Ten fathers and sons gathered at Shannondale, deep in the Ozarks, to share generational wisdom, study men and families in scripture (including Jesus and cousin John’s necessity to enter into the Wilderness) and to grow closer as a wider family of brothers. The men also took full advantage of rugged landscape to explore natural springs, NPS landmarks, go caving, enjoy campfire rituals and sharing, sit in the wilderness to commune with God in nature, swim in a dammed up creek, and say hello to wild horses.
As soon as publicity went out, an 87-year-old retired Mid-America Disciples pastor and current elder signed up himself, his 54 year-old son, and his two college-bound grandsons for what he knew would be an important milestone for his family – perhaps the last summer all four busy Ticknor men could share-in together. Other men from Illuman of the Ozarks, from as far away as southern Indiana and a new dad from Urbana, Illinois, upon hearing about the beauty in this family, committed to support or “provide the container” for them as well. We blessed the young men going off on their own and two other men heading for important life-changing events as well. God is good!
All intentions were to surround young dads and their sons recently baptized or preparing for baptism to help them claim their Christian faith and we look forward to seeing them next time around. Plans are to move the next Sons & Fathers 40 Hours in the Wilderness to the fall of 2024 to coincide with Ozarks autumn events, as part of Mid-America Outdoor ministries move for year-round programming.
Please contact Regional Minister Paul Koch to help shape what can support your congregation in youth ministry.