Before there were intercontinental railroads and interstate highways, there was the mighty Mississippi River. As a conduit of people, goods, information, and ideas, the Mississippi helped form major parts of this nation. The cities along its banks became hubs of commerce as well as laboratories for dreams both large and small. Memphis, Tennessee, is one such city: a city of “kings.” In the past, Elvis, Johnny Cash and Martin Luther King, Jr. were kings. Today music and barbecue are the reigning monarchs.
Join Wonder Voyage as we go on a missions trip or pilgrimage to this city of southern hospitality and explore the land of dreams. Immerse yourselves in the dreams of Civil Rights, artistic freedom, cultural identity and the dreams that God has for us. Partake of an adventure in history along the banks of the great river while seeking the face of God in the faces of people whose dreams are yet unfulfilled. Serve Him by serving others while you contemplate the huge dreams that God has for you.
Overview
- Ponder freedom, equality, and peace as you tour the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Consider your story as you listen to a local historian tell stories from this colorful town.
- Explore the city from the music on Beale Street to the splashing of the mighty Mississippi River.
- Experience the subtleties of real Memphis-style barbecue.
- Help with activities at a camp for inner city kids.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – Welcome to Memphis
After your arrival, we will settle into our accommodations and learn about the history of this famous city though a walking tour. Memphis possesses incredible diversity. From the lively, musical downtown, to its historic parks, to its quiet places of reflection of solitude, to places of dire need; Memphis offers much exploration and opportunities for service. - Day 2 – Modern Day Epics
Today will be a day infused by story. When was the last time you spoke with a homeless person? When was the last time you heard a homeless personʼs story? Memphis is a lively place but it is also a place where many of its residents are hungry and poor and without a place to sleep. We will not only serve them but listen to their stories as we attempt to follow Christʼs command to serve the “least of these.” - Day 3 – Fearing to Tread
Today we will be playing games, singing songs and sharing our time with mentally and physically handicapped people. It’s something a lot of us aren’t completely comfortable with. Prepare for a morning of service like no other. Today will change us. In the afternoon, we will have a time of reflection and contemplation sitting at the bank of the Mighty Mississippi. Mark Twain said that “The Mississippi River will always have its own way; no engineering skill can persuade it to do otherwise.” It is a good picture of God in our lives, and one we will think about throughout our day. - Day 4 – Chains
The National Civil Rights Museum was built around the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination: the Lorraine Motel in downtown Memphis. Many of us have never had to fight to be considered equal or human. Most of us are comfortable and valued and safe. This museum will take us back to the days of slavery up through the movement spurred most famously by MLK. Today promises to be one of deep, provoking discovery. - Day 5 – Rock nʼ Roll nʼ Ribs
You canʼt know Memphis without hearing its songs, and today weʼll be hitting Beale Street and some of the many musical venues offered by the city. Thereʼs life music of all sorts, in restaurants or clubs or performing arts parks. We could head to one of the many museums dedicated to rock and soul music. We could even visit the home of Elvis, the King of rock nʼ roll. Take your pick… - Day 6 – Departure
At your convenience, you will pack up and say goodbye to a fantastic week of exploration, service and encounter. What will you take home with you? The voyage is now in fact just beginning, and we pray that you carry fresh perspective and energy with you as you travel.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Memphis, Tennessee
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
