On Wednesday, June 11, ten youth and seven sponsors left the parking lot of Hope Church for West Virginia and the Appalachian Trail. They hiked for four days and covered 42 miles in good weather with just a little rain. Along the way the group endured some aches and pains, administered balm to blisters, sang some songs, and enjoyed being in God’s creation. Thank you, Hope Church congregation, for your warm send-off, prayers, and support for our group.
On the Sunday we returned, we had a surprise celebration for Larry Mulder to celebrate the 25th year that Larry has led a group of middle schoolers on the trail. We celebrated with cake and punch, (the punch was made with Tang, something we enjoy on the trail), a skit was performed, gifts were given, and words of love and appreciation were heard. We hope that what Larry started 25 years ago will continue to be an honored tradition for the Hope Church youth for many more years to come. Thank you Larry!
Anne Duinkerken
Youth Ministry Director