From Grace to Grace

Pilgrimage Presentation

2010-09-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

The end of the pilgrimage, yet the beginning of our journey!

2010-07-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

Taken in Sequoia National Park. Looking up into God's beautiful creations!!

As you scroll through this blog, realize that you are starting from the end of our journey, and going back to the beginning. At the bottom of each page is a link to go to older posts. Please follow the link and learn more about the pilgrimage of these wonderful youth.

This pilgrimage was about seeking God in new faces, and new places. During this journey they had to learn how to deal with others around them, their environment, their circumstances, and their frustrations, all outside their personal comfort zones. As one of the leaders on this journey, I can tell you there were frustrating times, but there were also joyous, laughing, happy times. God was with us during all of it! I observed a growth not only in their relationship with God, but with each other, and within themselves! I was privileged to witness this transformation.

This pilgrimage was a huge success. The kids either connected or reconnected with God, created lifelong friendships and found out more about themselves in the process. As you look at this blog, see the pictures, read the lessons learned, the silly quotes of the day, the "aha" moments, the service projects performed. Know that this pilgrimage was a journey, that I am certain will continue for many years to come.

pilgrims enroute to Michigan!

2010-07-21T15:29:00.001-07:00

Pilgrims made it home! What a wonderful experience! As I said before we departed for our own beds in the wee hours this morning, it was a pleasure seeing you grow spiritually and emotionally! Now the hard part begins! Bringing what we've learned on this journey - home! God Bless you all!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

2010-07-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Drew in his fancy glasses! There is a story behind the glasses. Ask him!
At San Francisco Airport, waiting patiently for our departing flight home!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 Linda’s Prayer Day
Theme: Bringing God Home
8:00 am Wake up
8:30 am Breakfast (continental breakfast provided) – morning prayer
9:00 am Pack up/leave for airport
9:30 am Drop off rental vans 10:00 am Arrive at SFO 12:15 pm Depart for Grand Rapids – noon prayer Lunch provided on plane CO254 SFO - CLE 12:15 -
7:44pm – dinner prayer (dinner CLE Airport) CO3107 CLE - GRR
8:50 - 9:45 pm (Evening Prayer)

Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Theme: Bringing God Home

We arrived at SFO early! That was a good thing! We checked in, and got Linda a wheelchair so she wouldn’t have to walk. Katie volunteered to carry her bag, and we’d meet her at the gate. What they didn’t tell us was that we could go through security with her! Katie was told to return to the counter and check her extra bag. Katie and I finally got things straightened out with the powers that be, and we met the others at the gate. Next, Kellie’s name was called over the public address system, and Chris & Kellie walked back to the check in counter, because I forgot our binder of information at the counter. Too many distractions!! All was well. Prayers were said on the floor of the airport. The plane was boarded.

Daily Questions:

· Where have you experienced the presence of God on this pilgrimage?

Yosemite
In the mountains and valleys
In the people of San Francisco
In the people we saw
In the people in the hostel
In our youth group
In the homeless shelter

· How will you bring God home?

By sharing with family and friends.
By listening to what God told me.
Bringing thoughts and ideas that I learned home.
Keep the presence that we felt with Him alive.

· What will you tell the congregation of Grace?

That we were successful
We experienced God in the magic in nature.
We learned through times of trial and frustration.
To simplify and have patience.
When we were frustrated on the trip, take a deep breath, and you'll get through it.
Don't put someone down.
We grew a lot stronger as a group! (Amen)

Highlight of the day:

Getting to Michigan
Seeing the lakes again
Seeing the sunset as we took off from Cleveland

Quote of the day:

What's Chris like, a hundred?

Our "aha" moment:

Chris isn't really 100!
You can only take two bags through the checkpoint, not three!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

2010-07-20T04:22:00.000-07:00

Another part of our service project in San Francisco. This time we packed groceries for the homeless, then served lunch at the senior center.
Linda sitting with her leg elevated, while Drew is getting advice from a guest.
Lots of appreciation for the youth from the senior center guests.
Learning about the gifts within us!
Helping serve up the meals!
Learning how to handle frustration with a smile!
Eager to pass out the delicious meals.
Our chef, Charles, along with Rosario, a guest and volunteer.
What a fantastic experience.
Waiting for our bus. Not exactly in the good part of town.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 Emma’s Prayer/Activity Day
Theme: Who is Jesus?
7:30 am Wake up
8:00 am Breakfast (continental breakfast provided) – Morning Prayer
9:30-1:30 Service Project (Senior center) Mallory Hasick noon prayer
1:30- Other afternoon activities (Museum of Modern Art, Exploratorium, or Zoo)
6:30 pm Dinner – dinner prayer
9:00 pm Evening Activity
9:30 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
10:00 pm Personal Time
10:30 pm Lights Out

What a day! We had some confusion as to what bus to take. When we figured out the bus situation, Max and Linda headed off to find a bathroom. On their way back, Linda fell and twisted her foot. She was a trooper and kept up with the group, despite the pain. We arrived at the senior center and had her elevate and ice her foot. (We found out later, it was not fractured) The kids had several heartwarming stories to tell us, after serving meals at the senior center. We met some amazing people who organize all of this, from Mallory Hasick to Charles the head chef. This program teaches a select group of homeless individuals to become chefs. They train, then intern at upscale restaurants. Charles told us that some of them compete with graduates of well known culinary schools and get gainful employment. After a pizza lunch, we caught a bus to the DeYoung Museum. Linda was given a ride around the museum with her foot elevated. After the museum it was off to Fisherman's Wharf for dinner.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Theme: Who is Jesus?

