Pilgrimage to South Africa

Important! Commitments for Trinity's November 2010 South Africa pilgrimage are required by April 15.

Pilgrimage to South Africa Set for November 2010

"In South Africa, you see the most devastating forms of poverty and people have hope. Why do these people have hope?"--Susanne Carter

From November 2-November 16, 2010, Trinity members Ken Jones and Susanne Carter will lead a pilgrimage to South Africa. Jones and Carter, both ordained ministers in the Presbyterian Church USA, lived in South Africa from 2004-2006 and have led several trips and pilgrimages there since then.

Why a pilgrimage to South Africa? "God does miracles," says Jones. "The new South Africa came about without a bloodbath. In the tradition of Christian pilgrimage, you go someplace where God has already done miracles and wait for the next one to happen."

The trip, especially organized for Trinity, can accommodate up to twelve people. During its stay, the group will visit Johannesburg, East London and Capetown. Although Jones and Carter are ordained in the Presbyterian Church, they have close connections in the Anglican Church of Southern Africa and will plan opportunities to worship with South African Anglicans as well as a visit to the Cathedral Church of St. George in Capetown.

The cost of the pilgrimage, including airfare, is estimated to be about $3500; an optional two-night stay in Kruger National Park will extend the trip through November 18 and increase the cost to about $4000.

Pilgrimage participants will likely spend four nights in Johannesburg, four nights in East London, where Jones and Carter lived during their ministry, and four nights in Capetown. The final itinerary for the trip will be developed with input from the participants, who will meet as a group several times before departure.

According to Carter, the most important things to pack for the trip to South Africa are patience and flexibility. Basic good health and ability to participate in a busy schedule are the only physical requirements. She and Jones have traveled with participants as old as 85 and as young as 17; they ask any Trinity members who are interested in traveling with children to talk individually with them.

Pilgrims should expect to take minimal luggage--a gear list will be provided--and be prepared to share rooms. No special vaccinations are required for the pilgrimage itself; for travelers extending their trip to Kruger Park, anti-malarial medication will be required.

The trip, emphasize Jones and Carter, is a pilgrimage and not a mission trip. "There is an incredible gift of being available to visit, being present," says Jones. "Don't discount the value of being present in poverty and sickness, even if there isn't anything you can do to fix it. You are bringing the gift of empty hands."

To find out more about the 2010 Pilgrimage to South Africa, or sign up, please talk with the Rev. Ken Jones or the Rev. Susanne Carter via email at or 216-382-1869.