, join us for a day-long retreat on the life cycle, language, and spiritual teachings of trees.
As we gather in sacred community on the Bon Secours campus, some intentional time will be spent outdoors among the trees in their springtime glory and woven into an interactive dialogue around readings from forester and author, Peter Wohlleben’s work, The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World. Poetry and other enriching materials will also be included for creating personal meaning as the day unfolds. A season-specific ritual will be facilitated during the program that incorporates the sacred energies of trees and the transformative cycle of spring. Participants will be invited into times for personal reflection, contemplative prayer & meditation, writing, and other creative exercises that explore and further ground and empower them as they harness the cherished stirrings and connections they form within nature, themselves, and with one another.
Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking the grounds and spending time in nature. Lunch is included. Guided by Gordon Creamer.
Gordon Creamer, MA, creator of the Mission Bridge, currently serves as Program Director at Well for the Journey, a spiritual wellness center in Lutherville, MD. As a creative and contemplative builder, he has held leadership roles in healthcare programming and operations since 2001 at various assisted living, skilled nursing, and hospice communities. He earned a Master of Arts in Spiritual & Pastoral Care from Loyola University and a Master of Arts in Theology from the Ecumenical Institute of St. Mary’s Seminary & University. Currently, he is a candidate for the Doctor of Ministry Program at the Ecumenical Institute. Gordon has facilitated numerous retreats and workshops that focus on creating opportunities for participants to explore and enhance their spirituality and well-being through various media and formats. He also participates as a peer group leader in the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation’s Transforming Community Program. His passions include uplifting the journey of adults, individuals with memory impairment, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as fostering support groups and programs for caregivers and those who are grieving losses. Trained as a spiritual director/companion, end-of-life doula, and Reiki practitioner, Gordon welcomes all in discovering the spiritual life as a means of healing, expanding, and flourishing. For more information, visit TheMissionBridge.com.