Where did you see Jesus today? What was he doing?

In the trees.
In the guy at the Sr. Center who said everyday just gets better and better. Yesterday was great, today is greater, and tomorrow will be even better. (Drew's story)
In the guy who told me that my smile shines all the way to heaven. (Kellie's story)
In the lady who was talking to Drew and I and gave us hugs. In the eyes of the lady in the green, and the chef because they really cared for these people.
In one of the clients who also helped us by showing us how to pack the food in the grocery bags.
In Raymond, one of the student chefs.
With the homeless person in the sleeping bag.
In the helpful lady on the bus. She helped us get off at the right stop and find the museum.

Why do you think you saw him where he was?

Because Jesus’ mission was to help people in need. The ones society has abandoned; the people in the Sr. Center were these types of people. He was trying to show us the Good Samaritan in the people who worked there.
He wants us to know that he is there, not hidden, but out and about.
It caught me off guard, tapped me on the shoulder, and stopped me for a reason. What the gentleman had to say was important.

What did Jesus ask of you today? Did you respond?

Patience.
Flexibility.
To serve people we did not know and would not see again.
To work outside your comfort zone.
To be smiling.
To be myself and the reward was that it made the people feel good.
Smile every once in awhile.
To listen. I almost didn’t, and then God got right in my face, and made me listen.(Drew)
To be strong.

Highlight of the day:

Kellie being waved at from a stranger outside the bus, and showing her his belly!
The DeYoung Museum
The guy at the Senior Center. (Kellie)
The chef at the Senior Center
Ben & Jerry’s
Calling Dylan, and singing Happy Birthday to him!

Quote of the Day:

“Julio, you are a very funny man” (Linda said this to a guest at the senior center)
“We’re glad you came, and we’re glad you’re leaving.” (Sr. Center guest)
“Our bangs like to have parties on the sides of our faces”

Our “Aha” moment:

Looking at the number of people at the senior center, and realizing that it was only a small fraction of the homeless people in San Francisco.
“Maybe we should listen to Barb more often”

updates from the pilgrims

2010-07-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

The pilgrims have added to the blog entries and edited previous ones! Scroll down for glimpses of their adventures.

Monday, July 19, 2010

2010-07-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

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Enjoying a fun meal prepared by Bob and Chris. Lots of laughter and silliness.

Chris and Emma working the soil at one of our service projects in the city, The Free Farm.
A group of us working the soil, preparing the bed for collard planting.

Walking the labyrinth at the Free Farm. Lots of distractions, and hard to stay focused.
Some worked harder than others!!
Working the compost
Showing their hard work!
Planting in the prepared bed.
Bob bringing us some water prior to planting
Griff giving us some direction on how he wanted the plants arranged.
Preparing the soil
Loving every minute of working in the soil!

Monday, July 19, 2010 Hannah’s Prayer/Activity Day
Theme: Seeing God in different faces
7:30 am Wake up
8:00 am Breakfast (continental breakfast provided) – Morning Prayer
9:00 -12:00 Service Project (Community Garden, http://thefreefarm.org/) Joshua “Griff” Griffin, Environmental Justice Missioner 12:00-2:00 Lunch in Chinatown - prayer
2:30 pm Chinatown tour
3:30 pm Afternoon activities (Zoo, Aquarium by the Bay, etc)
7:30 pm Dinner – dinner prayer
8:30 pm Evening Activity
9:00 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
9:30 pm Personal Time
10:30 pm Lights Out

Monday, July 19, 2010
We started out the day catching the bus for our service work at the community garden of Free Farm. Our contact, “Griff”, met us, and showed us what needed to be done. He was impressed with the work of most!! The boys were working on their rap song, hoping to complete it for a video presentation for our congregation. We walked the garden’s labyrinth, eating vegetables along the way. Then it was off to Chinatown, and find a quick meal, and get to our tour site. Our Chinese meal was very tasty, for most. Next we met our guide Sally, who showed us around Chinatown, the Tao Temple, the fortune cookie factory, all the back alleys and lots of historical information. We then headed to the Aquarium by the Bay on Pier 39. Back to the hostel where the adults cooked burgers. Off to bed.

Daily Questions: · Think about the different faces you have seen today.

I saw four different nationalities while we were working at the Free Farm, community garden. They stopped to see what it was we were doing.
Four Chinese women stopped and gave us a thumbs up sign.
Realizing that people could live in Chinatown all their lives and never leave and explore the world or even the rest of the city.
Old time friendships.
Not enough room in their homes, so they come to the park to socialize (their living room)
Bongo player. I gave money to him and he thanked me.
Bush man, dog man asking for money.

· What did you learn about their life, their struggles, and their joys?

Guys (Bushman, Dogman) were having fun doing a job that pays for what their daily needs were.
Saw a Chinese woman on the bus crying. Not sure what to do for her.
Chinese people not knowing the language, trying to raise money for their families.
Met a composer, originally from Wisconsin. He was writing a musical about the struggles of his great grandparents.

· What did you discover about yourself and your response to those you met today? What insights will you take home with you?

