Paddles & Saddles
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Romans 1:20
What an incredible first year it was for our Paddles & Saddles program!
Our campers went on a two week backcountry living experience in Northern Maine, where they spent one week on the river in canoes (paddles) and one week on mountain bike trails (saddles). It was incredible to see the growth in each of our campers both in their trail skills and spiritual growth. Campers worked hard and learned a lot about canoeing, and decided tackle some rapids together!
On the mountain bike trails we had to tackle some really tough obstacles, that challenged and stretched us.
Experiencing living two weeks in the backcountry allows our campers, and counselors alike, a wonderful platform to physically see our Creator’s creation while experiencing Him in new ways. The group environment allows everyone to process and learn as they go. Being able to dig in to life together, without distractions telling you how to process (i.e.: snapchat, instagram, Facebook, media, etc.) is an experience that impacts you for years to come. The quietness of the wild, the strength of the wilderness and the tallness of the trees gave our campers perspective on where they are in creation. Campers were challenged to contemplate their home life and how Christ has impacts our choices. Living in God’s creation gives a glimpse into how mighty the Lord of Lords is. If we can get our campers to see a glimpse of his greatness and power, then how easy is it for them to allow the Lord to show up in their ‘home’ lives. We created some great memories with them on the trails, and we know that God showed His mightiness & strength.
We have included some pictures of what our days and activities looked like on our Paddles & Saddles trip. We thank you for entrusting your campers to us – we enjoyed them so much!
Waking Up & Hot Breakfast (Over Campfire):
Spending Time In The Word:
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
Packing Up Camp & Planning Out The Day:
Stop for Lunch & Then Back on The River/Trail:
Setting Up Camp – Our group learned that setting up camp takes teamwork and is easy when everyone pitches in.
Dinner Over Campfire:
Devotional & Campfire Talk:
Off to Bed & Then Do It Again!
We had a ton of relaxing fun around camp. You could, often find us doing slack line competitions, fishing, swimming, discussing rapid lines & various paddle strokes, throwing freebies, seeing wildlife and of course watching the sunrise/set over the beautiful landscape. We even celebrated a birthday on the trail!!
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” Psalm 19:1-4