Against the backdrop of jagged sandstone cliffs and the brisk, fresh air of early autumn, young people and families from across Gulf States Conference gathered for a weekend of faith, fellowship, and adventure at Cherokee Rock Village in Leesburg, Ala.
Hosted by Gulf States Youth Ministries Department, the event brought together more than 80 participants, October 24-26, 2025, ranging from energetic teenagers to young parents with infants in tow, for a rock-climbing and camping experience that combined physical challenge with spiritual reflection.
“This place always reminds us of God’s majesty,” said one participant, gazing at the panoramic view stretching across northeastern Alabama. “Every peak felt like a sanctuary.”
Though the temperatures dipped lower than expected, the cold did not dampen the group’s spirit. Instead, it amplified the warmth shared around campfires, in prayer circles, and atop climbing routes as new friendships were formed and old ones deepened.
Cherokee Rock Village, known to locals as “Sand Rock,” offered an idyllic setting for spiritual retreats. Towering rock formations, quiet trails, and sweeping vistas provided not just physical elevation, but moments of awe and praise. Morning worships were held as the sun rose, lighting the sandstone in hues of gold and amber, serving as a visual reminder of God’s creative power.
“We climbed, yes,” said one youth leader, “but what really happened here was connection — connection with nature, with each other, and most importantly, with God.”
Such events align closely with the mission of the Southern Union Conference to foster holistic development among young people. By challenging their bodies and uplifting their spirits in nature’s cathedral, youth leaders hope to instill both resilience and reverence.
“In every climb, every view, and every breath of crisp mountain air, our young people were reminded that God is both our Rock and our Refuge,” said Michel Rodriguez, pastor and Gulf States youth director. “These weekends aren’t just about adventure; they’re about anchoring faith in something deeper and more lasting than anything this world offers.”
As participants packed their gear at the weekend’s end, the consensus was clear, this was more than an outdoor excursion. It was a return to creation, a reminder of God’s grandeur, and a testimony to the joy of shared faith in community.
Gulf States Conference | December 2025
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