What is On-The-Land-Learning?
On-the-Land-Learning (OtLL) is an immersive learning experience rooted in relationship, creation care, and Indigenous teachings shared on the land. It invites participants to step outside classrooms and sanctuaries and into forests, fields, rivers, and gathering spaces where creation can reveal the work of Creator God to us.Guided by Indigenous leaders and supported by the Christian Reformed Church, these experiences are open to anyone who wants to learn, build relationships, and take meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
OtLL is focused on learning with Indigenous communities, rather than about them, through place-based practices that awaken imagination, build empathy, and open space for connection.
A recent participant shared that, “Experiencing Indigenous realities has challenged my own assumptions about matters of faith, and both deepened and expanded my spiritual life.”
We believe that reconciliation is not just a theological idea—it’s a lived, embodied calling.
Why We Do This
There is a pressing need for meaningful, relational opportunities that respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, specifically 48, 59, and 60, calling on churches to respect the rights of Indigenous peoples, and to educate their congregations on the history of colonization and spiritual violence experienced by Indigenous communities. Across Canada, many of our CRC churches have little or no relationship with local Indigenous communities. Stereotypes, distance, and unfamiliarity often fill the gaps where real relationships should be.
On-the-Land-Learning helps change that. Participants often describe these moments with deep gratitude. “I was deeply moved by the manner in which the Indigenous leaders engaged with us: postures filled with graciousness and gentleness,” said a participant.
By stepping onto the land with Indigenous hosts, listening to stories, feeling the wind, hearing the birds, and learning about local struggles such as land erosion or resource extraction, participants encounter living, human experiences that deepen understanding and spark empathy.
This kind of embodied learning makes space to:
- Hear Indigenous voices without filters or abstractions
- Replace stereotypes with real relationships
- Learn about intergenerational trauma and present-day challenges
- Explore creation care through both Reformed and Indigenous lenses
- Learn in a setting where questions feel natural, not intimidating
- Experience joy, play, curiosity, and the beauty of God’s creation
For Indigenous partners, OtLL can also provide a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with land, language, and teachings especially in places where access to traditional territory is limited.
On-the-Land-Learning stays with you.
What Happens on the Land and What We Hope Will Grow From It
Each On-the-Land-Learning gathering is shaped by the land itself. Participants might walk with Indigenous knowledge keepers; observe, listen, taste, touch, and ask questions; join in teachings, ceremonies, or land-based practices; learn about local history, treaties, creation stories, and present-day challenges; explore themes like creation care and kinship with the land; and share stories and reflections with peers. These moments help begin the long-term work of relationship-building.
On-the-Land-Learning creates lasting change through each person, each experience, each story shared.
Participants often walk away with a more human, personal understanding of Indigenous communities; stories to bring back to their churches, families, and workplaces; a broadened imagination for reconciliation; and greater critical thinking around stereotypes and biases. Many people gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous spiritual practices, a renewed connection to creation, and a growing desire to be allies and advocates for justice.
We hope that joining us for On-the-Land-Learning will be the beginning of a long-term, respectful relationship between your church and a local Indigenous community.
Who Is This For?
On-the-Land-Learning is for anyone interested in learning, listening, and growing in relationship with Indigenous communities.
Past groups have included CRC congregants, Hearts Exchanged participants, pastors and ministry leaders, student groups, ecumenical partners, and partner organizations.
If you’re seeking to build meaningful relationships and deepen your understanding, this is for you.
Want to Get Involved?
Whether you’re an individual, a church, or a partner organization, we’d love to connect with you.
Contact Us
Are you interested in hosting, attending, or learning more about upcoming On-the-Land-Learning opportunities?
Reach out to us: [email protected]