BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc - ECPv6.17.4.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T160000 DTSTAMP:20260506T134115Z CREATED:20260325T132033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T134115Z UID:10000130-1779541200-1779552000@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Forage and Feast DESCRIPTION:Come roam the edges of the mountain meadow and old growth forest for delicious\, nutritious wild plants and mushrooms. Here we will learn the skills to identify and sustainably forage these wild foods. We will learn of the traditional uses and legends behind these natives. Then join us at a table outside on the farm and allow us to prepare these nutritional powerhouse foods for you. During this demonstration you will establish proper preparation and cooking techniques and will even leave with a few recipes. Taste\, discover\, connect and be with nature. \n\nBYOB possible\nLearn to identify wild edibles and their toxic lookalikes\nLearn to sustainability forage and harvest wild edibles\nLearn traditional uses\nLearn Appalachian legends and lore\nLearn how to prepare your harvest\nLearn traditional and modern cooking techniques\nLeave with nutritional wild recipes\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-forage-and-feast-2/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Forage-and-Feast.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260527 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260602 DTSTAMP:20260228T174654Z CREATED:20250303T203018Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260228T174654Z UID:10000092-1779840000-1780358399@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Journey Through Grief with Grace DESCRIPTION:Dates: Arrive by 5 pm on May 27\, depart after breakfast on June 1\, 2026\nLocation: The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center\, located up in the beautiful Smokey\nMountains near Highlands\,NC. \nJoin us for a transformative 4-day retreat designed specifically for mothers who have experienced the profound loss of a child due to addiction\, fentanyl poisoning\, or issues related to mental health or suicide. This retreat offers a safe and nurturing environment to connect with other mothers who share similar experiences\, and to explore pathways to loving connection with our children and renewal of our broken hearts. In order to assure an intimate and emotionally comforting container\, we are limiting the number of participants to 16 women. \nWhat previous attendees have shared:\nThe waterfall trip helped me to let go of my guilt with the water. So many things that Charlotte said and did. Life changing revelation provided by Charlotte was helping me to & “make friends with my grief”. This grief will be with me forever. I had never thought to make friends with it. This has been the greatest gift in helping with my pain and sadness. \nThe grief retreat was truly life-transforming. It helped me move from a place of anger to one of acceptance. Hearing feedback from other mothers who had also lost a child was deeply healing—because we shared the same experience\, it was rooted in empathy\, not sympathy. We laughed\, we healed\, and the ceremonies guided me through remembering\, releasing\, and renewing. My grief was reframed—from a space of lonely sadness and isolation to one of connection\, bonding\, and emotional freedom. . In everyday life\, it can be difficult to talk about a child who has passed—people often don’t know what to say and can become uncomfortable. But at the retreat\, the other moms truly listened. They welcomed stories and memories of our children with open hearts. Being able to share and be heard with genuine care meant so much to me. \nAttending the Journey through Grace retreat was cathartic. It was absolutely the best thing I have done for myself since the passing of my son. It would be wonderful to live life everyday the way I lived those six days at the retreat. If this becomes an annual event\, I will be there. \nThe Journey through Grief with Grace retreat is a must attend for anyone experiencing the debilitating and overwhelming sadness of losing a child. Being surrounded by others who share the same loss is like being wrapped in a warm and comforting hug. Charlotte leads the group with kindnesss\, strength \, compassion and grace\, herself. This retreat has changed the cycle of grieving that I was experiencing. I departed the retreat filled with hope for the future\, with decreased guilt surrounding the loss of my son\, and with a profound love for my sisters in grief. \nThe retreat was an amazing experience for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to find new ways to process my grief. I felt very connected with my daughter across the veil which brings me comfort particularly in the days when the sadness seems heavier. Being immersed nature felt energetic and healing. It was a honor to witness the vulnerability and be in the presence of such amazing women. \nWhat to Expect:\nSacred Sharing Circles: Engage in heartfelt conversations with other mothers in a supportive and compassionate setting.\nRituals and Ceremonies: Participate in meaningful rituals and ceremonies that honor your child and support your healing journey.\nConnection with your loved one: Community blessings and remembrance of our children will awaken and deepen your personal connection with your child across the veil.\nSound Bath: Experience the deep healing and restoration with tibetan bowls. A truly enriching and expansive soul bath.\nDrumming Circle: Vibrational and somatic healing occurs when we rhythmically express our feelings with drums\, rattles\, dancing\, and chanting. A group from Wayfarer’s Chapel in Dillard\, Georgia will just us for a night of drumming on the full moon.\nCreative awareness: Express your emotions and memories through creative art and writing experiences.\nMindfulness and Gentle Movement Practices: Learn mindfulness\, meditations\, and gentle movement techniques to cultivate presence\, calm\, and emotional resilience.\nHealing with Nature: Honor the sacred grounds of these ancient mountains\, meditate near lichen said to exceed 1000 years of growth\, walk amidst the forest to open your heart to life.\nChakra Healing: Explore how your energetic body holds and transforms your grief into love. \nBonus Opportunities:\nAn introductory Zoom call will occur on May 13 at 7:00 pm Eastern time for all registered participants. The collective ‘circle of grace’ will begin forming at that time\, as we each prepare for this transformative journey. The Zoom link will be made available once payment has been made in full.