In this conversation, introduced by James Amadon, Forrest Inslee is a guest on the Holy Wild podcast, hosted by Victoria Loorz of the Center for Wild Spirituality. Forrest discusses his journey of transitioning from a traditional evangelical perspective to a more inclusive understanding of creation care. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of all creation and the need for a shift in the church's approach to environmental issues. The dialogue explores themes of ecological discipleship, the significance of listening to the land, and the role of spirituality in fostering a deeper connection with nature. Forrest and Victoria share their personal reflections on their experiences, and on the transformative power of community engagement in environmental stewardship.

Takeaways

• Forrest's transition reflects a broader shift in understanding creation care.
• The church's focus has historically been on human needs, neglecting the environment.
• Listening to the land is crucial for effective ecological restoration.
• Copowerment emphasizes mutual reliance rather than top-down empowerment.
• Spirituality plays a significant role in fostering a connection with nature.
• The journey of ecological discipleship involves leaving behind outdated beliefs.
• Community engagement is essential for meaningful environmental action.
• Personal experiences with nature can lead to deeper spiritual insights.
• The interconnectedness of all beings is foundational to ecological care.
• Transformation requires patience and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

Keywords

spirituality, creation care, ecological discipleship, community development, environmental justice, church transformation, interdependence, listening to the land, co-powerment, nature connection

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In this conversation, John Vicory shares his journey of recovery through the outdoor community OSAT (One Step at a Time). He discusses the importance of nature in healing, the diverse backgrounds of OSAT members, and how the organization fosters a supportive environment for those in recovery. John reflects on his personal struggles with addiction, the transformative power of outdoor activities, and the spiritual connections formed within the community. The conversation emphasizes the significance of connection, both to nature and to others, in the recovery process.

OSAT (One Step at a Time)

Jim Hinkhouse

Friluftsliv

Earthkeepers episode 132: Finding Wholeness in Wilderness Adventure, with Jason Lyle

Takeaways

• OSAT is an outdoor club focused on recovery.
• The community includes people at various stages of recovery.
• John's journey highlights the struggle with alcohol addiction.
• Nature plays a crucial role in healing and recovery.
• OSAT provides a unique, supportive environment for recovery.
• Spirituality is an integral part of the OSAT experience.
• Connection to nature can lead to profound personal insights.
• Isolation can be detrimental to recovery efforts.
• The importance of community in the recovery process.
• Encouragement to seek nature and community for healing.

Keywords: OSAT, recovery, addiction, nature, community, healing, outdoor activities, spirituality, personal journey, support, One Step at a Time, Alcoholics Anonymous, higher power, Al Anon, indigeneity, Jim Hinkhouse

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In this conversation, Forrest and James engage with Wes and Stephanie Vander Lugt, co-founders of Kinship Plot, an intentional community in Charlotte, North Carolina. They discuss the vision behind Kinship Plot, which focuses on cultivating resonant relationships with each other, the land, and with Spirit. The conversation explores the community's practices, challenges, and the importance of contemplative action and liberatory welcome. The founders share stories of community engagement, the joy of working together, and the deep longing for belonging and rootedness in a fast-paced world. They emphasize the need for personal reflection and the impact of community on individual healing and growth. Finally, Forrest poses questions meant to get us to think about our own needs for belonging, and how we might take action to cultivate or even initiate communities of purpose.

Read Wes and Stephanie's post on The Ecological Disciple here.

Kinship Plot

Takeaways

• Kinship Plot is a living laboratory for community engagement.
• The vision was born during COVID, focusing on relationships.
• Community gatherings often take place in their backyard and gardens.
• Names of plants and people are portals into deeper stories.
• Contemplative practices are essential for community life.
• Liberatory welcome means creating open and inclusive spaces.
• The journey of establishing Kinship Plot has been challenging yet rewarding.
• Rootedness in a place fosters a sense of belonging.
• Small actions can lead to significant community impact.
• The importance of intergenerational relationships in community building.

Keywords

Kinship Plot, Circlewood, intentional community, ecological learning, contemplative practices, liberatory welcome, belonging, community engagement, social concern, relationship with nature

Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple