Rev. James Todd served as the director of Rolling Ridge from 1976 to 1987, where he demonstrated a remarkable gift for hospitality and creating inclusive spaces. Despite experiencing a challenging childhood marked by family difficulties, Jim transformed his early experiences into a lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and youth development. His passion for reclamation and transformation was evident in his work, particularly in welcoming and supporting all people at Rolling Ridge. Jim's motto, "People Places, Sacred Spaces," captured his vision for Rolling Ridge, and after his death in 2022, planted the seeds of inspiration for the Todd Hall Renovation Project.

In November of 2023, Rolling Ridge held a memorial service and listening session, where we reflected together on Rev. Jim Todd's legacy at the Ridge, and imagined new possibilities for the Niantic room. It was a rich and beautiful time together. We launched the Todd Hall renovation project as a major focus for Rolling Ridge in 2024.

Since then, we've raised over $20,000 and completed Phase 1 of the fundraising project, with Phase 1 work beginning in December of 2024. We're replacing major components of the floor, walls, ceiling, lighting, and HVAC systems to make the room clean, beautiful, and comfortable.

We're halfway through Phase 2 fundraising, which will breathe new life into Todd Hall, adding furniture, furnishing, a mural dedicated to Jim Todd, and a modern audio-visual system to preserve his love of music and movement. We'd love to have your help in crossing our fundraising finish line for Phase 2!

A Vision for Todd Hall

‍Imagine a space that seamlessly combines beauty, comfort, and functionality: an open-concept hall with high quality flooring, enhanced natural and overhead lighting, and a clean and inviting color palette. It will feature temperature-controlled heating and cooling systems and provide easy access to the outdoors—a sanctuary that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.

‍Inspired by Jim’s dynamic ministry, we envision a space that offers new possibilities for the future of Rolling Ridge. We are reimagining a space that is designed for a multitude of ministry settings, including:

• Active Learning Space, able to host educational workshops on Christian social teachings, justice and peace activism, and pressing global issues.
• A Creative Studio, connecting Jim’s love of music and dance with our new Artist’s Collaborative, as a place to bring together spirituality and the arts.
• Eco-Spiritual Classroom, accommodating retreats on nature spirituality and environmental stewardship, with outdoor access and indoor amenities, honoring Jim’s deep love for the natural world.
• A Wellness Oasis, as a venue that connects body and spirit, able to host indoor labyrinth walks, massage and wellness therapy, yoga and bodywork sessions, and other physical activities.
• A Community Hub, serving as a gathering place with flexible seating arrangements to accommodate group gatherings, social functions, and an ‘Art and Earth Cafe.’

Learn More

Want to learn more? Please contact Rev. Michael Reed, Associate Director at Rolling Ridge, to learn more, volunteer to help, or ask more questions. You can contact him by email at michael.reed@rollingridge.org, or by phone at (978) 716-2223.

We also invite you to read this article, written by Michael Reed, on the work of Mary Todd in keeping Jim's legacy alive for herself and for future generations.