About Us
THE PILGRIM’S SURVIVAL JOURNEY
The Pilgrim’s Survival Journey (PSJ) is a discipleship training program utilizing an experiential learning model to teach spiritual concepts. Based on Pilgrim’s Progress, a book by John Bunyan, participants follow the character, “Christian”, on his journey to the Celestial City, which is a metaphor for life, while being stretched physically, spiritually, and mentally.
THE HEART
PSJs are designed so participants can learn more about the challenges of the Christian faith and how to overcome them. By participating in this experience, we hope you will see the importance of discipleship and mentoring in your spiritual walk. We hope to create memorable experiences that participants will draw life-long learning from.
The unique nature of the PSJ program allows for a multi-faceted format. Programs can be site based with an experiential element or mobile where participants backpack and teaching and learning activities occur along the trail. Programs can be tailored to the specific needs and desired outcomes of the group and can range from 2-10 days.
Rather than being lecture based, teaching times incorporate experiential activities, character encounters, and discussions. Core teaching topics include:
COMMITMENT TO JOURNEY
LORDSHIP of CHRIST
THE CROSS–Freedom from Sin
LIFE IN THE WILDERNESS
SPIRITUAL WARFARE
HEARING THE VOICE OF GOD
BODY OF CHRIST–Mentoring
OVERCOMING DISCOURAGEMENT
History
THE PSJ—A brief history…
The Pilgrim’s Survival Journey (PSJ) was birthed out of a vision to see the outdoors used as a tool for teaching people spiritual truths through overcoming challenges. Buddy Walker and Robb & Heather Elmatti worked together to create this program that teaches Christian Discipleship in a relevant and life-impacting way. Based on John Bunyan’s book, Pilgrim’s Progress, the program combines teaching, backpacking, and experiential learning activities. The first PSJ was held in July 2001 along the Florida Trail in the Ocala National Forest. Participants follow the journey of “Christian” as he makes his way towards the Celestial City encountering many of the characters and scenes from the book. Since then, PSJ events have occurred all over the world including Costa Rica, Guatemala, Minnesota, and Florida.
Our Partners
