KHBC happenings

Buckland Winter Trip 2010 by Chris Hearn

2011-01-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

"I will most gladly spend and be expended for your souls."

~II Corinthians 12:15

Happy New Year! On behalf of the saints who served in Alaska this December. The Lord delights in your prayers on our behalf and we are very grateful for His never-ending grace. We have felt the support of so many Christians who consider the souls of men more valuable than any earthly ambition. At the drop of a hat so many faithful believers rushed to do everything necessary to ensure the gospel would be delivered in person, and it is our great honor to report the work of God among the village of Buckland.

Buckland is a small, mainly Eskimo, village in the northwestern region of Alaska with a population nearing 400 people. A handful of young adults from Buckland have made close friends with their counselors at Kokrine Hills Bible Camp during summer sessions. Some from Buckland even joined their camp counselors in their ministry to a neighboring village last winter. This grew from close relationships developed very quickly and was a consistent trait among the village of Buckland. In other words, we were shocked at how loving and accepting the people of Buckland were. In any village or city it is hard work to find acceptance but it seemed even the youngest of children loved every newcomer with open arms as their own family. For example, we gathered for a small meeting to debrief our time and Carole Huntington was pointing this out. And as she was speaking a crowd of kids were hurling large amounts of snow at the window behind her urging us to come outside with them. This instant rapport kicked a wide open door for the word of God to be proclaimed and received with eagerness.

The most evident issue in this Alaskan village was the same issue Jesus observed among the villages of Israel.

"Jesus was going through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd."

~Matthew 9:35, 36

It was a privilege to see these people but at the same time it was a heartbreak. Our time spent with them increased our compassion for those who have fallen prey to negligence. The men have disappeared from their responsibility to shepherd. So much that the pastor of the only church is an elderly woman, this reflects a consistent pattern. The sad result is a prevalent confusion as to what the bible actually says regarding life and godliness, basically everything that really matters. I fear many young people would not even be able to define a true Christian, or who Jesus is, or how one must inherit eternal life. One boy was so confused he was convinced salvation could be achieved by gazing upon a photograph of Jesus and attending church. Some have dubbed this sort of situation as, "Theological famine." Whatever images come to mind when you hear the word 'famine' describes the spiritual state these people are in. Many are wrapped in conflict, easily deceived, crippled by fear of demons, stuck on animism, trapped by sin, and unable to tell the difference between Joel Osteen and John MacArthur. How can someone know how he stands before God if he lacks essential knowledge of salvation? And if one cannot know if they're saved, how will they lead others? Please allow this thought to sink in. As gut wrenching as the image of famine may be there still is great hope found in our great God.

The other end of this rotting rope is very encouraging because this great famine has produced a great hunger for God's word. It was an overwhelming blessing to feed these people with the pure milk of the Word and to enjoy their extravagant company. The young people and even a few young men showed great desire to be equipped and challenged by what the bible actually says, and to grow up into a mature knowledge of the Son of God, and no longer fall prey to every teacher that comes through town or on the television.

Our trip included a few days of travel and amazing hospitality by the church in Big Lake, AK including the Hogate family who allowed us to acquire Dusty for additional help. His shy sense of humor and plain approachability made a fine addition. After our scenic travels, this gave our team less than four days to dig in and engage. Most of the town activity is indoors (Alaska is really cold in the winter) at the school gymnasium. Much of our interaction with the people outside of the daily events were amidst everyday activities such as preparing meals, getting water from the washhouse, watching episodes of 'Little house on the prairie' and traveling across town. This provided an ideal context to interact with many people on an individual basis, and preach the gospel. For example, our girls traveled together for a routine trip to the showers and Rachel Perron took advantage of the time in the washhouse to share the gospel with a local passerby. It was such a joy to serve with these women who lacked many of their familiar conveniences of home and I did not hear a word of complaint but rather a pleasant eagerness to do whatever necessary for the sake of fulfilling the Lord’s objective.

The first evening we were there we came almost immediately from setting our luggage down to meeting up with the kids in town at the gym. Roger and Carole served up some pizza while our team of counselors got straight to work learning names, and giving away our every bit of attention to them. Even Roger and Carole joined the fun. It was supposed to be an event sponsored by the school or someone but no one else was present, there was no real format but what began was very encouraging. Starting that night was a constant dialogue between our team members and young people eager to discuss and hear the word of God. Over the next few days it seemed at almost any given moment you could find at least one honest heartfelt discussion concerning family, life, relationships, etc. in relation to the things of God. It was very impressive to see how our team found people in every corner of the village to give the gospel message. In addition, it was hard to walk many places without being accompanied by several visitors vying for attention.

“For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” ~I Corinthians 2:2

With so many people and so little time our primary task was to make sure as many people as possible heard the gospel message. The second gathering the following evening was also at the gymnasium for the infamous "youth lock-in.” At the beginning of the night the younger children were invited (7-13 years old). We spent much of our time playing whatever game the kids pleased; mostly basketball, volleyball, jump rope, and tossing the football. Our staff was in a constant cycle of engagement whether in activity or social interaction (more rare with younger kids). The Lord providentially arranged that we would be allotted two opportunities to sit the kids down for a formal preaching session. Joey Katches was eager to seize this open door even though he had only prepared one message. The second session would be only two hours later to a group of high school aged young adults. The first message was about the birth of Christ. Many kids were waiting in line for their own copy of the bible afterwards. The second sermon was the narrative of the Rich young ruler in Matthew 19, proclaiming the impossibility of salvation with man, and possibility of salvation with God. Roger and Carole gave a sweet and challenging presentation to start each session, followed by worship music lead by Louis Esway, Jared Slover, and Loni Olender. Picture these leaders all singing and preaching barefoot or in socks because it was almost an immediate transition from running the gymnasium to a side room, where most sat on the floor, and crammed for each gathering. Louis’ fun personality helped him to be a quick friend to many and did a great job making himself available. The time with the young children was concluded by dismissing them home as the older kids made their way inside. Many of the children had to be carried to the front door because they wanted to stay so bad. At one point about 10 kids were piled on one another trying to make it back in the front door, but eventually they listened to their native elder’s (Roger and Carole) and made their way home.

As the teenagers made their way in, it was exciting to see plenty of new faces and many young men with promise. Their behavior was stellar and surprisingly energetic. The basketballs did not stop bouncing until after 8am the next morning. Roger began the night by introducing every one of our staff with sweet hugs, edifying words, and most importantly his bride Carole. Not long after that we had our time of preaching, a few found themselves unable to just run out and continue playing but to seriously consider their life and walk before the Lord. Jared Slover was an invaluable member and really demonstrated an ability to sit anyone down anywhere and discuss his or her life and walk before God. There are genuine believers among these teenagers and it was our pleasure to encourage them to not grow weary in doing good. Please take the time to pray for them.

