Wild Church
Wild Church is a growing movement in which we seek to recover our natural, outdoor "roots" and take worship outside into our first and greatest sanctuary: creation itself. Wild Church gatherings are not simply "traditional" worship services transplanted onto a natural backdrop, but are instead more "organic" worship experiences in which we recognize that the natural world itself is a fellow participant - worshipping along with us. In this recognition we learn to see God present and active in all things.
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We are beginning this new journey into quarterly Wild Church gatherings in 2023. Most gatherings will take place at Orchard Hill Retreat Center outside of Millerstown, PA, with the winter gathering taking place at Carlisle United Methodist Church in Carlisle, PA. For more details, check out the information below!
SPRING
Orchard Hill Retreat
Sunday, March 19, 2023
2:00 pm
On this day before winter finally gives way to spring, we celebrate the gift of life and newness; of growth and rebirth. As we gather for the first time, we will take time to notice and celebrate the wondrous signs of new life bursting forth among and around us.
FALL
Orchard Hill Retreat
Sunday, September 24
5:00 pm
In this day following the autumnal equinox, as the leaves prepare to change colors for the fall season, we will take time to reflect on themes of identity, vibrancy, and change, looking toward the lessons of the wild to guide our conversation.
SUMMER
Orchard Hill Retreat
Sunday, June 25, 2023
5:00 pm
As the days grow long and the light of the sun brightens even the evening hours, we will gather in the evening to celebrate the nourishment and care that we both give and receive. You are invited to bring a favorite food to share - ideally, something made from produce that is in season.
WINTER
Carlisle United Methodist
Sunday, December 17
3:00 pm
As we approach the "longest night" and the darkness and chill of winter come to rest upon us, we will explore themes of walking in the darkness; waiting in life's liminal spaces; and receiving the invitation into rest and renewal.
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Directions to Carlisle UMC
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