What climbing Kilimanjaro taught the viral vicar about justice

Much like climbing a mountain, working for justice and freedom requires commitment, endurance and community, says Rev Chris Lee. He reflects on what he learned on Africa’s highest peak

Sitting in my study on a grey January morning, I’ve been reflecting on the past year and the lessons I’ve learned. As a vicar, pausing to reflect often helps me focus on where God is calling me to dedicate my time. In a world of constant noise - social media, 24-hour news, and rushing about - I urge you to pause, pray, and consider how God might use you in 2025. 

One of my most impactful experiences in 2024 was returning to Tanzania, where I was ordained. I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro as part of International Justice Mission (IJM)’s ‘Climb for Freedom’. As a competitive guy (I grew up with an identical twin brother), I was eager to finally conquer the summit after a failed attempt in my 20s. While there was a level of pride, climbing with IJM also gave me a purpose: to highlight the importance of freedom and justice.