Not sure how to react to the crying woman. I wanted to help her, to see if she was okay, etc. Not sure how to help her.
Saw a blind woman trying to cross the street.

I am afraid of seeing homeless people; they represent failure, hunger, suffering. I learned to just be careful and not afraid.
I want to overcome my fear.
Felt nervous in Chinatown. Embarrassed, uncomfortable asking for directions.
Felt a lot of pity for people and the position they're in. (not having a freezer, living room, dryer)

Highlight of the Day:

Chinatown.
Working in the garden
Walking the labyrinth
Unable to meditate at the Cathedral labyrinth. Able to zone out here (garden labyrinth.)
The simplicity of the Cathedral labyrinth
The small paths and tight turns of the Cathedral labyrinth; a piece of art.
Getting glasses and turtle bread
Ate from the garden.
The smells and colors of the garden

Quote of the Day:

Hey Rat Brothers wake up
Last time I checked, trees don't have teeth.
Rub my turtle
Make sure you bring a canteen, make sure you bring duct tape, cuz canteens tend to spring a leak.
"Amen; oh whatever"
"blue one, yellow one I win" (slug bug)
This is not a broccoli plant but a sunflower.
The powder on the bagel was mold, not powdered sugar.

Watch the videos below. The one on the left was taken at a Chinese Restaurant, prior to our tour of Chinatown! The video on the right was created by Max and Drew as a sort of rap version of this pilgrimage. Enjoy!!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T05:12:00.000-07:00

Doing dishes after a wonderful dinner prepared by Kellie and Hannah. Preparing the meals together, and clean up afterward helped the kids build strong relationships.
Walking the labyrinth outside of Grace Cathedral, after the contemporary service on the labyrinth inside the Cathedral.
Linda loved looking around at the dancing saints on the walls of St Gregory of Nyssa.
The outside of St Gregory. We arrived with only a few minutes to spare! Thank you to Bob and his GPS!
Dancing Jesus and other dancing saints!
Our pilgrims, after a lively service at St Gregory of Nyssa.
Dancing Jesus!

Sunday, July 18, 2010 Max’s Prayer/Activity Day
Theme: Seeking God in Play and Prayer
7:30 am Wake up
8:00 am Breakfast (continental breakfast included) Morning prayer
10:45 am Holy Eucharist (St. Gregory of Nyssa)
12:00 pm Afternoon Activities (California Academy of Sciences, Botanical Gardens) – noon prayer sack lunch
4:30 pm dinner out – dinner prayer
6:00 pm Grace Cathedral (Contemplative Eucharist on the Labyrinth)
8:00 pm Evening Activity
8:30 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
9:00 pm Personal Time
10:00 pm Lights Out

Sunday, July 18, 2010

We finally found where we could purchase our City Passes with a credit card, and caught the bus to St Gregory of Nyssa. We arrived just in time for the beginning of the service. The sights and sounds were fantastic. The liveliness of the service was enjoyed by all. Some found it was harder to worship, and found it easier to simply observe, instead. The congregation welcomed us with open arms, and lots of instructions on how to actively participate in the ceremony. After church, we made a trip back to the hostel, grabbed a sandwich and off to the California Academy of Sciences. Then it was off to Grace Cathedral for a contemporary service on the labyrinth. Some found this service more enjoyable, more calming and peaceful. Afterwards, we walked the outdoor labyrinth. This was interesting, as there were several younger children coming through the labyrinth, going different directions.
Our first ride on the cable car! Lots of fun on our way back to the hostel.

Daily Questions: · We find God in moments of fun and delight. Identify some of those moments for you during this day. Where were you? Who was with you? Describe the moment.

Cooking with Kellie in the kitchen.
Walking in the water with Stephanie.
Rapping! (Drew and Max)
Sitting with Drew, Max, and Dani, talking.
Being at St. Gregory.
Sitting on the bus with Drew.
Laughing late last night with Stephanie, Dani, & Kellie.

· What was the highlight in the service at the Cathedral? St. Gregory of Nyssa? Did it help you experience God? How?

At Grace Cathedral:

Peacefulness, calming.
Holy
The sound, echoing.
Small group
Felt like we were in the temple of the Lord
Being in a large space and being such a small group, there was so much space for God to fill up.
It felt like we were in a very Holy place
It was the first place outside the National Parks that my confession of sin was heard. (more private)
It was like an attraction, a museum. It bothered us while we were in the service, that people were looking around.

St Gregory of Nyssa:

Dancing.
Always smiling, having a good time
Procession in was amazing
Genuine kindness of everyone.
Felt like you belonged there
They explained and talked to us.
A lot of times you have to be serious, but here it was more free spirited.
Able to see God in a different light
It was interesting to see the colorful Mediterranean style.
Very personal - no one was detached.
I liked how they accepted gay people.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

2010-07-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

Our entrance into the CITY!
Stephanie with two of the Brothers from St Damiano Friary.
The pilgrims with the Brothers of St Damiano Friary. They really enjoyed the service, dinner and conversation.
Our home in San Francisco. It was a rush to get here, drop off our bags, then drive to the Friary and find parking! Whew!

