by Jeremy Clos
On Thursday, June 13 fourteen of our high school youth and their adult chaperones departed for Wilmington, NC. This pilgrimage promises to be a transformative journey, filled with opportunities for learning, reflection, and fellowship.
Our journey begins on Thursday, where we will delve into the complex history of chattel slavery in the United States. Our first stop will be the Bellamy Mansion, a historic landmark that offers insight into the lives of both the enslaved and the enslavers. As we explore the mansion and its associated Slave Quarters, we will confront the harsh realities of slavery while also honoring the resilience and strength of those who endured it. Following our visit, we will spend some time unwinding at the beach, allowing us to process our emotions and prepare for the days ahead.
On Friday, we will shift our focus to the transition from slavery to freedom. We will visit various sites in Wilmington connected to the struggle for emancipation, including the Cameron Art Museum, where we will explore the powerful sculpture Boundless. This sculpture serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by enslaved individuals and free black men and women who fought for their liberation. After our visit, we will once again enjoy some beach time, providing us with a chance to reflect on the profound lessons of the day.
Saturday will be a day of service and remembrance. We will begin by volunteering with Eden Village, a local organization dedicated to supporting the unhoused population in Wilmington. Following our service work, we will delve into the history of the coup of 1898 through the Wilmington N Color tour, gaining insight into this dark chapter of our nation’s past. We will conclude our day by visiting Pine Forest Cemetery, where we will renew our baptismal vows amidst the graves of the victims of the coup. In the evening, we will unwind with a night out on the boardwalk at Carolina Beach, enjoying the camaraderie of our group and the beauty of our surroundings.
Sunday will be a day of rest and spiritual nourishment. We will attend Holy Eucharist at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, where we will participate in worship and fellowship with members of the congregation. Following church services, we will have the opportunity to enjoy some fishing and leisure time at the beach, allowing us to connect with nature and recharge our spirits. In the evening, we will embark on a riverboat cruise aboard the Henrietta II, providing us with a serene setting to reflect on the blessings of our journey.
Monday will be a day dedicated to service and community engagement. We will return to St. Mark’s to help create a community garden, leaving behind a lasting legacy of our time in Wilmington. Over lunch, we will engage in meaningful conversations with members of the St. Mark’s community, gaining valuable insights into their lives and experiences. Later in the day, we will have the privilege of meeting Inez Campbell-Eason, a descendant of Isom Quick, one of Wilmington’s prominent black citizens harmed by the massacre of 1898. Our day will conclude with a delightful dinner at the waterfront, where we can savor the flavors of the local cuisine and continue our conversations.
Finally, on Tuesday, we will come together for a morning of prayer and reflection, drawing upon the lessons and experiences of our pilgrimage. With hearts full of gratitude and minds enriched by our journey, we will enjoy some final moments of fun and fellowship before beginning our journey back to Raleigh.
As we anticipate all this meaningful pilgrimage will bring, we invite your prayers and support for our youth group. Together, we hope to deepen our understanding of history, strengthen our bonds as a community, and grow in our faith.
Holding you all in my prayers as you embark on the historical journey into the of North Carolina’s dark past. Embrace all that you see, hear and perhaps even taste. You are pilgrims for the truth and will be messengers of this truth. May you know and feel God’s presence throughout this journey.
Thanks to Jeremy and all of the leaders. Prayers over the kids and leaders! Love COTN!