Sweet Truths and Helping Hands

Summer has been a busy and rewarding season for Southwest Ministries. Over the course of two camps, God gave us opportunities to invest in Native American children and teens, share the gospel, and watch Him work in young hearts. Thank you for your prayers and support that make these ministries possible.

Elementary Camp: "Bible Cookies – Tasty Pieces of the Bible"

Our elementary camp theme was Bible Cookies, built around the idea that "there's nothing sweeter than God's

love." Campers discovered that Jesus often taught spiritual truths through simple stories, and each lesson connected a familiar cookie with one of His parables. 

• The white cream inside an Oreo reminded us of the Pearl of Great Price and taught that Jesus is the greatest treasure we can ever possess. 

• Animal Crackers pointed to the Prodigal Son, who came to his senses while feeding pigs and discovered that God offers forgiveness and a second chance. 

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• Chips Ahoy cookies are packed with chocolate chips in every bite, reminding us that just as the workers in the vineyard all received the same reward, heaven is available to everyone who places their trust in Christ.

• Homemade cookies are often made for others, and they illustrated the Good Samaritan and the importance of showing kindness to those in need. 

• Fudge Stripes have three important parts working together to make one delicious cookie, helping campers understand God has given each of us different gifts and talents that He wants us to use for His kingdom.

• Finally, Nutter Butters have a firm cookie on the outside surrounding a soft center, illustrating Jesus’ teaching about the wise and foolish builders and reminding us our lives need a strong foundation in Christ.

Throughout the week, campers learned that God’s truth is both practical and life changing. God blessed the week in a special way as two campers placed their faith in Christ. We praise God for these decisions and ask for prayer that these young believers will continue growing in their relationship with Jesus.

Jr. High Camp: Asking for Help, Receiving Help, and Giving Help

Our junior high campers joined youth from churches around the region for a week hosted by the Arizona Nazarene District. Friendly competitions, games, and shared activities gave our students opportunities to build relationships with other Christian teens.

Throughout the week, lessons from the Gospel of Mark focused on an important truth: God created us to ask for help, receive help, and offer help to others.

While decisions aren't always made publicly, we saw evidence God was working. Some campers initiated private conversations with leaders, asking spiritual questions. Those one-on-one discussions are often where God does some of His deepest work. It was encouraging to see these young people wrestling with truths and desiring to better understand the Lord.

We left camp thankful for the impact the week had on their lives and grateful for the relationships they formed with believers from around the state.

Thank You

None of this would be possible without faithful partners who pray, give, volunteer, and encourage us. Although the summer camps have concluded, ministry continues year-round as we prepare for the opportunities God has ahead this fall.

Prayer Requests

• Pray for the two campers who accepted Christ at elementary camp.

• Pray for the junior high students who are asking spiritual questions and seeking God.

• Pray that the seeds planted this summer would continue to bear fruit.

• Pray for wisdom and preparation as we begin planning for fall camps.

"One plants, another waters, but God gives the increase." (1 Corinthians 3:6)

Doug & Becky Darfus