\nTwo virtual sessions will be offered by Charlotte following the retreat designed to support ‘re-entry’ into our daily lives\, and to encourage ongoing practices to support our personal Grief with Grace journeys. \nOne on One Support:\nCharlotte is available for one on one sessions following the retreat; participants will receive a ten percent discount off the price of the sessions. \nRetreat Highlights\nNourishing Meals: Savor three healthy and delicious meals daily that support your well-being throughout the retreat. Special dietary needs can be accommodated. \nLodging: The on-site lodge will be dedicated to our retreat\, providing a nurturing space to connect\, rest\, and restore. The price of the retreat for five nights is based on shared lodging. Each room has at least two twin beds and a private bathroom. Mountain temperatures are typically mild and cool in the evening but can be a bit warmer mid afternoon. \nAbout Charlotte Starfire:\n \nStarfire is a mystic\, a writer\, public speaker\, trauma-informed yoga\, mindfulness and meditation practitioner\, a ceremonialist\, ritualist\, workshop facilitator\, spiritual intuitive guide\, and grief educator. These lifelong skills have helped her navigate her deep grief after the loss of her son\, Janaka Jaya\, at age 37 from fentanyl poisoning after years of suffering from substance use\ndisorder. \nCharlotte is focusing on supporting parents in grief through her work as a Group Leader in Love in The Trenches\, as well as developing in-person wellness retreats for mothers seeking pathways to transform their painful grief into self- love and compassion. She recently retired from a career in international trade financing\, and is currently writing several books and poetry with her beloved son as her ‘muse’ across the veil. She lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northeast Georgia along with her senior Corgi named Shambo\, and her service dog\, Emma\, a golden doodle. \nAbout Dori-Moreno:\n \nDori Moreno-Korn lost her daughter\, Mia Justice\, in March of 2022 at the age of 23. Mia battled with anxiety\, an eating disorder\, and eventually a substance use disorder. She sought recovery several times; however\, after five years\, she passed due to an accidental overdose. \nIn the three years since Mia passed\, Dori has participated in and led grief support groups for parents with the same type of loss\, fundraised for advocacy organizations and is finishing her David Kessler Grief Educator certification to provide support to anyone experiencing grief. \nMia was an artist and\, therefore\, in celebration of Mia’s life\, Dori works to publish and share Mia’s art; a story of a young woman who despite substance use disorder lived with great passion and many loves. \nAt this retreat Dori would like to help us all celebrate and honor our child’s whole life and to speak their names while we heal our own hearts. \nAbout Betsy Winter:\n \nBetsy Winter has been teaching and providing services in the area of mind-body-spirit connection for over 30 years as a massage therapist (now retired)\, yoga instructor\, meditation and vibrational (energy) and sound practitioner. In her career as a Developmental Specialist at a Children’s Hospital\, she helped parents\, children\, and staff cope with stress\, grief\, and difficult life circumstances. These experiences and tools have assisted her as she navigates her own grief process since her son died 3 years ago. Betsy is registered with Yoga Alliance as a 200 hour E-RYT and a 500 hour RYT yoga instructor sharing Kali Natha Yoga\, a lineage yoga taught by Ma Jaya. \nBetsy’s career as a healing arts professional spans over three decades\, primarily in the field of early child development and neonatal care. Other healing modalities include Healing Touch\, Therapeutic Touch\, Reiki\, and the use of the Himalayan Singing Bowls and tuning forks to help balance the body-mind and promote health and feelings of well-being. She started massage therapy programs for pediatric patients at 2 different children’s hospitals. She now chooses to focus on yoga because the skills learned in yoga are easily incorporated into everyday life and provide so many benefits. One can expect her classes to promote stress-reduction\, enhanced selfcare\, and greater strength and flexibility….and certainly a lighthearted and fun atmosphere. \nA Special Event\nRetreat participants will have a special treat one evening. A private sing along concert by Sweet Charity Playing It Forward. Uplifting music to soothe our hearts from songs we all know including Top 10 Soft Rock\, Classic Rock\, Folk and Country favorites. \n \nCost and Transportation\nThe cost of the retreat which includes 5 nights of shared lodging\, a private bathroom\, and three meals daily\, plus an enriching learning and sharing curriculum is $1750. Private rooms may be available on a first come first available basis for an extra cost of $350. \nTransportation costs and arrangements on your own. Shuttle service is available from the Asheville Airport and the Atlanta Airport. Asheville is closest\, but there are more limited direct flights there. Participants will be supported in coordinating and sharing shuttle services. \nPlease reach out for financial assistance. We hope to have donations to offer limited discounts for those who are facing financial challenges to attend. If you are interested in assistance\, please email Charlotte at Charlotte.Starfire@gmail.com. \nSpaces are limited to 16 registrants ensure a deeply enriching experience. An initial non-refundable deposit of $500 is due at the time of registration. Final payment is then due by April 30\, unless specific arrangements are discussed and approved by Charlotte. Please register early to secure your spot. We look forward to welcoming you to this special retreat where you can find solace\, strength\, and a renewed sense of hope. \nContact Information: For more information\, please contact Charlotte Starfire at 813-833-7776 or Charlotte.Starfire@gmail.com. \nClick Here to Register!\nWhen prompted\, select “Other Retreat”\, then 2026 Journey Through Grief With Grace. \nPlease consider ‘paying it forward’ to assist others with financial challenges to attend. Tax deductible donations to offset the cost of a mother’s attendance can be made directly to The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center\, a 501c3. Please consider a generous donation. When making a donation through PayPal\, select “Starfire Scholarship Fund – Private” from the dropdown menu. PayPal charges a ~2.5% fee on your donation. If you want the full amount to go towards a scholarship\, please mail a check to our PO Box and put in the description line that it’s for the Starfire retreat. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/journey-through-grief-with-grace/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DJI_0179-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260604 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260608 DTSTAMP:20251122T221204Z CREATED:20241118T195945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221204Z UID:10000075-1780531200-1780876799@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Performing Artists Retreat DESCRIPTION:This retreat is a Private Event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/performing-artists-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Private-Event-scaled.