Journey Through the Forest: A Four-Part Series into the Spirituality of Aging

Journey Through the Forest: A Four-Part Series on the Spirituality of Aging

Growing older is more than a biological process—it is a sacred invitation to deeper wisdom, freedom, and intimacy with God.

Join the Forest Dwelling Program at the Oblate School of Theology for Journey Through the Forest, a free four-part online series that explores the spiritual landscape of aging through reflection, conversation, and community. Together, we will consider the challenges and gifts of growing older as we journey toward becoming wise elders rather than simply old people.

Each session begins with a self-paced video released two weeks before a live Zoom conversation, allowing participants time to reflect before gathering in community for deeper discussion. While each session may be attended on its own, the series is intentionally designed as a progressive journey, with each conversation building upon the last.

Throughout the series, we will explore:

• Session One: Entering the Forest – Beginning the journey of aging with hope and purpose
  Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 5:00 - 6:15 PM CDT

• Session Two: Wandering in the Forest – Grieving losses and learning to let go
  Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 5:00 - 6:15 PM CDT

• Session Three: Discovering in the Forest – Facing mortality while embracing joy
  Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 5:00 - 6:15 PM CDT

• Session Four: Emerging from the Forest – Becoming a wise elder and leaving a life-giving spiritual legacy
  Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 5:00 - 6:15 PM CST

Whether you are discerning participation in the full two-year Forest Dwelling Program or simply seeking meaningful conversation about the spiritual journey of aging, this series offers a welcoming place to begin.

One registration includes:

• Four self-paced video reflections

• Four webinar lectures with opportunity for Q&A

• Access to all session recordings

• Opportunities for reflection

All are welcome!

About the Forest Dwelling Program

The Forest Dwelling Program was founded in 2019 by Fr. Ron Rolheiser, OMI, and his dedicated team in response to the growing need for a deeper spirituality of aging. Rooted in their vision, this two-year transformational certificate program invites participants to journey into the heart of the aging process—not simply to grow older, but to become wise elders.

Through spiritual formation, reflection, and community, participants learn to embrace the realities of aging with grace, an open heart, and a deeper awareness of God's presence. The program nurtures a life of wisdom, hope, and spiritual fruitfulness, empowering participants to leave a lasting legacy of faith for future generations.