Our daily lives are hectic. Most of us have probably dreamt of escaping to a deserted island. Somewhere where we can slow down, gather our thoughts and spend some quiet time with God.

Recently the Bible Society met up with a group of young people who were on the verge of just such an experience.

On 6 April the research vessel, the SA Agulhas II, left the Cape Town Harbour for Marion Island. On board, a group of 20 young people, mainly students and technicians, set off to conduct research on the island for the next 13 months.

Marion Island is 19 km long by 12 km wide and along with the neighbouring Prince Edward Island has a combined area of 316 square kilometres. To say it's secluded, is definitely an understatement.

Many of those who sign up for this adventure often aren't sure how they will react once the reality of their isolation from family and friends, and being cut off from the outside world hits them.

However, one can always find solace in the Word of God, no matter what your situation. It is for this reason that the Bible Society has donated Bibles to the groups that make up these expeditions since 2016.

Reverend Quintus Heine, from the Bible Society's Western Cape Region, presented the Bibles to the group members at their departure.

"My wish is that the Lord will be with you. In the times when you feel alone during the next 13 months when you are busy with your research, the Bible will make you aware of the fact that the Lord is with you," he said.

One of young people, Terrence Shabangu, who had joined the group as a diesel mechanic was very delighted to receive a Bible.

"I'm happy to receive this Bible as the Bible means a lot to me. Without the Bible I am lost," he said.

Chelsea Mekwa from Pretoria, was equally thrilled.

"It is an honour to receive this kind of help. For me the Bible is a means to connect with God," said the meteorological technician.