Beginning next month - February - Quest is has launched a new ministry simply called ‘Quest Outdoors.’  As the name implies, it’s focusing on People, Nature & Outdoors, and enjoy’s God’s beautiful creation.  As it gears up for its first excursion [snowshoeing @ Snoqualmie Pass] on Saturday, February 9, we thought it would be good to interview the ministry leaders Eric and Carina Long.  Along with their love for the outdoors, Eric is a professor at Seattle Pacific University and Carina is a full time artist.  We asked them a few questions to share their personal love for the outdoors and their hope for the ministry.

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What is ‘Quest Outdoors? 

Quest outdoors is an opportunity to enjoy and explore God’s creation with like-minded people.  It’s a chance to deepen community and fellowship and to have fun with people who have a passion for being outside. 

Why do you both personally enjoy the outdoors? 

Both of us have grown up passionate about being outside, exploring and understanding nature, and connecting with God and other people in that context.  We love the outdoors for many reasons, but most importantly because nature is a reflection of who God is, and we want to join with his creation in giving him glory and praise.  Nature speaks of God’s power, majesty, and greatness, as well as his love, uninhibited joy, and peace.  It fills us with awe at who God is, and refreshes our souls with peace and a proper perspective.  In fact we both love the outdoors so much, we’ve pursued careers that have us spending time outside.  (Eric is a wildlife biologist and professor of ecology and Carina has been a wilderness/adventure guide all over North America.  She’s also a certified wilderness first-responder and life-guard.) 

What are some of the things you’re envisioning? 

We are envisioning this to be an opportunity to have fun outside and get to know other Questers who enjoy the outdoors.  Besides being fun, outdoor activities are a way to stay in shape and challenge ourselves physically.  Also, this would be a great chance to invite friends and introduce them to some Questers.  We are planning outdoor activities such as snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, kayaking/canoeing, backpacking, playing ultimate Frisbee at Discovery Park, and trail-running.  We’re excited about getting to know other Questers who share our same love for being outside, and we’re hoping to get together for an activity about once a month. 

 How do people get involved or sign up? 

Email us at carinastrappello[at]yahoo.com to be on the Quest Outdoors list and to get emails we send out detailing upcoming activities.  We’d love to have people join us regularly or when they’re able to.  The group will be getting together once/month.