Walking into Friendship with Animals & Saints

A Reflective Walking Experience

Pictures by Matthew Hendzel SJ

Land Acknowledgement: From the Anishnaabe to the Attawandaron, Haudenosaunee and the M’etis, these treaty lands are steeped in rich indigenous history and modern traditions. As a community, we have the responsibility to honour and respect the four directions, land, water, plants, animals, and ancestors. Today, this area is home to many indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge the Mississaugas of the Credit on whose territory the Ignatius Jesuit Centre sits.

Sunday, July 25, 2021 - Guelph, Ontario

Inspired by the recently published, award-winning book, Amazing Friendships between Animals and Saints, enjoy a 5km reflective walking experience on the beautiful Ignatius Jesuit Centre land. 

Following the well-worn paths on the property, you will explore seven stations, each highlighting a beloved Saint and saintly creature, and discover their wisdom of learning to live with, and love the land.

As you sojourn with these timeless, sacred stories, you’ll discover the amazing friendship of the natural world around you and the beautiful invitation to walk humbly with God and the rest of creation.

There are two different walking options.

Option 1: 10:30 am - Self-Guided, “walk-at-your-own-pace” experience. You can take as long as you would like to move through the seven stations and the reflections. Every participant will receive a personal copy of the book, “Amazing Friendships”, a walking map & instructions, and an offering of short contemplative practices to accompany each station.

Option 2: 1:00 pm - Group walking experience directed by author Greg Kennedy SJ & illustrator Kerry Lyn Wilson. This group experience will be 3-4 hours in length as, together you will hear the stories read out loud, and have an opportunity to embody them with guided contemplative practices. You will receive a copy of the book as well.

Cost (Includes all taxes)

• Self-Guided - $50.00

• Guided: $80.00  (includes all taxes)

Includes:

• a personal copy of “Amazing Friendships” book (retail $20)

• pre-walking support, including what you’ll need to make your experience safe & comfortable

• on-the-trail reflective walking activities and instructions to help you tune in and explore the beautiful Land at IJC, as well as the interior landscape of your soul.

• logistical support and trouble-shooting throughout your walk, should you need it

• a Journal Card to jot down your reflections at the end of your walk.

• plus, enjoy walking the Stations of the Cosmos and the other walking features on the property (labyrinths, Stations of the Cross, Old Growth Forest project by the Speed River) as you’re interested and able.

*This experience is limited to 10 people for each session. Sign up on your own, as a couple, or as a group.

All the trails are well marked, and suitable for most walking abilities. This is a safe, socially distanced outdoor activity. You will receive a full refund if there is a provincial stay-at-home order due to COVID-19.

Once you register, you’ll receive more information one week before the walk to help you prepare.

Note: This is a “rain or shine” walking experience! You may be surprised what walking in the rain can teach you about yourself, the Land, and your relationship with the Divine!

Note: you’ll be re-directed to the Ignatius Jesuit Centre website to register and reserve.

This walking experience is hosted and led in partnership with SoulPlay.ca and the Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph Ontario.