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260605 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260608 DTSTAMP:20260517T151008Z CREATED:20260424T182913Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260517T151008Z UID:10000145-1780617600-1780876799@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:2026 Chris Purcell's Celebration of Life DESCRIPTION:Come to The Mountain to celebrate the life of Christopher Purcell with his family and friends. \nAttend his memorial service and lunch\, the service will be Saturday\, June 6 at noon in the field by the Craft Barn at the bottom of The Mountain\, and lunch at 2:00pm in the dining hall up top. \nRain site for the service will be in The Treehouse \nSpend the rest of your time enjoying the place and people he loved. Christopher attended Mountain Camp for the first time in 1981\, became a counselor\, year round employee and much later returned for Act 2 as arts and crafts director. \nBring a favorite story to share\, pictures\, Christopher’s art/artifacts or just yourself! \nIf you are only coming for the service and lunch\, PLEASE RSVP to Jen Lucas\, Chris’s wife\, with your dietary restrictions and accessibility needs. jenlucasuu@gmail.com” (by May 24th ) \nRegistration\nEvent Dates: June 5 – 7\, 2026 \nArrival Time: 3 – 5pm on June 5 \nDeparture Time: 12pm on June 7 \nRegistration Status: Open \nRegistration Deadline: May 29\, 2026 \nFees for 2 nights with meals included\nAdult Double Occupancy: $270/person \nAdult Single Occupancy (limited availability): $410/person \nAdult Bunkhouse: $230/person \nYouth 12-17: $180/person \nChild 4-11: $140/person \nToddler 0-3: Free \nCommuter: $120/person \nSaturday Lunch Only: Free \nRegistration Instructions\n\nGo to The Mountain’s Portal\nCreate an account\nComplete your personal profile and a profile for each member of your party\nUnder “Program Classifications” select OTHER RETREATS\nSelect your room occupancy option\nFill out the required Dietary Needs\, Housing Options\, Mobility Needs\, and the Voluntary Release Form(s)\nSpecify cabinmate request(s). If this is left empty one will be assigned to you\nDo this for each member of your party\nSubmit payment. Your spot is not secured (enrolled) until payment has been submitted (registered). URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2026-chris-purcells-celebration-of-life/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Chris-Purcell-two-photos-together.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260606T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260606T160000 DTSTAMP:20260506T154442Z CREATED:20260325T134345Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T154442Z UID:10000131-1780750800-1780761600@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Wild Foraging - Plants and Mushrooms DESCRIPTION:Would you like to re-awaken to the presence and gifts of the wild food and medicine growing all around you? Please come along as we emerge into our old growth forest and learn what nature has to offer. Here we will learn of the legends and lore of these Appalachia natives\, how they have historically been consumed\, how to sustainably harvest and how to prepare them safely. Lastly\, we will enjoy a wild foraged herbal tea and give our gratitude for nature and the nourishment that it provides. \n\nLearn to identify edible and medicinal plants\, herbs\, berries\, nuts and mushrooms.\nLearn about the life cycle and how to sustainably forage these wild edibles\nLearn how they have historically been consumed\nLearn how to prepare them safely\nLearn their uses and the legends behind these nutritional powerhouses\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-wild-foraging-plants-and-mushrooms-2/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Wild-Forage.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260612 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260615 DTSTAMP:20260509T132153Z CREATED:20250609T175422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260509T132153Z UID:10000109-1781222400-1781481599@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:UUCA Board Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Unitarian Universalist Church of Atlanta’s annual board meeting. \nClick Here to Register! URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/uuca-board-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Private-Event-scaled.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260614 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260620 DTSTAMP:20260425T180454Z CREATED:20240517T160840Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260425T180454Z UID:10000008-1781395200-1781913599@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Summer Lamrim Retreat with Geshe Ngawang Phende DESCRIPTION:This is a private retreat is not open to the public. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/depung-loseling-monastery-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Private Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/geshe-phende-2026.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T150000 DTSTAMP:20260613T154719Z CREATED:20260325T201932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260613T154719Z UID:10000142-1781962200-1781967600@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab DESCRIPTION:Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does\, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat Learning Center. \nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-native-bee-walk-w-john-kotab/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bee-Walk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260621 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260626 DTSTAMP:20251122T221601Z CREATED:20240514T185325Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221601Z UID:10000002-1782000000-1782431999@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:John McCutcheon's June Songwriting Camp DESCRIPTION:Join Grammy-nominated folk musician and songwriter\, John McCutcheon\, for an intense\, intimate songwriting Master Class at The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center in Highlands\, NC. \n​Join other songwriting lovers for this remarkable event at an even more remarkable place. In between sessions enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains\, healthy\, delicious homemade food\, and camaraderie. \nClick Here to Register and for more information! URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/john-mccutcheons-songwriting-camp/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/jmcutcheon-image.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260627T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260627T160000 DTSTAMP:20260625T110951Z CREATED:20260325T133156Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T110951Z UID:10000132-1782565200-1782576000@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Mushroom Identification DESCRIPTION:Let’s get wild on a 3 hour walk in the old growth forest while we discover\, properly identify and discuss foraging for wild edible and medicinal mushrooms.  We cover the basics to get you started on what could become a lifelong passion and hobby of yours!  