Saturday, July 17, 2010
Stephanie’s Prayer/Activity Day
Theme: God and Homebase
6:30 am Wake up (Dani & Katie prepare breakfast)
7:00 am Breakfast (bring your packed bags to breakfast) morning prayer
7:30 am Final cleaning/pack vans
8:00 am Depart for Fort Mason (Fisherman's Wharf Hostel - San Francisco)
12:00 pm Arrive Ft. Mason – noon prayer (lunch on the way?) Explore the Presidio/Golden Gate National Recreation Area, walk Golden Gate Bridge, walk to Lombard Street, get groceries & dessert for dinner at Friary
6:00 pm Mass at St. Damiano Friary (Open House) dinner provided San Damiano Friary
8:00 pm Evening Activity
8:30 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
9:00 pm Personal Time
10:00 pm Lights Out
Daily Questions: · Think about your family and friends at home - Who inspires you? Who challenges you? How? · Who do you look up to? Why? · Who are you missing?

We arrived in San Francisco safely! Kellie, Hannah, and Dani are super excited to finally be in the city. Had dinner at St Damiano Friary! Loved it! More to come later....We decided to sleep in a little this morning, then head to SF. It took a little longer than anticipated with the traffic, not knowing our way, etc. We finally arrived at the hostel, drop off our bags, and headed to St Damiano Friary. We made it just in time to make quick introductions, learn our part in the service, begin the service. Afterward, we enjoyed a fabulous spaghetti dinner with the Brothers and their guests. Then it was back to our dorm rooms at the hostel. Since we arrived late in the city, we didn't have time to really explore Golden Gate National Recreation Area, nor the Golden Gate Bridge like we had hoped. We did see the exit side of Lombard Street. Barb didn't like sitting on the hill below the crooked street.

Theme: God and Homebase
Think about your family and friends at home. Who inspires you? Who challenges you? How?

My neighbor Naomi challenges me. She thinks she's better than me.
My mom inspires and challenges me. She was a single mom, raising me and going to college. She challenges me to do what I aspire to be.
My brother and dad challenge me. Challenge me to go outside my comfort zone.
My older sister inspires and challenges me. She is successful, going to medical school, has a job, handles her life; pushes me and challenges me.
My dad and brother tell me to try everything, get my feet wet. My brother succeeded, and tells me to give 10% more, go first class. My mom inspires me by getting up at 4 am, is hardworking.
My cousin Russell, immediate family push me for greater goals.
My friend found her niche in life, overcame personal challenges. My parents inspire me. My dad followed his dream and made it a reality. My last boyfriend challenged me to make relationship work.

Who do you look up to? Why?

Sister Dani, who always pushed through things, always happy.
Haley - very different, with hair, sings, like her a lot.
My mom. despite being pregnant while she was young, she became successful.
My brother. never catches a break;moves past shortcomings; great personality;will miss him when he goes away to college.
My sister's boyfriend, who does what he wants without holding back.
My dad. He followed his dream, passion, took risks, created his company.
My grandpa. Whatever he wants to do he does it.
My friends, parents, grandmother. She was a single parent who raised 5 kids on her own, and taught me how to sew and cook. Looking forward to spending more time with her.

Who are you missing?

Not really missing anyone. I am transitioning, and will be leaving for school. I love my family, but am not really missing them. I am happy to spend time with the group, getting closer to God.
My family. Not really homesick.
My brother. Miss being there this week for him, as he was getting his wisdom teeth out. I am not there to entertain him.
My family and best friend Chloe. I consider her like my sister. Everyone in my family. My mom is always there. My dad, he's funny. My brother, who's really weird.
I miss my dog, my mom, Calvin and Hobbs (geckos). I am sure they've grown. Miss my other animals.
Kind of miss my dad.
My best friend Katie.
Nikoly. I miss people back home - Dad, dogs, friend Josh, Ryan, dogs, Mom.

Highlight of the Day:

skunk in the garden
Getting into the city
The Friary - "cool guys"!
Seeing new sites and walking into the Friary.
CITY! (Kellie)
Being in the car, laughing, listening to Max's tangents, dancing, singing, talking on the walkie talkies, walking after being cramped in the car.
The worship service at the Friary. It was different than usual.Finally able to recite the Lord's Prayer like we usually do! (different than the Prayer Book)
The whole evening at the Friary. Just to sit and converse and find things in common.

Quote of the day:

"No, the guy was looking at me" Max
"Snarf" (Dani's favorite word)
""If you punch someone in the face while you're wearing this ring, you will leave an elephant impression." (Br. JP showed the kids his ring)
"I think we have to stay off that street"

Our Aha moment:

Realized we made it to San Francisco.
The city is bigger than I thought it was.
Saw the skunk
I locked my key in my lockbox.

Friday, July 16, 2010

2010-07-16T04:07:00.000-07:00

Don't worry, we didn't let her eat any of this sugar pine cone!
Dani and Katie preparing breakfast!
The pilgrims sitting in front of one of God's magnificent creations. Finally seeing these giant sequoias. To know that these were here during Christ's time on earth was just amazing!

A little taste of just how small we are!
Bonding, playing a little frisbee after lunch.
Our prayer area, in God's Cathedral, under the tall trees.
Just sittin' around under the giant sequoias.
Enjoying some silly time, hoping that Emma would feel better.
Learning about each other and their willingness to try new things.
Helping to put it all in perspective, the roots of a giant sequoia.
Realizing how small you are, yet how important!
What a beautiful smile! (nice hair, too!)
Not sure what the riddle is all about, but enjoying the kids!
Our Beagle Wolf One driver. (Max created a story about beagle wolves, so we became known as Beagle Wolf One and Beagle Wolf Two, depending on whose car you were riding in.
Drew cooking us breakfast. Mmmmm Good!

