When Suzy and David Hutchison suggested that I attend the Wild Goose Festival last year, I looked at the web site and intrigued by the theologians, Christian leaders and artists that would be there. I decided to head to North Carolina with them for the weekend event.
I had been warned by Suzy and David this would not be like a typical conference atmosphere, where one sits in a comfortable auditorium and listens to speakers, with breaks for buffet snacks and meals. My first hint that things would be different is that I had to bring my own chair!
The Wild Goose Festival is an outdoor gathering of Christians and spiritual seekers from all over the United States and many parts of the world. The “wild goose” is a Celtic symbol for God’s spirit. The mission of Wild Goose is to “provide space for courageous, imaginative, and participative social justice work, creative expression, spiritual practice and astonishing music.”
There are several stages and gathering areas scattered around the grounds. Speakers and musicians are scheduled hourly through the day. There are also spaces for prayer, communion, conversation, and creative expression.
The atmosphere is casual, gentle and inviting. Not only did I hear from authors that I have read, but I also had the opportunity to talk with them. In addition, I talked with faithful people who are changing lives in remarkable ways in all parts of the world.
Often, when I attend an event where up-and-coming theologians and church leaders are speaking, the place is filled with clergy. Wild Goose is very different. Sure, there are clergy dragging their chairs around from speaker to speaker, but they are in the minority. I sensed in my time there that the majority of the people who attend are seeking ways to love God and God’s creation in authentic, life-changing ways.
So, I will be returning to the Wild Goose Festival this August in Hot Springs, North Carolina. (I picked up two ticks last year, and I will be more prepared for the woodsy, outdoor setting this year!) I look forward to the music, the theological insights, the stories, and more than anything, the conversations with a diverse group of faithful people.
If you’d like to read more: wildgoosefestival.org.
Blessings,
Pastor Sherry
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