Green Mountain Druid School: A Spiritual Haven in Transition
The Green Mountain Druid School in Worcester, founded by Fearn Lickfield and her late husband Ivan McBeth in 2006, has been a sanctuary for spiritual seekers for the past 19 years. Offering teachings rooted in connecting with the land and fostering love and respect for nature, the school has been a unique space for those seeking an alternative to traditional religions. As the current director plans to step down and talks of new ownership loom on the horizon, the future of this spiritual haven hangs in the balance.
Mary Kay Kasper, a 68-year-old student of the Green Mountain Druid School, shared her profound experiences with the school’s teachings. She described sitting in prayer with a tree, feeling the wind carry its essence towards her, a practice known as gazing. These rituals, connecting with stones, rivers, and the natural world, have shaped the spirituality of many students, including Kasper, over the years.
In a world where traditional religious ceremonies may not resonate with everyone, spiritual seekers have found solace in practices like druidry and wicca. Megan Goodwin, a researcher and educator, emphasizes the importance of these alternative spiritual paths in providing space for gender and sexual diversity. In a society where non-Christian, nature-connected spiritual practices are often marginalized, places like the Green Mountain Druid School play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Transition and Reflection
As Fearn Lickfield prepares to step down as the school’s director, the future of the Green Mountain Druid School hangs in the balance. Originally considering retirement, Lickfield has decided to focus on other work while engaging in discussions about potential new ownership. The school, which has been a beacon of spiritual exploration for students, faces an uncertain future as the current students complete their studies this year.
Druid teachings, as practiced at the Green Mountain Druid School, emphasize the power of love over hate and the importance of correcting human relationships with nature. Lickfield’s teachings center around cultivating gratitude and humility, offering students a path to reconnection with the natural world. While the future of the school remains uncertain, Lickfield emphasizes that the teachings of druidry can still be pursued independently through self-study and personal practice.
A Sanctuary in Nature
Dreamland Sanctuary, the school’s backyard nature space, offers visitors a place to connect with the land and the spirits of the place. Featuring three earth temples, including the Dragon’s Temple, the Serpent Temple, and the Faery Well, Dreamland is a testament to the ancient wisdom and modern practices of druidry. Lickfield, who will continue to maintain the sanctuary, invites visitors to explore these sacred spaces and engage in personal spiritual journeys.
As the world grapples with political turmoil and environmental crises, the teachings of druidry offer a unique perspective on humanity’s relationship with nature. Lickfield believes that reconnecting with the land and embracing our role as part of the natural world is essential in navigating the challenges we face. By manifesting a harmonious relationship with nature, individuals can work towards building a world that reflects their deepest aspirations.
In conclusion, the Green Mountain Druid School stands as a testament to the power of spiritual exploration and connection with the natural world. As discussions of new ownership and leadership continue, the legacy of the school as a place of spiritual growth and transformation remains a beacon of hope for those seeking a deeper connection with the land.
