Soul Good: Managing Buckthorn as Spiritual Practice

Some thoughts and habits creep into our lives unrecognized, taking root and winding their ways into our perspectives long before we see the chance to resist. A similar phenomenon is happening to our Minnesota woods, even those outside the windows of St. Paul’s Monastery. What might we learn from the tangible practice of recognizing and clearing an invasive species like buckthorn, that might help us clear our hearts and minds? What grace is visible in, with, and under the challenges that seem insurmountable? This retreat employs a rhythm of prayer with the monastic community, interactive conversation, and a modest degree of outdoor service to help restore one local woodland and to renew participants’ commitments to spiritual practice. Participants of all experience levels and physical ability welcome.