We discuss prime habitats where specific mushrooms occur\, why and what mushrooms do ecologically and a thorough discussion on safety precautions as well as practical harvesting/preservation techniques. Lastly\, we will show you some simple wild mushroom uses and cooking techniques that we all will sample! \n\nLearn to identify choice edible and medicinal mushrooms\nLearn to identify the common toxic look alikes.\nLearn approved forage areas and where not to forage\nLearn proper handling and storage techniques\nLearn the variety of ways mushrooms benefit the forest and their ecological role\nLearn preservation and preparation techniques\nLearn the BIG 5 functional mushrooms and what they can do for you\nLeave with a few wild recipes\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-mushroom-identification-7/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mushroom-Identification.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260628 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260701 DTSTAMP:20251122T221652Z CREATED:20240517T162713Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221652Z UID:10000010-1782604800-1782863999@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:FACETS Leadership Retreat for Women Conductors DESCRIPTION:FACETS is a retreat for women conductors focused on leadership development\, fostering mentoring relationships\, and opportunities for networking.​ \nThe first FACETS conference was held in northern Georgia in July of 2016\, where twenty-six women from nine states\, representing elementary\, middle school\, high school\, college\, church\, and community choirs\, came together to learn and teach\, explore their questions\, and share their experiences. \nEmail facetsretreat@gmail.com for more information. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/facets-leadership-retreat-for-women-conductors/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Facets-logo-color.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260705 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260711 DTSTAMP:20260411T151432Z CREATED:20240517T183951Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260411T151432Z UID:10000012-1783209600-1783727999@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:SE LREDA: Religious Education Week DESCRIPTION:Join fellow religious educators for a week of learning\, fun\, and relaxation at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center! \nRegistration Information \nRetreat dates: July 5 – 10\, 2026\nRegistration status: Now open!\nRegistration Deadline: June 21\, 2026 \nRegistration Fees \nAdult Double Occupancy: $120/person/night\nAdult Single Occupancy (limited availability): $190/person/night\nYouth 12-17: $70/person/night\nChild 4-11: $55/person/night\nToddler 0-3: Free! \n3 Programs!\nWe are excited to offer three programs at RE Week this summer. Our main offering will run from Monday morning through Wednesday morning. \nThe Deeper Joy of Whole Church RE\nReligious educators\, ministers\, and staff are invited to explore the Deeper Joy of Whole Church RE with Jennica Davis and Joy Berry from the UUA Lifespan Faith Engagement team. We’ll explore collaborative faith development for folks of all ages that feels more like play and helps us strengthen our relationship muscles. Expect hands-on activities and resources grounded in Deeper Joy and Whole Church RE\, a curious look at our “congregations as curriculum\,” and ways to name\, claim\, and game our way\, together\, toward faith development goals that shape a more joyful\, welcoming\, resilient\, and beloved community.\nNote: This workshop will be eligible for Sparks-level professional development credit. It is designed especially to support shared ministry approaches to congregational community-building and co-learning – religious educators are encouraged to invite their ministry colleagues to join us! \nThese 2 options will run from Thursday morning through Friday morning. Choose the one that best suits your needs. \n1. SoulCollage® with Rev. Nancy Combs-Morgan\, CRE-LL \, a creative collage process designed for self-discovery\, self-acceptance\, and personal empowerment.\nParticipants create personalized cards\, each representing a unique aspect of their self\,\nusing images from magazines\, photographs\, and personal artwork. The process encourages intuitive dialogue with different parts of the self\, allowing individuals to uncover hidden insights and emotions. SoulCollage® is accessible to everyone\, regardless of artistic skill\, and can be practiced individually or in group settings\,\nmaking it a versatile tool for personal growth and emotional exploration.\nThe power of being in community for individual and group practice can be transformative.\nAlso\, Rev. Nancy brings new lens to this practice applicable for family practice.\nor\n2. OWL Coordinator Training with Kat Good – learn how to coordinate an OWL Ministry. We will share insights about how to grow an OWL program alongside your RE programs. We will get to dive into all the implementation questions we don’t have time for in an OWL facilitator training\, including how to recruit and vet facilitators\, manage creative budgeting\, communicating with families\, and growing long-lasting\, vibrant OWL programs. Kat Good has been facilitating OWL for 18 years and training OWL facilitators for the past two years. She is also an OWL coordinator of a large OWL program in Chapel Hill NC\, with 25 OWL facilitators. She is passionate about getting more quality OWL out into the world.\n*This training is not a replacement for facilitator training. \nClick Here to Register!\nIn addition to registering in Campwise\, please also fill out this Google Form. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/se-lreda-religious-education-week/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RE-Week-2026-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T160000 DTSTAMP:20260708T201536Z CREATED:20260325T132729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T201536Z UID:10000133-1783774800-1783785600@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Wild Foraging - Plants and Mushrooms DESCRIPTION:Would you like to re-awaken to the presence and gifts of the wild food and medicine growing all around you? Please come along as we emerge into our old growth forest and learn what nature has to offer. Here we will learn of the legends and lore of these Appalachia natives\, how they have historically been consumed\, how to sustainably harvest and how to prepare them safely. Lastly\, we will enjoy a wild foraged herbal tea and give our gratitude for nature and the nourishment that it provides. \n\nLearn to identify edible and medicinal plants\, herbs\, berries\, nuts and mushrooms.\nLearn about the life cycle and how to sustainably forage these wild edibles\nLearn how they have historically been consumed\nLearn how to prepare them safely\nLearn their uses and the legends behind these nutritional powerhouses\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-wild-foraging-plants-and-mushrooms/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Wild-Forage.