This past summer, our young women embarked on two Kairos adventures: a Service Adventure Trip in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and a Canoe Trip through the Sylvania Wilderness.
Serving with Joy in North Carolina
In mid-June, we packed a van with 9th and 10th-grade girls and headed south to partner with our brothers and sisters from People of Joy, a new community associated with our Sword of the Spirit network. Basecamping at Pilot Mountain State Park, we spent our first days in retreat and preparation before diving into two service projects:
Our high schoolers hosted a ‘Life in the Holy Spirit’ Day Retreat for the People of Joy junior high girls. From MCing and leading worship to sharing personal testimonies and praying over the younger girls, each Kairos girl stepped into significant leadership roles during the retreat. Watching them contribute and grow in their unique gifts was a true highlight.
Next, the team served the People of Joy community retreat by stepping up to cook, clean, and provide childcare – allowing parents and leaders to fully participate in their sessions. They prepared nourishing, scrumptious meals and cared for 11 children with endless energy (and plenty of creek-exploring!). It was a whirlwind, and our girls stretched themselves to give generously. Living up to their name, People of Joy brought immense warmth and hospitality to our time together.
Building Character in the Sylvania Wilderness
At the end of June, our 7th and 8th-grade girls headed north to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. A wilderness canoe trip is the ultimate test of teamwork: the girls mastered strategic packing, camp setup, paddling, and portaging. On the trail, you learn to move as a unit – sharing the load until the work is done, looking out for one another, and experiencing the true give-and-take of Christian community.
Your support makes these landmark adventures possible – spaces where Jesus is Lord, lifelong friendships in Christ are built, virtue is forged, and God is worshiped as our Creator and Giver of all good things! We are so grateful to be on mission with you!
