By Hannah Redd

Today, we started off early with a long drive to Zion National Park. We woke up in Salt Lake City and grabbed a quick bite to eat as well as reading about our visit with the NRA in the Salt Lake City newspaper.

We arrived at Zion National Park and took a trolley to the trail we were hiking. The park was beautiful and we learned how Zion was formed. Over time, massive rocks were formed by sedimentation. Along the hike, we stopped by the river and discussed water issues and how important they will be in the future of this planet, as well as simple ways to conserve water. We learned that the Colorado River is slowly evaporating and being used up by the people through unwise use, and one of the most common ways water is being used up is by watering lawns. The average American uses 170 gallons of water a day.

The beauty of the park was overwhelming. As we hiked, we looked around admiring the mountains and the blue skies. At the end of the trail, we went to the creek to look around. Some people walked on the rocks in the water. Utah is really a sight to see.

Following Zion National Park, the group went to a nearby park/baseball field for Friday night services. Tonight we had our own Renewal/Reconstructionist service. It consisted of a lot of singing in English and Hebrew. It was a different type of service from what I am used to but it was fun and enjoyable.

After services, we came back to the hotel and had a barbeque that Jonah and Billy made of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. It was a great day with everyone looking forward to the Grand Canyon tomorrow!