More than 335 Pathfinder teens and their sponsors gathered for a winter weekend of fellowship, faith, and adventure at the Pathfinder Teen Snow Outing, centered on the year-long theme, Hold the Fort.
The theme is drawn from the historic hymn written by W. P. Bliss, inspired by a Civil War battle in North Carolina. During the conflict, Union soldiers trapped inside a fort saw a distant signalman raise a message of hope: “Hold the fort—for I am coming—Sherman.” Bliss later adapted that moment into a spiritual call, reminding believers that Christ calls His people to hold their ground, remain faithful, and proclaim His Word, because He is coming again.
That message shaped the entire weekend.
Teen Voices and a Message of Hope
Friday evening featured two teen speakers who shared messages of faith and encouragement: Abigail Pemberton from Charlotte and Jonas Allen from Lansing. Their testimonies resonated with fellow teens, setting a reflective and spiritually focused tone for the weekend.
The Sabbath program highlighted a message from Dr. Rahel Wells, professor at Andrews University and a longtime Pathfinder director and Master Guide. Dr. Wells spoke openly about depression, seasons of spiritual silence, and what to do when God feels distant. Through Scripture and God’s promises, she offered reassurance and hope, reminding teens that faith can endure even in the hardest moments.
Many participants made decisions to follow Christ, while others chose to rededicate their lives during the Sabbath appeal. A major highlight for the event was a baptism in the Au Sable River.
Learning, Service, and Leadership
In addition to worship and inspiration, Pathfinders engaged in hands-on learning through a wide range of honors taught throughout the weekend, including Cetaceans, Camp Safety, Bible Marking, Raptors, Wildlife Photography, Personality Traits, Church Heritage, Wilderness Survival—Shelters, and Bully Prevention.
These honors emphasized both practical skills and spiritual growth, reinforcing the Pathfinder mission of developing well-rounded Christian leaders.
Winter Adventure and Fellowship
The snow outing also provided plenty of opportunities for fun and connection. Activities included a wagon ride to the fort complete with s’mores, hot chocolate, and snowball fights—bringing the Hold the Fort theme to life. Teens explored the nature center, walked around the lake, sang together, and enjoyed cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, tubing at Hansen Hills, and board games.
Throughout the weekend, laughter, conversation, and shared experiences strengthened friendships and built community.
Holding the Fort Together
The Pathfinder Teen Snow Outing was a powerful reminder that faith is lived out not only through words, but through shared experiences, service, learning, and encouragement. As teens held the fort together—both physically and spiritually—the message was clear: Christ is coming, and until He does, His people are called to stand firm, stay faithful, and support one another.
-Photos by Daniel Mendez
