Smokies Application
Throughout Scripture, God often meets His people in places of quiet, challenge, and dependence. The wilderness has long been a setting where faith is tested, strengthened, and clarified. This trip to the Smokies is designed to create space for that kind of growth.
For six days, we will base out of Elkmont Campground and spend our time hiking, cooking meals together, sharing devotional times, and living in close Christian community. It will require physical effort, resilience, and a willingness to put others before yourself.
This trip is intentionally designed to shape students in several key ways:
Resilience
Daily hikes with elevation gain, outdoor living, and shared responsibility require perseverance. Students will have opportunities to push past comfort and grow in endurance — physically and spiritually.
Character
Extended time in close community has a way of revealing both strengths and weaknesses. We believe growth happens when students learn to respond with humility, patience, and love toward one another.
Community
Living, hiking, and preparing meals together builds deep bonds. This trip will require teamwork and a willingness to serve. Our prayer is that the unity formed on the trail strengthens students’ commitment to Christian community at home and in the church.
Leadership
Leadership opportunities will be built into the week. Students will be given responsibility, encouraged to take initiative, and guided through reflection on what leadership looks like in everyday life.
Delight in Christ
Above all, our desire is that students would grow in their love for Jesus. Through time in God’s Word, prayer, and reflection in creation, we hope students leave with a clearer vision of who God is and a deeper dependence on Him.
