WHY A TREK?

Purposes of Handcart Trek Reenactments*

From 1856 to 1860, about 3,000 Latter-day Saints pulled handcarts across the American plains to gather in the Salt Lake Valley. These pioneers trekked more than a thousand miles through heat and cold; through mud, sand, and sometimes snow; and through rivers and over mountains. They faced trials that required great faith and perseverance.

Treks provide powerful opportunities for youth to:

· Strengthen testimonies 

· Build unity

· Do family history

· Learn and appreciate Church history

· Feel gratitude for the sacrifices of the pioneers and the heritage they provided

· Appreciate their blessings more fully 

· Seek and find guidance to overcome challenges 

· Focus on serving and rescuing others 

· Learn core gospel principles 

Treks that focus on gospel principles that the pioneers exemplified will have lasting impressions on the youth. Some of these principles are summarized as follows:

FAITH

Faith in Jesus Christ sustained Latter-day Saint pioneers as they entered the waters of baptism, journeyed to America, endured adversities, and helped build Zion. Pioneer treks can help today’s youth develop this same faith. Youth can also learn how to be modern pioneers as they establish faith-centered lives and traditions.

OBEDIENCE

In gathering to the American West, the pioneers were obeying the call of a prophet, Brigham Young. Today’s handcart treks can help youth learn the importance of obeying God’s commandments and following the teachings of His prophets.

CHARITY

The stories of the pioneers are replete with examples of people who showed charity to each other in the most adverse circumstances. In trek reenactments, youth have many opportunities to experience the blessings of giving and receiving charity.

SACRIFICE

Latter-day Saint converts made great sacrifices by leaving homelands, families, and friends to gather to Zion. When tragedy struck the Willie and Martin handcart companies in 1856, Church members made great sacrifices to rescue and care for these Saints. As youth participate in handcart treks, they will have opportunities to make sacrifices and to experience the blessings that come through sacrifice.

PERSEVERING THROUGH ADVERSITY

The handcart pioneers’ trek was arduous. Some of these Saints faced harsh winter storms; had inadequate clothing, shelter, and food; and suffered illness and death. Clinging to their faith in God and their vision of Zion, they persevered through the most daunting conditions. Treks can help today’s youth learn to persevere, turn to God in times of trial, and gain a testimony that He will help bear their burdens.

*Adapted From Hardcart Trek Booklet