KNOW US
IT’S TIME TO
LOVE WINS
In December 1968, the Church in the Wyldewood purchased a small chapel on the Templeton-Hubbardston line. It had been built and served a Finnish Lutheran community for many years prior, but they found their congregation dwindling. At first, the Church in the Wyldewood thrived, with Sundays boasting standing-room-only.
But as the decades passed, and the congregation aged, a new generation of potential congregants began to emerge. People no longer wanted "church" or doctrine. Instead, people were looking to empower their own personal responsibility and connection with whatever they perceived as "greater than them." Oddly enough, "Personal Responsibility" is one of the tenets of Spirituality.
To stay connected to the ever-evolving community, the Church in the Wyldewood underwent a deep soul-searching process and decided to rebrand itself simply as the Wyldewood. Yes, at our heart, we are still a church. However, we have discovered that people derive more spiritual benefits from experiences, guidance, and healing than they do from being preached at.
The Wyldewood has always been based on inclusion, versus exclusion, and that continues as we expand and grow our offerings for the community. All faith walks are welcome. All gender identities are welcome. All orientations are welcome.
ALL ARE WELCOME.
The Heart of it all
The heart of the Wyldewood is its Board: Rev. Jennifer Fay Smith, Louis and Christine Downs, Rev. Deana Thomann, Tom Smith, and Peter Andersen. These are the individuals who have invested time, money, labor, and love in keeping Wyldewood open and creating a safe space for anyone seeking their spiritual path.
This place is amazing and has changed my life in so many ways; I can't even begin to tell you. I feel seen and acknowledged. I can discuss anything without worrying about being different or judged. The experiences and classes they offer have been a real game-changer for me. I love this community. It's like home.
- J
