On Sabbath, 20 April, the North American Division (NAD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church held its annual Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE) testing in Greeley, Colorado, USA. This event, which tests the knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures among our young Pathfinders, is a significant part of our commitment to Adventist Christian education. The Milton Keynes Fishermead Eagles were among those taking first place, demonstrating their deep understanding of the Scriptures.
It was a freezing and snowy day, but the atmosphere inside the auditorium was warm and exciting. Pathfinders from across North America could be heard reciting Scripture passages from the books of Joshua and Judges as they settled themselves in anticipation of the test that would begin shortly.
Among the participants were teams from the British Union Conference (BUC), who showcased their dedication and passion for the Pathfinder Bible Experience. The teams from the North England Conference (NEC) participated via Zoom, and they included Leicester Central Team B, Middlesborough Team Joshua, Northampton Central Divine Disciples, Northampton Wisdom Warriors, NISDA Warriors, South Shields: Heir of the Promise, South Shield Soldiers, Windsor Street South Team Jnr.
The South England Conference featured an in-person team, the Milton Keynes Fishermead Eagles, who continued their streak of high performance by achieving first place. The event was also attended by teams from the Caribbean Island of Cuba, Europe, and Ukraine, who participated via a hybrid link.
The UK teams were not alone in their journey. They were bolstered by the unwavering support of Pastor Kevin Johns, BUC Youth Ministries Director, Pastor Ikwisa Mwasumbi, NEC Pathfinder Director, Daniel Danquah, NEC Area Coordinator, and the invaluable guidance of Margaret Johns and Sally-Ann Danquah, both Master Guides. Their support and guidance played an important role in the success of our teams.
It was beautiful to see Adventist Christian education being promoted and Pathfinders responding to the appeal to study for our Church's ministry and leadership training.
May we continue to support and pray for our Pathfinders and Adventurers as they formulate a relationship with Jesus through the Adventurer and Pathfinder Bible Experience programme.
We are deeply grateful to all the participants and organisers of this event for their hard work and dedication, which made this event a success.
Looking ahead, the Pathfinders are gearing up for an exciting journey into the books of Romans and 1 & 2 Corinthians for the 2025 study. This is not just another event in our calendar, but a significant milestone in our Pathfinders' spiritual growth. The NAD testing, a highlight of our year, will be held in Battle Creek, Michigan. This presents a unique opportunity for our young Pathfinders to immerse themselves in our Church heritage and visit sites they've only read about!