About the Forest
Located on a parcel of land near the current Catholic Church of St. Henrys in Regent, or a parcel of land near the Cannonball River. This unique space while influenced by the Catholic Christian tradition, the space will be open to all people of good will and expressions of (Christian) faith.
The Forest of Faith features a main pathway that meanders through a captivating “forest” of metallic trees, creating a visually stunning and spiritually enriching environment. Alongside the main path, visitors will find the Stations of the Cross, leading to a grand Crucifix feature at the journey’s end. Tributary paths branch off to the southeast, each dedicated to one of the four Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. These elements together create a comprehensive spiritual journey for all who visit.
The artist’s intricate designs bring the spiritual narrative to life through all-metal fabrications of roughly human scale. The metallic trees, adorned with metal leaves, serve a dual purpose: enhancing the natural beauty of the space and honoring the generous donors whose contributions have made this project possible. Each leaf that has been purchased as a memorial corresponds to an adjacent index that lists donor names, creating a lasting legacy of faith and generosity.
The primary intention of the Forest of Faith is to provide a peaceful retreat for individuals seeking a deeper connection with their spirituality. Whether through quiet contemplation along the Stations of the Cross or meditative walks through the Rosary paths, the Forest of Faith offers a sanctuary for reflection and prayer. The project aims to promote a sense of evangelization and to foster a sense of shared faith and devotion of its visitors.
Get Involved
We invite you to join us in bringing the Forest of Faith to life. Your support, through the purchase of a memorial leaf, plays a crucial role.
- A leaf on a tree in the forest of faith, and his and her name will be listed on a plaque below that tree.
- A framed certificate of authenticity.
- It is hoped that eventually the memorials will be remembered at a local Catholic Mass, likely each November.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. We look forward to welcoming you to the Forest of Faith.
About the Artist
Gary Greff a local artist felt he was called to create the Forest of Faith as a way of evangelization, allowing people a avenue to foster their believe in Jesus Christ and his mother Mary. Drawing inspiration from local wildlife and historical figures, including Theodore Roosevelt, Gary’s work captures the essence of the region’s heritage and natural beauty.
Gary Greff is best known for creating the Enchanted Highway, a 32-mile stretch featuring some of the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures. This impressive collection includes monumental depictions of geese, fish, deer, pheasants, grasshoppers, and even a complete Tin Family. Each sculpture on the Enchanted Highway is a testament to Gary’s commitment to his craft, constructed meticulously, one bead of weld at a time. His dedication to his community and his exceptional skill in working with metal make him the perfect artist for the Forest of Faith project.
Gary’s intricate all-metal fabrications for the Forest of Faith not only showcase his technical expertise but also his deep understanding of spiritual and faith values. His ability to transform metal into meaningful and inspiring works of art aligns perfectly with the project’s goal of creating a serene and reflective outdoor sanctuary. Gary Greff’s legacy of faith, belief in Jesus Christ is woven into every element of the Forest of Faith, making it a truly special and enduring landmark.