Each year, Merry Lea offers a faith-based conference integrating fieldwork outdoors, reflection, discussion and worship. This event emphasizes the hope embedded in the natural world rather than the despair we sometimes feel when considering environmental damage. The 2008 theme will enable participants to feel more at home in local ecosystems and to attend to the world outdoors as a spiritual practice. Through a partnership with Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, IN, attenders can earn one credit hour for a course based on this weekend. Cost: $100; $30 for students Some lodging available on site for $15/night.