Life On A Star 2
August 23 - 30, 2026
Theme: THE PERENNIAL PATH: ANCIENT WISDOM FOR A MODERN WORLD
Join us at LOAS2 in 2026 for "The Perennial Path: Ancient Wisdom for a Modern World," a week of exploring how timeless philosophic and spiritual insights from across the globe can be applied to our unique challenges and anxieties in the 21st century. We’ll be led by Dr. Peter Dlugos, who holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Virginia and is Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Bergen Community College. Through close textual study and contemplative exercises, Dr. Dlugos will guide us into reflection on some of the biggest challenges we face (the war for our attention, the polarization of our communities, the need to understand and practice interdependence, the need to rediscover the sacred in ordinary life) and how we can renew our natural strengths and together cultivate a virtuous and wise path forward.
Conference Chairs
Bill & Jen labaire
.We are very excited to be your LOAS 2 Chairs this year! We are planning a week that will include art, music, dance, stimulating conversations, rest and connection! We have been coming to Star since 2012 with our two sons: Wyatt, now in college and a Pelican, and Reed, now in high school who is a rockstar ice hockey goalie. Bill, who is learning to play the congas, has been a youth leader for many years, and by day teaches high school computer science. Jen, who has been a youth leader, youth coordinator and a member of the committee against child abuse, is by day a trial attorney practicing in criminal defense. We can't wait to see you on the Island!
Minister of the Week
Rev. Dianne M. Daniels is a Unitarian Universalist minister, spiritual director, and educator whose ministry centers on spiritual growth, reflective practice, and values-based living. She designs and leads integrative personal development programs grounded in Unitarian Universalist theology, weaving together faith exploration, reflective journaling, affirmations, and spiritual direction to support clarity, resilience, and personal transformation.
With decades of lived spiritual practice and experience in adult formation, Rev. Daniels brings a warm, accessible presence to her teaching—meeting people where they are while inviting them into deeper listening, authenticity, and compassion. Her work is especially shaped by the UU shared values of Love, Transformation, Interdependence, and Justice, and by a lifelong commitment to spiritual inquiry without dogma or shame.
Rev. Daniels currently serves congregations in Connecticut and facilitates workshops, retreats, and courses that help individuals and families integrate spiritual reflection into everyday life. She lives with her husband, her high-school sweetheart, and treasures time with her children, grandchildren, and extended family—especially in settings that invite rest, connection, and shared discovery.
Registrar
Please reach out to Alison with questions about accommodations and the registration process.
Youth Program
LOAS is alive with children’s laughter, creativity, and discovery. Children and youth are an essential part of our community. Youth groups meet each morning and afternoon to explore the island, create and perform, play and learn, and build friendships that often last a lifetime. Intergenerational activities weave children, youth, and adults together throughout the day and into the evening.
Star Island and the LOAS Conferences are committed to creating a safe community for all guests and adhere to a "Safe Community Policy.” This includes conducting background checks of all SIC staff and volunteers who work with children and implementing anti-harassment, anti-discrimination and child-abuse prevention policies. For more information please visit Safe Community Policy
Workshops
Week-long workshops are offered each day, with three gathering in the mornings and three in the afternoons. Some workshops welcome drop-in or casual participation, while others invite a deeper, shared experience through full-week involvement.
Workshops
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Writing Circle
Ellen Schmidt
When we meet others we say where we’re from and what we “do” in life within the limited patterns of most social or work settings. The Writing Circle is a refreshing way to discover different aspects of yourself and others in a warm, inspiring, and supportive environment. I define a writer as someone who writes - so whether you are a seasoned writer or would like to write for the first time, you are welcome to come to this workshop. Best of all, there is no wrong way to do this! Each day I provide a “spark”, an open-ended invitation that will kindle your memories, stories, and thoughts for a spontaneous short write. There is an opportunity, always optional, to share what you’ve just written. I have found that we often hear ourselves for the first time when we read aloud. You give a gift to listeners, who in turn give you a gift of attentive and deep listening. Feedback is always kind, encouraging, honest, and specific. Each workshop day is unique so feel free to attend one day, some days, or every day. Please bring your preferred writing device or implement and a notebook. You can find out more here: -
Alabaster Carving
Candis Dixon
yes you can
surprise yourself
set your mind free
even if only for an hour or two
with a smooth stone
in your hand
or on a sandbag
while you carve away
to reveal the form inside
warning: the only cure
for the obsession of carving
is to continue to carve
the stone
the tools
and bandaids provided -
Dance for fitness and confidence!
Alex Landau
Learn easy moves in a fun, accepting atmosphere and put them together for a dance fitness routine. There will be a variety of low impact dances and cardio dances, depending on interest and comfortability. Come groove with me to the music and learn some easy moves to break out at the next wedding (or to impress during mating season!)
Starbursts & Other Activities
In addition to week-long workshops, LOAS offers a variety of other activities. Starbursts are 45-minute, one-time afternoon mini-workshops—perfect for learning a new skill, trying something different, and enjoying a bit of spontaneous fun alongside the day’s other offerings.