“May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ.” ~II Thessalonians 3:5

After Joey finished his public preaching the night was still young, for it would carry into the next morning. Outside the weather dropped 20 degrees below zero (mild for that time of year) and a blizzard began rolling through. Inside we were warm enough to carry out more games, conversation, and a strange fascination of hot tea. Maggie Slover was even able to handle a rogue football with spontaneous grace and made many diligent efforts to sit young women down for heart to heart conversation. Joey’s wife Amanda proved to be a Florence Nightingale in the making as she tended instinctively well to people who became sick. She was among the few that did not get sick while we were in Buckland. The local Health Aid said that close to ten cases of gastroenteritis were affecting many prior to our arrival and many more followed. But not one of us regrets a moment of affliction for it was our highest honor and privilege to deliver the gospel message in person: in the joy of the Holy Spirit amidst any affliction (I Th. 1:6). Loni Olender was an excellent example of seizing almost every moment for loving service and was very popular among the young women. My eyes were constantly blessed to see the steadfast devotion of our staff to gladly empty themselves for the sake of the souls of others. God truly is alive in the hearts of His people. In response to this behavior, many young adults were asking us for guidance in the word of God, even small groups were asking to be fed by truth about Jesus after 4 o’clock in the morning. Some things are just far better than sleep. As the night got longer we designated a separate sleeping area, and still many were buoyantly bumping the volleyball and spending their best attention toward all those awake. We dismissed that morning to tend to those in physical need. Our intentions to comb the neighborhood with Christmas carols were hindered so we set our attention on the evening service where we would be invited to preach and sing.

Our final night was bitter but far more was the sweet faithfulness of God. For some of us this would be our first attendance of a village church service. This church is the only religious building in town and normally has very small attendance. But our company attracted many new attendees. The congregation welcomed us with a traditional song and a man who spoke of his experiences. Time ran long but we were able to sing a few solid Christmas Hymns for the congregation. And we were given opportunity to provide a speaker to preach the gospel from the pulpit. Many were grateful to hear and see the depth and wonder of God’s love displayed in the cross of Christ. We departed that night with some final goodbyes and met with special friends in the morning before our flight left. Joey and Amanda both expressed great love and concern for the souls of the dear people of Buckland and eagerly await the opportunity to return to Alaska for a lifetime of service. Their love for these people was an amazing thing to witness. The seed of the gospel has been planted in the hearts of many and we trust that wherever God sends forth His word that it will not return to Him void. Not even a hint of salvation and eternal life is gained by man’s efforts it is impossible with us, but with God these things are possible. Please pray that the Holy Spirit would move and create repentance leading to eternal life and true spirituality in the heart’s of these people who are one day closer to the judgment seat of Christ.

2010-07-23T19:55:00.001-07:00

We are on the downward slope of this mountain. All of us have returned home to wash the Yukon silt from our clothes, take a hot shower unaccompanied by blood-sucking pests and try to re-assume the patterns of life before camp. But that is harder than it sounds. In some ways this could be what Paul felt like upon leaving some of the churches he’d visited and mentored, undoubtedly saved yet still at the infancy stage. It has been sweet to watch the ways in which these few campers have grown in their faith; even over the course of a week…we are gladly aware of the spiritual gifts they are uniquely equipped with. On the same note, we are also aware of their peculiar temptations, much as we are of our own, and the fact that Satan already has his eye on those weak chinks. Helping them don their life vests and shoulder their bags, it’s hard to put away our forebodings. We may not be saying it out loud, but we’re all longing for God to activate some sort of Star-Wars type force field around them, strong enough to withstand all the assaults of the adversary. Will they cave in to peer pressure? Will their families abuse them into silence? Will the fleeting high become more alluring than eternal joy? But that is faithless. Have we forgotten that the Holy Spirit works with a supernatural power that is hardly reliant upon our human endeavors? Is the song we’ve been singing over and over “He who began a good work in you…” suddenly nothing more than a camp ditty? Roger and Joey have planted the seeds. We have watered them. And now we must prayerfully commit these souls to the God who alone can cause growth. We hope that you will too. “That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Eph. 3:17-21

2010-07-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

“Impromptu” is the word. It’s the catch-all adjective Roger has used to describe the discipleship camp he decided to have literally at the last minute. His desire was to spend some solid time training those who had professed Christ during camp or were interested in becoming a Christian. Last Wednesday marked the first day of what we pray will become an enduring opportunity for native youth to become ambassadors for Christ in their villages. We are unspeakably blessed to sit under the teaching of Roger and Joey. Every morning and evening we gather in a circle, 11 campers and a handful of counselors to define the role of a Christian as God does…” If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 But this week is about application too. Modeling Jesus’ real life approach with his 12 followers, Roger has taken us berry-picking, using the parable of the seeds and the soil along the way. A few of us have gotten up at the crack of dawn to fish for King Salmon…thankfully there aren’t 5,000 mouths to feed. We have sung together, prayed together and had more fun than anyone would imagine could be had with a few boats and inner tubes, a handful of basketballs and one ping-pong table. Already God has displayed his saving power among us. Last night, two of the campers publically confessed Him as their Lord and Savior and are showing evidence of a drastic change of heart. In listening to these kids answer Roger’s question “why are you here?” we have unwittingly learned how to pray for them. So many are going home to guaranteed rejection from their friends and families, severe temptation to revert back to their old ways, an absence of accountability and any biblical teaching whatsoever. It is easy to grow discouraged for them. To walk by sight instead of faith, wondering if it’s futile to light a match in such an ominously dark room. But maybe I can refute such lies from the Deceiver with my own answer to why I am here. I am here because I was once dead in my trespasses and sins and now I am alive unto Christ. I am here because I know, firsthand, that with God all things are possible. I am here because he has commanded me to take his word to the corners of the earth (does the Bush count as a corner?) and I know he does not send me empty handed. I am here because I love these kids so much it hurts…But mostly I am here because He first loved me. Pray for the equipping of the saints. Pray for the softening of hearts yet impervious to the truth. Pray for courage. This camp may be a little last minute, but by God’s grace the things we learn here will be lasting.

Monday at the Teen Camp

2010-07-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

Monday: The skies are mirroring our hearts…Undecided, Restless. Casting down pools of sunshine one minute and then spattering the earth with giant drops of rain. We are nervous and excited all at once. We have survived a turbulent flight over hundreds of miles of wilderness in a small plane. After three windy ,bumpy hours in a boat with ill-fitting life vests we face the fact that our last cup of starbucks is a shadow of the past. We will have to get creative with the Swiss Miss and Folgers.
Preparing our hearts and minds during the orientation with preaching and corporate prayer we are marinating ourselves in 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 “For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
Roger Huntington, the camp director, reminds us in his thundering voice “It is our job to be ambassadors for Christ. We may not be able to save these youth, but, by God’s grace, may we at least lead them to the threshold.” Due to the inclement weather, the kids have been coming in small groups all day. Some faces are new but by the end of the week they will be graven on our hearts for years to come. We greet the returning campers unabashedly with running and screaming and forget all our aforementioned discomforts as their faces light up to see us. It is our fervent prayer that they will know the eternal Light by the end of this week.

Teen Camp 2010 has begun!

2010-07-05T23:45:00.001-07:00

Over 50 volunteer staff have safely arrived and prepared the camp for the first arrivals that have come in by boat and plane throughout the day Monday with more scheduled to arrive Tuesday. Please join us in prayer that this Bible teaching camp will accurately and lovingly share the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the week.

KHBC's Jewels

2010-06-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Megan & Laura late up & late in but they maintained control. a lot of noise from their cabin

Rita & Kyla had the most exciting cabin. there was not a dull moment

David&Dave had their hands full but they had a blast!

Carl & Collin with thier team

Loss of a "Starr" but heaven's gain

2010-06-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Kokrine Hills, Tanana, Alaska and the good old USA will miss Paul. This man finished his living very well! Thank God that He blessed many of us through the life that Paul lived. Godly Alaska Native men are too few; they are the true warriors for their native people. Thank you Jesus for Paul.
38 campers and most of the Camp staff rode the 64 miles up the Yukon River to be with Paul's bride Mary and to honor the memory of Paul. God blessed all of us with a wonderful river ride and above that blessed us in that we all could be a part of the funeral service.

