Each space has treasures to unfold with our Creator God. Click on a space below and let the journey begin.
Sacred Spaces were developed by a group of Gilmont friends who have spent many hours hiking trails, sitting by fires, sharing meals, playing games, serving others, and meeting God in the woods. We call the group, “Fireflies.”
A firefly is symbolic of illumination, teaching that this light within holds the power of life. As a firefly dances melodically through the sky to her own music the firefly is seeking to ignite the passion of your inner fire.
And so it goes.
Our prayer is that your heart will be illuminated as you visit Gilmont’s Sacred Spaces and that the “Gilmont Glow” will go with you to be shared with the world as you depart from this special place. Amen.
Want a clickable map?
Each space highlighted in green has an invitation prepared for you.
Simply click the map, download the PDF and the Green Links will take you there!
Easy Mobility
Located just behind the Cottage near the cabins, this little cove is perfect for groups (up to 15) and individuals seeking a place close by, yet set apart in the woods.
God is Here. Take a moment to sit with your feet to the ground. As you inhale, open your arms like branches of a tree, look up past the canopy of trees, to the sky. As you exhale, bring your hands together in front of your heart and thank God for time here today.
The Invitation here is to study – to sit and consider what it is to be a student of creation.
Look at and Listen to your surroundings, what does the forest whisper to you. Consider those people, like Sarah, who were here before you. Consider the seasons and change in the forest. The cycles of life and death and life again.
Meditate as you study your surroundings. Move your eyes around and take in the sights and sounds as you consider each living thing has a purpose and a place in the forest – as each of us has a purpose and place in God’s world.
Open your heart to the invitation of knowing you were made with a unique purpose as well. Consider this invitation and make note of ways you are being led to be part of God’s work here on earth.
Now read Sarah’s Tribute and learn how to be a student of your surroundings.
Try spending time on your own discovery. Lean into the spiritual practice of Study and pull something from the Blessing Box (a gift from Northwood Presbyterian volunteers) to guide you. Perhaps try making a Nature Mandala. scroll down to see one at the bottom of this page.
Most Difficult Mobility
Gilmont is home to one of the highest hills in East Texas. A steap hike, it should be savored, not rushed. This is an invitation to visit by day. There is another to visit by night.
God is Here
I will praise you among the peoples, Lord;
I will chant your praise among the nations.
For your love towers to the heavens;
Your faithfulness, to the skies.
(Psalm 108 – Earth Gospel)
Invitation to look out, to look up and to look all around as you take in the sights, smells, and sounds of God’s creation. You are invited to take a couple of deep breaths and as you do breathe in God’s grace and breathe out God’s love. Read the lyrics to the hymn “God of the Sparrow” and or listen here: https://youtu.be/xXm1VOUH3eY
Open your heart – sit and ponder
Read Poetry in the Sky, two Poems by Miatta Wilson.
Now, take a few minutes to reflect.
Consider writing a cinquain poem or an acrostic poem (or make note to do later)
Directions and supplies are found in the Blessing Box or by clicking here.
Write the word CREATOR and doodle around it, continuing writing names for God, add symbols, lines and other doodles in various colors as you pray for all of creation. (or use one of the template sheets in the blessing box).
OR… Take a photo which captures God as creator for you.
OR…Draw a picture illustrating where God is in this place.
*You are invited to share what you have written or created with others. Submissions many be sent to [email protected]
Short Rocky Path
Cleared by boy scouts in the early 80’s and named Ha Ne Koo Da, Cherokee for “The Point” – this rustic seating area is just across from the RV sites. A rugged path and bench seating for a few friends.
God is here. Loving God, In you I find rest. I set aside all my cares and concerns and rest with you. In your arms I find peace. Let me now rest in mind, in body, and in soul. Amen.
Invitation to let go. Take several deep breaths. Slowly breathe in the Spirit, and breathe out worry, fear, sadness, and tensions of today, this past week, this past month, and as far back as you need to go.
Look at your surroundings and Listen. Pay attention to the details of your surroundings.
What do you hear?
What do you see?
What do you smell?
What do you feel?
What do you notice on the ground, in the trees, and in the sky?
Meditate on Psalm 5:1-3 (NRSV)
1 Give ear to my words, O Lord;
give heed to my sighing.
2 Listen to the sound of my cry,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice;
in the morning I plead my case to you, and watch.
Open your heart.
How is God speaking to you?
What message is the Lord giving to you?
Now, Listen to Rest with me.
Rest with Me (written and sung by the Rev. Dr. Cheryl Bourne)
click here: Rest with Me
Be Thankful.
Thank you Lord, for this sacred time and space. Thank you for this gift of rest. Thank you for helping me see the beauty around me. Thank you for loving me. Thank you. Thank you. Amen
*You are invited to write a poem of rest or prayer of thanksgiving to share with others. Submissions many be sent to [email protected]
Moderate Difficulty
Take the short cut from cabins to the pool and turn at the bridge to enjoy this walk along the creek to Lake Kilgore. Follow the red markers and explore a different side of Gilmont under the thick canopy of trees at this lower elevation.
God is here. Amazing God, I am surrounded by the beauty of your creation. Here there is flowing water, life of all shapes and sizes, and the delicate balance of thriving wildlife. As I reflect upon my life and the journey I am on, help me to take notice of your beauty all around me. Amen.
Invitation to consider your river of life
As you consider your past, how has your life journey shaped you?
What parts of your past have given you strength?
Where have you seen God in your life?
What direction do you see God guiding you?
Look at your surroundings and Listen.
Can you hear the creek water flowing?
Can you hear the trees singing?
Do you notice the little creatures all around you?
Do you feel the breeze flowing through the trees?
What little details do you notice for the first time?
Meditate on Psalm 42:1-2 (NRSV)
As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so my soul longs for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
Open your heart.
Consider your river of life and where God has blessed you in little ways?
Can you look back and see God’s presence in your life?
Where do you most need Jesus in your life now?
How has Jesus guided you along the way?
Now, Listen to
As the Dear-Instrumental Video
Take time now or later to draw your own river of life
When you have access to paper and pens/pencils/markers, draw your own river of life, labeling the moments of your life that have impacted you. Instructions can be found here.
Learn more about our organization and what we do. If you’re interested in joining our team, learn more and check out our available positions.
