We hiked for about 40 minutes through a canyon, much of which was fairly heavily forested. 
No one came away from the hike without a few scratches and scrapes from the various thorns, brambles and cactuses (cacti?) that we had to pass through.
The last 20 minutes of the hike were up to the site where we would establish our base camp. 
The site James led us to was a ledge with fairly elaborate ruins, tucked under a large overhang on the side of the cliff. The view was gorgeous, and the opportunities to explore endless.
As soon as we arrived, a nearby rainstorm left behind a beautiful rainbow - which soon turned into a double rainbow
After a bit of a rest, the youth then scoured the hills for spots where they could imagine spending the night on their own.
Rachael found a comfortable niche on the side of a great cliff.
Emoli chose a more open spot, on a point of rock overlooking the valley and the butte on the other side.
The sun went down about 7:30 pm, so everyone was back in their position by then. Whistle codes had been developed so that anyone feeling danger or needing help could get support during the night. At the base camp, a fire was kept lit all night by the Leaders and the guide.
The night sky quickly fell, and we were alone with the stars, with ourselves, and with God.
As the sun broke over the eastern butte around 6:30 am, the youth came down from their personal vigil sites. All had survived the night on their own without too much sleep. We had a quick "breakfast" snack to replenish our energy, and then began the climb back down under the bright morning sun. Somehow, it seemed a lot easier going down.
Don't forget that you can let the youth know that you're thinking of them! Just click on the "Post A Comment" link (below), and send the group your thoughts!
3 comments:
From Newfoundland I write this note, where it is drizzly (is that a word?) and where we need to turn on the heat in the morning!
I've been checking the blog every day since we arrived on the Rock on Wednesday (a 4 day car/ferry ride from Ottawa) and am so impressed with the journey you have all taken and continue to take.
I have been waiting for a post about your night of "aloneness with God". I thought of all of you last night (Friday) as I went to bed - way before you folks given the time difference.
I give thanks to God that each of you journeyed thru the night and look forward to reading and hearing more.
In peace,
Grant
Dom and I have been unable to figure out how to post a comment.
so, I hope you'll share these comments with the "pilgrims."
Robyn's Chinese name means, "Beautiful Rainbow" so the viewing of the double rainbow has special meaning for us. Those of us who prayed with you during all or part of the vigil were privileged to vicariously share in this wonderful rite of passage.with the "pilgrims.
It's been a daily inspiration to see the gorgeous red rocks and water even though the heights have often made my stomach churn.
Blessings and a huge group hug for all of you.
Bertie and Dom
Well pilgrims I managed to symbolically join the pilgrimage by doing a lone camp myself on top of Mount Daily (wilderness up by Mont. Ste. Marie). I know it was as beautiful and star filled for you guys as it was for me. I did my prayer vigil at 2:00 - 3:00am (11:00pm - 12:00 Sedona time)amongst all the shooting stars. This experience for you guys and me will last the rest of our lives.
See you tommorrow,
Doug
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