In collaboration with the two other defining institutions at the Centre, we seek to preserve and develop sacred spaces in nature where retreatants, tenants, growers and visitors can cultivate clarity, spaciousness and equanimity.

In recent years, the other apostolates of Ignatius Jesuit Centre have grown to appreciate the role of the land in all their works. The land has acquired an importance that neither the pioneering Jesuits nor Farm Community could have foreseen when they began caring for it. All those who are connected with Ignatius Jesuit Centre land realize the powerful and lasting impact it has had on their life and work.

Founded in 1913 by a group of English–Canadian Jesuits as a place of prayer and worship, the Ignatius Jesuit Centre land is the foundation of our Ecology programs. A 240 hectare estate that facilitates an experiential knowledge of Earth and God in Creation.

Living willow dome structures originated with native American sweat–lodge ceremonies in which sauna like environments were created to purify the mind, body and spirit. Shrouded in animal skins, the living willow domes would retain the steam resulting from cold water being poured over red–hot rocks. In Canada, sweat–lodge ceremonies have undergone a slow revival since the Indian Act ban on aboriginal spiritual practices was lifted in 1951.

Although used infrequently for sweat–lodge ceremonies, the willow dome is a unique and enigmatic space to grow, to experience community healing, and to talk of personal conduct. Unlike contemporary rituals that focus on clarifying a narrative of “self”, willow dome ceremonies evoke pray and respect for others, for community and for the Earth. The “Living Room” was installed from a willow plantation by volunteers on behalf of the Spark of Brilliance organization.

Created by Land Manger, Craig Chamberlain, the Labyrinth suggests a Chartres Cathedral design — a reworking of the ancient labyrinth geometry in which an equal armed cross is emphasized.

Typically there are three stages to walking the labyrinth: “releasing” on the way in, “receiving” in the center and “returning” when you follow the return path back out of the labyrinth. Symbolically, you are taking back out into the world that which you have received.