Bible Camp where keeping "clean" matters!

2010-06-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Cleanest beaches, clearest air, smooth waters and with a "just a few" bugs. and where everyone has great fun!

Fresh stew, roast and some ribs.

2010-05-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hey Dave, I think this is the critter that came and paid us a visit this morning. I'd call those trracks real fresh! Let's see if it's in them there woods over yonder.
Yeap! just like we thought it was amongst them tall trees. It ain't too often a critter like this just offer them selves for the dinner table. I'd call the is wonderful gift on this Lord's day. Thank you Jesus!
Yeah Roger, I kinda like this missions in Alaska. I thinks it's about 250 pounds. Our Lord is so grascious ain't He?
Now we got to get this back to camp and take it's warm coat off and process the fresh vittles. all for our campers and our coming new help.

Dillon: It was a nice day on the river!

2010-05-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

There's got to be something hungry in these still waters; after all there are fish surfacing all over out there.
Looks like maybe the Bear may have caught all the big fish out here.
WOW! something just hit!
WHOA! I think that I may have one that the bear left behind; Now if it will just stay on!
Twenty minutes later & after heavy advice from four wiser fishermen here it lay next to my feet. I think this one beat all of Jake's fish put together! Praise You Lord!
Now even the "No Fishin" Mr. Evans wants to get into the action!
I do believe this is real fun and I do believe this can be enough for the dinner table tomorrow! I'm sure that Ms Carole will make it taste great!

D6 Evans at the controls no stump is safely secured

2010-05-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

Roger was really happy with the rework on th six. the track look real good and the engine don't over heat any more. Jake is the man!

The D6 got some serious attention

2010-05-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

Got a good washing by Evans and steam cleaned by Dillon and both tracks shortened up at which Jake was the grunt.

Jake & Dillon giving water to the thirsty new grass

2010-05-26T15:01:00.000-07:00

Florida Dave is the grader man

2010-05-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

that grass seed is thirsty for H2O

2009-07-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

Please God! Send some rain!

When the wind is right Roger even get a shower. with the dust he always could use one.

A Super Teen Camp

2009-07-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

The teen camp was a super success with lots of high paced activity where all campers having had great fun. The landing field came in real handy for whole group activities (though a bit dusty). The weather was great for camping and the counselors all did a superb job connecting in a fun way with those in their cabins. The campers had no idle moments.
Along with the fun and games the campers received clear and detailed teaching from the bible, which also included instruction on what and how to apply bible concepts to one’s everyday life. Getting each camper acquainted with their own personal bible was a high priority and a result was they asked great and practical (sometimes tough) questions. The teaching was very interacting and the worship music very biblical. It was very refreshing.
The food was always plentiful and from the manner I seen the campers gobble the meals up it must have been real good. The new cooking equipment worked great and the cooking staff produced not only great food but also a great environment for serving teens. What a great team they were!
Fifteen campers of the fifty one made a profession of faith. Pray that these fifteen would be the ones that are truly the good soil that the seed (word of God) was sown on. The ones who heard the Word and understands it, show repentance to sinful activity, who will bear fruit and brings forth, some a hundred fold, some sixty and some thirty (Mark 4). May they all be a shining light in their homes and communities and a faithful witness for Jesus.
When it was time to go back to their villages many did not want to go home and. even for us all, we really did want it to end. Yes, most everyone agreed that this was a super camp.

Nothing like a cool bath in the icew cold creek

2009-07-10T23:09:00.000-07:00

for the losers after a hard and hot game of "ultimate Frisbee" the crystal clear water is chilling but refreshing.

Faithful to the Word

2009-07-10T13:30:00.001-07:00

Pastor Ethan Hanson and the Faith Bible Fellowship team, proclaimers of God's word to the letter and delivery with clarity and in the fullness of His grace and truth.

52 teens at camp

2009-07-06T07:52:00.000-07:00

When all the camps boats were allready loaded down with other village teens Willie McCarty was a blessing to bring the nine Ruby camper to camp. it was wonderful to have him and his wife MaryAnn at camp for a while.

Cpt. Ben Cambell with 17 teens doing 32MPH heading up river to camp. What a great and beautiful river to travel.

Roger sandwiched with two Bucland campers. Six eyes watching for drift and snags on the waters.

There was 19 campers in this boat. the four hour ride gave plenty of time for breaking some ice in favor of more interaction among campers from different villages.

This time of year Kids in most villages stay up al night and sleep all day. so we had some who slept during most of the ride.

at camp new friendships begin

2009-06-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

Coming to camp in the boat is sometimes a lonely trip but on the return from camping the kids become knitted together.

Construction is still going on at the Bible Camp

2009-06-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here job leadman Levy tell his crew Daniel and Nehemiah "be sure to put the right amount of nails in we don't want the roof to go with the winds."

Can I have a Bible Camp bible?

2009-06-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

As the camp’s primary speaker James Ruble taught each camper saw and read for themselves the key verses from their own bibles where the stories of Jesus came from. It was heart warming to hear a boy ask, “Can I have a Camp Bible”. He did go home with one with His own marks on it.
Here is David leading a cabin of boys who wanted to sing a special gospel song to the whole group. Junior campers singing at the top of their voices about Jesus is always special to the listener.

54 Campers and each one had a blast!

2009-06-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

Archery was a hot thing to do for the junior camp. Archery is about following each step of instruction, being steady, staying focused and the results are quick. They all listened very well to each step it takes to hit the target every time. Many said that they want a bow when they get home.

Every arrow hit the their mark! Great shooting!

Another bull's eye!

The airfield is very nice.

2009-06-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Terry says "This strip is awesome". He brought in David and a bunch of ammo, targets and clays for the camp's shooting program for the kids. All the supplies were donated by Terry and his friends.

The new dinning hall. Wow do the kids like Kim's cooking!

2009-06-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Samaritan's Purse and Franklin Graham the kids have a nicer and healthier place to eat with supper healthy food.

The first bunch giving the court the test

2009-06-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

It is great to hear the ball hitting the wood again and the kids screaming in fun.

Web sight is up! Praise our Lord!!

2009-06-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

New top waiting for the campers. thanks to Christ Community Church from Hunterville NC and The Crossing in Birchwood AL.

June 6: This was once a ball court

2009-06-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

Roger brought Russ and the New York crew to Tanana and returned with another fine group of God fearing servants. He was tired so he took a nap and when he awoke what was once a basketball court was no more. Wow! this new crew are eager beavers.

This work week the pimary objective and focus is: in all activity we are to be in Christ like fellowship with one another, for building one another up in Him, for good works unto Him; all for His Glory.

Russ and the New Yorkers have arrived.

2009-06-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Russ & Freda with their home State team ready for their work projects.
Cleaning and preparing the grounds around the shop and constructing an addition for keeping parts supplies was the main project.
It was obvious each team member loved their part in making the project fun.

It was a great time and the team gathered for picture taking before being off to Tanana, their beginning leg into many more miles before reaching home.

Sweet fellowship in Jesus with the Florida boys.

2009-06-06T05:27:00.000-07:00

Yes all of the equipment is running and ready for service. With the four who love to be in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ the bible fellowship was memorably sweet and supplemented with the daily breaking of bread made the time together that much more. This day God’s provision of two skinny ducks and a little fat one cooked by Justin was a highlight for Roger, he could not get enough of that dish. It was do good he cleaned even the smallest of the bones. Thank you, Evans, Dave, Justin and Jake!

