What is Wildfire Ranch?
Wildfire Ranch Spiritual Retreat is a peaceful paradise of seven acres located in the heart of Spring Mills, Pa. Breathtaking views surround the setting creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The retreat center itself is a 6,000 sq. ft. log home owned by single-mother, Cynthia Sweeley. Cynthia has seen hundreds of traumatized families, desperately in need of counseling, turned away repeatedly from psychiatric counseling centers. Either the families simply could not afford the $100-$150/ hr. fees or they were too desperate to wait for their turns on the 3-6 month waiting lists at the low-income counseling centers. Our purpose at Wildfire Ranch Spiritual Retreat is to promote healing for emotionally hurting men, women and children in a very unusual manner: thru one-on-one encounters with eight magnificent horses! As one childguest to the ranch explained, “The horses heal you by making you FEEL GOD!”

Why Horses?
Most people are already aware of hippotherapy and the use of horses to heal humans physically. However many don’t realize that horses have been proven to heal humans emotionally. The United States government has now formed a foundation called “Horses And Humans Research Foundation” as a direct result of recent studies proving that horses heal humans mentally and emotionally (see horsesandhumans.org). Adults and children plagued with manic depression, autism, uncontrollable rage, bi-polarism and other illnesses have discovered amazing improvements as high as 80-85% from handling and riding horses regularly (See “CNN article, “Horse Boy”). Specifically, the studies proved marked increases in self-confidence, the ability to focus, happiness, body awareness, hope, and the awakening of ‘sixth senses’, such as those exhibited by the blind and deaf. At Wildfire Ranch we incorporate these findings with the very real presence of God.

What Happens at the Retreats?
The Retreats are set-up into 4-hour sessions with the option of attending one-time or on a weekly or monthly basis. Flexible shifts are offered weekdays, weeknights andweekends. During these sessions you will be assigned to your own horse with whom you will interact. Exercises will include communicating with your horse from the ground and learning how your horse “talks”back to you; grooming and tacking; walking your horse around the ranch and even riding your horse at a walk and trot in the arena. Breaks with refreshments are taken with valuable teachings on how God heals the brokenhearted and those at the ‘end of their ropes’ thru horses. During this time we will gratefully receive any donations you could give our non-profit ministry towards the upkeep of the horses.

How Do I Sign Up?
A registration packet with directions will be mailed to you by calling: 814-422-0534. Ask for Cynthia Sweeley. All registrants will be required to sign a waiver/release form. Registration is limited to 5-6 guests at a time. Separate sessions are available by special request for divorcing couples, neglected/abused children, troubled teens, and other groups. Wildfire Ranch Spiritual Retreat is a non-profit organization. Download the resitration packet HERE