Clinton Meharry, Indiana camp meeting youth leader, wanted the week's program to include some practical experiences. Before camp meeting began he lined up two youth service projects. He presented the first service project to the youth on Wednesday during camp meeting week, challenging them to volunteer their time to assist the staff at the Agapé Therapeutic Riding Center. Thirteen youth accepted the assignment, despite the extremely hot weather they had to work in.

Our young people aren’t new to the staff at Agapé. Staff member Scott Miller remarked, “I believe this is the third year the young people have come to help us. Every time they come, they are good workers, and we really appreciate them coming here.”

Agapé is a Christian organization dedicated to helping those who are physically, mentally, or emotionally challenged. Located just a few miles from the camp meeting campgrounds, the staff of this organization aim to inspire, motivate, and challenge the children to reach their full potential by using horses as the therapeutic modality. Their mission statement is: “To Glorify Christ by Serving Others.” Indiana's youth leaders were impressed with this Christian organization when they were looking for a service project for our young people.

During former service experiences, the youth have cut new riding trails, spread bark on the trails, and assisted Agapé by staining fences. This year they faced similar tasks. One group spread mulch at the front entrance to Agapé. Another spread bark in a different area. A third group painted a storage barn.

When I stopped by to take photos, the young people and their leaders were hot, but I sensed an enthusiasm for the work they were doing and satisfaction in helping others. Hrefna Thordarson, who helped spread mulch, remarked, “I came because I wanted to do something to help the handicapped children.”

Following the service project, the young people were taken to a nearby swimming pool in Noblesville, where I am sure they enjoyed the refreshing cool water after their hot and humid service experience.

On Thursday, the youth visited The Guardian Home in Indianapolis, where they intermingled with young people who are in a government temporary care facility. Indiana Adventist youth played games, conducted worship experiences, and ate lunch with the children. This experience was planned to help the Adventist youth understand the reality of those less fortunate, while extending their friendship and joy.

Thank you, youth, for representing your church well and for sharing the love of Jesus with our Cicero and Indianapolis neighbors during camp meeting.