It never stopped dumping. Snowflake after snowflake, inch after inch, the snow created an incredible powder playground for SFCers from across the U.S. and around the world to ski at Mt. Hood. God’s. Perfect. Timing. A gift.
The snow wasn’t the only thing flowing abundantly on this weekend to remember, though. Night after night, morning after morning, the Spirit was on the move. The Holy Spirit was present and active throughout the weekend, whether through morning prayer time, Jeff’s messages, worship, or conversations. How refreshing it was to be SURROUNDED by shredders who love Jesus.
Camp Arrah Wanna was beautiful. Moss-draped, snow-covered trees surround the campus. It was the most gorgeous venue for this joyous weekend gathering. As we pulled into the camp, I could sense rest. Our staff prayerfully began the weekend by the fireplace and had a classic SFC Family dinner.
On day one of the conference, weary travelers made their way to check in and excitedly congregated in Judson Hall for time with SFC friends from all over. It was indeed like a family reunion! You could hear shrieks and excited hellos from person to person as the crew arrived all through the first night.
On day two, conference attendees stormed Mt. Hood Meadows for a day of shredding. It was amazing. Every run you took, you ran into someone else from the conference. Going skiing with friends from around the world is such a joy. That night, we worshiped and heard our incredible speaker, Jeff, dive into this year’s conference topic, “What Do You Want?” The night was closed with a hilarious Gaper Day-themed dodgeball tournament. Let me tell you… the crew came through with incredible costumes.
Day three was full of all sorts of SFC “experiences,” examples of a few ways in which you can engage in local ministry in your shred community. Eunice shared about how to do ministry with a family. She and he husband, Nate, are incredible examples of a family on a mission. David ran a side-country jump experience. He wanted to encourage others that fun can be had wherever there is a pile of snow. Trying new tricks and building a jump together is so bonding! Some people gathered at a local rope tow, while others returned for a second day of powder at Hood Meadows. We closed the evening with a deeply emotional and challenging talk from Jeff and a night of worship.
And finally, the following morning, we said our goodbyes after Marcus led an example of an outdoor church service. He led us on a silent walk to a glistening, snow-covered meadow. The birds were chirping, the creek was running, and a low morning fog surrounded us. His encouraging words echoed in this serene space, and the silence was broken with “Bye! Hope to see you at Camp” or “Goodbye! You really should come to visit soon!” and “Keep me updated on how ministry is going.”
It was indeed a refreshing weekend to remember. Gathering with so many other SFCers is something I look forward to every year. The SFC Support Staff prepare, plan, and pray for the conference for months! When it finally arrives, we lose our minds with excitement. Upon conference close, we all meet to reflect and begin planning the next one! We can’t wait to release next year’s location soon!