Florida boys heading their 4,800 trip back to loved ones missed so dearly.

another day of fun

2009-05-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

Carole says, Wow! Look Roger; Justin is getting running water to our home. Oh boy! no more packing water in buckets. We love you Justin!

Two big tonka toys stuck. Men sometimes just can't stay out of the mud. Jake comes to the rescue with the dozer.

Jake says, Evans now that I got you out of the mud I need your help to get a bit more compaction on this landing strip.

We come to realize Evans will do anything to help a buddy do a better job for our Lord. "We must to make the landing field safer for the kids."

Just by seeing the results we can tell that Evans can make the grounds smooth and straight. Only the best for Jesus!

Another days of men's play at camp

2009-05-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

Some days boys just are not happy unless they have big toys to play with. Here's Dave and Evans getting their hands and clothes dirty again. A one inch steel hydraulic line deep in the mainframe sprung a leak. It was fun for them as they skillfully snaked the long tube out of its hole and after some grinding, washing, welding and putting it all back togehter again it did not leak any more. It was full day's job but now the Deere is back in the running, for Evans to play in the dirt with.

There are so many things that need attention before any kids are able to come the camp and taking some gas out of over filled 55 gallon drums is one of them. Here is Justin and Jake playing with the big cans. They did not have a spark around so the excitement there was minimal.

Florida Boys in Alaska

2009-05-25T23:04:00.000-07:00

riding small planes are for other people! Though I will endure for my Lord's service where ever/however He call. Justin

The two hour boat ride on the Yukon River was a lot better for all. we even dropped by the bone yard and seen some mastadon remains; bald eagle's nest and small grizz.

The good times include work but also bible fellowship, prayer abd good meals.

The supply barge arrived with more goodies

2009-05-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

We got all kinds of goodies. even some food.

Ice Damage is light

2009-05-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

Six foot of ice on top the potato garden, rubarbs and rassberry okay. the boat dock and the new smoke is gone. Took four hours to clear the beach of the ice so that the river barge can deliver summer supplies. It was fun.

Cozy Winter Cabin

2009-03-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

From west side across the creek.

North end.

Eastside of cabin.

Carole's private place that need curtins.

2009 SEASON BEGINS

2009-03-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you all know; that I was able to retrieve some of the last pictures taken at camp that were on my damaged desk top. Enjoy.

landing Field

2008-09-17T07:46:00.000-07:00

dirt moving is done for this year and what you see shows the great progress of the camp's landing field, which also doubles as a field for camper activities. With much gratitude to the many volunteers with Samaritan's Purse and the grader provided by the Samaritans; and the continuing hard work people from the Big Lake Christian Fellowship Church (Alaskan).

A view from the Yukon River and the approach from the south. the far left corner marks the 2,000 feet. About 1,900 feet is usable for light equipment.

View from the north. lower left shows area that need more fill to complete the target of 2,000 feet. Dirt is coming from the right side (looking at the picture).

Both pictures were taken September 14th by Shawn Bickford.

Winter cabin

2008-09-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Carole will be happy to move from the tent to the warm cabin. It need lots more interior work but its got to be warmer than canvas covering.

Glen the new team member

2008-09-10T22:40:00.000-07:00

All the way from Arkansas Glen come to lend a hand.

Glen driving the smokless camp D6 Cat dozer. He says "I don't see any dirt. this thing has no power."

Fine fall spawned-out coho make a fine dinner for hungry men; who will eat just about anything. At Roger's fine dinning.

Chester & Bill 09/10/08

2008-09-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Bill says driving is dream machine is fun; if its not broke. AT least it has new mufflers.

Chester keeps focused on making sure that landing pilots get a chance at a smooth landing when they come in with a load of precious cargo (bible campers). Not even a smile for the camera.

Men can and do have fun on big toys. "we are almost at the 2,000 foot mark"

Two men doing a days work with old and worn equipment equal to ten men working for pay and with new equipment. What a team of two! real servants living out the Gospel of Christ.

the sweetest couple

2008-08-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

AJ & Miss June Salles have been the inspiration of the camp. Their gentle spirit and servant heart combined with their skill in preparing the food has contributed greatly to the spirit of all who come here. They come all the way from the deep south (Kiln, MS) to serve as our Lord directs them and with out complaint. (Oh, maybe there was a little when one of them would lock the other in the cabin for a while.) AJ has got to be the best northern pike cook around. (even Roger and Carole goes for seconds and then some) As you can see in their eyes in the picture, there love for one another remains burning and the joy of oneness in marriage is obvious. This couple is loved by all of us. AJ, Miss June thank you and Yes! We love you.

unconditional love in action

2008-08-08T16:18:00.000-07:00

Roger says, "At camp ladders are only used as back up equipment; and serving means that one must suffer for Christ!"

Cisco answers, "Okay, Roger; its only because you are my elder that must I listen to that kind of bible WISDOM and if that is what you think true discipleship is all about.

earth movers in action

2008-08-08T12:55:00.001-07:00

AT THE CROSS UP ON THE THIRD HILL

2008-08-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

Daniel Anthony Jones spent the summer at camp,first as a camper then a helper. He announced he wanted to be a 'SAM'. Sam Minatra, A YOUNG STRONG SERVANT OF THE LORD, has been a helper at camp for quite some time and left camp early this year to serve in Sudan. But he was here long enough for some of the boys to decide they would like to be like him. Daniel is now attending a christian youth camp in Anchorage.

A family sold out to and committed to serving our Lord.

2008-08-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

What a refreshing; to see the excitement that a whole family has for serving our Lord Jesus Christ. Jason & Kim Kopp, and family, live in Galena and are committed servants in living out Christ. They sacrificially and lovingly at every opportunity share the love of Jesus with whom ever our Lord put in their path; a path that leads to salvation in Him. During a two week stay Jason accepted the challenge of leading the building of the winter cabin and under his effort (with much support from the Samaritan’s volunteer group) much more was accomplished then expected. Even Daniel completed his own construction project and for its final feature, a cross for the entry way. Kim and the girls were ever helpful in the kitchen and dinner service areas; making sure that all the people at camp were given the best possible treatment in food service. Pray for Jason and the family as God leads them into full time missions work along side Roger and Carole.
During some of the kid's camping time Jason helped out where ever help was needed; whether it was with driving boats or doing odds and ends around camp. He was also a camp counselor for a cabin of boys.

the heat is on! No more cold!

2008-08-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

Cisco says: “I love my bride Margret and I want to keep her warm in our room. I put in a wood stove and I’m going to make a fire so it will be nice and toasty for her when she’s done with all her chores. Ain’t I a nice, serving and protective husband?

2008-08-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

Daniel says, "Hey! Don't forget my project. you can come visit"

Care taker's cabin is coming up

2008-08-02T22:52:00.000-07:00

Kopp and crew is hard at it rain or shine. Praise our Lord for Cisco, Jim and all the other Sp people helping out so generously. Should be ready for the freeze soon coming to this part of Alaska.

Steve's mode of travel between villages

2008-08-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

Oh boy! This is going to be a long trip from camp to Galena. I should have listened to Cisco and hitch a ride on that float plane and flew in stead. Oh well! I'll just enjoy the famous and muddy Yukon River and view the beauty of God's wonderful creation all around me; and pray that a giant northern pike don't take revenge and think I'm something tasty to eat. Anyway I should be there before dark. After all I'll do anything for Luther.

The Pollard grader is hard at work.

