This is a photo of our program from last night's annual Candlelight Dinner held as a thank you to supporters of Youth Haven Ranch in Eloy, Arizona.
If you listen to Family Life Radio, you're familiar with psychologist, Dr. Randy Carlson who answers people's questions on the air daily. The Carlson family started this children's camping ministry in Arizona in 1968 and Dr. Carlson's brother, Larry and his son Lars lead it.
This is Larry Carlson and his son Lars below:
What impresses me most about this ministry is that the same children come out on weekends (in the winter) and for week-long camps (in the summer) year after year. Last night Charles interviewed several of the children asking what they like about Youth Haven. For some is was crafts, others the animals, others the food, play, archery, but all said "learning about Jesus" or words like that. Some have been nurtured in this secure, upbeat atmosphere for seven or eight years. We were told some don't have hot running water in their homes and rave about getting to take hot showers at camp. Other don't get three good meals a day like they do at the Ranch, and all of them meet Jesus and are taught hope for their futures. There is no charge for their times at the Ranch.
This little girl was about twelve years old and has been coming out to Youth Haven since she was seven. They all had a glow of excitement about them and plenty of giggles to share.
This little girl was about twelve years old and has been coming out to Youth Haven since she was seven. They all had a glow of excitement about them and plenty of giggles to share.
Amy Shreve and her husband/producer Gary Wixtrom, from Nashville, TN, ministered to us in worship and song. Amy plays the harp, guitar, and mandolin while she sings (one instrument at a time), and is an amazing musician, song writer and child of the King.
It was an evening of inspiration and joy. The children performed some great songs, and at the end handed out chocolate Easter eggs to the audience thanking us for supporting Youth Haven.
The candlelight...
May we, and every child that is touched by Youth Haven Ranch, never forget Who is the Light of the world. Amen!
Let me be the first to comment. Amen and amen. So glad you got to go and hope that others came away with the love of Jesus. Diane
ReplyDeleteIt was a pretty neat experience to see what they are able to do with the kids.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great ministry! Sounds like a great evening!
ReplyDeleteSounds like an amazing ministry. Glad y'all were able get an inside look and be a part of it.
ReplyDelete