Mission Trip or Pilgrimage to Arizona

"Arizona… diversity, beauty and awe."

VOYAGE TYPE

Outdoor Adventure

When we think about Arizona, the first words that come to mind are diversity, beauty and awe. From the astonishingly lush Sonoran Desert to the breathtaking red rocks of Sedona, to the ancient and multi-layered Hopi and Navajo population, to the Grandest of Canyons in the world, Arizona has something to offer everyone.

Your group can choose to engage in a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking inspiring trails, exploring vast deserts, or white-water rafting the depths of the Grand Canyon. Opportunities also abound for learning about and serving the original North Americans on the Navajo reservation. No matter what you choose, a missions trip or pilgrimage to Arizona will lodge deep into the hearts and minds of those who cross her borders. Register for your voyage today!

Overview

Experience the most amazing outdoor cathedrals in the world, the Grand Canyon.
Join in a Taize service at the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona.
Take a scenic float trip along the Colorado River.
Step into the ancient dwellings of Arizona’s original inhabitants.
Take on a project on the Navajo reservation.

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 Arizona
Welcome to Arizona – get out your cameras! This week will be filled with shots of red rock formations, breathtaking canyons, picturesque scenery and unforgettable moments. As we embark on our journey from Phoenix to Flagstaff, we will take in the views of this spectacular state. Once settled into our home away from home, we will gather together to discuss our first impressions of the land and our expectations for the week ahead.
Day 2 – Exposure
In photography, exposure is the effect light has on film. This week will inevitably expose us to our God and Creator. Our response, however, is yet to be determined. A hike among the beautiful sandstone canyons of Red Rock State Park will bring us to place of quiet contemplation of our purpose for this journey. Afterwards, we will visit the eclectic town of Sedona before we venture to the Chapel of the Holy Cross for a unique Taize prayer service. Our evening will allow us time to process the day in group discussion and close with a Compline prayer.
Day 3 – Focus
One of the many purposes for pilgrimage is to remove us from the countless distractions at home. Today, we will get a zoomed-in look at the ancient homes of the Sinagua people with a remarkable hike the geological cliff dwellings. The afternoon will give us the opportunity to complete a high ropes challenge course. We will have to sharpen our focus and remove all diversions in order to safely navigate the elements. As we close our evening, we will write down anything that we feel is still blurring our purpose for pilgrimage.
Day 4 – Saturation
A short drive north will take us to an experience of a lifetime – the Grand Canyon. At its deepest point, the canyon’s walls descend more than a mile to the base. The panorama will be saturated with the varying hues of layered rock walls, foliage capped plateaus and the boundless sky above. This vista, doused with color, shows us that God has poured onto us His love and attention. At the edge of the canyon, we will celebrate Christ’s unfailing love with a special Eucharist.
Day 5 – Contrast
On our final full day, a short hike will bring us to the natural playground of Slide Rock State Park. The contrast of the rough, red sandstone against the cool, smooth water will be a beautiful subject for our photos this day. The hidden oasis of Grasshopper Point will be a great spot to spend a relaxed afternoon in a beautiful landscape. ln the evening, we will celebrate the wonderful week we’ve had so far over a special dinner and a time of Pass the Candle.
Day 6 – Farewell Flagstaff
As we pack up and say “goodbye” to Flagstaff, we will prepare our hearts for the next leg of the journey in Phoenix. May we remember that this life is a beautiful journey, and may we explore this world through the lens of faith.