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T103000 DTSTAMP:20260708T201808Z CREATED:20260624T143302Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T201808Z UID:10000149-1784365200-1784370600@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab DESCRIPTION:Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does\, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat Learning Center. \nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-native-bee-walk-w-john-kotab-3/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bee-Walk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260725T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260725T160000 DTSTAMP:20260326T164258Z CREATED:20260325T133120Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T164258Z UID:10000134-1784984400-1784995200@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Mushroom Identification DESCRIPTION:Let’s get wild on a 3 hour walk in the old growth forest while we discover\, properly identify and discuss foraging for wild edible and medicinal mushrooms.  We cover the basics to get you started on what could become a lifelong passion and hobby of yours!  We discuss prime habitats where specific mushrooms occur\, why and what mushrooms do ecologically and a thorough discussion on safety precautions as well as practical harvesting/preservation techniques. Lastly\, we will show you some simple wild mushroom uses and cooking techniques that we all will sample! \n\nLearn to identify choice edible and medicinal mushrooms\nLearn to identify the common toxic look alikes.\nLearn approved forage areas and where not to forage\nLearn proper handling and storage techniques\nLearn the variety of ways mushrooms benefit the forest and their ecological role\nLearn preservation and preparation techniques\nLearn the BIG 5 functional mushrooms and what they can do for you\nLeave with a few wild recipes\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-mushroom-identification-6/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mushroom-Identification.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260808T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260808T150000 DTSTAMP:20260506T140551Z CREATED:20260325T202231Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T140551Z UID:10000143-1786195800-1786201200@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab DESCRIPTION:Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does\, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. \nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-native-bee-walk-w-john-kotab-2/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bee-Walk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T160000 DTSTAMP:20260326T164431Z CREATED:20260325T133006Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T164431Z UID:10000135-1788008400-1788019200@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Mushroom Identification DESCRIPTION:Let’s get wild on a 3 hour walk in the old growth forest while we discover\, properly identify and discuss foraging for wild edible and medicinal mushrooms.  We cover the basics to get you started on what could become a lifelong passion and hobby of yours!  We discuss prime habitats where specific mushrooms occur\, why and what mushrooms do ecologically and a thorough discussion on safety precautions as well as practical harvesting/preservation techniques. Lastly\, we will show you some simple wild mushroom uses and cooking techniques that we all will sample! \n\nLearn to identify choice edible and medicinal mushrooms\nLearn to identify the common toxic look alikes.\nLearn approved forage areas and where not to forage\nLearn proper handling and storage techniques\nLearn the variety of ways mushrooms benefit the forest and their ecological role\nLearn preservation and preparation techniques\nLearn the BIG 5 functional mushrooms and what they can do for you\nLeave with a few wild recipes\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-mushroom-identification-5/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mushroom-Identification.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260904 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260907 DTSTAMP:20260730T160341Z CREATED:20240907T165936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T160341Z UID:10000053-1788480000-1788739199@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Fall PAL Planning Weekend DESCRIPTION:Fall PAL Planning Weekend\n​Youth “CONs” are weekend-long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade through high school. At heart\, a youth CON is an experience in building a covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \n​Each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the con community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nThank you for your interest. We look forward to receiving your application and working together for the Spring CON season. \nPeer Advocate Leaders (PAL) and Mentors (Age 16 & up) gather to plan the upcoming Youth CONference season at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. The focus of this weekend is to build a program for all ages that is aligned with our Unitarian Universalist values as a supplement to congregational Religious Education programs. Space is limited to 25 registrants for the weekend. Only register if you plan on attending one or more of the Youth Conferences during the season. \nFee\nThere is no fee for becoming a PAL or Mentors\nIncludes food and housing \nWhen\nSeptember 4-6\, 2026\nCheck in begins at 7pm on Friday\nCheck out at 11am on Sunday\nRegistration: Apply below!\nRegistration deadline: August 28\, 2026 \n\n\n \n \n PAL Application\n \n \n PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n PronounsBirthday(Required)\n \n \n \n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific\n State\n \n \n ZIP Code\n \n \n Why do you want to be a PAL?What previous leadership experience do you have?What are your greatest strengths to share as a PAL?What are new skills you would like to have the opportunity to develop as a PAL?Please tell me about any previous experiences with Mountain CONs\, MountainCamp\, or other Mountain events and programs and/or previous experiences with UU CONs elsewhere.If you have previous involvement with Mountain CONs or CONs elsewhere\, which traditions do you feel are important? What would you like to see change?How have you been involved with Unitarian Universalism?What previous experience do you have working with youth (including work at The Mountain)? Please list positions held (if any) and dates of work:What do you hope to focus on to help bring CON participants together?What's one thing you can do to make someone's day while you're here?Which weekends are you available?(Required)\n \n Fall PAL Planning Weekend Sep 4-6 (REQUIRED)\n \n \n November 6-8: Fall Elementary CON\n \n \n November 20-22: Fall Intermediate CON\n \n \n December 11-13: Fall Senior High CON\n \n \n Other\n If other\, please explain:Questions / CommentsItems of Note:The Mountain’s Youth Protection Policy requires a background check for anyone age 18 and over working with youth. Each PAL Mentor MUST go through a background check to participate in Youth CONs. See the steps below.