Pathfinder Mission Statement

Statement of Mission
The mission of the Markham Woods Church Pathfinder Club is, through outdoor adventure activities, to develop in the church's young people a lasting respect and love for God, for family, for others, for the church and for nature.

Statement of Philosophy
Pathfinder-age young people are at a pivotal stage in their lives: They are establishing their own identities, fine-tuning their values and assuming increasing responsibility. To assist in this developmental process, the Markham Woods Church provides active Sabbath School and Christian Education programs. The Pathfinder Club offers an additional experience that is both unique and appealing, that is not part of these other ministries, and that for many may not be available anywhere else. 

Young people have a natural love of adventure. Thus the Pathfinder Club utilizes camping and other exciting outdoor activities to teach lessons and develop individual and team skills that will be beneficial throughout life.

Statement of General Goals

1. Teach spiritual concepts through outdoor adventure activities.
2. Teach young people both individual and team skills.
3. Develop in each young person a sense of self-worth and self-reliance.
4. Create a bond of friendship and respect between young people and adults.
5. Ensure a sense of belonging to the individual unit, to the Pathfinder Club, to the Markham Woods congregation and to the Seventh-day Adventist denomination.
6. Inspire a desire to serve others.
7. Promote a love and respect for nature.
8. Instill a sensitivity for the feelings of others.
9. Teach personal responsibility and self-control.
10. Encourage young people to transfer the skills and lessons learned in  Pathfinders to the family, school, church and community setting.