Appalachia

Appalachia Immersion Experience: Caring for God's Creation

This 2022 trip is on hold due to loss of venue. Stay tuned for a possible re-location

Join Maryknoll in the mountains of West Virginia to meet the communities impacted by environmental and economic injustices. Reflect on the social issues that connect Appalachia with the rest of the country and world. Discern how we are invited to truly care for God's creation through global solidarity.

  • Meet and engage the communities of West Virginia impacted by the ecological crisis.

  • Experience the effects of resource extraction by visiting a mountaintop coal mine removal site.

  • Explore how the economic and ecological issues impacting Appalachia are connected with the issues facing others around the world and the challenges and opportunities they present for global solidarity.

  • Reflect upon the beauty of God's creation through hiking the mountain trails of the Catholic Worker Farm.

  • Enjoy the annual Black Walnut Festival.

  • Pray, meditate and reflect daily together as a community, including reflections on Laudato Si and celebrating Sunday mass at the local parish.

  • Learn about the spirituality of Dorothy Day and join the Catholic Worker team in a service project in the local community.

  • Discern how the Spirit is inviting you to integrate care for creation in your spirituality as a missionary disciple.

  • We will stay at the Appalachia Catholic Worker Farm in Spencer, WV.

"I will try to live with greater acceptance of those outside of my natural circle. My circle of compassion must expand." Previous Trip Participant

Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination required including booster(s). Masks are highly encouraged.

A donation of $800 is requested to cover cost of room, meals, and transportation during the immersion trip. Some scholarships may be available.

Participants are responsible for travel expenses to and from the Appalachian Catholic Worker Farm in Spencer, West Virginia.

Learn more about what to expect on a Maryknoll Immersion Trip at www.maryknoll.us/mission-trips


Please contact Trip LeaderDeacon Paul Bork for additional information.