Pilgrimages
The Holy Trinity Pilgrimage community welcomes everyone to join us whether for local walks, stay-at-home experiences, bus touring, walking, or backpacking journeys near or far. It is a wonderful way to meet and connect with others of faith while exploring and deepening your own spiritual commitment.
Travel With Intention: Pilgrimage is an ancient spiritual practice of journeying to a sacred space for a spiritual purpose. When we step out of our normal routine and travel with this intention, we create space for powerful transformation to occur in our lives. Over and over again, we hear how these experiences open hearts, build deep new friendships, deepen faith, and change the lens through which all of life is viewed. Our desire is to offer a variety of pilgrimages for folks in all seasons of life. In our experience the practice of pilgrimage is so powerful, we encourage everyone to join us on the pilgrim’s path.
Pilgrimage Opportunities: HT Pilgrimages are planned by Holy Trinity volunteers serving on the Pilgrimage Commission and others who work with spiritual leaders and travel professionals when appropriate and as needed to ensure that we create the best experience possible. Locations and schedule are agreed upon by the commission. Individuals coordinate and oversee the planning of each pilgrimage. If you have a suggestion for a future pilgrimage or want to get involved with the commission, please contact Betsey Horth, betseyhorth@hotmail.com
Year Round: Come walk with us on Thursdays at 6 p.m. We meet in the Holy Trinity parking lot and enjoy an evening of community as we walk and talk through nearby neighborhoods. We cover about three miles and finish with dinner at Corner Slice. Everyone is welcome.
2025 PILGRIMAGES
Fall Appalachian Trail Pilgrimage to Roan Highlands: This is the pilgrimage that was postponed last year due to Hurricane Helene. We will be backpacking 15-17 miles over the course of three days soaking in the fall foliage and panoramic mountain vistas. Led by the Rev. David Umphlett. Sept. 25-28, 2025.
Fall Appalachian Trail: Join us for a backpacking pilgrimage along a section of the longest hiking footpath in the world where fall colors and trail magic await. Backpacking, 3-4 days, October 2025 dates TBA
2026 PILGRIMAGES
Egypt: An epic journey by plane, boat, camel, horse cart, and foot to explore the roots of Christianity in Egypt, the birthplace of Christian monasticism. Ponder what it might mean, as the Desert Father Abba Lot says, “To become wholly fire.” Visit sites important to ancient Egyptian religion, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Sleep under the stars in the Sinai Desert and experience the famous hospitality of Bedouin people. Cruise down the Nile and visit many of the major ancient Egyptian tombs and temples. 16 days, April 7-23, 2026
Appalachian Trail Reunion: Come and reconnect with the trail and fellow pilgrims. Day hikes and camping, 1-2 days, April 18-19, 2026
Greenbriar Bike Trail: We are considering a 3-day bicycling pilgrimage along the Greenbriar River in West Virginia. The serene country lends itself to contemplation while in motion, quiet conversation, and riverside Eucharist. Please let Betsey Horth (betseyhorth7@gmail.com) or Bruce Bunce (bruce.w.bunce@gmail.com) know if you would be interested. They will be organizing some half-day bicycling opportunities as well.
Fall Appalachian Trail: Join us for a backpacking pilgrimage along a section of the longest hiking footpath in the world where fall colors and trail magic await. Backpacking, 3-4 days, October 2026 dates TBA
Mountains to Sea Trail: Three-day trip with two days of hiking. Section of trail TBD based on construction and lodging each night. Luggage ported from town to town. 3 days, April/May 2026 dates TBA