Shadow Play and Signs: Finding the HolyPlace in a Solar Eclipse

There are moments when the sheer magnitude of the natural world stops you in your tracks. Moments where the sky itself seems to hold its breath. Recently, we found ourselves in Elkhart, Indiana, ready for a 97% solar eclipse. When the sun began to fade, casting that deep, ethereal twilight over the landscape, the feeling was profound—a perfect mix of cosmic wonder and quiet, expectant awe.

It was beautiful, and it was undeniably powerful. It made us think about cycles, about light and shadow, and about what it means to be gathered in one spot, watching something ancient unfold. When we were out there, surrounded by the vast open sky, we felt that familiar pull—that feeling that no matter how far we wander in our van or RV, we are always moving toward something, toward a gathering, toward the light.

The Art of Gathering and the Power of Witness

This experience, whether it’s witnessing a solar eclipse, navigating a remote BLM campsite, or conquering a tricky bouldering route, reminds us that the greatest adventures are those shared. As believers, we know that every time we gather—whether it’s a family road school trip through the National Parks or a small group sharing a meal at a local bakery—we are building a HolyPlace. It’s a place where the world’s light shines through our faith.

It’s a powerful reminder that the universe is always unfolding, and we are simply here to witness it, to learn from it, and to prepare for what comes next. The lesson in the eclipse isn't just in the science; it’s in the anticipation. It’s in the sense of collective wonder that draws us together, linking us to the history of the land and to the promises that lie ahead.

Bringing Faith and Fun on the Road

For us, the Rogue Adventurers, the journey is the destination—and the destination is always community. It’s how the field trip-at-scale mechanic works: combining a passion (like rock climbing or overlanding) with a deep sense of purpose. We aren't just traveling; we are gathering witnesses, connecting the dots between the physical world and the spiritual one.

These journeys are so rich, we always make sure to carry our little tokens of faith and remembrance. We love leaving behind our decorated CrockyGo painted rocks at trailheads and overlooks—little stones of remembrance for the next traveler. And every time we stop at a local shop, like a Proof Breads bakery in Mesa, we make sure to spend some decorated Currency Kids bills. Each bill is a small gospel tract, a tangible reminder that our adventures are meant to spread light.

Planning the Next Holy Gathering

Whether you're a seasoned full-time RV family planning a week in the backcountry of the Grand Tetons, or a homeschool co-op planning their first road school trip, the preparation is part of the pilgrimage. We celebrate the blend of practical outdoor skills—wilderness first aid, route-finding, and knowing the difference between a dispersed camping spot and a designated state park site—with the spiritual preparation for the journey ahead.

We encourage you to look at your next adventure not just through the lens of miles and miles, but through the lens of connection. Where can you find a local field trip? Is there a meet-up happening at a National Park this weekend? Do you need an Adventure Angel to guide your next chapter?

The light will always return. And when it does, we will be ready, gathered together, prepared for whatever amazing thing comes next. Let’s keep adventuring, keep gathering, and keep sharing the light.