As hosts to Oregon Pathfinder clubs participating in the Bible Achievement Event, the Springfield (Ore.) Church provided a home for the Pathfinder Sabbath program and events on Feb. 26.
Ben and Becky Gerling, Springfield's new Pathfinder leaders, proved to be exceptional guides for youth- and adult-Pathfinder staff. An attitude of joy and service permeated the event. The string band, headed by Becky Gerling on keyboard, led an active song service. A sign language song, "Lord, Let Your Light Shine on Us," was signed in rounds by two groups of white-gloved Springfield Pathfinders.
Tracy Wood, Oregon Conference Pathfinder director and youth leader, gave the message for Sabbath worship service.
Wood led a group of Pathfinders presenting a theme text activity where participants made body-language movements from I Corinthians 16: 13–14: "Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love."
Each Pathfinder chose a nature picture to be projected on the main sanctuary screen. Bonnie Gladden, staff member, chose flowers because their beauty reminds her of God's love. One Pathfinder chose worms because he thinks they are awesome and God is awesome too. Several chose rocks, showing beauty can come from pressure and adversity.
The afternoon was spent hearing guest-Pathfinder groups answer Bible questions from I and II Corinthians, developed by Reggie Mass and presented by Paul Betlinski, quiz master. Questions were challenging and sought to prepare them to face earthly problems with the "sword of His word."
The Pleasant Valley and Riverside clubs won first-place certificates and a chance to participate in the March 12 union-level event in Gladstone, Ore. The top score of the day was considered the highest score. Every participating team earning 90 percent of the top score, received a first-place certificate and the opportunity to move to the next level. The final national event was held at Andrews University on April 15 and 16.
Oregon teams winning on Feb. 26 were:
Riverside, first place
Pleasant Valley, first place
Milo, second place
Beaverton, second place
South Santiam, second place.
After the award presentations, clubs and supporters were invited back to the fellowship hall where Frankie Stebbeds, longtime Springfield Pathfinder director and current division leader, and staff had decorated the hall with mementos, trophies, patches, sashes, vintage uniforms and photos of past years in Pathfinders. Popcorn and fruit were provided as Pathfinders and supporters caught up on news.
Springfield (Ore.) Pathfinders lead song service.
