Local church is helping prospects walking along the Appalachian Trail
Robbinsville – The Robbinsville United Methodist recently won a $250 Fresh Expressions grant to help the congregation support hikers on the Appalachian Trail.
Pastor Eric Reece and church members such as Marcia and David Davies have been helping AT through-hikers for more than four years now.
"We saw such a need," Reece said.
The trail ministry began before Reece arrived in Robbinsville, but he has been an enthusiastic supporter during his tenure.
"We care about the hikers, and God cares about them," he said. "In the Bible, hospitality is a big thing, all throughout the Bible. Our trail ministry is about showing love and kindness."
Church members leave bags of "trail magic" at strategic points. The bags contain high-energy snacks and treats, as well as contact information for the church.
"When folks contact us and have a need, we help them the best we can," Reece said.
Tyler "Trademark" Musty is one of the many hikers helped by the trail ministry.
"Generosity of this sort is one of the things that made my AT experience so wonderful," Musty said. "Thank you for everything you do for hikers."
Hiker John "Catmando" Van Etten echoed Musty's sentiments.
"You are all trail angels, a true blessing," said Van Etten, while Minta "Blueberry" Ray thanked the ministry "for hosting my friends and I on a cold night."
Reece has enjoyed learning trail culture, from trail magic to the traditions of hikers adopting trail names and forming "tramalies," or trail families.
"I love listening to their stories and learning from them," Reece said. "For a lot of folks, walking the Appalachian Trail from one end to the other is a lifetime goal, and it is quite an endeavor. A lot of hikers are young and educated. You see teachers, counselors, construction workers, medical students, even retirees. Some folks use the trail as a way to discern what to do next with their lives.
"It's a spiritual thing. Hiking the Appalachian Trail can be a very spiritual thing."
As the cards accompanying the bags of trail magic say: "May God keep you safe. May your journey on the trail be a good one, full of blessings, wonder, and rest. And may it draw you a little closer to the One Who created it all."
Robbinsville United Methodist Church can be contacted at 479-8581.