WALNUT GROVE, Mo. – Almost 200 teens and adults from the Monett Missouri Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, (Monett, Stockton, Carthage, Cassville, Lamar, Granby, and surrounding areas) from June 24 through 26 re-enacted the westward trek of handcart pioneers. Twenty-one youth and adults were from Carthage and the surrounding area.
President Donald Walker of the Stake Presidency explained they “followed in the faith of their ancestors’ footsteps by participating in a Pioneer Handcart Trek for three days. Each youth was assigned to a family consisting of a ‘Ma and Pa’ and approximately 6-8 youth.
“They pushed a wooden handcart with their belongings over various terrains and camped for two nights. This is to simulate the handcart companies who journeyed from around the world to the Great Salt Lake valley in the 1850’s and 1860’s. Their journey started in Iowa and ended at the Salt Lake Valley.
“These pioneers faced many difficult challenges on their trek but were supported by their vision of a better life where they could worship their Savior, Jesus Christ freely. Our youth faced challenges and, hopefully, increased their testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to have more confidence in their abilities to overcome life’s many challenges.
“The trek also included pioneer stories, spiritual devotionals, fellowship, river swimming, and a dance. Our hope is our youth ended the trek spiritually strengthened and inspired to do better.”
