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Singing the Trees 2022

A return to chant, nature and soul
April 22-24, 2022
Friday 5 pm supper - Sunday lunch
Rolling Ridge Study Retreat

April 22-24, 2022
with Leah and David Rampy
Lindsay McLaughlin
 
“When I am among the trees…
they give off such hints of gladness.  
I would almost say that they save me, and daily.” 
~ Mary Oliver
 
“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words
and that which cannot remain silent.”
~ Victor Hugo
 
Standing tall in majesty and wildness, the trees beckon. Moving in rhythm with wind and rain, these strong and pliable pillars flow with a song of life that offers wisdom and joy. In this place where language fails, music invites us into an ever-deeper relationship with all beings – and with our heart’s longing. Join us as we sing and chant, listen to the music around us, and walk in the companionship of trees. You need not consider yourself a singer nor even feel that you can carry a tune; all are welcome to join in!
 
Rolling Ridge is 1400 acres of protected land nestled between the Appalachian Trail and the Shenandoah River. Trails wander through the forest, over stony brooks and yes, under the oaks, maples, tulip poplars, and many others who make their home here. The Retreat House is a lovely and simple cabin in the woods, a shared space with kitchen, dining area, living room and enough bedrooms to sleep up to 14. Camping is also an option.

Leaders: David Rampy has sung in opera houses around the world and taught vocal music to individuals of all ages. He enjoys helping others open to music as a spiritual practice. Leah Rampy is an experienced retreat and pilgrimage leader with a strong interest in creation spirituality and contemplative leadership. Lindsay McLaughlin has been leading retreats that explore nature and soul at Rolling Ridge for more than a decade.

Retreat begins at 5 pm on Friday (supper included) and ends after lunch on Sunday.

Cost (include six meals, lodging and program):

  • $310 - single room
  • $260 - shared room (come with a friend or partner)
  • $225 - camping (bring your own tent)

For more information, email lindsay.mclaughlin66@gmail.com.

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Wouldn't you know it? Last autumn I became a seed and fell into the ground again. That is why I haven't written for a while. How could it always is in the soil. And dark. You can't imagine! But it doesn't matter whether there is light or not because you have no eyes. You feel all alone, and you don't know there are other seeds around you who are also trying to see. Then a little shoot begins to grow out of the top of your head and it starts to feel its way upward through what seems like all the dirt in the world. The ascent is long and hard; you believe it will never end. Then one day in May you break out and into the sun and air. Your eyes are restored, and, when you look around, there are poppies everywhere, all celebrating their own resurrection. What a feeling! I was just beginning to enjoy my own red blossom when a cold September wind stole into the valley and I returned to the ground. Now spring seems an impossible flower. I would surely lose heart if Jesus hadn't told us we are all seeds and that someday we will rise permanently and fall will be no more.

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