What does it mean to live in peace with creation?
Peace is more than the absence of conflict. It is the presence of right relationship. Peace with creation emerges when care is woven into how we live on the land, when we recognize the dignity of all living beings, and when we act with intention for the generations to come. It is found in the quiet work of restoring habitats, in the joy of growing food in healthy soil, in the humility of listening to the natural world, and in the choice to live gently within our means.
At Ignatius Jesuit Centre, this pursuit is not abstract. It shapes our daily rhythms and has always been central to our mission. As we transition away from residential retreat programming at Loyola House at the end of this year, we enter a new chapter that will deepen our focus on conservation, regenerative farming, education, and partnerships that strengthen both ecological health and human connection. From the careful stewardship of fields, wetlands, and forest, to the learning that takes place in our farmer training programs, to the collaborations that sustain this work, every action is an expression of our call to foster harmony between people and all of creation.
This September, we join communities around the world in deepening this call through the Season of Creation, a month-long, ecumenical celebration of prayer, reflection, and action for our common home. The 2025 theme, Peace with Creation, draws on Isaiah 32:14–18, a passage that envisions the restoration of land and spirit when justice is renewed. It challenges us not to stand still, but to act, pray, and reconcile in unity, repentance, and solidarity.
Our 2025 Season of Creation Events at IJC
Throughout the Season of Creation, IJC will offer events that invite connection, reflection, and hands-on learning, all framed by the shared vision of Peace with Creation.
Opening Mass & Potluck, September 1
Join us at Loyola House for a 5:00pm Mass with Fr. Dirk Dunfee, SJ followed by a potluck supper to open the season in gratitude and community.
Roots and Renewal Festival, September 22–27
A celebration of National Forest Week with conservation workshops, speakers, a farm tour, and a special family-friendly event with partners, food, and live music.
IJC Community Gathering, September 22
The first of our quarterly gatherings, featuring updates on conservation, partnerships, and community initiatives.
Laudato Si’ Retreat, September 23–28
A retreat led by Greg Kennedy, blending reflection, creative practice, and land-based engagement.
Day of Quiet Retreat, September 29
A day away from the noise to reflect, walk the land, and find stillness.
Closing Mass, October 3
At Loyola House at 5:00pm, with Fr. Dirk Dunfee, SJ to close the season in prayer and thanksgiving.
Weekly Reflections: “Peace with Creation” Blog Series
Throughout September, we will share weekly guest articles from friends of IJC exploring the many ways we can live in peace with creation, through conservation, spiritual practice, and community action. We invite you to follow along on our blog or social media on Instagram or Facebook to share in the wisdom and insight from our community members.
We hope you’ll consider joining us during this Season of Creation and participate in the prayer, reflection, and work of building peace with creation. This work is not something we can accomplish alone. It is rooted in community — in shared effort, mutual care, and the understanding that our actions ripple outward, touching lives and landscapes beyond what we can see. At Ignatius Jesuit Centre, community means people coming together to learn, work, and celebrate alongside one another, bound by a shared love for the Earth and a desire to see it thrive. Whether it is planting trees, tending crops, removing invasive species, or gathering for worship and conversation, the work is richer, more joyful, and more impactful when we do it together. In walking this path side by side, we embody the very peace with creation that we hope to see in the wider world.