2008-08-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

Fred and Lynn Pollard lent the camp a fine machine (Pollards in front of their new home). They delivered it to Nenana all the way from Kenai Alaska. The machine works very well and can do fine art work of the earth but it's the novice operator (Roger) who is not an artist with it. Please pray that God will supply the funds obligated for the remainder of the $$7,800shipping cost.

A J has northern pike for dinner tonight.

2008-08-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

The fish is a real eater in the Alaskan waters but tonight this killer fish is our dinner. AJ

Samaritans are hard at it!

2008-08-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

It was not long ago the roof and then the siding was on. Now interior finish is underway. The dinning hall is getting a knotty pine finish and the kitchen has new easy to clean wall. The work is being very well done. The SP volunteers are exceptional people.

Finishing Strong

2008-07-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Bible Camp finished strong with a fantastic Junior High camp. The weather cooperated all week and our speaker, Randy Gay (from Abundant Life church in Portland) really connected with the campers.

Yesterday, all the campers returned home and today the staff leaves -- to be replaced by another Samaritan's Purse team which will continue work on the new dining hall/kitchen. Another team from Big Lake will come to work on other projects.

For the last time this "camping season" we want to thank you for praying. Thank you parents, for trusting us with your "treasures." We hope they got home with most of their clothes. You probably wouldn't want the dirty socks they left behind anyway!

It's an awesome responsibility and a great honor to work with your kids, many of whom are grandchildren of 1960's and 1970's campers! (Speaking of "old" check out these OLD pictures from KHBC many years ago. Who are those people?)

We'd love to hear from you. What did your kids like? What did they not like? What suggestions do you have for improving Bible Camp? Leave a comment on this blog, or email kokrinehills@gmail if you have something you'd rather not post publicly.

Thanks again. Have a great rest of the summer!

Celebration

2008-07-10T23:02:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a day of celebration. Blake graduated, Daniel Jones turned 16, and Roger and Carole Huntington celebrated 30 years of marriage. Carole organized a party for Blake and Daniel complete with speeches about them. Carole baked a birthday cake for Daniel and even acquired a cap and gown for Blake. It was fun for the kids to experience and we all got cake and ice cream too.

Great Weather!

2008-07-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

We keep hearing that the weather is going to turn ugly here, but so far the Lord has given us exactly what we need. Two days ago Roger said the forcast called for 48 hours of rain, but we have been to the sandbar two days in a row! I don't have much to report about the sandbar. . . other than it is muddy, wet, and as you can tell from these pictures-- a lot of fun.

Boys will be. . . .

2008-07-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

Boys. What is it about the young males of our species that every one of them has an intense facination with bugs. The junior high boys at camp this week are no different. They enjoy the big ugly bugs the most.

At camp we have large beetles called pincher bugs (also known as "moose lice" or "spruce beetles"). These beetles (pictured below) fly slowly, seemingly uncontrolled, then land in a clumsy way where a junior high boy will pick it up and chase a junior high girl. It is really an interesting ritual to watch. Another fun pasttime of the boys here at camp is to get two or more moose lice and make them fight to the death, these beetles can be vicious. I am fairly certain that God had 11 year old boys in mind when he created pincher bugs.

Junior High Camp: Day 2

2008-07-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

I realize that this post is a day late, but things have been rather busy around here. Yesterday was a beautiful day filled with camp activities. In the morning we had the normal activities like archery, crafts, and canoeing. We spent the afternoon at the sandbar, playing in the mud and pulling the tube. Tubing is quite the popular attraction here at camp and we are on our third tube this summer (I think we might be a little rough on them). We had to have two more tubes sent up with Emily, my wife, last week and these seem to be much more sturdy. I wasn't able to get any pictures of yesterday's tubing (I was driving), but will post some in the next few days.

Junior High Camp: Day 1

2008-07-06T22:57:00.000-07:00

57 campers arrived at camp today for the Junior High camp. This week Randy Gay is the speaker. This is Randy's second year at Kokrine Hills and the campers (and staff) absolutely love him. He is a gifted speaker and he connects with the campers in a way that not many can-- a big thank you to Rebecca, Joshua, Bethany, Andrew, and Rachel for allowing their husband/dad to leave for a week and share the Love of Christ with the campers here.

Randy is teaching using a workbook that he and Rebecca developed, it is called "Our Story For His Glory." The central theme is that "God has been a part of the camper's story, how He wants to be a part of their story right now, and how He longs to have them be a part of His story for all eternity."

Tonight Randy shared the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3), and explained how their story showed God's faithfulness and love for those who obey Him.

My favorite pictures are those of the campers with their Bibles open. Roger opens each camp by asking the campers, "What kind of camp is this?"
All the campers respond with a loud, "Bible camp!"

I love to hear the campers respond to that question because without God's word we would all be lost. Pray that the campers will continue to read their Bibles even after they go home.

Staff Gets A Break

2008-07-06T22:51:00.000-07:00

The junior campers left on the 3rd of July and that gave the staff a couple days of much needed rest. In addition to catching up on many missed hours of sleep, the staff has the responsibility of cleaning up for the next camp.

You can see Carlee and Kat working hard cleaning the wash house.

The Greatest Day of Camp EVER!

2008-07-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

This really was the Greatest Day -- at least of this week of camp! An absolutely gorgeous day that got better and better as it went along. Morning worship was awesome with Steve & Jordan Grace.

Canoeing, Archery (including "hit the Bug"), Face Painting, Crafts, Guitar Lessons, Basketball, etc.

Then. . . . . . . . Last day of SANDBAR! YAY!!!

Another scrumptious lunch courtesy of Roger & Carole - Salmon w/Rice!! Boy that disappeared fast....but then came the dinner- Pizza which disappeared even faster.

Evening session was capped off with a fantastic concert by Steve & Jordan Grace, featuring our very own Kokrine Hills SONG!!

All the Staff and Counselors will say good bye to their cute Junior Campers tomorrow morning, a sad parting. We will be praying for all these special gifts from God now and in the days to come.

Some of our memory verses were:

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

I John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God: and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

as well as; Romans 6:23 Ephesians 2:8 John 10:10 Matthew 22:37

posted by; Gayle J.

Fun Fun and More Fun

2008-07-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

It was a close call.... A beautiful sunny day, morning activities (archery, basketball, face painting, and all the rest) scrumptious bar b q, then a huge rainstorm rolled in, bummer.

The kids are so great, we just moved the afternoon activities indoors.

By 3:00 the weather was all clear and the boats started loading up for sandbar --- YAY!

Following supper we were belssed with a special time of worship with Steve & Jordan Grace from Australia.

THE BEST DAY AT CAMP YET!

posted by Gayle J

Junior Campers Keep on Keepin' on

2008-06-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

Our 2nd full day of camp began with cold but clear skies warming to a nice sunny afternoon.

Yesterdays soggy clothing that Counselors tenderly hung to dry overnight in the heated shop was returned to use.

Campers have all chosen a name for their cabins... Here are all the Campers and their Counselors on their front porch, also the very valued Junior Staff.

The kids have enjoyed lots more games and activities with the counselors and staff. By far the favorite, by casual observation, was Biscuit in the Basket, followed closely by Fill the Can (on your counselor's head) or Drench the Counselor.

Please continue to keep all the Campers, their Counselors and the staff in your prayers as energy levels drain. Counselors have learned to sleep on their feet for a quick refresh and keep up with their "mob."

