One of the highlights of being a Pathfinder is the opportunity to join other clubs at a variety of conference, union and global events. Pathfinders experience being a part of something much bigger by making friends and forming connections with those beyond their club alone.
In April, the Upper Columbia Conference Pathfinder Teen Retreat was held at Camp MiVoden in Hayden, Idaho. It was the first in-person event UCC Pathfinders had experienced together in more than a year.
Jared Spano, Riverview Seventh-day Adventist Church pastor, was the speaker for the weekend. The teens attending the retreat were engaged every moment as he shared messages highlighting the cost Christ paid for the lives of His beloved creation.
Many teens question their value in the world as their self-confidence waivers during the transitions between childhood and adulthood. Spano challenged them to dwell on the fact that God found them so valuable that they were worth the sacrifice of Jesus’ life.
Sabbath afternoon included an extensive scavenger hunt where groups followed clues leading them throughout the camp. Once a team figured out where to go, getting there became the next challenge. Most clues included a challenge that had to be fulfilled between locations. Some of these challenges included carrying a teammate to the next location, tying legs together in three-legged race fashion and getting to the next location while blind-folded.
The retreat gave Pathfinders the chance to reflect on God in His nature. While overlooking Hayden Lake, Sunday morning’s worship was followed by a communion service reminding the young people to follow Jesus' example of service. They showed such respect and reverence as they participated. Spano reminded them of the magnitude of the sacrifice Jesus paid to restore each of their lives.
After the service, Pathfinders packed up their belongings. But before leaving, they gathered to share some of their favorite moments of the weekend. There were many reflections, laughs and hollered "goodbyes" as teens and club leaders loaded their vehicles to head home.
On the way home, Pendleton Pathfinders had more time to reflect. They loved the band, the music as well as the meetings. “The pastor really got me into the message," said Luke Clayville. "You could tell he was genuinely excited about what he was preaching.”
The Pathfinder teen retreat was held at Camp MiVoden.
The teens took part in a footwashing service as part of the retreat.
