Holden Village

This summer my mother and I spent a week in the Wenatchee National Forest (WA) at a place called Holden Village. It was originally a copper mining community, but was eventually bought by the Lutheran Church (1950's) as a year round retreat center. Its run mainly by volunteers, short and long term, these photos give one an idea of what the village is like. Holden is accessible only by ferry over Lake Chelan plus a 45 min school bus ride. My family and I visited 20 years ago, so it was amazing to return and realize nothing has changed. Its in such a remote area there are no outside influences, no TV, cell phone reception, or land lines available. One stays in a dormitory setting, shares a shower and bathroom, plus meals are served in a dinning hall where everyone congregates at least 3 times a day. This summer, it was an opportunity for my mother and I to spend some quality time together. We went on daily hikes, sat in on evening talks, and took advantage of the popcorn stand. The community of Holden is constantly changing because families are consistently arriving or departing. However as I stated the ideaologoies and
physical apperance have stayed virtually the same since opening. They request everyones attendance at evening vespers where the community daily acknowledges the new comers and those departing the following morning. A week is a decent amount of time there, but others stay months or days. There are always activities to get involved with or one can sit under a pine tree and read. Its a place that allows one to be who they are without judgment or criticism.