The campers evening prayers included prayer for a sunny day so they could hit the Sandbar! Looks like we're going regardless ;-)

Posted by Gayle Johanson, aka Mama Jo

First Full Day of Junior Camp

2008-06-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

After breakfast Camp had Morning Session on John 10:10 about following the Good Shepherd. Staff put on a skit to demonstrate.

The kids had lots of activities to choose from; crafts, canoeing, archery, basketball, foosball, pingpong, swings, and the "zip-line." When interviewed, the Tanana campers said they loved foosball, pingpong, basketball and the Zip-line.
The afternoon game out on the basketball court was a Balloon Stomp which was won by Frankie in The Peanuts cabin.

Evening games moved inside the meeting hall due to rain, Blake & Sam came up with exciting activities that met with much enthusiasm.

Posted by: Gayle Johanson

Final Count: 54

2008-06-28T22:51:00.000-07:00

We just finished our first evening session with the junior campers. They are half the height of teen campers, yet they have twice the energy.

Tonight we gave out Bibles to those campers who did not bring one. Sam shared his testimony about how God has changed his life and we sang many songs. Even on this first night, the campers were singing loud.

Please pray that the staff would effectively communicate God's Truth to these young campers. Also, pray for safety as we go through this week, learning about the Bible and having fun.

Junior Age Today

2008-06-28T06:31:00.000-07:00

Junior age campers come today (9-12 year olds). Don Ernst will fly at least nine from Huslia and Allakaket direct to camp and it looks like there will be around 20 coming from downriver/Selawik, and more from Tanana.

Several of the Selawik Teen Campers are coming back to work on staff this week. That's the nice thing about running Teen Camp first!

The staff spent yesterday getting rest, doing laundry and planning for this next camp. Sam made a run to Tanana with staff who were leaving. Brian is in Tanana this morning -- to pick up campers of course -- but the main reason is to get his wife. Emily will be at KHBC for the next week.

Pray for good safe travel today.

Special Guest

2008-06-23T20:25:00.001-07:00

Last night we had a unique opportunity here at camp. Franklin Graham with Samaritan's purse arranged for Dennis Agajanian to come to camp and play for the kids and share his testimony (You can find out more about Dennis at http://www.dennisagajanian.com/ministry/bio.php).

I wish we had recorded some of his playing and were able to post it because it was amazing. Dennis has very fast fingers and true to his reputation--he broke a string.

The campers were treated to personal concert and they loved it. Dennis even got out on the court to play knock-out. It was great to see his heart for the young native people of Alaska.

Please pray that the message Dennis shared last night would impact the hearts of the campers.

Thank you for praying.

AnnaRose hit it off with Dennis and he recruited her to sing with her. He kept saying how impressed he was with her voice and they performed a number of songs together.

Dennis is living up to his reputation -- here he had to stop and pull a broken string out of the way.

The campers were captivated during Dennis' playing. He really impressed them.

Catch up

2008-06-23T12:03:00.000-07:00

We've been busy here at camp. The campers are having plenty of fun. I didn't blog anything yesterday and will try and catch up. We went to the sandbar yesterday afternoon and had another fund day of playing in the mud, burying people in the sand and basically just enjoying the weather. I forgot my camera back at camp so I don't have any pictures of it, but take my word for it, it was a blast.

I also want to add a note about our staff this year. The people we have serving here at KHBC are really carrying the camp. Thank you for praying for the unity of the staff, because this group is doing a terrific job--demonstrating the love of Christ to the campers. If you sent a loved one to serve here, thank you, and you can be proud. Everyone from the kitchen help to the counselors, to the staff maintaining the camp have been serving with a smile on their face and an attitude of joy.

Please be praying for health and energy for this extraordinary staff we have this year. The sleepless nights are catching up to them and some are beginning to feel a bit under the weather.

Thank you for praying.

Sandbar Fun

2008-06-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

The sandbar yesterday was incredibly fun. Each year the sandbar is different depending on where the ice carved into the island and how high the water is. This year when the ice moved out it carved big craters in the sand and mud that filled with water. There were two or three swimming pool sized craters with water as deep as four feet. Once everyone discovered these pits of warmer (the Yukon is quite cold) water, it was on.

Here are some of the pictures from the day.

Wild Weather

2008-06-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

We are experiencing the strangest storm tonight. We got back from the sandbar, ate dinner and were just gearing up to run some activities before the evening session, when a storm hit from nowhere.
First came the wind, five minutes of massive gusts blowing through the camp. Next came the most bizarre thing I have seen at camp. Hail. Not just any hail, penny sized ice balls in massive quantities. It came down so hard that it hurt your ears to stand in the kitchen because of the noise the ice was making falling on the tin roof. Everyone kept shaking their heads, saying, “This doesn’t happen here.”

I guess someone should have told the clouds that, because this picture is of the basketball court. It looks like snow, but it is thousands upon thousands of ice balls. In some places, where the rain usually drains off the roof, there are piles of hail over a foot tall (I would have taken a picture of that too, but the campers started making snowballs out of it before I could.)

Even as I am finishing typing this I see blue sky rolling in. Only in Alaska.

5 foot nuthin', but she can wash!!

2008-06-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

Marylee Kauffman stands at 5 foot 1.5 inches. Looks are decieving. To look at her, you wouldn't know that she is a dish-washing-animal! Since arriving at camp on June 14th she has washed 6,299 dishes (cups, plates, bowls, silverware and anything else we dirty at mealtime). Our dishwasher broke two years ago and Marylee was ecstatic. I wondered if she sabatoged the machine.

For the last 20 years Marylee has been coming to Kokrine Hills and doing the dishes. During the year she is a school teacher in Galena, but during the summer she has permanent dish pan hands--and loves it. She is a fixture here at camp and I hope to see her here for 20 more years.

You may want to pray that her hands hold up because I am certain I couldn't keep up with those dishes.

God is good to us!

2008-06-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

This is what I woke up to this morning. I walked out of my cabin at about 7am and this is the scene that greeted me. Just enough rain to clean off the basketball court and settle the dust and now we have a beautiful sunny day ahead of us. Blake and Sam are taking the campers over to the sandbar today as long as the weather remains this way. Look forward to some pictures of muddy campers.

Keep praying for good weather and safety as we go swimming today. Also, please pray that the staff will remain healthy. As we get further into the week, the staff begins to get a bit worn out and it is easier to get sick. Pray that we will have extra energy and that everyone stays healthy. Thank you for praying.

Late night prayer request

2008-06-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Just started raining here. It's 11:00pm and we just sent the campers up to their cabins. The rain does do some good--it keeps the campers (usually guys) in their cabins. They are less likely to try and sneak out at night if it's raining. Good news for Blake, Sam and I because that means we can go to bed earlier and not have to watch for boys sneaking out.

Rain here at camp could mean that it will rain for the next three days or the next three minutes, so just because it is raining tonight does not mean it will be raining in the morning. However, to anyone still awake and reading this, please pray that the weather will clear tomorrow when we need it. Activities are much easier to plan when the weather cooperates.

Camp is for who?

2008-06-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

We have a saying among the staff at camp that says, "Camp is for Campers." It is to remind us that we are here to serve the campers that come to Kokrine Hills Bible Camp. All the staff end up enjoying themselves also, but our primary purposes are to teach the campers about God and to have fun--camp is camper centered.

