Desert Pilgrimage
“Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”
Psalm 61:2
For thousands of years the desert has been a wasteland of bounty for the spiritual seeker. For the mystic, the words desert and wilderness refer to more than a particular topography--it is a place devoid of intrusions from the everyday world. The desert is the non-insular, unfamiliar place of change, challenge, and risk where creation and Creator become more evident than in the frenetic clamor of the city.
This Desert Pilgrimage will take us for a week into the high desert region of the Joshua Tree National Monument. A few days will be spent learning how to rock climb and then several days of backpacking will take us out into the desert itself for an up-close encounter with nature, ourselves, and our God. No previous experience of rock climbing or backpacking is needed - just reasonable fitness and a willingness to step beyond your comfort zone. You will learn how to rock climb, backpack and camp in a way that maximizes safety while respecting the environment.
Times of daily reflection and meditation will undergird our journey of faith and discovery. On this trip we will seek to be transformed from frantic tourists of this world into mystic pilgrims of God's creation.
Participants will fly into Southern California and then travel together to the upper Mojave Desert of the Joshua Tree National Park.
Approximate Cost: $250 plus transportation costs
What to bring: Gear list will be provided
Participants: 6-8
Level: Moderately strenuous
For information on future trips check the list of Scheduled Events.