Inherent in the life of the tree is embodied wisdom: 

• The wisdom to be deeply rooted
• The wisdom to stand firm without being rigid
• The wisdom to flourish with new life
• The wisdom to thrive and bear fruit
• The wisdom to repeat the cycle year after year, gradually revealing significant growth.

Our biblical story is bookended by stories in which trees play prominent roles. In the second creation story, the Tree of Life stands firmly rooted in the center of the Garden of Eden offering abundant life for all. And in the benediction embedded in the final chapter of the book of Revelation the Tree of Life shows up again, this time bearing leaves for “the healing of the nations.” Between these two tree stories we find hundreds of biblical references to trees, most of which we miss or even dismiss — not unlike the trees we pass by each day without so much as a thought. But what might happen if we paid attention to the trees?

This summer we hope to find out.

Our 2025 summer theme is The Wisdom of Trees: Instructions for Living. Throughout the season we will pay attention to the trees that surround us.  We will ask questions, both scientific and theological: What does it mean to be deeply rooted? And how do those roots nurture community? How are trees able to withstand the storms of life, and what might we learn from them? What does it take for trees to flourish, and what might Jesus have meant by saying we are the branches connected to him, the vine? And what might we learn from the Tree of Life who offers healing and abundant life for all? 

We look forward to this communal, deep exploration of The Wisdom of Trees, grounded in the rich soil of the peaceful woods. Won’t you join us?