To start, I have been out to Pine Ridge the last four years. I went my 8th grade year, then my sophomore through senior years of high school. Some of the most memorable things to come out of Pine Ridge for me were the children. I found it to be very touching how after a year of being away, I could come back and some of them would remember who I was. I thought it was neat how they seemed to be so interested in what we did and said. I also remember the speakers we had and how they shared their stories and experiences with us. I enjoyed learning about the culture and touring to different historical sites.
Paul Bonen, American Lutheran Church, Huron, South Dakota
As a theology student, I gained invaluable insight and knowledge while participating in the Pine Ridge Ministry cross-cultural study program. While living within an intentional community with other seminary students, I was able to follow-up experiential learning with theological reflection. It was exciting to integrate the theoretical with the practical while gleaning a great deal of information and insight into a culture that is rich in story, history, and spirituality.
Carol Tagatz Mapa
I spent one month at the Pine Ridge Retreat Center as part of my sabbatical from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As a sociologist in a department that offers Native American Studies courses (Dr. Martin Brokenleg), I felt it was important to immerse myself in the culture and lives of the Lakota people at Pine Ridge. I learned more than I could have ever hoped! The most significant lesson I gained as a white person was that I left Pine Ridge knowing that I didn't truly understand all of the layers and complexities of Lakota life. And that is a gift I hope I can convey to my students and colleagues. The stay at the Retreat Center was comfortable and productive, and I would definitely recommend it to others.
Susan L. Schrader, PhD
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Last updated: February 17, 2006