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2022 Alaska Young Adult Institute
July 6, 2022 @ 10:00 pm - July 17, 2022 @ 10:00 am MDT
This program accepts only 20 participants.
Early Bird Registrants receive $100 discount.
Join the Brothers and Sisters of St. John and other Catholic young adults ages 20 – 35, July 7 – 17 and discover God in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Experience the rhythm of the liturgical observances of the Community of St. John. Early in this program we will be hiking the 24 mile Crow Pass Trail, well-known in Alaska as part of the historic Iditarod trail. For the 4 days of our backcountry adventure we’ll brave the challenges of crossing the glacial waters of Eagle River while also forging new friendships immersed in God’s creation. Following our hike, we will gather at the retreat center near Anchorage, with its stunning Chugach Mountains rising up on the fringes of the city, to continue theology and philosophy as part of our daily rhythm.
Please be aware, the hiking we will partake in consists of highly strenuous, technical routes such as crossing boulder fields. At times, we will hike without marked trails (back-country) and on uneven terrain with steep elevation gains for several hours. Additionally, participants must be able to carry a backpack while hiking filled with personal and group gear weighing about 40 pounds. At different points during the hike the weather conditions can range from 80 degrees and sunny to 30 degrees and sleet. There is no cell phone service. The camp sites have no facilities. You must be in shape and fit enough to walk steeply uphill, continuously for 3 miles, carrying a 40 pound backpack. A good attitude is required.
We will explore this year’s theme: “Affirming God’s Existence: the Darkness of Doubt to the Illumination of Truth”. Expect days that are dynamic and thought-provoking affording you a chance to discern your place as a young adult in the church as well as to search for truth and why it is important.
Participants can expect to share a bedroom with another person and to use shared bathrooms. Meals will be provided.
If you have any questions please email [email protected]