Caminamos con Dios (We Walk with God) Eucharist Hike, Saturday, July 29 (note date change!)

St. Francis taught that God speaks to us through two books: Holy Scripture and Creation. Celtic Christianity tells us creation is sacred because creation is made of God and we can experience God deeply both in sacred space of churches and in thin places, often experienced in creation. Caminamos con Dios Eucharist Hikes are designed by and led by the Rev. Bill Livingston. For several years, until COVID, these hikes occurred in Pisgah National Forest or DuPont State Forest but are moving to Kanuga. 

On these hikes, participants experience God through Scripture, through Holy Communion as the liturgy occurs along the trail, through being mindful of God’s presence in the creation we explore, and through the community built among those hiking. We gather at the trailhead to begin the liturgy, get to know one another as we hike, mindfully explore the creation surrounding us, pause to hear Scripture, hike in silence to hear God’s voice in the texts heard and in sights and sounds (over 30 bird songs were identified on the “preview hike”) surrounding us, pause to reflect on how God has spoken to us, continue hiking and end with the Holy Communion. 

Our Eucharist hikes are open to all and designed to accommodate a wide range of hikers. Hikes will be 3+/- miles with moderate ascent and last 3 hours, including the liturgy. We adjust the pace to accommodate all hikers. Hikers should bring sufficient water, sunscreen, and snacks. Raincoats and head coverings are recommended. No RSVP or reservation required. In case of inclement weather, if a hike is cancelled, the cancellation will be posted ASAP on Facebook: Caminamos con Dios Hikes. 

When we have volunteer musicians, we include music in the liturgy at the gathering and the closing Eucharist (which allows musicians to store instruments in their cars). If you would like to help by playing an instrument or being in the “choir”, please contact the Rev. Bill Livingston (rector_bill@bellsouth.net), and suggested hymns will be sent to you.

July 29 Hike: We will gather at 8:45 a.m. at St. Francis (outdoor) Chapel  (parking available on Kanuga Chapel Rd. and the Kanuga Inn parking lot across the road). The liturgy and hike begin at 9:00 a.m. This hike will include Rufus Morgan Trail and Long Rocks Trail, with readings and reflections occurring at vista views at High Rocks and Geyer Long Rocks. We will conclude with the Liturgy of the Table at noon. After the Eucharist/Hike, we will have lunch in community at the Kanuga Dining Hall. You are invited to either bring your own lunch or to purchase lunch ($15).

Please send any questions to the Rev. Bill Livingston at rector_bill@bellsouth.com.