DATES: AUGUST 19 – 22, 2025
TUITION: $750
LOCATION: GARDINER, MT
GROUP SIZE: 12
ACTIVITY LEVEL: 2
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Humans have long drawn spiritual inspiration from Nature. John Muir explained Nature as “places to play in and pray in,” places to “heal and give strength to body and soul.” Indeed connections with Nature’s abundant life forms and geography can deepen personal reflection on the interconnectedness of all life. Nature’s abundance is especially evident in Yellowstone in summer. This class, based on a program called “Geography of Grace” developed by the Center for Courage and Renewal, draws on Yellowstone’s summertime abundance as jumping off points for spiritual deepening. Through a method of small-group conversation referred to as “Circles of Trust,” participants will consider Nature as a source of spiritual exploration. Then, expanding “Geography of Grace’s” usual second-hand experience of Nature primarily through pictures and written accounts, this class will provide first-hand connections with inspirational locations in the Park — thermals, lakes and waterfalls, wildlife and plants, geology and vistas. Excursions throughout the Park will include time for individual journaling, artistic expression, photography, and other personal expression about these locations.
OPTIONAL: GENERAL STATEMENT ABOUT CIRCLES OF TRUST
Circles of Trust is an intentional method of coming together with others to explore the full range of inner wisdom in each of us and how finding the courage to release that wisdom enables us to live more deeply into our authentic selves. Through applying core principles and practices identified by the Center for Courage and Renewal, we move toward aligning our inner life — our soul — with our outer work in the world — our role. Coming together in various formats — full group, dyads and triads, individual reflection — through storytelling, poetry, art, music, nature, and more, we develop the clarity, courage, and resilience to bring our true selves to our life’s work. Connecting with others through this work we set the stage for transformation in our families, workplaces, and communities. The principles of “Courage” are grounded on the spiritual exploration and writing of Parker Palmer. In particular, the practice of Circles of Trust is explained Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness (2004). For more information about the Center for Courage and Renewal and Circles of Trust, see www.couragerenewal.org
DAY 1
WELCOME & ORIENTATION
The program starts with an evening orientation. Participants will get to know one another and be introduced to the program. Throughout the evening, the itinerary and seminar key concepts will be discussed, as well as what to expect to pack for the field each day.
DAY 2
Introduction to Geography of Grace, such as learning the Touchstones, and first afternoon in the field
DAY 3
Participants will continue to deepen understanding and practice of the “Circles of Trust” method. Places in geography to consider as spiritual sources will include Yellowstone thermals and wetlands, complemented by considering the night sky as inspiration.
DAY 4
On the final day class will explore mountains and forests, through readings, conversations, and on-location visits. A closing session will include a ritual in celebration of Mother Earth.
Dates & Times: The program begins at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, and goes through 5:00 PM on Friday, August 22, 2025.
Meals: This course is not catered. Participants will need to bring their own food; lunch should be able to travel in the field.
ACTIVITY LEVEL 2
- Be prepared to hike up to 3 miles per day, comfortably, with elevation gains up to 600 feet. Some off-trail hiking possible.
- For more information about our activity levels, please visit our Activity Level webpage here.
- Most activities will take place at elevations between 7,200 to 8,000 feet. Participants residing at lower elevations may want to arrive a day early to adjust to the altitude.
- To learn more about how specific medical conditions can be affected by Yellowstone’s environment and our activities, please visit our site page on health information.
- All field activities will be conducted as a group. If members of the group cannot participate in the day’s activities, they need to let the educator know in advance.
- To participate in this program, each participant must fill out and sign a health questionnaire and assumption of risk waiver. These forms must be completed and returned at least 30 days prior to the program start date.
EQUIPMENT SPECIFIC TO THIS COURSE:
Suggested Packing List located in General Information document under the ‘Whom to Contact’ tab.
- Materials for personal journaling: to include writing, drawing and other artwork, perhaps photography, etc
Whom to Contact: For any questions, concerns, or additional information please contact the following:
Program itinerary, health forms, payment, and general program questions please contact Yellowstone Forever at [email protected] or 406-848-2400 extension 3
Road updates, park conditions, and general park information please contact Yellowstone National Park Service at https://www.nps.gov/yell/contacts.htm
If running late for a program, please contact 406-641-2185.
General Information: For general information about the facilities, preparation for classes, what to expect, cancellation policies, and more, please see the Gardiner-Based Field Seminars – General Information document.
Cancellation Policy: Review our Cancellation & Refund Policies here.
BOOK THIS FIELD SEMINAR NOW
Sam Archibald, M.E.M. &
Barbara Coeyman, Ph.D.
Rev. Dr. Barbara Coeyman is an ordained minister in the Unitarian Universalist Association, a liberal religion which has considered Nature as a spiritual source as long ago as Unitarian naturalists such as Emerson and Thoreau. She currently serves the Boulder Valley UU Fellowship in Lafayette, CO. Prior to ministry, she was professor of music at West Virginia University. Yellowstone Park is one of her most important places for spiritual renewal.
Sam Archibald, M.E.M.
Lead Field Educator
Sam Archibald is a Lead Field Educator for Yellowstone Forever. Sam first started with outdoor education as a US Peace Corps volunteer, working with an Ecuadorian nonprofit organization to develop outdoor leadership programs for youth. After earning his master’s degree in Environmental Management through Western Colorado University (Gunnison, CO), Sam joined the National Park Service, working as a Crew Leader for the Yellowstone Youth Conservation Corps. What was supposed to be a single season in YNP turned into many as Sam fell in love the vivacity of this ecosystem. Sam first joined Yellowstone Forever’s team as a winter seasonal educator and has been a permeant instructor since 2022. Sam is grateful for every day he gets to spend out in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and looks forward to the continual discoveries offered by this wild and wonderful landscape.
