Gardening is a powerful symbol of the human role in God's Creation. It also speaks to the shape of "future Church" and the reshaping of our cultural institutions. Moving us beyond static views of the universe, it directs attention to an unfolding creation and suggests partnership with nature and the importance of making space in our lives for enjoyment of what God has made.
Can the Church in our day lead us into new patterns of living in harmony with the rhythms of the Earth, where we learn to see the life-forms in nature not so much as "resources for humans" but rather as "kin," and ourselves as co-creators of a sustainable future for the planet and our children's children? What forms of gathering and proclamation will be most effective in fostering new ways of "seeing?" Where can those who care, whether within or outside formal religious communities, listen for the "call" and celebrate and work together for Earth's renewal? In this gathering, we will reflect on these questions, guided by the Creation-inspired wisdom of Norman Wirzba.
Norman Wirzba is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown College in Kentucky. Steeped in the agrarian philosophy of Wendell Berry, he has written The Essential Agrarian Reader: the Future of Culture, Community, and the Land. Another book, The Paradise of God: Renewing Religion in an Ecological Age is suggested reading for our weekend. Although expensive, we feel it is well worth buying.
Through conversation, silence, prayer, and listening to the Earth at Rolling Ridge, we will engage head, heart, and soul in exploring God's dream for Creation and how our deep love and passion for Earth may speak through our faith to the needs of the planet.
To register, contact: he Rev. Arthur ("Pat") Underwood at 410-329-9097, or email ahun@starpower.net. The retreat is co-sponsored by the Dayspring Earth Ministry and Rolling Ridge Retreat Community. Registrants will be sent readings in advance. Cost is $110 ($65 if tenting).