Mission, Vision & Values
In 1928, Bishop Kirkman Finlay envisioned a place in the mountains of Western North Carolina, rooted in the Episcopal Church, grown from the love of Jesus, and open to all people. We share the spirit of this place equally with all who desire its experience and affect in the world, and we welcome people of all religions, genders, ethnicities, nationalities, ages, abilities, sexual orientations and gender expressions.
Our Mission:
Kanuga is a gathering place inviting all people to connect with each other, nature and the Creator.
Our Vision:
To inspire a more mindful and compassionate world.
Our Core Values:
Service
We seek to awaken a world of good by providing programs that transform and nourish the soul for work beyond Kanuga.
Respect
We honor the presence and image of God in every person and offer radical hospitality to all guests while striving for a work environment that supports staff with living wages and quality benefits.
Sustainability
We treasure God’s gift of creation and commit to using and teaching sustainable models that have the least impact on our land and resources.
Stewardship
We give generously while using our inheritance wisely, utilizing our resources responsibly so that Kanuga is preserved for future generations.
Kanuga Blog
Discover what's happening in our mountain valley.

Face to Face
Conversations from Kanuga The Apostle Paul, in his hymn to love, wrote: “12For now we see in a mirror, dimly,[b] but then we will see face to face....
Beyond thoughts and prayers: what I learned on the first day of school
In 1972 I walked into an Open House to meet my first-grade teacher about a week before classes. She was a beautiful, kind woman in her mid-forties; ho...
A Love Letter to Kanuga
Following the initial weekend of Kanuga Cottage Retreats, we received some moving and meaningful feedback from guests. We share with her permission th...
Something For Everyone
Read more about our programming and special events.
