About Holy Hikes
Holy Hikes is a church-wide eco-ministry network affiliated with the Episcopal Church, the Anglican Communion, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America developed with the goal of helping individuals be renewed in their relationship with the earth, the Church, and the Creator. Holy Hikes calls us beyond the walls of comfort, to take a step (or a hike!) towards reunion with the earth and all of its life and beauty.
Fun fact: Holy Hikes’ founder, the Rev. Justin Canon of the Diocese of California, is originally from Lexington, MI!
More Information
There will be several opportunities in 2024 to come together on a Saturday afternoon to participate in a Holy Hike. Our day includes hiking (of course!), hearing scripture and praying together, and fellowship. Hospitality will be provided in accordance with COVID directives at the time of gathering.
All hiking sites have been carefully selected to be relatively easy treks to ensure access for all generations and most mobilities. We expect to spend about 90 minutes on the trail, including time both hiking and stopped for prayer and reflection. Hikes will begin at 1p.m. In the case of rain, the date will be rescheduled.
We ask all participants to RSVP to let us know they’re coming and so that, in case of weather, we can notify you about any cancellations or postponements.
Schedule and Locations
We are looking forward to gathering together to hike through God’s creation throughout the spring and fall, across both Eastern and Western Michigan. Hikes begin at 1p.m.
- April 20 – Earth Day – Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary, Dowagiac
- May 18 – Day before Pentecost – Millennium Park, Grand Rapids
- June 15 – Farmer’s Creek at Oakdale, Lapeer
- August 24 – St. Bartholomew – Offield Family Working Forest Reserve, Petoskey
- September 21 – Holy Cross – Ringwood Forest, Saginaw
- November 2 – All Souls – Maple Hills Cemetery, Cadillac
FAQs
HOW SHOULD WE PACK FOR A HOLY HIKE?
For all participants to keep safe and healthy during our hikes, we ask that you pack the following items:
- Water bottle with plenty of water
- Bug spray (look for one that wards off ticks)
- Sunscreen
(Optional) - Bag chair, for fellowship at the trailhead
- Please wear close-toed shoes, comfortable for heavy walking.
WHO CAN COME WITH?
Holy Hikes are open to all – you do not need to be an Episcopalian or a member of a church to join. Bring friends!
There are no age limits to participation, but we do require that any minors (kids under 18) be accompanied by a designated adult.
CAN MY DOG COME?
It depends on the site. Know that, should the site permit dogs, it will be expected that all must be leashed and waste must be picked up and thrown away.
RSVP
There is no cost to attend any of the Holy Hikes events, but your RSVP helps us plan and accommodate COVID precautions.
Contact Person
Beckett Leclaire
Facilitator for Holy Hikes
holyhikes@eastmich.org