My Story

My connection with Nature began as a child exploring the forests and streams near my house in rural northern New Jersey. In the surrounding farmer's corn field, it was not unusual to find arrowheads in the soil as remnant artifacts from the native tribes that once hunted in the area. Being surrounded by trees and creatures of the forest was my joy and refuge and gave me a sense of belonging.

I pursued my formal education in the arts but was led to later attend Temple University for a degree in horticulture, which was a way to follow my heart and come back to Nature for healing of body, mind and spirit. It truly saved my life.

In my forties, I was a horticulturist working in the landscape industry when I developed an aggressive breast cancer that had to be dealt with as an immediate emergency surgery situation. Things happened quickly and decisions about procedures had to be finalized within a few days. I remember having a conversation with God, a prayer really, saying that if He let me live, He could have me and I would be in service to Him going forward. Since then I have lived, imperfectly for sure, according to that pledge.

Today I work as a Horticultural Therapist using plants and nature-based activities with veterans, caregivers, cancer survivors, faith-based groups and others to share the peace and healing that comes from the Holy Spirit through connection with Nature.

I feel called to bring this work forward as a healing ministry at this time, and I am happy to discuss how this healing modality might enrich your programs.

Facilitator: Peg Schofield, MA, HTR

• Registered Horticultural Therapist

• Adjunct Professor, Temple University

• Certified Forest Bathing Instructor

• Inducted Member of the Order of St. Luke, the Physician

• Licensed Eucharistic Minister