Trees as Contemplative Teachers

This is an experiential Workshop to open us up to the gifts that trees have to offer while introducing participants to practices that may offer a different approach to contemplation and engaging with the Divine.

Using the "Tree of Contemplative Practices" developed by The Center for the Contemplative Mind in Society, we will explore different way to enhance our contemplation of trees and offer ways to deepen our appreciation of the natural world. In turn, we hope to develop reverence for life and connection with the Sacred in all things.

There will be an outdoor walking meditation, silent and guided meditation, poetry, art, and writing to explore our encounter with the tree. Participants will share their experiences with the group.

This workshop will be informed by the work of Wendell Berry, Theodore Rilke , Mary Oliver, John O'Donohue, and Susan Simard. We will be led by Reverend Eileen Mahoney, who is an Interfaith Interspiritual Minister, Spiritual Companion, Certified Arts Therapist, and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher. Eileen is also ordained in Thich Nhat Hanh's Order of Engaged Buddhism and initiated into the Sufi Order Inayatiaya

When:  10 am - 4 pm Saturday October 21
Where: The Spiritual Life Center at 76 Sherman st in Hartford
Cost: $65

Please note : beverages will be provided but participants are asked to bring their own lunch.