Volunteers planted 40 trees Friday at Prairiewoods Fransiscan Spirituality Center in Hiawatha through a partnership with Trees Forever and the City of Cedar Rapids. Prairiewoods lost 1,200 trees in the August 2020 derecho and has since planted 1,000 trees and shrubs.
Despite social media and technology connecting the world more than ever, more and more people are feeling lonely. A new event at Prairiewoods is giving them a chance to unplug and reconnect in real life.
Local churches’ blessing of the animals ceremonies, an annual tradition in honor of St. Francis, take on many different meanings for local pet owners and spiritual leaders.
Eco-spirituality center evolves from blank slate to 70-acre operation
© 2025 The Gazette | All Rights Reserved.
Daily Newsletters