This summer Zion Pastor Mike and Intern Pastor Katie took nine high school youth to Wilderness Canoe Base in the Boundary Waters for a week of service and adventure. The first few days were spent at the base doing service work for the camp; they transplanted cedar trees, removed large rocks from the driveway, and stained staff cabins. While on base they also learned the basics for canoeing – the different strokes, how to carry all the supplies while portaging, and what to do if the canoe “swamped” (tips over in the lake). After learning all the skills, the group spilt into two different canoe trips; one group wanted to focus on fishing while the other wanted to paddle further to see a waterfall.
On a beautiful crisp Saturday morning the two groups took off for three days of paddling and fishing out in the many connected lakes of the Boundary Waters. While out on trail the groups learned how to set up and tear down camp, cook over the fire and camp stove, mastered the different positions in the canoe, and took in the beauty of God’s glorious creation with daily devotionals and Bible study. The weather was wonderful, and everyone returned with smiles on their faces and memories that will last a lifetime. This trip would not be possible without the generous support of our congregation – the youth thank you! Your gifts truly make a difference.
