Here a young pack trip participant receives tender instruction in 'tying' down the cowboy hat so that it is not lost on the many mile trek by horse into the wilderness. Have you ever wished to be a cowboy for a week? Would you know how to? Would you need instruction? Who could teach you?"Likewise, teach older women to be reverent in the way they live...teaching (young women) what is good." Athelas retreats intentionally support inter-generational learning. Staff support ranges from 10-12 year old 'camp chore kids' to 77 year old horse riding outfitters, and everything in between. Each is chosen for their ability to pass on the love and mercy of Jesus to each person joining an adventure.
In that setting we are able to develop community and utilize, enhance and refine the gifts God has given to his people. Adventurers at retreats receive much needed 'spoiling' as physical needs are met so that their spirits may be renewed and refreshed. Service to others is the deepest joy of those involved as staff and volunteers. Staff instructs in the areas of safety, camp routine, backwoods skills, rock climbing, horse riding, first aid, food service, peeing in the woods, etc. Skills learned by adventurers become metaphors for the spiritual life as well. Older men, young ladies, middle aged...doesn't matter what age, we can and do learn from each other as we 'teach what is good' so that the mercy and grace of Jesus abounds and surrounds. To God be the Glory. Amen!...and again I say, Amen!
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