However, there is one activity that I think I may enjoy more than the campers, and that is pulling the tube. The campers love being pulled behind the boat on the tube, but I think Blake and I might enjoy pulling them even more than they enjoy being pulled. There is nothing more fulfilling than to toss two teenage guys who have been taunting Blake and I saying, "I bet you can't get us off the tube!" Of course they love the ride and even love being thrown, but I am sure that Blake and I enjoy it more. During those three hours today camp felt like camp was for Blake and Brian. (I wanted to add a side note to parents of campers reading this blog. We are very safety conscious on the water, especially on the tube. There is a driver and a spotter in the boat at all times and we only give a camper a more exciting ride if they request it. Naturally, when pulling the tube with the younger kids, we are more gentle.)

We are hoping to go to the sandbar tomorrow to swim and pull the tube, so pray that the weather will hold.

Hiking

2008-06-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

One of the activities we do every week is The Hike. Everyone is required to hike to the first hill and some decide to hike on to the second and third hills. It's a rather long climb to the third hill, but worth it for the view. The trails were created many years ago, when they were first marked, the trails went straight up the hill with no switchbacks. It makes for a steep climb. I've often wondered why we haven't ever gone back and made the trails a bit more user friendly, maybe some year.

You'll notice in this first picture from the first hill that the view is quite impressive. You might also notice the four wheeler. I went ahead and made the sacrifice to drive up the hill instead of climb. I wouldn't want to take the joy of feeling the burn as your legs scream for oxygen up the hill away from anyone, so I did the only kind thing I could -- drive up the hill and wait for everyone else. Actually, I did bring water up for everyone, so I had a good reason to drive and not walk. . . . . right?

The second picture is of Sam leading the train of campers as they arrive on the first hill (about twenty minutes after me).

Lunch: Kokrine Hills Style

2008-06-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

One of the great traditions of Kokrine Hills Bible Camp is the hot dog roast. Always a favorite of everyone at camp.

Morning Activities

2008-06-20T17:46:00.000-07:00

This morning, after the morning session, the campers had a chance to practice their archery skills. The river was so nice this morning many of the campers tried their skills out on the river in canoes. Jeff Budke is in this canoe with one of his campers.

We have been blessed with terrific weather this week (thank you for praying) and campers are definitely enjoying hanging out together in the warm weather, here are a few relaxing after canoeing. They tend to congregate around the kitchen right before lunch, like you see in the picture.

Afternoon activities

2008-06-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

I don't have much to add except that the campers had fun this afternoon.

There was trap shooting with Lowell and Ben.

Archery with Alan and Roger.

And Carl Sylvester was helping some campers build a canvas kayak, which the campers will test later in the week.

We had great weather today and everyone had a fun afternoon. Thank you for praying.

Morning Session

2008-06-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

Roger shared his testimony this morning. He shared how the Lord has watched over him and Carole throughout their lives. The campers listened intently. Keep praying that the hope Roger shared that he has because of Jesus Christ would make an impact.

One of the exciting things to see is campers learning to use their Bibles. This place is called Kokrine Hills Bible Camp and it's great to see that after 44 years the Bible is still the foundation of the camp.

First morning

2008-06-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

The campers look a bit sleepy waiting for breakfast, some more than others. When I went to bed, around 2:30am, I could still here voices in the cabins--I think they were enjoying themselves, happy to be off the river.

Served at breakfast this morning was the greatest food known to man (in my opinion), baked oatmeal. A big thank you to Becky Boos, the recipe came from her, for introducing Kokrine Hills to baked oatmeal many years ago. The campers sure seem to be enjoying breakfast.

Today Blake and Sam (camp program directors) are planning a day of archery, canoeing, and maybe some skeet shooting. And if the water calms down we might pull the tube tonight. Roger is speaking this morning and Alan is speaking tonight. Keep praying for the weather and safety. Also, with such an unusually large Teen Camp, pray that the staff will remain energized and healthy.

Thank you for praying.

End of the Day. . . Err, night, or is it morning?

2008-06-19T02:29:00.000-07:00

It's about 1:30am and the campers are gathered to hear Blake announce what cabin they are in. You can't tell by the sky, but it is the middle of the night and the campers are tired--or is it the staff? Tomorrow will start a bit later. Pray that the weather holds for tomorrow and for safety throughout the week.

Mom would be proud

2008-06-19T00:29:00.000-07:00

I arrived at camp today and discovered we have some "genius" male staff members working at camp this summer. I was asking everyone if they have enjoyed their first few days out in the Alaskan bush. When I got to Jacob Cuniff I asked him how he was dealing with the mosquitos. His face lit up and he beamed, "Jeff (Budke) and I decided not to wear any mosquito repellent! We are training our bodies to become immune to mosquito bites!"

I didn't have a response for that, actually I burst out laughing. Then, Jacob lifted his pant leg and showed me his shin . . . I think the picture speaks for itself (he said he had counted 30 bites on this one leg). I'll let you know in a few days if the boys have come to their senses. . . . Other than this brilliant experiment by Dr. Cuniff and Professor Budke, the rest of the staff are doing great.

First post from Camp

2008-06-18T23:38:00.000-07:00

I am writing this entry from 65:3.68 North latitude, and 153:55.24 West longitude. This is the first blog entry posted from Kokrine Hills Bible Camp! The camp has come a long way in 44 years, from canvas tents put up over soft moss, to cabins, mattresses, and now a satellite connection to the World Wide Web.

Today is the first day of teen camp, a few of the campers arrived late in the afternoon and another 22 around 8:30pm. Roger is on his way from Galena right now and will arrive with 18 campers around 1:30am. The river is calm and the campers are rolling with the change in schedule. Here are a few of them hanging out on the basketball court waiting for the rest of the campers to arrive. Needless to say, breakfast is going to be pushed back a little tomorrow morning, I'm sure everyone will enjoy a bit more sleep after this very long first day.

The Mid-Night Camp Bus (Boat)

2008-06-18T22:28:00.001-07:00

Roger and 18 more campers will arrive at KHBC (Deo Volente), at 1:30 or 2:00 AM, Alaska time. Pray that all will arrive safely.
BA

Revised Estimate

2008-06-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

...now estimating at least 45 Teen Campers. Because of the distances and complexities of travel, many campers won't get to KHBC until near midnight -- or even after. Fortunately, interior Alaska has 24-hour daylight this time of year. BA

Teen Camp Estimates

2008-06-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Don Ernst got his airplane float repaired so he is flying about 6 Teens from Koyukuk River villages. Roger said 18 are coming from Selawik and about 9 from Koyuk. Galena may have about six and possibly a couple from Ruby. The river at Galena this morning was not rough but clouds hung heavy overhead. BA

Ready for Teen Week

2008-06-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

(Blake via satphone)
The final day of orientation wrapped up with the last few "practice" testimonies and everyone viewing the video telling about the camp. The staff is "tremendous" in Blake's words, and all are looking forward to Teens arriving tomorrow. Marginal flying weather and strong winds (as in rough water) are in the forecast so pray for safety as Teens travel hundreds of miles to get to camp.
BA

Note from Blake

2008-06-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

Email issues still aren't sorted out at KHBC. Brian will take CAT5 cable and some other things to improve the system. We printed all the emails in the kokrinehills@gmail inbox for Brian to hand-deliver, so recipients will see the emails you've sent -- at least by tomorrow (Wed). Blake did manage to get one note out last night:

"Rachel made it to camp today safely. Last night, Mike Curtis and Sunny Russell and the all native group showed up and gave us a wonderful time of worshiping the Lord in song. I cannot express how much they acted as an encouragement to me. They reminded me that God really is at work in the interior, not just at the camp. They were really great and really did a wonderful job communicating how important the work here at camp is. They were a big encouragement to me and the whole team. We already have a few sick people, so be praying for health and for the weather. There is a really strong wind coming from the coast so pray that things will go according to what will be best for the camp. Thanks for all the prayer, Blake"

Darris left camp this morning and Roger is heading to Galena today. Pray for good travel in spite of rough water.

