WHAT WE DO
The ARC Way: Action, Reflection, Celebration
The trunks of many trees grow in spirals, as do the needles of the White Pine. ARC (Action, Reflection, Celebration) can also be understood in these spirals. Actions radiate our present understanding of Divine presence. Reflections draw us back into ever deeper understandings of that presence. And the life we live in and through this process, whatever its challenges or rewards, becomes our authentic Celebration of the Divine in human life.
ARC’S SYMBOL: THE WHITE PINE, TREE OF PEACE
White Pines are deeply rooted in the sacred ground that is ARC. To the Anishinaabe, original caretakers of this land, pine trees represent wisdom and harmony with nature. The White Pine symbol enables us to visualize ARC’s groundedness in its history, while its branches and needles demonstrate the expansiveness and vitality that is available to all who come to ARC. The spiritual significance of trees has been important in many human cultures. To the Iroquois people, the white pine symbolized the Great Peace that united their separate nations. The “tree of life” that connects all forms of creation is deeply rooted in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic scriptures, and it was under the Bodhi tree that Buddha achieved enlightenment. Many people who come to ARC comment on the sacred presence they feel as they walk through the white pines on the land.
RETREAT PROGRAM
In a homelike atmosphere, ARC offers sponsored, private, and group retreats year-round on 90 acres of pristine wetlands and woodlands within a majestic white pine forest. Trails are available for walking and snowshoeing. We also have a labyrinth near the Lodge which is ideal for walking meditation.
ARC SPONSORED RETREATS
ARC-sponsored retreats are planned by ARC around a certain theme and are open for public registration. Day or overnight, these retreats are typically held in the Lodge which accommodates a maximum of 18 guests in 12 single rooms and three double rooms. Guest rooms are private with shared bathrooms. The Lodge also has a meditation room and chapel , library, bookshop, large and small meeting areas, two fireplaces, a screened-in porch, and other spaces conducive to rest and reflection. Linens and towels are provided.
PRIVATE RETREATS
Private retreats are for individuals, families, or friends who wish to structure their own time at ARC and can be for any length of stay, as space is available. Guests enjoy resting, reading, walking, canoeing, or simply sitting by the fireplace and looking out the huge living room window. In addition to the Lodge, mentioned above, private retreats may also occur in the Cottage or the Hermitage.
GROUP RETREATS
Group retreats hosted at ARC are facilitated and planned with leadership from the group. Many groups come to ARC year after year to lead their own retreats. Groups bring their own participants and agenda, while we provide the hospitality, nurturing space and homemade primarily vegetarian meals. Groups typically stay in the Lodge, with overflow (as needed) to the Cottage and the Hermitage. Smaller groups may choose to stay in and/or meet in the Cottage.
VOLUNTEER
ARC welcomes volunteers for a few hours, a day, a weekend, or a week at a time. We offer several opportunities to serve in the kitchen, the buildings, the land and the community at large. In the kitchen volunteers joyfully help with table setting, clearing and washing dishes, especially when we have large groups on weekends. Housekeeping and seasonal project volunteers keep the building in tip top condition using cleaning products that are as merciful to the planet as possible. Outdoor volunteers tend to the gardens, woodshed and trails simply supporting a space in which all beings co-exist in a healthy loving relationship with themselves, each other, with that which they hold as sacred and with the earth. Finally, volunteers that serve in the community at large do so as an extension of ARC, as ambassadors to engage new groups, partners and donors.