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January 2004

Earth Tones Ministry Reveals God in Nature

"There is a rhythm, a language that emanates from Earth," writes Sr. Lyn Szymkiewicz, coordinator of the Congregation’s Earth Tones Ministry, which recently announced its programming and projects for Spring 2004.

In its fifth year, Earth Tones Ministry, uses the avenues of camping, environmental education and creative projects to support and encourage understanding and awareness of God and nature.

The programs are designed to offer a variety of experiences in which participants can engage in "hands-on" activities that deepen their knowledge and understanding of nature, as well as explore avenues through which nature reveals the God of creation.

In the coming months Earth Tones Ministry will offer a variety of programs on the grounds of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Baden, as well as two camping retreats that will take place in Cook Forest State Park.

A discussion series of the book, "Exploring Deep Ecology," facilitated by Sr. Cynthia Comiskey, will address the question of the appropriate relationship of human being to Earth. Discussion gatherings will take place every other month from February through August.

Sr. Margaret Marszal, IHM, will conduct a two-session workshop titled Woven Mandalas: A Way to Tie Your Life Together. Mandalas are symbols of wholeness and can help us to discover what is taking place in our spiritual lives through color, line and form.

In May 2004, the outdoor brick-lined labyrinth constructed by several Sisters of St. Joseph on the grounds behind our Motherhouse, will be the site of Sr. Bernadette Manning, SC’s workshop titled Experience Spiritual A "maze"ment. Participants will enjoy the opportunity to learn about, experience and explore labyrinth history, models and various prayer forms.

Earth Tones Ministry will celebrate Earth Day, April 25, on the grounds of the Motherhouse with a day filled with tree planting, clean-up projects, bird-box building and much more. "Dances of Universal Peace" will be led by experienced facilitator, Skybear, to mark the Summer Solstice on June 19.

Two camping retreats in June and July offer participants opportunities to enjoy quiet communion with nature in an atmosphere of prayer, reflection, spiritual renewal and simple living. Participants are responsible for their own camping equipment and food for the retreats, but come together with others for prayer, reflection and faiths haring periodically throughout the weekend.

More information, dates, times and fees for all the Earth Tone Programs can be found on the web. Information about the camping retreats can be obtained by contacting Sr. Lyn Szymkiewicz directly at 412-661-6569 or at lynszym@earthlink.net


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