\nDownload the Authorization for Consumer Reports (PDF).\nComplete and sign the form.\nSubmit via: \nMail:P.O. Box 1299Highlands\, NC 28741\nor upload securely through this dropbox link.\nYouth Protection PolicyThe Mountain recognizes the importance of fostering and creating communities where everyone\, especially our most vulnerable populations such as children and youth\, are protected.\n\nWe seek to preserve that spirit of welcome\, respect\, and trust in balance with our concern for the safety of our children\, applying the test of “reasonable precaution” to any policies or guidelines we adopt. We further acknowledge that institutions operating in the best possible manner with all due concern still cannot guarantee an absolutely risk-free setting.\n\nIn this spirit\, we adopt this policy statement and apply it to all events conducted under the purview of The Mountain.Read The Mountain’s Youth Protection Policy Here (pdf) \n Submit Application URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/fall-pal-planning-weekend/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/PXL_20260328_170056806-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260904 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260907 DTSTAMP:20261113T175201Z CREATED:20261113T175201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261113T175201Z UID:10000182-1788480000-1788739199@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Spring PAL Planning Weekend DESCRIPTION:Spring PAL Planning Weekend\n​Youth “CONs” are weekend-long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade through high school. At heart\, a youth CON is an experience in building a covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \n​Each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the con community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nThank you for your interest. We look forward to receiving your application and working together for the Spring CON season. \nPeer Advocate Leaders (PAL) and Mentors (Age 16 & up) gather to plan the upcoming Youth CONference season at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. The focus of this weekend is to build a program for all ages that is aligned with our Unitarian Universalist values as a supplement to congregational Religious Education programs. Space is limited to 25 registrants for the weekend. Only register if you plan on attending one or more of the Youth Conferences during the season. \nFee\nThere is no fee for becoming a PAL or Mentors\nIncludes food and housing \nWhen\nTBD\nCheck in begins at 7pm on Friday\nCheck out at 11am on Sunday\nRegistration: Applications open December 1\, 2026!\nRegistration deadline: TBD URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-pal-planning-weekend/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/PXL_20260328_170056806-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260910 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260914 DTSTAMP:20260529T180711Z CREATED:20251122T221944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T180711Z UID:10000122-1788998400-1789343999@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Crone Awakening Wisdom DESCRIPTION:For More information and Registration . Click The Link Below!\n  \nCrone Awakening URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/crone-awakening-wisdom/ CATEGORIES:Public Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260911 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260914 DTSTAMP:20260712T132504Z CREATED:20240521T130125Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260712T132504Z UID:10000016-1789084800-1789343999@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:2026 Qollasuyu Gathering DESCRIPTION:The Qollasuyu September Gathering:\n“ Mesa as Midwife: Honoring the Sacred Feminine” \n \nThe Qollasuyu September Gathering has occurred at The Mountain\nevery year (except 2021) since 2010 and years before with workshops\nwith Oscar Miro-Quesada who began sharing the Peruvian Wisdom and\nHealing traditions of his teachers\, Don Celso Rojas Palomino and don\nBenito Corihuaman Vargas. Following our original mission to promote\nand support workshops with Oscar Miro~Quesada in the Southeast\, the\nQollasuyu Council determined we also needed to create Council\nsponsored gatherings to bring the Pachakuti Mesa Tradition mesa\ncarriers and interested others together in beautiful surroundings to be in\ncommunity and ceremony as a way to be together and practice the\npractices. \nThe Pachakuti Mesa Tradition integrates Andean ancestral wisdom\,\nincluding reverence for the divine feminine\, through its practices and\nceremonies that honor the sacredness of nature and community.\nDuring this weekend we will honor the Sacred Feminine by becoming\nmore aware of the ways the sacred feminine infuses the tradition\, our\ncommunity as well as our personal lives and practices. Through\nceremony\, contemplation\, communion and conversation\, we will invoke\,\nevoke\, and celebrate the many dimensions of this multifaceted tradition\nand practice. \n \nWe come to remember and practice the practices.\nWhat we do alone at our mesas is amplified\nwhen we and our mesas come together in community. \nREGISTRATION for The Program:\nOur weekend is open to mesa carriers of The Pachakuti Mesa Tradition\nas well as other mesa carriers in a Peruvian tradition. If you are a\nPachakuti Mesa Carrier or have attended the Gathering in past years\,\nplease register for lodging and meals with the Mountain through the\nRegistration Portal. Under Programs\, go to OTHER. Look for Qollasuyu\nGathering. \nAdditional information and Payment options for Program fee of\n$65.00 can be found at https://qollasuyu.blogspot.com/\nPlease contact Janet Harvey at chacaruna@icloud.com for more\ninformation or answers to questions. \nNOTE: If you are interested\, but not familiar with The Pachakuti Mesa\nTradition\, please visit: https://heartofthehealer.org/\n!! We also require that any who are new to the tradition who wish to\nattend ato complete the basic course. https://\nhttp://initiations.heartofthehealer.org/starter-bundle ($75)\nParticipants are expected to attend the events of the full weekend. \nRegistration for The Mountain: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: August 28\, 2026 \nThe Gathering begins Friday evening and ends Sunday afternoon. You\nmay also choose to arrive on Thursday night and/or stay on Sunday\nnight. Meals in The Mountain’s Dining Hall will be served beginning\nwith Friday dinner and ending with Sunday lunch. \nRoom and Board Fee\nDouble Occupancy – $135 per person per night\nSingle Occupancy (limited availability) – $205 per person per night\nBunkhouse – $115 per person per night\nCommuter – $60\nAdditional Nights – $80 (no meals. Bring food and/or enjoy Highland’s excellent\ndining spots. \nFor additional information and payment of the program fee of\n$65.00\, please visit the Qollasuyu website:\nhttps://qollasuyu.blogspot.com/ URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/qollasuyu-gathering-2026-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20170503_215655.