In the last decade, cremation has steadily gained popularity, and people are increasingly selecting natural, green burial settings for their final resting place. A natural environment provides peace, freedom, and continuity. In addition to providing a natural resting place, the EcoEternity Forest at Chestnut Ridge will provide family and friends with the opportunity to share a resting place beneath the same tree, effectively restoring the concept of a family burial plot which is difficult in a more urbanized, geographically dispersed culture.

Located in Efland, NC, the EcoEternity Forest at Chestnut Ridge Camp & Retreat Center is in the heart of North Carolina. The forest overlooks beautiful Lake Fellowship. It provides both the gift of community and also the quiet sounds of nature and restful solitude. In this forest, there are a variety of indigenous trees including White Oak, Shagbark Hickory, Birch, Maple, and Tulip Poplar.

The consecration service included a welcome from Rhonda Parker, Chestnut Ridge Center Director. Scripture readings were provided by Nick Jeffries and Molly Kacal. David Hamilton provided music for the event. Bishop Gwinn consecrated the soil and Forester Terry Hackett spoke about the varying and unique forests of Chestnut Ridge. Hackett also affirmed, “For me, however, the ecology of this forest is only part of the allure. It is the healing power of these woods that make Camp Chestnut Ridge truly unique. It is the spirit of this forest that draws me here. I hope your spirit will also find solace among these trees.”

Rhonda Parker, Center Director added, "The addition of an EcoEternity Forest at Chestnut Ridge completes our mission to make the love of Christ visible to the world from the cradle to the grave. This forest demonstrates faithful stewardship of creation through our lives and in our deaths. It embodies the hope that we proclaim in Christ Jesus: even though we die, yet shall we live."