Friday, July 16, 2010 Dani’s Prayer/Activity Day

Theme: Seeking the God of Wonder
6:00 am Wake up (Drew prepares breakfast)
6:30 am Breakfast (prepare/pack lunches for the day) Morning Prayer
7:30 am Vans to Sequoia NP (Grant & Sherman Trees) (sack lunches)
6:00 pm Dinner (Kellie & Hannah prepare dinner) dinner. Prayer
7:30 pm Clean areas/pack 8:00 pm Evening activity
8:30 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
9:00 pm Personal time
10:00 pm Lights out

Today was our silly day. Emma wasn't feeling well, so we just kind of hung out around the house, being silly, while she rested. The girls played with the boys hair, straightening, brushing, creating. Lots of laughter. Then Emma felt better, and it was on to Sequoia/King's Canyon. We saw lots of "big trees", and took lots of pictures. A mother bear and her two cubs were entertaining blocked cars along the road. We were graced with a beautiful amazing sunset on our way out of the parks. During our dark descent down the mountain a cougar sauntered out in front of Beagle Wolf 1, (our group name is Beagle Wolves, car one and car two) We heard all about it in Beagle Wolf 2, over the walkie talkie!! Had dinner in Oakhurst - wonderful pizza, before heading home! A really late night.

Notice the God of Wonder on our travels today. Notice where you experience a sense of awe and wonder. What has inspired you?

• The size of the trees- big, heavy and tall- mind blowing
• Strength and endurance of the trees through the fires
• Hollowed out trees were used for so many different things
• The sunset last night
• The cougar, baby bears, and deer (Beagle Wolf One had a cougar cross the road in front of them on our trek down the mountain out of Sequoia.)
Shadows of the mountains at night
• The steepness of the cliffs
• Color of the trees- red glowing color- phrase came to me, “the Glory of God”

Think of a song, poem, or quote and/or write your own to express what this pilgrimage means to you.

• I can only imagine by Mercy Me
• Lost (A writing that was left for pilgrims to find during our spirit walk.)
Stand still. The trees ahead and bushes beside you are not lost. Wherever you are is called Here, and you must treat it as a powerful stranger, must ask permission to know it and be known. The forest breaths. Listen. It answers, I have made this place around you, if you leave it you may come back again, saying Here. No two trees are the same to Raven. No two branches are the same to Wren. If what a tree or a bush does is lost on you, you are surely lost. Stand still. The forest knows where you are. You must let it find you. –David Wagoner
• Time to Pretend by MGMT
• All the Small Things by Blink 182
• Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show
• Poem-
I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in. – John Muir
• I’m on my Way by Mercy Me
• Columba’s Rock
• Psalm 126 on page 89 in our hour by hour prayer books.
• “Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful; for beauty is God’s handwriting-a wayside sacrament.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Highlight of the Day

• Beauty Day!!
• We were able to go to see the trees!
• To see the cougar, the baby bears, and the buck
• The sunset
• To just hangout and relax.

Quote of the Day

• “Beagle wolf 2… OH CRAP!!... I am beagle wolf 2!” (learning how to use the walkie talkies)
• “My buns are tight, they are giving me a headache.” (Kellie had buns put in her hair that were apparently too tight!)
• “Cougars? We don’t have cougars! We have mountain lions. Don’t scare me!” –southern girl (the fee collector at the entrance station, as we were leaving the park)
• “Ma’am! Ma’am! Please stop!” –southern guy (people were excited about seeing a chipmunk, and wanted Barb to stop walking so they could get a video of the critters playing)
• “The hour is not premium for the doing of the up.” – Pedro in a Ukraine accent (silly time in the car! You had to be there!!)
• “It is not many a day when I laugh into the toilet.” – Emma in a Ukraine accent (Another silly time, where you really had to be there!!)
• “Can I touch your buns?” (a comment regarding Kellie's hair buns)

Our “Aha” moments

• Walking through the hollow Sequoia tree
• The stump they had school on.
• California hoax not believing the Sequoia tree was not a real tree.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

2010-07-15T04:10:00.000-07:00

Reconnecting with God on top of Sentinel Dome. Be still and know that I am God. It was much easier to experience God amidst the peace and quiet of nature.
Pilgrims atop Sentinel Dome, with Half Dome in the background
Saying our evening prayers, after a day of hiking, and discovering. Another late night!
Starting our day off with a good breakfast before heading off to Yosemite for a long day of hiking, and seeking God in Nature.
Barb helping carry Stephanie's pack.

