Leadership Adventure

For decades the KY-TN Conference Office of Education has sponsored a fall Outdoor Education for 5th and 6th graders at Indian Creek Camp. Dr. Pegi Flynt, KY-TN Superintendent of Education had a dream, a dream to challenge and grow leaders amongst our 7th-8th grade students. Last school year this concept was successfully piloted by Memphis Advenitst Academy and Louisville Adventist Academy. This past April 11-13 Dr. Flynt’s dream became a reality when the program was expanded by offering Adventure Leadership for all 7th & 8th grade students. One hundred twenty students from eight KY-TN Conference schools participated, along with Algood Christian from the Georgia-Cumberland Conference.

Pastor Edward Marton, KY-TN Youth Director, was the featured worship speaker. He shared how to discover the power of God. Hope Darjee's best memory was “when we all sang praises to God during the morning and evening worship.” The drama team from Louisville Adventist Academy recreated scenes from the life of Daniel. The three day event focused on finding direction (Psalms 32:8), facing fears (Joshua 1:9), and battling temptation (Ephesians 6:10-11). Students were divided into groups so they would have an opportunity to make new friends. “I enjoyed how we got to interact with students from other schools and get to know them better,” recounted Maggie Carlson. Kym Olvido agrees, “My favorite memory was when we went out to the Point and connected with each other without saying anything under the feeling of looking at the stars. It was like spoken silence.”

Activities included orienteering, scavenger hunt, low ropes course, rock wall/zip line, obstacle course, and archery tag. Ariana Gonzalez “really enjoyed the variety of activities.” Jadel Morales-Guzman said, “My favorite part was orienteering because you really had to work with each teammate to find your way through.” Dedicated volunteers made sure that quality instruction took place. Each station had a spiritual connection and time was provided for reflection through journaling.

For example, the focus of archery tag was putting on the full armor of God to equip students as they battle life’s temptations. Kaitlyn McKenzie, “enjoyed all the unique challenges, spiritual and physical.” Reflecting upon this experience Greycen Frazier shared “The freedom, choice, and trust from the administration, teachers, and chaperones made me feel this event was age appropriate. I honestly had a ton of fun!”