A special message from our Executive Director

While we prepare for Christmas this year, we find ourselves in times of difficulty and strife as a global community. Like me, you may find yourself asking: What does our world need in times like these? How could I possibly make a difference?

I know these questions weigh on my heart. In a world full of division and unprecedented challenges, I wonder what to do. But I am hopeful. Why? As Executive Director of Rolling Ridge, I’ve seen firsthand how the Ridge offers what our world needs most.

Let me share Connie’s story. When Connie Woolcock first visited Rolling Ridge with her husband, they spent a weekend exploring our grounds, walking the labyrinths, and discovering our programs. "We were hooked," she said. “[Rolling Ridge] is such a beautiful property and has so much to offer… It’s a rare commodity in today's world: a refuge in a disquieted world.”

Connie was so moved by her experience that she became not just a participant, but a supporter. When asked what moved her to give, her answer was simple: “When my heart goes out to Rolling Ridge, that usually means committing financially as well.”

Because of folks like Connie, Rolling Ridge continues to be a place of natural beauty, gracious hospitality, and transformative programming. We continue strong after 76 years of ministry.  Through the support of many donors and friends, nearly 4,000 people experienced our ministry of hospitality, or participated in our programming onsite and online across the country. We are so grateful!

During this past year, our Associate Director, Michael Reed, has been highlighting some of the people who are part of our community in our Tuesday enews.  Through each of the stories in our Seeking the Soul series, I see the transformative power of Rolling Ridge for the world: Changed lives changing lives. 

Another example of “changed lives changing lives” is Sandra LaPerche.  Sandra came to the Ridge seeking community during the isolation of the pandemic. She found so much more. From our online Rohr groups to SoulCare to in-person retreats, Sandra's journey led her to complete our “Gateways to God” training for Spiritual Directors. Today, she leads our new online “SoulCare: Aging into Freedom” group, which proved so popular we added a second session!

To continue this vital work, I am asking for your help. Our Board has set an ambitious year-end goal of raising $10,000 by December 31st. With your generosity, I know we can get there.

If your life has been touched by your time with the Ridge, I invite you to join our mission and extend the gift of our ministry to others who need what we have to offer the world during these challenging times.

Your gift to Rolling Ridge will directly support our mission. We are, as Connie said, “a refuge in a disquieted world.”  We offer what is so rare and so needed right now: a safe and sacred space of deep listening and spiritual companioning, a contemplative community for all spiritual seekers, a natural place for healing and beauty, and an inclusive embrace of all with justice and love.

 May the blessings of Christmas Love fill your heart (and our world) this holiday season.

Peace and all good,

Rev. Dr. Lawrence Jay
Rolling Ridge Executive Director