Biography
Noah Gourlie is interested in the conservation of wild places and in religious practices/theology that experience the sacred through nature. He has a career as a regulatory writer.
Paper Abstract
The project envisions in detail the potential use of a Connecticut property as sacred space for religious experience in nature, with specific attention to common and unique aspects of religious traditions. Judeo-Christian, Algonquian, and Mahayana Buddhist beliefs and practices are explored, emphasizing mystical experience. The Edwin J. Prior conserved property encompasses 54 acres of approximately 32 acres of forest, 15 acres of hayfields and a 6.5-acre pond with small island, to be considered for this purpose. The presentation proposes a layout of sacred gathering spaces, solitary spaces and walking trails consistent with an existing conservation easement. Long-term aspects of the project may include monitoring for water pollution from neighboring agro-industry, water-way design/maintenance, wildlife study, and measuring human impact on ecosystems.