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T160000 DTSTAMP:20260904T141637Z CREATED:20260325T134135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T141637Z UID:10000140-1789218000-1789228800@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Community Meet and Greet DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Many Hands Peace Farm for a farm tour and to learn about organic gardening practices\, food forest\, raised-bed gardening\, composting methods\, creating bio-char\, and more. \nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-community-meet-and-greet-2/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Community-Meet-and-Greet.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260918 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260921 DTSTAMP:20260724T145607Z CREATED:20240521T131550Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T145607Z UID:10000019-1789689600-1789948799@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Episcopal Church of the Epiphany Annual Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany is an inclusive community called to seek and follow Jesus Christ. We welcome all people in the Eucharistic fellowship of Christ’s Body. We receive strength and encouragement at the common table to carry out Christ’s work of reconciliation in our broken world. Nourished by worship and witness\, learning and teaching\, fellowship and service\, we strive to live out the Gospel’s radical values with gladness of heart. \nChurch Website\nWhen\n​Program: September 18 – 20\, 2026 \nRegistration Deadline: September 4 \nRegistration: Open \nRegistration Fees \nAdult Double Occupancy: $270/person\nYouth 12-17: $70 /person – Use transfer code ECOTEY\nChild 4-11: $40/person – Use transfer code ECOTEC\nToddler 0-3: Free! \n  \nIn our registration system you’ll find: \n“Church Retreats” |  “MountainCamp” | “Other Retreats” | “Youth CONs” \nSelect “Church Retreats“\, then select your “Episcopal Church of the Epiphany” package. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/episcopal-church-of-the-epiphany-annual-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Logo-stainglass-transparent.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260919T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260919T160000 DTSTAMP:20260621T192933Z CREATED:20260325T133454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260621T192933Z UID:10000136-1789822800-1789833600@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Nurture with Nature - Oxymel & Elixir Making DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wondered how natural remedies are made? Oxymels and Elixirs are long embedded in our history. Come learn how to sustainably harvest and process natural herbs that you could be medicinally using right now from your own backyard. Learn to treat common colds and seasonal allergies without harmful drugs from the pharmacy. Hear the stories\, legends and lore our elders used to tell us of these native plants and most of all take your health into your own hands. \nHere we will learn to identify and ethically wildcraft medicinal plants and herbs into healing oxymels and elixirs to boost your immune system and naturally care for your family. \n\nLearn what oxymel and elixirs are\nLearn their traditional uses\nLearn to identify and forage wild medicinal herbs\nLearn to use ingredients from your own refrigerator\nLearn to make your own customized product to care for you and your family such as elderberry tonic and fire cider\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-nurture-with-nature-oxymel-elixir-making/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260924 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260928 DTSTAMP:20260830T202402Z CREATED:20240521T131811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260830T202402Z UID:10000020-1790208000-1790553599@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:GSV Fall - Growing a Wise Heart: The Way of Sacred Relationship DESCRIPTION:This year’s Gay Spirit Visions Fall Conference will explore the art and practice of growing a wise heart and what becomes possible when our hearts open into sacred relationship-with ourselves\, with each other\, and with the holy mystery that moves through all things. Together we will ask: \n\nWhat does it mean to live from the heart rather than merely talk about it?\nHow do we cultivate the kind of heart wisdom that transforms not just ourselves but the world around us?\nWhat makes a relationship sacred \, and how do we grow our capacity for that kind of love?\n\nIn a world where artificial intelligence and social media threaten to replace human beings and human relationships\, our survival\, our happiness\, and our very humanity depend upon the deep\, embodied\, transformative wisdom of the heart\, its ecstatic capacity for sacred relationship\, and the boundless\, radiant ocean of love our hearts know as their only home. \nWhether you know it or not\, this is what you have been doing all along. The heart of the world is waking in you. \nVisit our website by clicking below:\nGaySpiritVisions.org URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2024-fall-gsv/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GSV_Rainbow_-Image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260930 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261005 DTSTAMP:20260724T175805Z CREATED:20240521T131932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T175805Z UID:10000021-1790726400-1791158399@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Waters of the Spirit: UUWomenspirit Fall Gathering DESCRIPTION:Waters of the Spirit: UUWomenspirit Fall Gathering\nDates: September 30 – October 4\, 2026 \n Learn more and register here :http://www.uuwomenspirit.org/ \nJoin UUWomenspirit for our Fall 2026 gathering\, Waters of the Spirit. \nThis fall\, we’ll gather at The Mountain to explore what water can teach us in its many forms: river\, mist\, snow\, ocean\, waterfall\, rain\, tide\, and deep well. Through workshops\, worship\, ritual\, creativity\, community\, and time in the beauty of the mountains\, we’ll reflect on movement\, mystery\, transformation\, renewal\, and flow. \nUUWomenspirit is a women-centered spiritual community that has gathered since 1987 to celebrate Earth-centered spirituality\, the Feminine Divine\, seasonal cycles\, creativity\, and sacred connection. Our gatherings offer space for reflection\, learning\, ritual\, laughter\, rest\, and belonging. \nAll women are warmly welcomed. We hope you’ll join us on The Mountain. \n  URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2024-uuwomenspirit-fall-institute-and-gathering/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Fall2026LogoUpdatedLarge.