The 2024 edition of Wondering and Wondering, took place from 12-16 June 2024. It was a special kick-off experience, with 25 participants from all over the world, including different European countries, but also Perù, Brazil, USA and Taiwan.
Check out our guests in the poster below:
“Writing in an atmosphere of peace and inspiration surrounded by beautiful nature, combined with wandering and wondering in the Norwegian Mountains. Gathering around the bonfire in the evening in a safe and open space for true dialogue with people from all over the world. In its self – many steps away from narrative capital, which created hope, peace and new energy for the rest of the year. In these surroundings at Lia I found a new methodological approach for my PhD project, and support to trust my own path in this work and to do what I believe in. We published an article in the media which created a debate. My work became more joyful and qualitatively better, learning by heart, hand and head, not only the head (Pestalozzi). Writing together. Learning together.”
– Judith Klein
“It was quite powerful to spend the few days completely immersed in nature and practice with a lovely group of very kind and loving people. So, whomever manages to make it this year is going to have a wonderfully magical time I am sure”
– Bas
“The W&W experience—its silence, inspirational talks, and the vision shared by fellow wanderers—helped me revive several project ideas that I left aside for some time: a book proposal, plans for a conference, and an abstract for an edited collection, all aligned with my interest in rethinking the relationship between humans and nonhumans in more ethical ways. It was a big surprise being inspired to also explore artistic writing, especially poetry, which I’ve been nurturing since then.”
– Stefano”
“W&W was a remarkable gift in my life, enveloping me in a warm embrace of hospitality from its organizers and hosts. The atmosphere was unlike any other, filled with vibrant energy and the presence of extraordinary individuals, each with their own captivating stories. Their diverse journeys sparked inspiration within me, both personally and professionally. I relished and appreciated the open exchange of ideas, learning new techniques to share with my students. Maria and Stefano's positive refreshing spirits, memories of our walks, the crackling bonfire at night, prayer moments, and swim in the lake continue to energize me long after.”
– Ann
“The W&W retreat in Lia Gard felt like stepping into a sacred threshold, where the veil between heaven and earth grew thin. The love shared over amazing waffles and delicious Norwegian meals nourished not just the body but also the soul. Walks inspired by Saint Francis, deep conversations around the fire, and the glow of the midnight summer skies created a space where ideas flourished. In this sacred stillness, I found new paths for storytelling. Inspired by this mystical communion, I embraced the beauty of reimagining our shared future.”
– Estela Lutero
“During the writing time, I was fully immersed in finalizing the manuscript of a book, which I submitted by the end of stay. It was a perfect medley of writing, savoring wonderful meals, chatting with extraordinary people, being inspired by various speakers and actively engaging in the outdoor adventures. This experience was nurturing for my mind, my body and my soul.”
– Marie Briguglio
“I loved the wondering and wandering retreat and it produced some wonderful fruits...”
– M
“The W&W retreat came at a time when I needed it, professionally and personally. In the experience I understood that a new economy requires space to disconnect and reflect, away from the speed at which we act on a daily routine in our jobs and projects. I wasn't used to stopping to write, but the experience inspired me to develop a project, with the EoF Peru team, for entrepreneurs and business people and to continue my research on personal and corporate purpose.”
– Marcia King, Perù
Thank you very much to Sissel Baune for allowing the publication of these wonderful images.
Invited guests
Arne Johan Vetlesen, Professor of Philosophy (University of Oslo), leading scholar on environmental philosophy.
https://www.hf.uio.no/ifikk/english/people/aca/philosophy/tenured/arnejv/
Luigino Bruni, Professor of Economics, historian of economic thought (LUMSA University, Rome) with interests in ethics, biblical studies and literature.
https://luiginobruni.it/en/
Wera Sæther, writer, poet, photographer, and activist.
https://weras.net/en/
Kari Løvaas literary critic and author, investigating multiple topics, including home seeking and the modern myth of progress.
https://www.kau.se/en/employees/kari-lovaas
Knut Ivar Bjørlykhaug (facilitator of the bonfire workshop), Associate Professor (VID Specialized University, Norway). His research concerns nature philosophy and feelings during the time of climate crisis.
https://www.vid.no/en/employees/knut-ivar-bjorlykhaug/
Thomas Bourquerod is Conventual Friar Minor, since 2010. He graduated in Theology in 2015 from the Theological Faculty of Triveneto and Psychology in 2023 from the Gregorian University with a doctoral thesis on the influence of emotional and relational factors on the perception of one’s relationship with God. He is currently involved in formation, counseling, and dedicates himself to study, research, and ministerial activities.