Michigan — A special TLT investiture service was held at the Faith On Fire (FOF) Camporee for 54 Michigan Pathfinders, under the direction of Terry Dodge, Michigan Conference Pathfinder director.

The Teen Leadership Training (TLT) program addresses adolescent developmental needs and promotes leadership skills, enabling and empowering teens to become full partners in the mission of the Adventist Church with adult leadership, in a shared service experience of Pathfinder ministry.

TLTs spend a half year in the six following areas: administrative, finance/clerical, camping/activities, outreach, counseling, and AY classwork/honors. This training is accomplished alongside adult staff members and is in addition to regular AY class work.

Those participating in the FOF investiture service included: 18 entering the program for the first time, who received a special red and black braid; 20 who received the first level pin; 13 who received the second level pin; 10 who received the third level pin; and one who received the fourth level pin. The Pathfinder TLT is ready to be invested as a Master Guide upon completing the fourth level.

Once the training sequence is completed, TLTs begin to serve as a club staff member. Several TLTs have become Pathfinder leaders because of the training they received in this program. Others have had the opportunity to help write new AY honors for the North American Division.

The TLT pledge says:

"Loving the Lord Jesus, I promise to take an active part in the work of the Teen Leadership Training program, doing what I can to help others and to finish the work of the Gospel in all the world."

It is an honor for a Pathfinder to become a TLT, and it is an honor to have young people willing to go the extra mile to become a TLT for the Lord.

Terry Dodge, Michigan Conference Pathfinder director