Terra Divina: A Spiritual Practice of Engaging with Earth at Prairiewoods (in person)

Overview

Join Prairiewoods (120 East Boyson Road in Hiawatha) and facilitator Stephanie Heifner on the second Sunday of the month to practice terra divina and tune into the seasons playing out on the landscape. Like lectio divina is a sacred reading of the text, terra divina is a sacred reading of the earth—the “Book of Creation.” With an attitude of wonder and with all of our senses, we’ll engage in conversation with nature. The gathering begins with a brief conversation, sharing in learning about the season we are in now. We’ll learn the four parts of terra divina, which are lectio (reading the landscape for what calls your attention), meditatio (engaging with that which has called your attention), oratio (responding in prayer) and contemplatio (being held by Earth and resting in our connection to the community of creation). Then we will wander independently as we practice for about 40 minutes. We will conclude by gathering again as a group, sharing bread and herbal tea, and conversing about our experiences. (Please indicate if you require gluten-free bread.) Terra divina is not a hike. It is a slow, contemplative practice that can even be done while seated. We will meet in almost any weather, so be prepared with appropriate layers and footwear. Facilitator Stephanie Heifner is an artist and lay church member who has been planning and facilitating retreats, studies, art classes and spiritual practice events for several years at her church, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids. She is passionate about native plants, healing through Earth intimacy and creativity as spiritual practice, and she believes in transformation through spiritual practices. The cost is $15. For more information or to register, contact Prairiewoods at www.Prairiewoods.org or 319-395-6700.