Rewilding Church Workshop: Embracing Nature, Spirituality, and Community

Join us for a transformative workshop on leading Wild Church, a unique approach to spiritual practice that integrates nature, mindfulness, and community. This immersive experience is designed for clergy, spiritual leaders, educators, and anyone interested in exploring innovative ways to connect with the divine through the natural world.

Throughout the day, participants will engage in a series of interactive sessions, experiential exercises, and group discussions led by a seasoned facilitator with expertise in ecological spirituality, nature therapy guiding, and outdoor life coaching. Drawing inspiration from various traditions and indigenous wisdom, we will explore practical strategies and visionary insights for cultivating meaningful spiritual experiences in outdoor settings.

Highlights of the workshop include:

1. Introduction to Wild Church: Explore the origins and principles of Wild Church, understanding its roots in eco-theology, contemplative practices, and Earth-based spirituality.
2. Nature Immersion Practices: Experience guided nature walks, forest bathing, and mindfulness exercises to deepen your connection with the natural world and awaken your senses.
3. Sacred Rituals in Nature: Learn how to design and facilitate sacred rituals, ceremonies, and seasonal celebrations outdoors, honoring the cycles of the Earth and fostering spiritual renewal.
4. Community Building and Inclusivity: Discover strategies for building inclusive and diverse communities through Wild Church, creating welcoming spaces for people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
5. Ecological Justice and Stewardship: Reflect on the intersection of spirituality and social/environmental activism, exploring ways to integrate ecological justice and stewardship into your spiritual leadership.
6. Practical Guidance for Leading Wild Church Gatherings: Gain practical tips, tools, and resources for organizing and leading Wild Church gatherings, including logistics, safety considerations, and group facilitation techniques.
7. Sharing Stories and Visioning: Engage in storytelling circles and visioning exercises to share your experiences, insights, and dreams for the future of Wild Church in your community.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the concept of Wild Church, this workshop offers a supportive space to deepen your spiritual journey, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain inspiration for leading transformative outdoor experiences. Come join us as we explore the sacred in the wild and embark on a journey of spiritual awakening, ecological awareness, and community resilience.

Kimberly Knight, MDiv is a certified ANFT-certified nature therapy guide who holds a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Her Wildwood Wisdom is informed by clinical pastoral care, a trauma-informed approach to holding space for others, and an eco-spirituality that weaves together Celtic, Christian, and universalist theologies.

She has facilitated online and in-person contemplative practices for over 20 years. In addition to guiding forest bathing experiences, this year you can find her facilitating the Ecospirutal Leaders Course for The BTS Center, guiding sessions at Harvard University’s Program for the Evolution of Spirituality, and at the Gathering for Adventure Therapy in Europe.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Heem Locatie Vogeleiland, Nieuwe Meerlaan, Amstelveen, Netherlands