ASW Forest Church at Mud Lake

Forest Church is a type of outdoor worship and spiritual practice that emphasizes connecting with nature and finding spiritual meaning in the natural world. It’s a contemporary movement with roots in Christian traditions that highlight nature and creation, like Celtic and Franciscan approaches, and aims to engage with God through the natural world.(Diocese of Norwich, UK).

The plan is to walk to a lookout and return to Cassels Street, a gentle stroll of approximately 2 Km. At the mid-way point we will celebrate the Eucharist and then continue.

With an opening prayer and a reading from scripture at the entrance, we enter the trail with intentions to observe the space around us and to walk together in fellowship and friendship. When we arrive at the place to create an altar (at about the half-way mark of our walk) we prepare the elements and circle around to participate in the rhythm and ritual of our tradition. After the meal is shared, we head back and conclude with a closing prayer, blessing and dismissal.

At the end, for those who wish to linger, there will be an opportunity go to The Beachcombers Micro creamery, 273 Britannia Road for a coffee, pastries, made-on-site ice cream or a sandwich and chat. In case of rain, we will cancel.

Meet at the Cassels Street entrance at 4 PM to start our journey.

Go North on Britannia Road from Carling Avenue to the end.

Turn right on Cassels Street and go East for approximately 200 metres until you see the entrance with the sign.

Some items to note:
·       No dogs, cats or other pets are allowed.
·       Kids of all ages are welcome.
·       Leave with memories and photos – no souvenirs such as brilliant-coloured leaves.
·       As students at Regina Street PS are told, use your “Mud Lake Voices”.
·       Stay on the paths, which are quite wide and easy to walk on. Accessible to strollers and walkers (electric wheelchairs with wider tires).
·       Ticks are there, so take preventative measures (Lyme Disease). Wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants.

Hope to see you there.

All Photos and trail information by Larry Chop

Description and informational link: The Rev. Monique Stone in Perspective. Click here for more information about “Forest Church”.