Some of us couldn't resist the temptation of climbing a fallen tree!
Max inside a trunk of a fallen tree.
Developing a friendship for life on this journey. Max and Drew up on top of Sentinel Dome.
Kellie enjoying God's beauty!
Taking in God's beauty!
Seeking God in Prayer and Play!
Max just loves God's creation so much!! I think he was just supposed to smell it, but.... well, you know!
Just had to stop!
Sisterly love sitting upon a rock on top of the world, Sentinel Dome.
Having fun hanging out with each other!
The boys keeping the rocks apart!
Another one of God's beautiful creations!
It may look like they were resting, but bonding was taking place!
Hannah soaking up some sun atop Sentinel Dome. What a glorious day. Delaney had given us some reflection time here, which helped bring God into perspective for a lot of us.
Drew thinking just how big this place really is.
Our hike to the top of Sentinel Dome for some glorious views of the Yosemite Valley below. It was a tough hike, but well worth the work! Lots of comments about how much easier it was to experience God.
Friendships, bonding, having fun!
Some thought the bark smelled like caramel.
Linda and Max stopping for photos!
Dani posing in front of the tallest waterfall in North America.
They are not sitting on the edge, I promise!
Enjoying new experiences, new friends, and a deeper relationship with Our Creator!
Trying to stay cool, while enjoying the experience!
The precursor sniff before the taste test!
Having fun before departing Glacier Point!
Our gadget guy, and GPS guru, taking a short break.
God created a lovely place for us to dine and praise Him! Then it was on to another "Spirit Walk". Good time for introspection and reflection.
God is always with us!!

Thursday, July 15, 2010 Katie’s Prayer/Activity Day
Theme: Caring for God's Creation
5:45am Wake up (Max prepares breakfast)
6:15 am Breakfast-Morning Prayer (MUST BE ON TIME - bring everything needed for the day)
7:00 am Vans to Yosemite (Glacier Point)
9:00 - 4:00 Hike with guide, Glacier Point (lunch provided) – noon prayer
6:30 pm Dinner (Stephanie prepares dinner) -dinner prayer 8:00 pm Evening Activity
8:45 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)
9:15 pm Personal time 10:00 pm Lights out

Our second day with Delaney! Today we hiked up to Sentinel Dome, where the expansive views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Falls were just amazing!! We stopped to smell the bark of the Jeffrey Pine, which had an aroma of caramel. Chris loves caramel, so his quote was, "If the bark tasted as good as it smelled I’d eat the bark.” Our Park Ranger actually chewed a piece of bark, just to try it! We enjoyed a few moments of silence enjoying the Holy Spirit as he moved each of us in our own way! Then it was on to lunch, before our hike onto Taft Point. At Taft Point, some overcame their fears and looked over the guard rail, looking down several thousand feet to the valley below. We were graced by a Perigrin Falcon flying over our heads. Then it was back to the cars, and on to Glacier Point. Hannah was lucky enough to find another visitor to speak French to! Said our goodbyes to Delaney, and on to Mariposa Groves to see some "big trees!" Home to dinner to Stephanie's delicious pasta creation!

“God saw that it was good.” How are we messing it up? What steps can we take to better care for the good creation?

• Humans are throwing trash onto the ground
• What people do effects the eco system in the area and also other areas- SF pollution- travel to Yosemite
• Using chemicals carefully to avoid polluting environment. (H2O)
• Leave no trace
• Being conscientious in general
• War is destructive
• Disappointed to see smog- such a beautiful majestic place.

What will you do differently when you go home to show your care/concern for creation?

• Downtown pick up trash, recycle
• Drive less, ride your bike or walk, carpool
• Recycling
• Don’t be as wasteful- food; conserve H2O
• Plant trees
• Lake shore cleanup
• Go out of my way to pick up trash and recycle
•

Highlights of the Day

• Lizards
• View on Sentinal Dome
• Chipmunk that tried to eat Stephanie
• Spirit walk
• Chickadees saying cheeseburger
• Peregrine falcon
• Taft Point looking down at the railing (some had a fear of heights, and this was a fear they were able to overcome)
• Lots of picture taking
• Views and scenery
• Learned how to use panoramic option
• Getting in the car
Chris eating tree bark

Quote of the Day

• “That is not the way!”
• “If the bark tasted as good as it smelled I’d eat the bark.” (Chris loves the taste of caramel)
• “You think I look like a troll doll?”
• “Green Glass Door” ( a riddle the kids were trying to solve)
• “Yeah that’s what I usually hear when I take my hair down, I look like Jesus.” (Delaney had his hair in a ponytail and took it down)

Our “Aha” moments

• Almost falling in the fissures
• Small girl carrying a pine cone almost as long as she was
• Taft point!
• Seeing pointy snow covered mountains from on top of Sentinel Dome
• The glaciers were the first to be photographed
• To be near something that Ansel Adams photographed. (weathered tree)

Wednesday Update from the Pilgrims

2010-07-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

News from Barb: (no cell phone reception or internet at Sugar Pines). Positivity is keeping the group afloat in Yosemite Valley. The group is sitting in the meadow in front of "Half Dome" eating pizza sandwiches. Smells of Ponderosa Pine and Incense Cedar waft by. Drew Says, "We're having a great time." Dani says, "Snarf". Yosemite falls is cascading, the backdrop for many photos of the group. Today was a challenging hike through "Spider Cave", not named after it's arachnid inhabitants, but named for the physical dexterity required to travel through. Despite the apprehension of some, a few bruises, and guiding each other through 45 minutes in the dark, the group emerged! Quote of the day: "Go toward the light!" During prayer, the youth have shared some special prayers they have written in preparation for this journey. They will embark on their service project this afternoon, and tomorrow will encounter "Glacier Point" and "Sentinel Dome". God bless!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

2010-07-14T04:01:00.001-07:00

One of the views of Half Dome, Yosemite NP.
Digging up blackberry bushes at Yosemite NP. This was part of our service project through Yosemite Institute. Here Emma and Stephanie working hard together.
All digging and pulling those invasive blackberry bushes. Hot, dirty, work!
Cooling off in the Merced River. Lots of splashing, bonding, and plain having fun together.
The group in Yosemite NP, with Yosemite Falls in the background.
Our Yosemite Institute guide, Delaney Sharp. He was wonderful with the kids, held their attention throughout the day!
Emma, preparing dinner! Delicious!
The kids enjoyed climbing up then sliding down this big rock!
Our trek to dig blackberry bushes. Very hot today. Close to 100 degrees.

