Stillwater SDA Pathfinders Put Faith into Action with Back-to-School Outreach

Weeks before the new school year began, the Pathfinders from the Stillwater Seventh-day Adventist Church were already living out the message of 1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

Though a small congregation, the Stillwater SDA Church continues to make a big impact for Christ. Under the dedicated leadership of Lilian Daman, the Pathfinders—supported by church members—assembled 180 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. These backpacks were distributed to families in the Stillwater area and the local Ponca Tribe community in partnership with the Ponca SDA church.

It was truly a team effort. “We are a small congregation but a mighty one,” says Lilian Daman. Pastor Luis Luciano took to the mower to ensure the church grounds looked their best. Volunteers were in charge of designing flyers and a banner to spread the word, others coordinated setup of the tent, tables, and traffic coordination and making sure the community was being served in an organized manner. And, of course, the Pathfinders arrived ready to serve with energy and compassion, waving banners and signs to make sure everyone knew where we were. 

Each backpack included a copy of The Great Hope and information about the Pathfinders Club, extending not just material support, but spiritual encouragement as well.

These young Pathfinders are a shining light in their church and beyond. Their work embodies the wisdom of Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Without a doubt, the Stillwater church is faithfully nurturing and empowering the next generation of Christian leaders through example.

By Christina Cook-Glossop