From August 9-13, the parishioners of Holy Trinity Church in Mebane, NC, joined their rector – Abbot Gabriel (Kvasnikov) – on a trip to the Appalachian Mountains. Many brought their children along with them. The travelers trekked to the highest peak of the Appalachians – Mount Mitchell, where they set up camp at a picturesque site beside a mountain stream near the foot of the mountain. Those who came better-prepared were able to hike to the mountain’s summit along a six-mile trail. The travelers had to overcome various setbacks presented by a thunderstorm, which flooded their tents and forced them to take extra measures to preserve their campfire.

On Sunday, August 13, Fr. Gabriel served a moleben.

In the opinion of the rector and parishioners, such nature trips are a great help in strengthening the community; having withdrawn from the daily hustle and bustle, they are able to hold spiritual talks around the evening bonfire, take in the sights of nature, learn to build a campfire, and acquire various other skills needed in the wilderness.