WHY I RECOMMEND WESTMINSTER BACKCOUNTRY
Westminster Backcountry has a successful implementation of church-based wilderness ministry. They effectively use the outdoors for discipleship and helping young people discover who they are in Christ.
WESTMINSTER BACKCOUNTRY’S MISSION
BRIEF HISTORY OF HOW WESTMINSTER BACKCOUNTRY GOT STARTED AND WHY IT EXISTS
Our ministry began with the aim of merging a love for outdoor adventure with a deep desire to share the love of Jesus with young people in our church and community. We believe that outdoor adventure provides the perfect opportunity for young people to detach from the trappings and distractions of modern life and discover their Creator.
DURATION OF TRIPS OFFERED
Trips are 4-5 days.
EXPEDITIONARY LEARNING ELEMENTS INCLUDED ON TRIPS
- Daily devotion or quiet times
- Solo experience (either a few hours or day-long solos)
- Teachable moments or trail talks along the journey
- Having participants share their testimony or life-story
- Peak climbs
- Backpacking
- Practicing and Teaching Leave No Trace Ethics
WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL WILDERNESS TRIP?
A successful trip is one where the participants return safely, uninjured, and where they feel that they encountered God in the wilderness. If they feel that they were challenged physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and have come out with a greater appreciation for community, we feel it was a success.
HOW WESTMINSTER BACKCOUNTRY POINTS PEOPLE TO CHRIST AND HELPS THEM GROW IN THEIR FAITH
We plan our talks and quiet time devos with the input from the leaders closest to the participants (i.e. youth pastor, Younglife leader). We try to understand where they are spiritually and then plan lessons to meet them at their point of need.
COST
Trips cost $100-$150.
WEBSITE
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PROMO VIDEO
TESTIMONIAL
From the husband of a trail leader and father of a high school participant: “My wife and daughter couldn’t stop talking about the backpacking trip. All weekend they went on about how awesome the experience was and are already talking about next summer’s trip!”
