On Thursday, 24 September, which is marked as Heritage Day in South Africa, the youth Eco-champs of the Diocese of Christ the King gathered at the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve for their heritage hike. For the eco-champs, the event was more than just an outdoor adventure; it was a spiritual journey that combined fellowship, prayer, and the celebration of God’s creation.
One of the highlights of the day was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist in nature. Encountering the body and blood of Christ under open skies created a profound harmony between faith and the natural world. This moment echoed the many biblical journeys where God revealed Himself in the wilderness, like Moses meeting God on Mount Sinai, and Jesus retreating to the quiet hills to pray.
Reflecting on this sacred experience, the young people were reminded of their calling not only to love one another but also to act as faithful stewards of the earth. Sharing the Eucharist outdoors became a powerful sign of the Church’s care for creation, echoing the spirit of the Season of Creation observed worldwide.
There is something deeply meaningful about walking through the beauty of God’s world. Hiking not only provides physical exercise and excitement but also invites us to step away from the busyness of daily life and encounter God in the stillness of nature.
The hike also offered a time for fellowship and community. Walking together through valleys and up mountain paths, the group shared stories, laughter, and prayer, strengthening their bonds as young eco-champs in Christ. Many returned home with hearts uplifted and spirits renewed, physically refreshed, spiritually grounded, and more deeply aware of God’s presence in all of creation.
by Manana Rooi
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