On the morning of October 5, the young people patiently waited to board church vans that would take them to Sauvie Island. The vans left around 11:30 and the group spent much of the afternoon enjoying fun activities at Portland’s most popular pumpkin patch. There were plenty of interesting things to see, eat, and do, including a complex corn maze, flavorful food, cute animals, and an entertaining hayride. 

After the festivities at Sauvie Island, the youth met at the Fellowship Lodge for dinner and a youth focus session. Erik Calhoun first led the young people in prayer over the meal and everything that was to follow. Then, a line of hungry young people quickly formed. The dinner was prepared by Rod Tarpo and his crew, and it consisted of spaghetti Bolognese, garlic bread, Italian salad, and fruit punch. Dessert included pumpkin pie ice cream topped with whipped cream and a molasses cookie. Everything was delicious and greatly appreciated.

The game of the evening was led by Chris and Jessica Oilar. The youth group was divided in half and then had to guess each other's names. It was an interesting way to break the ice, and people had a lot of fun playing it. Following the name game, Caleb Copko led a selection of worship songs, and then Sola Adesope led a prayer over the young people.

Next, Olulana Alofe, who was visiting from East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, preached a message from 2 Corinthians 6:17-18. He urged the young people to truly seek for their deeper experiences and to work for the Lord. He also spoke of praying for guidance in finding the right spouse, one who will follow God wholeheartedly. Brother Lana stressed the importance of continually devoting one's life to God, and concluded with Psalm 37:5, “Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” The sermon was followed by a time of prayer, where the youth were encouraged to pray over their lives and their futures. The evening ended with a time of fellowship. 

The October 5 youth activities were a true blessing for those who attended. God was working in every detail and aspect of the day, thanks be to Him!