Culturally Modified Trees Path – Themed Walk: Wisdom of Trees
With S. Jan Ginzkey, OSB
July 25, 2026
Please join us for this 3-hour morning forest experience guided by Sister Jan Ginzkey, OSB to discover how trees communicate with one another to share nutrients and to protect one another. Learn how to identify culturally modified trees on the monastery grounds.
This offering is both a standalone ‘mini’ pilgrimage experience and can also be part of a more complete seasonal pilgrimage with Benet Hill Monastery. As an offering in the Culturally Modified Trees Path of our seasonal pilgrimage experience, come receive your next 2026 passport stamp!
The first part of this experience is in a learning circle in the monastery classroom. Centered around the scheduled theme, S. Jan will share her vast knowledge about these artifact trees and guide participants into a deeper understanding and appreciation of the indigenous people who came before us.
The second part of this experience will be walking in the forest, discovering and identifying artifact trees on the land Ute peoples once inhabited. You may gain a new perspective of creation around you.
On the off chance we need to cancel the event due to severe weather, all participants will be notified by email 90 minutes before the start time.
Leader
Sister Jan has been learning and teaching about the labyrinth and the culturally modified trees for 38 years. She gathered community to build the labyrinth in 2001 as a contemplative means to deepen one’s spirituality. She continues to discover and protect the sacred living artifacts of the Ute peoples. From S. Jan: I come from a large Midwestern Catholic family that formed the foundation of my strong faith, sense of responsibility, hospitality, and work ethic. As a Benedictine sister of Benet Hill Monastery, I am privileged to have served in a variety of ministries and roles. One of my most…
Learn more about S. Jan Ginzkey, OSB