Day Two of Orientation

2008-06-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

We "chatted" with Roger (via computer) this afternoon for a while. They are working out the kinks in the new internet satellite dish. If you wrote a friend or relative on staff at "kokrinehills@gmail.com" it may be a day or two before you get a reply -- because of some technical issues. Brian Arnold is heading to Alaska tomorrow (and taking a wireless router). Roger said everything was going well. Despite rough water today, Lowell made a trip to Tanana to pick up more staff. Pray for Don and Brenda Ernst, missionaries in Huslia, a village 100 miles north of KHBC. Don usually does flying for the camp, however, he punched a hole in an airplane float a few days ago so he's grounded for repairs. Plus, they had two deaths in Huslia in the last few days, a suicide and an old man, so Ernsts are really pressured. Pray that the airplane problems and funerals won't prevent kids from coming to KHBC.
BA

KHBC is online!

2008-06-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

KHBC is now "online" with satellite internet access (paid for through a grant). For the past number of years, we have spent thousands of dollars on satellite phone calls. With internet service at camp, communication should greatly improve and phone charges go way down. They will soon begin updating this blog right from camp - hopefully, even with some pictures!

You can send messages to the people at KHBC (staff and/or campers) by emailing kokrinehills@gmail.com. (Individuals are not able to check their own email accounts.)

Barry

First Day of Orientation

2008-06-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Blake called to say they had a good first day of orientation. They covered cultural issues and testimonies this morning and then this afternoon they helped set up the archery range. For archery this year, the camp has a lifesized bear, a deer (even though there aren't any on the Yukon), and a larger than life fox. Thanks for praying.

Staff Arrived @ KHBC

2008-06-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

Blake called a few minutes ago to say everyone made it to KHBC -- with all their bags. The river was nice and smooth for travel today. Thanks for praying. The next three days will be staff training/orientation.

BA

Travel Day

2008-06-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

This is a big travel day. Thirty-some work team members will leave Tanana for Fairbanks and about 25 staff members will take their place. Pray for the MARC pilots as they shuttle people between Tanana and Fairbanks, for good weather and smooth water on the Yukon. We talked to Blake (in Fairbanks) this morning. He said everyone made it to Super 8 last night and only one Oregon bag is missing. Hopefully, it'll show up at Alaska Airlines today before the last shuttle to Tanana.

The Missionary Aviation & Repair Center airplane will leave Soldotna this morning, fly to Palmer where Russ and Freda will load on about 1500 pounds of freight (plus Sam Minatra). They'll then go direct to Tanana, unload, and start the shuttles.

One staff member, Ryan Brooks, is already at KHBC (along with a few other staff members). Part of Work Week #2, Ryan is mosquito-toughened and settled. (He also celebrated a birthday there last week.) We'll post tonight when we get word the rest of the staff has made it to KHBC.

Pray for InterAct missionaries Don and Brenda Ernst (Huslia) as there was another suicide there (Travis Sam) a couple days ago. Pray that the funeral will not prevent Teens from attending KHBC.

BA

Work Week #2 observations

2008-06-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

(Post by Barry Arnold)

Gordon Wood and I returned to Oregon today after at nearly a week at KHBC. Both Gordon and I were taken back last Saturday when we walked up over the riverbank and saw the new covered play area all done and the dining hall roof on. You guys (and ladies) who made up work week #1 worked HARD! Wow! And what nice work, too. The play area is going to be a great help on those rainy days when Porcupine Hall is just to small to contain antsy campers.

It was fun having Horst and Rob Mager, world famous chefs, there to work with Larry and Billie. Wednesday night Horst treated us all to the cheese fondue which made his Rhinelander restaurant here in Portland a landmark.

Chief covered a lot of ground (and cut a lot of grass, willows, and bushes) with the new Billy Goat mower. The winter caretaker cabin had 3 rounds of logs on it when I left camp. The plan was to spend most of today cleaning up the grounds -- in preparation for the arrival of the camp staff, tomorrow.

Thank you to all who prayed and sacrificed to make these first two work weeks happen. We had no major accidents and only one injury -- from someone falling out of bed. (Really.)

June 11, 2008

2008-06-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

Barry called. Everything is going really well. Not much to report.

Roger Huntington will be sharing his story tonight when they are all done working. It is always a powerful testimony of how God has worked in Roger's life.

It's been a safe and productive week. Pray for a good last few days as they wind down and get ready to leave on Saturday.

Thank you for all your prayers. Please pray for the campers and counselors who will be getting ready to come to camp. That's what it's all about...the campers and impacting their lives for Christ.

June 10, 2008

2008-06-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Barry called this afternoon. Everything is going well. They are having a beautiful sunny day. They are getting lots of work done. The projects are coming along nicely.

I'm sure they are having fun as well. I hear that the fishing has been fun...of course, they only report on the "work" :)

We are thankful for a safe work week so far...so thank you for all your prayers. It will be fun to hear all the stories when they get home.

Thanks for being a part of all that is happening up at camp.

June 9, 2008

2008-06-09T15:03:00.000-07:00

Barry called with a great report. They have many workers and are making great progress. He said there is enough lodging for everyone and no need for tents. The food that didn't make it from Pamer is due in tomorrow. There should be enough eggs & toast for everyone. The meals have been wonderful!!!

The plan tonight is to go fishing (after the work is finished for the day). It's windy and the water is a bit choppy, but that won't stop those avid anglers. They're going for it!

As always, thank you for praying.

June 8, 2008

2008-06-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

Barry called tonight. They were just getting ready to have church! They worked all day and were having church this evening at 7:30 (8:30 our time).

They have had a good day. Roger went to Galena for some things and will be back soon.

They had a good day of logging...lots of lumber cut. Some of the crew have been busy cleaning up the grounds and getting it ready for campers.

They are still waiting for some supplies from Anchorage...but want everyone to know they are eating well!!! :)

It was a short call...church was starting!

Keep praying!

June 7, 2008

2008-06-07T22:56:00.000-07:00

The work team from Gresham made it to camp. There are about 90 people there. Barry said he wasn't exactly sure on the count yet!

The teams that have been working got a lot done. The covered play area is almost finished. The dining hall is all framed and the roof is on.

This week the team will be working on getting logs, milling them into siding for the dining hall. They will also be working on the 3-sided logs for the house. The house will be where Roger & Carole Huntington will be staying.

They had a beautiful day for traveling. Barry said there is a beautiful blue sky tonight (remember it doesn't get dark this time of year!)

Pray for safety for all the workers.

Work Going Fine

2008-06-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Roger called from Tanana this evening. He said all the work at camp is going fine. He was impressed with the "great bunch of guys." We're especially thankful for David Adams, a mechanic from Florida. David didn't know he was coming until just a couple weeks ago -- but what a valuable asset he's been already. It's one thing to be a "parts-changer" mechanic, another, completely, to be able (like David) to figure out machines without manuals and make fixes when you don't have exactly the right tools or parts. Roger said they should have the new torque converter on the old Payloader by this evening. That's a BIG job on a big machine. Teams from New York, Alaska, and Oregon are working together at KHBC -- along with a first rate building crew from Samaritan's Purse.