Is It Time for a Pilgrimage? // M-Note 6.7.25

The idea of a pilgrimage isn’t talked about much in our faith. But, people have been going on these sacred journeys for thousands of years and for some pretty profound reasons. At its core, a pilgrimage is just a focused trip with a spiritual purpose.

Folks throughout history have traveled to special places: to feel closer to God, to give thanks, to ask for healing, or seek answers. I know it can feel like a significant investment to take time away, and honestly, it is. But, this kind of travel does something significant for us. When we step out of our daily grind and familiar surroundings, we open ourselves up to God in new ways. It’s amazing how stepping outside our comfort-zone can create space for God to show up, speak to us, and really do something fresh in our lives. A pilgrimage is more than just a vacation; it's a chance to grow and transform. The benefits are incredible: a deeper faith, a wider perspective, new friendships, and a refreshed spirit.

That's why I'm so excited to invite you to consider joining me on a pilgrimage to Egypt Feb. 3-13, 2026. I will be leading a team to retrace the footsteps of Moses and the people of Israel. We will get to float the Nile (where Moses was raised), see the pyramids (that stood in the time of the Hebrews), and travel the desert to Mt. Sinai (where Moses received the 10 Commandments). It will be an extraordinary trip, and it is open to anyone who’d like to join. All the details can be found here.

If you have any interest in joining me for the trip, join me this Sunday June 8th at The Gathering McCausland at noon following worship for a short informational meeting to learn more. Please email me if you want to join the meeting via video.
I can’t wait to see you all this weekend as I finish our series Multiply. It is an important message that I think will both challenge and inspire you, so I hope to see you. Have a great weekend.

Peace,
Matt
 
P.S. One of the most meaningful things we can do to care for others is show up, and this month, we want to invite you to show up for many people who don’t see the church as a place for them. The Gathering will have a booth at this year’s St. Louis PRIDE Fest June 28-29, and we want you to serve. It is a simple way to love our neighbors and invite people to check out a church that welcomes them. Plus, serving at PRIDE is a lot of fun. Learn more and sign up here.