Mary Oliver Mystic Series (Online, 3-part program)
Thursday, January 21, 2027 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm EST
An event every week that begins at 1:00 pm on Thursday, repeating until Thursday, January 21, 2027
“This is a warm and welcoming workshop. The facilitators are warm, knowledgeable, and loving. They create a wonderful environment that is inclusive and healing. I connect to Mary Oliver so much more after engaging in this class and have found ways to be more succinct in my writing. I found great solace and joy from participating. I highly recommend this workshop.” – Sandra Perez
“The Mary Oliver program is the best thing to look forward to in January!” – Cindy Hilbert
“I am impressed by the gentle but effective presenters; clear instructions and very helpful activities were provided; participants were engaged and open to a deep level of sharing. I am grateful to have experienced this offering for my own spiritual journey.” – Deb Durand
“Ten times a day something happens to me like this – some strengthening throb of amazement – some good sweet empathic ping and swell. This is the first, the wildest and the wisest thing I know: that the soul exists and is built entirely out of attentiveness.”
– Mary Oliver
Mary Oliver, a modern mystic and one of America’s most beloved poets, was known for her compassionate, attentive presence to the natural world. Amid the harshness and uncertainty of life, Oliver found sanctuary, wonder, and hope in nature—and generously shared what she discovered in simple, soulful language that stirs both the heart and the imagination.
The author of more than 25 books of poetry and prose, Oliver received numerous honors, including the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Yet perhaps her greatest gift was her invitation to pay attention to the world around us, to the stirrings within us, and to the mystery that meets us in both.
During our time together, Greg Cochran and Sr. Kathy McNany will offer contemplative readings of selected poems, writing prompts, personal reflection, and group conversation. Having gracefully facilitated this annual program for the past 13 years, Greg and Sr. Kathy invite you to enter once again—or for the first time—into the rich and contemplative world of Mary Oliver.
Come for one session, two, or all three as we linger with Oliver’s poems and listen for what they might awaken in us. Through Oliver’s mystical eyes and ears, mind and heart, we will explore the sacred mystery woven through the ordinary and make space for wonder, self-discovery, and hope.
DATES: Thursdays – January 7, 14, and 21, 2027
TIME: 1:00 – 3:00 PM ET
COST: $110 for all 3 sessions or $45 per session
LOCATION: ZOOM
REGISTRATION is required; please register here.
IMPORTANT: You will receive an email from programming@wellforthejourney.org at least 24 hours in advance of the start of your program. If you are unable to find the email, please check your SPAM or JUNK email folders. This email will include details to help you prepare for your program including any pertinent handouts, location information, and the ZOOM link for online programs. Please be sure you have received and read this email a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the start of the program. Thank you!
FACILITATOR: Greg Cochran and Sr. Kathy McNany
FACILITATOR BIOS:
Greg Cochran
Greg has been the Executive Director at Well for the Journey since 2010. He is a graduate of Clemson University and Southern Seminary. Greg was Associate Pastor at Woodbrook Baptist Church serving from 1988-2022. He also is a program/retreat facilitator and a spiritual companion. He completed the Shalem Institute’s Spiritual Guidance Program (SGP) in 2009 and is currently a SGP staff member. He is also a mentor for Paseo’s “The Stewards of Mystery” Spiritual Guidance Program in Cottonwood, Idaho. Greg and his wife, Carole, live in Baltimore. They have two adult children. Greg is a hiker, photographer, woodworker, and loves being with family – and is always desiring to be open and listening for the invitation of the Spirit.
Sr. Kathy McNany, OSB
Sr. Kathy is a Benedictine Sister at Emmanuel Monastery and has ministered in spiritual direction, discernment facilitation, and programs in spirituality for many years.
