Caring for God's Creation: The Journey to Environmental Stewardship
April 11 - 13, Friday 6 p.m. until Sunday 11 a.m.What might it mean to "meet the sacred in creation?" This is a contemplative retreat designed to explore one of the most neglected aspects of modern spiritual life the relationship between the human soul and the natural world. Using the poetry of Mary Oliver and Wendell Berry, scripture, guided meditation, and wildflower walks, we will explore our connection to "this fragile earth, our island home."
Presenters:
The Rev. William Harkins, teaches pastoral theology and counseling at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. He is an Episcopal Priest, serving at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta, and a pastoral psychotherapist and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice. A graduate of Rhodes College and Vanderbilt University (M.Div., PhD), Bill enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families, as well as congregations and other institutions. A life-long runner, Bill spends as much time as possible outdoors, and enjoys trail-running, sea kayaking, mountain biking, and immersion in wilderness settings. He is interested in the expanded web of relationship between western practices of psychotherapy and centering prayer, Buddhist mindfulness practice, and interfaith theological inquiry. Bill is married to Vicky, a healthcare executive, and they have two sons, Justin (24) and Andrew (21).
The Rev. Gordon Peerman, D.Min., is a psychotherapist and consultant in private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. He holds degrees from the University of Virginia, Yale, and Vanderbilt and is a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors. Dr. Peerman founded the Saint Thomas Stress Reduction Program in 1997. He is an Episcopal priest and teaches at Vanderbilt Divinity School. He has been engaged in contemplative practices, including centering prayer and mindfulness meditation, since 1975. He has practiced yoga, tai chi, and qigong since 1995.
Residential Fee: $190 Commuter Fee: $100 Deposit: $50