Inspired by our hiking small groups at PCTC, Pastor Julie Delezenne wrote a 12-month hiking devotional to be used by small groups or individuals embarking on hikes in Northern Michigan (or similar climates!). Begin your hike by reading the devotional and closing prayer together and continue with one or more of the listed “practices” during the hike. Suggested hikes listed connect with the theme of the month (but are only suggestions!). May God bless your journey in God’s wonder-full creation.

May: Morel Mushrooms and Foraging

Suggested Hikes:

Pete’s Woods

 “But seek first the kingdom of God and [God’s]  righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”   -Matthew 6:33

In the spring and fall in the forests of Northern Michigan, fungi of varying colors, shapes and sizes appear along the forest floor, delighting the observant hiker.   Some outdoor enthusiasts even take to the forests with the express purpose of “hunting” mushrooms- mostly those of the edible variety.  The morel is at the top of the list on the hunt, appearing most abundantly during the month of May.  

Morels are not easy to find- which makes the hunt all the more fun (and challenging!).  It is a wonder and joy to find them in the woods not only because treasure hunts are full of wonder and joy, but also because this particular treasure is so tasty!  

Morels are very unpredictable as to where you might find them.  One year you might find them in abundance in one section of forest and then when you return the next year- nothing.  You might look near decaying trees or places where life cycles have been adding to the forest floor for awhile.  The mycelium (the “roots”) of the morel take a long time to establish- even years or decades- so “older” spots in the forest can be likely candidates.  Morel hunters often keep their hunting spots guarded secrets.  

We hear in the Gospel of Luke that: Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.” – Luke 17:20-21

Jesus also compared the kingdom of God to a treasure hidden in a field.  

The mycelium of morels and other fungi stretch among us just under the surface of the forest floor beneath our feet, lying hidden until their “fruit” bursts forth as the most surprising of colors, textures, shapes of mushrooms.   We might grow in our ability to notice where they are often found in the forest, and yet their appearance in a certain area in a certain year is well beyond the control or foreknowledge of even the most experienced morel hunters.   We might hike for miles and still not find a morel or look down and spot one right at the start of our trailhead.  

Perhaps what we learn from the morel, is that what is worthwhile and transformative in our lives is not just the finding, but also the seeking.  

Prayer: 

Creator God, you show up in surprising places in our life and in the world.  We give thanks for the joy and the journey of seeking after you.  Amen. 

During the Hike:

• Take a look at the characteristics of morels (and false morels!) here before you begin your hike.  Be on the lookout on the forest floor for this tasty treat.  https://www.foraged.com/blog/morel-mushrooms-vs-false-morels
• Do the “mushroom walk” to move quickly and alertly through the forest:  long, low strides; eyes focusing 10-15 ahead while walking.
• Discuss with a hiking partner or ponder alone:  What are you currently seeking?  Where have you seen the “kingdom of God”  or God at work lately?  Had you been looking?  Was it in an unexpected place? 

Bibliography:

Lonik, Larry. The Curious Morel: Mushroom Hunters Recipes, Lore & Advice.  Thunder Bay Press, 1984.