"Earth and soul cry out for conversation…
It is time to reweave connections for the sake of mutual thriving."
--Leah Rampy Earth & Soul: Reconnecting amid Climate Chaos
"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
Living amid growing loss, we yearn for connections that offer solace and possibility.
In the place where language fails, music invites us into ever-deeper relationships with all beings and with our heart’s longing.
Trees, our elders who have graced this Earth far longer than the human family, beckon us to wisdom, beauty, and peace. Join us as we sing and chant, engage in rich conversations, embrace attentive silence around and within, and exchange intangible, priceless gifts with the trees around us.
Note: You need not consider yourself a singer nor even feel that you can carry a tune; all are welcome to join in!
Join us to:
- Sing your heart out
- Wander in the spring woods
- Rest in deep Silence
- Participate in ceremony and council to encourage the soul
- Dance in sacred circles
- Listen to story both ancient and wild
- Weave community
Retreat 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 leader and the author of Earth & Soul: Reconnecting amid Climate Chaos. Lindsay McLaughlin has been leading retreats that explore nature and soul for more than a decade.
The retreat will be held at Wellspring Retreat Center, on 200 wooded acres just north of Washington, DC in Germantown, MD. The center has a simple and beautiful gathering space and accommodates guests in three adjacent cabins; both the gathering space and cabins are designed in harmony with the wild land around them and feature window expanses connecting to the surrounding woods.
The retreat begins at 5 pm on Friday and ends at 2 pm on Sunday. Please arrive between 3 and 4 pm on Friday to allow time to settle in before the program starts.
Participants in this retreat are requested to take a rapid COVID test before coming on April 11.
The fee for this retreat is based on the nature of the retreat, cost of lodging and food, and modest reimbursement for three leaders. We realize the fee may be beyond the ability of some and can provide partial scholarships for those who need assistance. We encourage you to apply! Scholarship applications are available at registration. Fees include lodging, six meals, and program.
$475 – single occupancy
$425 – double occupancy (register with a friend/roommate or be willing to be paired)
Space is limited for this retreat. Register early to secure your place. Non-refundable $75 deposit required.
Email Lindsay if you have any questions.
Register Online
Pay Deposit
Pay Balance or Full Amount
Scholarship Application Form
Download PDF Flyer