Delaney sharing his knowledge of the history and resources of the park.
Sliding off the rock!
The kids' first impression of some large trees!
More digging of the blackberry bushes!
Drew digging blackberry bushes.
Heading into the cave area, where we were going to do a team building exercise.
Emma in front of Yosemite Falls
Coming out of the cave!
Another emerges from Spider Cave.
They, too, made it out successfully, despite not wanting to go inside.
No one was allowed to stay outside of the cave. We all had to rely on each other to make it through the cave. This was great for team building, confidence building, and communication skills. Success on all of the above! Fears were overcome, the bonding began.
A gorgeous view of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls.
Posing for the camera!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 Drew’s Prayer/Activity Day

Theme: Finding God in Nature

5:45 am Wake up (Adults prepare breakfast)

6:15 am Morning Prayer @ Breakfast (Must be on time - Bring everything needed for the day)

7:00 am Vans to Yosemite (Yosemite Lodge)

9:00 am Hike with guide, Yosemite Valley, Spider Caves, stewardship project (lunch provided – noon prayer)

4:00 pm Meet back at vans (drive to Mariposa Grove)

6:30 pm Dinner (Emma prepares dinner) dinner prayer

7:30 pm Evening Activity

8:30 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)

9:00 pm Personal time

9:30 pm Lights out

Daily Questions:

· "In the beginning God created ... and saw that it was good." Reflect on all that you have seen today that was good and beautiful.

· Does your experience of the beauty of nature deepen your faith in the Creator God?

Our first day in Yosemite. The ride there was extremely curvy! Some exciting moments as the kids saw the mountain views for the first time. Lots of "WOW's"!! We got up at 5:45, after not many hours of sleep. I think 5!! We met our Yosemite Institute Guide, Delaney Sharp, and he immediately was liked by all! What a treasure. We hiked to Lower Yosemite Falls, and went into the dark for a team building adventure in Spider Caves. Some were reluctant to go in, as Stephanie said, "This is not an entrance"! We all had to learn to communicate with each other and trust one another. Go toward the light was our mantra, as we all appeared at the other end, safe, dirty, and a little bruised! All were chatting excitedly, talking about their experiences within the cave! Then it was on to lunch and our Spirit walk in Cooks' Meadow. How moving! The Holy Spirit was definitely with us! We arrived to our "home" at Sugar Pine rather late, and exhausted, and Emma cooked us a delicious meal, and it was off to bed.

“In the beginning God created… and saw that it was good.” Reflect on all that you have seen today that was good and beautiful.

• All of the mountains and cliffs “regular dome”
• Everything is big and majestic and makes me see how large and powerful God is
• The Giant Trees and tiny things, acorn woodpecker, stellar jay, fawn male deer
• Yosemite Falls
• Cross section on Sequoia > 1000 years
• Acorn pounding wholes- generations old- Awhaneechee
• Experienced Spider Cave, working together inside the cave
• All in the Merced River splashing and becoming more comfortable with each other having fun
• House sized boulders
• People looked like baby sugar ants standing next to waterfall (lower Yosemite Falls)

Does your experience of the beauty of nature deepen your faith in the creator God?

• Yes- makes you realize something bigger, human race is not dominate
• Standing in valley and looking up is so huge unbelievable, mind blowing miracles of God
• Complexity of nature- woodpecker hides the acorn, then harvests it and feeds off the insects that feed of acorn.
• Delaney explains how the acorn woodpeckers tongue works; birds family support dominant birds to mate and the rest of the family does not.

Highlights of the day

• Eating lunch at Cooks Meadow (praying in the meadow, too!)
• Spirit walk through Cooks Meadow (very emotional for some)
• Seeing park for first time- initial drive in
• Showering
• Scenery- seeing all of it!
• Dunking head in Merced River
• All of the laughing
• The cave
• Getting out of the cave

Quotes of the day

• “Can I go climb that?”
• “That is not an entrance!” (Stephanie not wanting to go inside Spider Cave)
• “The sky’s up there!”
• “Did you just touch my butt?” (comments like this were numerous in the cave, since we had to be within arms reach of each other, and it was dark!)
• “Max! Where are you?” (not within arms reach?)
• “We were able to experience our hunger muscles today.”
• “Go to the light!” (leaving the cave and seeing daylight again)

Our “Aha” moment

• Spirit walk (very emotional, enlightening)
• Bumping heads on rocks (listening to directions)
• Obsessed with the soil (couldn't believe how rich it was, how dark)
• Impact of white people moving in on Ahwahneechee Tribe
• Want to learn more about the Ahwahneechee
• Realizing we are not in Michigan anymore (perhaps there is another world outside our own)

Max earns a security merit badge

2010-07-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

Max remembers large knife and leatherman in his suitcase from previous trip--when Grand Rapids airport security finds them! Boyscout motto: "always be prepared!" They were then safely stowed in the checked baggage.

