Reading Serve God, Save the Planet in the Wilderness
Published August 14, 2010
How cool is this? I just heard that a group of Westmont College students representing states from Hawaii to Massachusetts are studying creation care, using Blessed Earth director’s book, Serve God, Save the Planet.
The group will be trekking through the North Yosemite backcountry August 12-24. Faculty will lead discussions on the readings during backpacking breaks and students will write a creation care paper later in the semester.
“It’ll be a unique and powerful experience to think about environmental stewardship in the beauty of the high Sierras,” says Tom Knecht, assistant professor of political science.
Inoculum was created in 1974 by Westmont alumnus Dave Willis, who is coordinator of Sierra Treks, a program that seeks to build Christian faith through wilderness experiences.
“Eleven days in the backcountry is not for everyone, but so much is gained in the process,” says assistant professor of biology, Eileen McMahon. “You struggle to understand the thought-provoking readings but then are rewarded by rich, deep conversation with faculty and fellow students around the campfire as millions of stars glitter above you.”
Often times, students say the most memorable part of the trip is the solitude and contemplation, away from cell phones and social networking. A challenging read, shared with friends and mentors, after a long day’s hike in the glory of God’s creation: now that’s a college experience that can change lives, and change the world!
Photo: Students hiking in the Tolyobe National Forest (courtesy of Westmont College)