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261003T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261003T160000 DTSTAMP:20261001T151240Z CREATED:20260919T104631Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T151240Z UID:10000179-1791032400-1791043200@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Community Meet and Greet DESCRIPTION:In the last 47 years\, have you ever driven past the Mountain Retreat and Learning Center and wondered who we are and what we do in the world?  This is your opportunity to learn more!  Please join us on the Many Hands Peace Farm to learn about the Mountain which is a 501c3 non-profit located in an old growth forest and is forever protected in the Highlands / Cashiers Land Trust.  Please stop by anytime between 1 and 4 to enjoy a cup of wild foraged Risshi Chai Tea and meet our staff.  Please bring any questions that you have about the Mountain Retreat and Learning Center\, regenerative agriculture\, wild foraging and the community. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/community-meet-and-greet/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events,Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2025.Adam-Shelley.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261004 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261010 DTSTAMP:20260917T162250Z CREATED:20240521T132245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T162250Z UID:10000022-1791072000-1791590399@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Beauty~Breath~Bliss- Co-Creators a Delightful Expedition DESCRIPTION:Beauty ~ Breath ~ Bliss\nWhere Beauty is felt\, Breath becomes sacred\, and Bliss arises naturally \nA Co-Creative GatheringThis is a co-creative event. All who feel inspired to share an experiential offering that reflects the spirit of this year’s theme are warmly invited to submit a process. Note\, this is entirely optional. \nThis may take many forms: \n\na performance or musical experience\na guided process or meditation\na conversation or inquiry\nan art-based or interactive experience\nor something entirely your own\n\nParticipant-led offerings are at the heart of what makes the Co-Creators Convergence so unique. Together\, we shape a living experience—one that unfolds through the creativity\, presence\, and generosity of each person who gathers. \nAn Open Invitation \nYou are not required to offer a session. \nYou are warmly welcome to simply arrive… to be held within the field we co-create… to participate\, explore\, and receive. \nSome will feel called to contribute and we will attempt to include as many sharings as possible in our time together. All are invited to fully engage in our shared co-creative experience. \nThe Experience \nIt can be difficult to fully describe Co-Creators Convergence. \nIt is something that emerges. \nThrough shared presence\, creative expression\, meaningful connection\, and moments of quiet reflection\, a space opens—where something deeper is felt\, discovered\, and remembered. \nThis Year on the Mountain \nAs we gather at this sacred elevation (4\,200 feet)\, surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains\, we invite you to come home to yourself through Beauty\, Breath and Bliss.\n​DATES\, DETAILS & DEALS: CCC Registration\, Room and Board (vegan/vegetarian meals with gluten free options) All rooms have 2 single beds and private full bath; limited number of single rooms by special request (Contact Noel) \n​CHECK-IN: After 3 PM on Sunday\, October 4th \n​CHECK-OUT: Friday\, October 9th; out of rooms by 9:00 AM; off the grounds by Noon \n​PLEASE NOTE: All registration payments accepted by Check\, Venmo\, or Zelle. \n​Registration Portal \nCANCELLATION POLICY (based on The Mountain policy): \nNOTE: All funds are fully refundable if event is cancelled. \n​​​EMAIL: cocreators@lightpartners.org \nNoel Marshall ~ 920.312.0301 URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/cocreators2025/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2026-07-13-new-BANNER-graphic-1.avif END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261009 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261012 DTSTAMP:20260509T130850Z CREATED:20240706T151039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260509T130850Z UID:10000050-1791504000-1791763199@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:UU Asheville Mountain Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join our congregation for a restful weekend of inter-generational connections. Experience the mountain retreat and learning center again or for the first time while deepening relationships with fellow congregants. Take a workshop\, go for a hike or just sit on the balcony and enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. \nWhen\nProgram: October 9 – 11\, 2026\nRegistration: Now open!\nRegistration Deadline: September 25\, 2026\nThis event will sell out well in advance\, please register and pay in full to secure your place \nRegistration\nRegistration restricted to Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville members\, friends and invited guests \nWe highly recommend guests to register and pay early to secure lodging. We give priority to those who have mobility and medical issues\, but cannot guarantee specific rooms to any guest. \nRegistration Fee includes: \n\nLodging\nMeals\nUse of assigned facilities\nParticipation in program activities\n\nAdult Package Rate\, 3 Days /2 Nights\,  Friday – Sunday: \n\n$260 per person\, double occupancy (shared room)​\n$400 per person\, single occupancy (private room)​​\n\n***Private rooms are limited and based on availability.*** \n​Youth Package Rate\, Friday – Sunday \n\nYouth ages 12-17 – $170\nChildren ages 4-11 – $130\nToddler ages 0-3 –  FREE\nYouth and Children must be accompanied by a registered parent/guardian\nYouth and Children are lodged with an accompanying registered parent/guardian\n\nReserve Your Space\nIn our registration system\, select Church Retreats then select your 2026 UU Asheville package \n​Each family member must be registered individually in our registration website \n​Use one username and password per family \n​ URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/uu-asheville-mountain-gathering/ CATEGORIES:Public Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Group-pic-around-sign-uuca.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T150000 DTSTAMP:20260925T171013Z CREATED:20260925T170456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T171013Z UID:10000180-1791639000-1791644400@www.themountainrlc.org SUMMARY:Farm Event: Native Bee Walk w/ John Kotab DESCRIPTION:Many of you know about honeybees and bumblebees. Did you know there are around 300 other bee species in this region? John Kotab does\, and he’s here to showcase them and will help you identify many of them on our bee-ID notification walk. Come learn about all our solitary and colony-forming bees as we stroll the beautiful wildflower gardens and environs at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. \nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event. URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-native-bee-walk-w-john-kotab-4/ CATEGORIES:Farm Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bee-Walk.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR