Human-to-Human Moments on the Road | | Opening ourselves to new ways of gathering | | |
At the St. Olaf Conference of Worship, Theology, and the Arts, we had the immense pleasure of conversing and communing with pastors, musicians, and all-around curious, compassionate people from around the country, as well as a tender opportunity to lead a Prayer Around the Cross service and Holden Evening Prayer for everyone gathered. We also baked no fewer than 25 loaves of Holden bread to provide for a “Sandwich Bar” dinner, which was a smashing success. Through worship, plenary sessions, meals, and simple moments of conversation and reflection, the conference painted a beautiful theme of “every time, every age, and every place.” Like Holden Village, the CWTA is committed to being a place of rest and renewal.
Also, the St. Olaf CWTA generously devoted the offering collected at the final service of the conference to the support of Holden Village, and we left the conference feeling confident in Holden’s mission and ready to experiment with emulating the village’s rhythms in Madison, WI.
On July 25, fifty brave people joined us for seven hours of experimental Holden programming! The day included two Vespers services, Bless This Night and Holden Evening Prayer; choose-your-own-adventure time featuring a poetry walk, song circle, and processing group; educational sessions on the Song of Songs and stewardship with our teaching-faculty-for-the-day Rev. Dr. Niveen Ibriham Sarras; a brief Holden update; and a delicious, nourishing meal.
At both of these events, we were reminded of some important lessons. While a fantastic program or schedule creates the foundation for a successful event, it is the small moments—the honest, passionate, imperfect, silly human-to-human moments—that bring an experience to life. “Community” isn’t an idealistic, far-away concept. It’s here, hiding, in plain sight, within the awkwardness, uncertainty, and technical difficulties. We are beyond grateful to have the opportunity to open ourselves and the Holden community up to new connections and ways of gathering.
Up in the mountains, the village is in its own unique period of rest and renewal. For now, it is up to us, all of us, to carry Holden’s spirit and good courage in our hearts, wherever we may go. This community is made ever more whole by YOU. You belong!
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Izzy Delaney
Community Programs Lead
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August 29, Lutheran Church of Christ the King, Tacoma, WA
Song, dance, joy, and hilarity will come together at Holden Village’s SoundFest! Whether you’re a performer or a spectator, all are welcome to join in the joy of music-making Holden-style!
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September 12, St Luke's Lutheran Church, Bellevue, WA
Join us for an evening of Liturgy, Community, and Conversation. Discover how the words and practices we share in worship act as powerful formation events that shape our lives and send us out into the world.
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Even while Holden Village remains closed to guests, the work of caring for this place and preparing for its future continues. We are seeking adaptable, skilled, and community-minded people to work both in the Village and remotely during this important season at Holden.
This is a unique moment, calling for people who can work with flexibility and care while helping shape a small, collaborative community. Visit holdenvillage.org/volunteer to explore complete position descriptions and current openings. Questions may be directed to staffing@holdenvillage.org.
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SPOTLIGHT: Development & Communications Manager
Holden Village is seeking a Development and Communications Manager to lead an organization-wide fundraising program that generates approximately $1.2 million annually and keep Holden’s community informed and connected during the Village’s closure and eventual reopening.
This is a hands-on leadership position. The Manager will set priorities, build practical plans, manage a small team, maintain a personal portfolio of donors, and ensure that fundraising and communications work moves forward consistently. The role requires someone who can work with substantial independence while communicating closely with the Executive Directors, staff, and board.
Holden is operating in a significant organizational transition, and the needs of the role will evolve. The successful candidate will be able to assess new information, adjust plans, and redirect time and resources when necessary. They will do so as part of a supportive and collaborative team and not without access to leadership.
This position is designed to be remote, with the option to explore living and working at Holden Village. An onsite arrangement may include room, board, and other benefits as part of a differently structured compensation package.
To apply, email your résumé and cover letter to staffing@holdenvillage.org. Priority consideration given to candidates who submit their application materials by August 23.
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(2+ Years)
The Utilities Lead is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the systems that keep Holden Village running. This includes water filtration and distribution, septic and sewage systems, plumbing, hydronic heating, electrical systems, and hydroelectric generation.
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(1+ Year)
The Co-Food Services Lead helps provide healthy, delicious, and diverse meals through thoughtful menu planning, sustainable practices, and responsible purchasing. This role also supports a clean, safe, and enjoyable kitchen environment while helping bring Holden’s food philosophy of “lavish simplicity” to life.
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(2+ Weeks)
The Village Medic provides health care for Holden’s small in-Village community on a 24/5 on-call basis, within established policies and the boundaries of professional licensure. The Medic manages the First Aid Station, provides necessary treatment, and educates staff about health, safety, and communicable disease concerns.
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(2+ Weeks)
Holden is seeking skilled carpenters to join an active historic preservation project for a volunteer commitment of at least two weeks. Volunteers will work under the guidance of the project manager on architectural conservation and restoration tasks.
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Reference herein to any specific commercial products or services does not necessarily constitute or imply its
endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Holden Village.
PHOTOS: Berit Kirkgaard, Anny Joy Berntson, Joanna Mullins, Carl Norquist
Newsletter edited by Carl Norquist
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