Sacred Grief Work

Re-Membering Grief, Reclaiming the Heart

Led by Tammie Brenton and Sheila Kappeler-Finn

Friday, October 23 – Sunday, October 25, 2026

Slowing down to feel our grief, so that we can rise rooted in compassion

We invite 20 participants to gather on sacred land in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, in the lineage of Malidoma Somé and Francis Weller, to empty what Weller calls our “communal cup” of sorrow. Over three days, we will move together through writing practices, micro-rituals, deep listening, and small group sharing. Facilitators will offer guided meditation and embodiment practices to support your own discernment and inner knowing. Our time together will culminate in a simple, but powerful communal grief ritual where we witness and hold one another in our shared experience of individual and collective grief. Shared meals and communal activities weave through it all.

This retreat is open to individuals carrying any form of grief, not only to those who have lost loved ones. Nothing is required beyond your presence and a willingness to share what you carry, as best you can. We will establish foundational group agreements to hold us in kindness and safety. This is not a passive teaching program but a participatory, communal gathering: one that asks us to show up for each other and for the soul of the community. We welcome you to apply with a spirit of inclusivity and participation.

About the Facilitators:

Sheila Kappeler-Finn brings a synthesis of experiences to community space holding: a 25-year meditation practice, 20 years of Non-Violent Communication (NVC) study and practice, NVC complex facilitation, NVC multi-year mediation intensive study, a decade-long apprenticeship (with a focus on ethical and respectful cultural practice) in medicine work, and grief tending and apprenticeship in the lineage of Francis Weller, author of The Wild Edge of Sorrow.

Tammie Brenton’s personal journey through profound loss has deepened her understanding of grief’s transformative power and sacred wisdom. Rather than avoiding or banishing grief, she has found that turning toward it with intention creates space for healing and growth. This practice reveals that it is possible to cultivate the capacity to hold life’s full complexity—both its profound sorrows and enduring joys. As a grief retreat facilitator, Tammie is honored to create sacred space where others can explore their own relationship with loss. She believes that grief, when met with compassion and community, has the power to transform our understanding of what it means to be fully human.

Cost: Pay What You Can pricing ranges from $1100 (top) – $750 (middle) – $400 (low).

Scholarships are available. See our website for more information: https://www.sacredgriefwork.com/#retreatinformation

We request an application for all interested participants so we can get to know you and ensure that this ritual is a good fit. Click here for confidential application. Estimated time to complete application: 20-30 minutes.

For More Information:  Visit https://www.sacredgriefwork.com