Despite the extremely long day of travel, we made it in one piece. God was with us in so many ways. We had several signs along the way, as Hannah would point out.

Touchdown complete

2010-07-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Pilgrims have safely landed on the west coast!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

2010-07-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

Layover in Cleveland, then on to San Francisco.
One of many late nights traveling.
Sugar Pine Christian Camp, Guest house.
Kellie's activity day, making string bracelets. Lots of fun! Drew cut his short. Max wanted his thicker. The group received comments on how well behaved they were.

Kellie leading us in prayer in the airport, using the Hour by Hour prayer books. The kids were wonderful about reading!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010 Kellie’s Prayer/Activity Day Theme: Seeking God in the Journey

3:15 am Wake up!

4:00 am Grand Rapids Airport Morning prayer

6:00 am Departure CO2904 GRR -- CLE 6:00-6:52 am CO555 CLE -- SFO

9:10 - 11:19 am Lunch on the plane

12:00 pm Pick up vehicles (noon prayer upon arrival)

1:00 -4:30 Drive to Oakhurst -(207 miles) Get Groceries, then on to Sugar Pine Christian Camp. (Dinner along the way)

7:00 pm Evening Gathering (prayer/reflection)

7:30 pm Personal Time

9:00 pm Lights Out (midnight Michigan time) Daily Questions:

Well, we didn't manage lights out by 9:00pm. We didn't arrive to Sugar Pine until closer to 10:30 pm, California time!! We were all very exhausted. Some of the kids had never flown before, and did very well. Some frustrations along the way, but we made it safely. We were short one bed at our guest house, but we managed to get some sleep, ready for hiking in the morning. We prayed in airports, and restaurants, receiving compliments from other travelers about how well behaved our group of teens was. It made me proud to be one of their leaders!!

Travel can be challenging and, at times, frustrating. What have been the challenging and frustrating times for you today?

• Long day! Awake for 23 hours.
• Stressful sitting in a crowed area for 5 hours.
• Feeling like we weren’t getting anywhere.
• Drive took twice as long as it should have.
• Meals and time zone messed up.
• Getting really sick of bananas and muffins.

Notice acts of kindness throughout today’s travel. Have you been the recipient of an act of kindness today? Have you offered another act of kindness?

• Waving to random people.
• The cashier let Max use the bathroom even though it was for employees only.
• Rescuing knife and leatherman out of Max’s carry on bag.
• Flight attendant was cheerful and helpful. (especially giving more sugar to Dani!)
• Chris had a cup of coffee waiting for Linda
• Passenger held our binder while we were loading our luggage on the overhead compartment
• Good comments about our group from different people
• Picking up suitcases without being asked
• Stephanie assisted a French lady find salt in the store

Where do you think God has been evident on this journey?

• There was a "sign" when we saw the shampoo and soap label had "San Francisco" on them, in the Grand Rapids hotel.
• In the view of the mountains and the lakes from the plane.
• He was with us because we all stayed safe and we didn’t breakdown.

Highlights of the day

• Laying in bed
• Stretching out our legs
• Hannah running out into an orchard picture (at the Grand Rapids Airport, mural)
• Finally not being sick (air, car sick!)

Quote of the day

• “Do we need our bags?” (Max leaving his bag at the counter!)
• “I really like your eyeballs.”
• “You are delaying the departure of this train.” (Barb's backpack was sticking out the door)
• “Is there really a floating mall in the sky?” (sky mall catalog!)
• “Does the Marauders Map really work?”

Our “aha” moments

• Attempting to bring a knife on the plane. (He forgot he had it in there!)
• Max having his unicorn hunting license (No clue!)
• Go get in doesn’t mean go back into the hotel, it means get in the taxi. (Katie went back in the hotel instead of going to the taxi!)

2010-07-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

COLUMBA’S ROCK

Delightful it is to stand on the peak of a rock, in the bosom of the isle,

gazing on the face of the sea.

I hear the heaving waves chanting a tune to God in heaven;

I see their glittering surf.

I see the golden beaches, the sands sparkling;

I hear the joyous shrieks of the swooping gulls.

I hear the waves breaking, crashing on the rocks, like thunder in heaven.

I see the mighty whales.

I watch the ebb and flow of the ocean tide; it holds my secret,

my mournful flight from Eire.

Contrition fills my heart as I hear the sea; it chants my sins,

sins too numerous to confess.

Let me bless Almighty God, whose power extends over sea and land,

Whose angels watch over all.

Let me study sacred books to calm my soul;

I pray for peace, kneeling at heaven’s gates.

Let me do my daily work, gathering seaweed, catching fish,

giving food to the poor.

Let me say my daily prayers, sometimes chanting, sometimes quiet,

always thanking God.

Delightful it is to live on a peaceful isle, in a quiet cell,

serving the King of Kings.

SAINT COLUMBA’S PRAYER

Kindle in our hearts, Oh God.

The flame of love that never ceases,

That it may burn in us, giving light to others.

May we shine forever in your temple,

Set on fire with your eternal light,

Even your Son Jesus Christ,

Our Savior and Redeemer.

Amen

J2A Pilgrim blessing

2010-07-11T19:07:00.000-07:00