By Okon Ekpenyong

A youth program under the Seventh-Day Adventist Church has been making a positive impact on young people for years, inspiring pride and hope in parents and community supporters, as it continually finds innovative ways to steer them away from negative paths, develop essential life skills, and help them discover their inner strength.

Over the years, the program has offered various activities, and its pledge, embraced by 2.75 million members worldwide, embodies a strict yet transformative code of conduct that resonates deeply within their souls. This commitment shapes their values and guides them into adulthood.

Many of its members go on to experience successful adulthood, raising families, completing higher education, and continually returning to a place where hope did not seem lost. It’s a place that offers a sense of belonging and reinforces the idea that life can flourish, but only if you take ownership of it.

Denise Stewart, a Columbus resident and a Nurse with a master’s, shares what being in Pathfinder meant to her.

“My experience in Pathfinders was filled with unforgettable lessons and lifelong memories. We served our community in meaningful ways and learned true resilience- camping in the snow, building fires, cooking outdoors, and even constructing tipis to sleep in as we practiced fundamental survival skills and shared moments of singing, playing drums, and marching in parades, all while growing our understanding and relationships with God. It was definitely a place where fellowship, faith, and adventure came together to shape who I am today. We were taught to be true leaders.”

Cantrell, a current college student and former member of Pathfinder, shared that one of the highlights of his experience was feeding people experiencing homelessness and volunteering at food drives. He emphasized the importance of fostering inclusivity in the community, being accountable for one’s actions, and appreciating that faith opens new opportunities. During camp sessions, he enjoyed bonding with fellow Pathfinders and discovering more about himself and his abilities.

Another returning member, now playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation, is Dwaryn Allen. He is an educator, a drone instructor, and a former Air Force aviation maintenance specialist. Beyond his professional background, he is also an avid golfer and bowler. I could go on about his accomplishments! He recently shared insights with the New Americans magazine about what Pathfinder represents and how the church serves as a global community. It’s fascinating to see how many immigrants have found their chapter here, from Kenyans and Ghanaians to Hispanics.

What engaging activities and programs have you curated for the event to boost community involvement and outreach, fostering a spirit of togetherness and service that benefits everyone involved?

To foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose, we have curated a meaningful lineup of activities that highlight our Pathfinders’ growth, talents, and spiritual development. This includes a special Induction Program and a dynamic Worship Service designed to showcase both the soft and technical skills our youth have cultivated this season.

Featured elements include:

• Youth-Led Program Design & Delivery, centered on communicating the “Why of Pathfinders.”

• A heartfelt Sign Language Choir presentation.

• Child-to-Parent Storytelling, offering a touching perspective on family, faith, and growth.

• A vibrant Youthful Praise Team leading worship in song.

• Video highlights capturing the club’s achievements from the past 12 months.

• A forward-looking segment presenting plans and goals for the next 12 months.

Together, these activities intentionally engage our community, celebrate our Pathfinders’ accomplishments, and inspire deeper involvement in service and ministry.

In what ways does the esteemed Pathfinder program harmoniously align with the mission and values of Ephesus SDA Church, enriching both the community and individual spirits?

The Pathfinder program beautifully reflects the mission and values of Ephesus SDA Church by nurturing young people in Christ-centered service, character, and community engagement. Ephesus believes that God inhabits a people who live out His love, and Pathfinders embrace that calling through both faith and action, inspiring trust and spiritual alignment.

Grounded in the Global Pathfinder Pledge—”By the grace of God, I will be pure, and kind, and true… I will be a servant of God and a friend to man”—our club strives to model the compassion, integrity, and servant leadership that Jesus taught. Through consistent involvement in ministries such as the Mid-Ohio Food Bank, Pop-Up Food Pantries, conservation cleanups, and community-focused outdoor education, Pathfinders actively demonstrate Christ-like love in practical ways.

By combining spiritual growth with meaningful service, the Pathfinder program enriches the church family and strengthens the wider community, helping young people develop a faith that is lived, shared, and deeply rooted in the mission of Ephesus SDA Church.

Will there be exclusive opportunities for attendees to explore joining a local Pathfinder club or taking on roles as dedicated staff members, encouraging new participation and leadership development?

Absolutely. Attendees will have meaningful opportunities to learn more about joining the Ephesus Pathfinder Club or exploring roles as dedicated staff members. The Ephesus Pathfinders are open to youth of all ethnicities from middle school through high school, and we are always excited to welcome new families into our growing community.

We also value collaboration. We actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations and welcome invitations for our Pathfinders to support local businesses at grand openings, participate in community service initiatives, assist with special ceremonies, and even contribute to golf outings and other community events.

These opportunities not only help attendees envision their place within the Pathfinder ministry but also highlight our commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement.

Could you graciously share inspiring success stories or heartfelt testimonials from current or former Pathfinders that illustrate the profound impact the program has had on their lives?

Yes. We have several heartfelt stories that reflect the lasting impact of the Pathfinder experience. Many families with high school–aged Pathfinders have been so inspired by their children’s growth that they’ve encouraged friends and even younger siblings to join the Ephesus Pathfinder Club. Their confidence, leadership, and spiritual maturity have become a testimony in themselves.

We also celebrate former Pathfinders who have returned as adult counselors—now professionals in fields such as media, photography, culinary arts, and skilled trades. Once Pathfinders, they now give back by teaching drum corps, media production, photography, cooking, and more. Their journey from youth participants to mentors highlights the program’s powerful, lifelong influence.

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