Trips & Experiences 

Fellowship, Faith & Community are important at Grace.
​Trips and unique experiences are a key part of building deep community and faith. 

Two keys make these trips deeply impactful:
  1. Involve as many generations as possible.
  2. Choose a unique setting that is doable, fascinating, and inspires deep reflection and great conversations.

Wilderness Trips:
this is a unique experience Grace has offered since 2002

Learn about the purpose, expectations, list of past attendees, and examples of some of the recent excursions into the wilderness.
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Take a quick tour:

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non-wilderness experiences at Grace:

Trip to South Africa: 
Grace pioneered this immersion experience with Lekubu Parish 

Grace or Lekubu visited in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013 & 2016. 
Go to our synod or ELCA websites to learn more about this companion relationship with the Western Diocese of the  Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa. 

Visits & retreats with Greater Galilee
this relationship with a historic Black Church began in 1999

There have been annual visits as well as retreats at Crossways in 2010, 2012, and planned for 2018.

ELCA College Advent/Christmas concerts
begun by Grace in 2008, Crossways now leads this trip 

What if a Wilderness Trip doesn't interest me?

First - know that hesitation, fear, and disinterest is common. A Wilderness experience is unique and not something many have done.           
BUT if you don't go now you may never have this experience. AND the unique setting and format is worth breaking out of your comfort zone. PLUS this is more doable than you may realize. Talk to those who have gone before. 

9th graders - especially consider: 
  • Most other events/activities you are likely to be able to do another time. This experience with your parents and classmates is not possible to do another time.
  • It is significant when parent(s) go along but it is NOT necessary.
  • When health and other conflicts make it impossible to go - there are other significant opportunities the summer after 9th grade.

Porkies Trip

Join a variety of ages on a hike into Upper Michigan's Porcupine Mountains and overnight in a cabin or take your tent. This is an experience for all ages - whoever can hike!

Crossways Camping Ministries

Crossways has three sites - Waypost, Imago Dei Village, and Pine Lake. 
Crossways also has both summer programs and weekend retreats throughout the year.
There are Family programs, Grandparent/Kids programs, age specific programs (children, youth, adults), and Waypost Week for grades 1-12
See more at:  Crossways Camping Ministries

Why Grace connects with God's creation?

Several resources inspire and guide Grace to offer trips and experiences: 
​Many sources emphasize the importance of outdoor adventure: