“From isolation to connection.” These powerful words encapsulate the essence of The Wilderness Chapel. It is not just a place. It’s a movement emerging. This movement seeks to change how we relate to the natural world. It invites us into an intimate relationship with the land. This includes the waters and creatures who share our homes.
The Wilderness Chapel and the Wild Church Network support new and growing wild churches. They revitalize spiritual practices. They explore what it means to belong. The network supports and grows this way of being and learning. The Wild Church Network welcomes seekers. They welcome those exploring new ways of being human. This involves relating to the land and creatures. It provides a space to grow and learn together.
Water and Wilderness Church offers an outdoor walking service. This takes place in the wilderness of God’s creation. The Wilderness Chapel is for seekers and believers. It is also for anyone who connects to God through nature. Worship joins the ongoing worship of God. The presence of Christ is manifest in the natural world. Songs are sung and the gospel is listened to. Prayers are offered for the world. People walk and reflect together. Eucharist is shared in communion with the body of Christ. This body includes all natural wonders. Birds, trees, water, the sky, and the setting sun all become part of the worship at The Wilderness Chapel.
One initiative is a joint effort of Grace Church, Alexandria, and St. Mary’s, Arlington. The service complements traditional worship. It also lowers the threshold of entry. This makes it easier for those intimidated by traditional church to join. Children’s play is an integral part of the worship. Their playfulness and curiosity about the natural world enhances the experience.
The Wild Church Network encourages those starting Wild Churches. “The Church of the Wild” book offers inspiration. It’s for those who feel a call from Spirit and Earth. They create spiritual communities that reconnect us. This reconnection is to the rest of the alive and sacred world.
The Wilderness Chapel reflects the unique gifts of leaders. It considers the intention of the community. It values the particular gifts of the land. The movement isn’t about creeds or rules. It’s about listening to stories. The diversity becomes clear through different services and practices. It is also evident through the geography and people involved. The Wilderness Chapel is more than a location. It is a call to reconnect. It’s an invitation to belong to a larger, beloved community. It is a place to renew our spiritual relationship with all of creation.