Our Journey as a Traveling Monastery

Laurel Highlands Trail, October 13th, 2023.

So, it all began: 12 eager souls, ready to face whatever lay ahead of them. They stood at the trail head and prayed. Indeed prayer and charity permeated every aspect of this trip and ultimately brought us to its safe conclusion.

Friday (Day 1) would mark the steepest incline of the hike. We hiked from the Ohiopyle river valley up 1600 ft to the ridges of the Laurel Highlands. Despite Dr. Krom's assurances that it would be downhill from here this would not be the first or last ridge to be surmounted. Sadly, we would have to part with one of our comrades that evening, but we would be reunited with him after the trip.

Saturday we would recall the words of Daniel of old. "Wind and Rain, Bless the Lord!" There is potency and power in that verse, nonetheless it was hard to shout it with gratitude, when soaked to the bone as we were. Yet we did not despair; always there was joy in our hearts.

Sunday, we rejoiced to receive our Lord, with mass atop the mount. Our backs rejoiced to lighten our loads of what we found we really didn't need. Charging down the valley, to our overlook camp. Never has a Sunday sausage tasted so good.

Monday was our longest day. Sore feet; wet feet; finally sleep.

It was hard, yes, one of the hardest things many of us have ever done. Let that not deter you, worthy traveler, from the trail. Indeed, we hope you will come to share the joy we found in this project, this journey. For it is here in the mountains and woods that you can find God, yourself, and your neighbor again.

It is this sort of journey that sticks with you, almost, defines you. It remains because you have done something great, and hard, and good. We shall always cherish these days.

Click here for a map of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail; we went from Mile Marker 0 to Mile Marker 39.