What is Wild Church?
Wild church is an opportunity to gather with other people to re-member our connection to and relationship with all of creation. Rather than simply being good stewards of the land or people who appreciate the land, water, air, and creatures with which we live, when we gather for wild church, we practice being in relationship with creation. We recognize that our lives and our thriving are bound together.
We do this through prayer, song, story, and a time of wandering where we listen and pay attention to creation.
We gather on the 2nd Saturday of the month at Nicollet Island in Minneapolis.
Wild Church Twin Cities is a part of the Wild Church Network.
‘But ask the animals, and they will teach you;
the birds of the air, and they will tell you;
ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you;
and the fish of the sea will declare to you.
Who among all these does not know
that the hand of the Lord has done this?
In his hand is the life of every living thing
and the breath of every human being.
Job 12:7-10
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect?
Expect to be outside between 1-1.5 hours, depending on the weather and time of year. We gather in all kinds of weather – rain, snow, sunshine, clouds, and wind.
Our gathering consists of a time to call our attention to the land, some singing, readings – which often include scripture and/or poetry, prayers, a time for wandering, and a time to share our reflections/offerings from our wandering time. Each time we gather is different, depending on who is present and what they bring. You will be guided along the way, so no need to know anything or ever experienced wild church to be able to participate!
What do I need to bring?
Yourself! Friends! And anything you will need to be comfortable outside. In the summer, we suggest bringing a water bottle, hat, sunscreen, and bug spray. In the winter – warm layers. It can also be helpful to bring a chair or blanket to sit on, if you’d like.
Do I have to be churchy?
Nope! While Wild Church is hosted by three churches working together, you do not need to be a member of any church to participate. We will likely address our prayers to God and we will likely read scripture, in case that helps you decide if it’s the right space for you. If that would make participation in Wild Church a challenge for you – contact Maria, she’d love to have a conversation and would be happy to work with you to put together a Wild Church gathering that is not faith-based.
Do I have to be outdoorsy?
Nope! A desire to connect with the natural world is all that’s needed to fully participate in Wild Church. No need to have all the right gear or experience hiking or camping or even enjoy sunshine or snowy weather. You just need to be willing to gather with people and creation outside to participate in our Wild Church Gatherings. However, if you’re an indoor person, there is no reason you can’t start developing a relationship with the trees, birds, squirrels, rabbits, or anything else outside your window!
Hosts
Contact information
email: mariaa@ulch.org for more information or conversation.
Wild Church Twin Cities 