UIM Connection

The post-Christmas winter youth retreat at Broken Arrow Bible Ranch (BABR) near Gallup, New Mexico, provided ample indication that God is at work! One hundred eighty-one campers, many of whom have served as summer camping staff, gathered for a couple days of fun and spiritual refreshment. The most that had attended before was in 2000 when there were 124. Because there aren't a lot of winterized facilities, all the boys slept in the chapel. A former youth pastor from the area, Craig Barrack, who is now in Texas, was the speaker. He brought a team of youth from his church that graciously washed dishes, served food, etc. So, adding them to the camper count and then adding all of the BABR staff, there were about 225 people. Just like summer but with only part of the facilities warm and useable! The speaker shared timely messages, followed by an opportunity for the campers to submit written questions. The speaker and a small group of staff members responded biblically to the vital issues that were raised. Some of the retreat attendees responded to the free gift of salvation, some rededicated their lives to Christ, and others pondered giving their lives in service for the Lord.

UIM's camp staff was encouraged! One young lady showed great sensitivity to the Lord, a desire to please Him with her life, and a real openness to the spiritual mentoring she was receiving. A young man who has worked at the camp in the past and is now in the military visited the camp unexpectedly, seeking encouragement to help him in his desire to follow the Lord. Another young man who has worked many summers at the camp wants to serve the Lord with his life and is praying about some big decisions. He is hungry to know more of God's Word and has a strong desire to share his faith.

Although the retreat provided many reasons for praise, it also revealed a great need for intercessory prayer for these young people, Native and non-Native alike, as they seek to live and serve for the glory of Christ.

2010 Winter Retreat

Glendale Fruit Ministry

Throughout the month of December, various Native church leaders from southern to northern Arizona come to Glendale to pick fruit for Native people. They arrive at mid-morning and are usually done picking by noon. Before they leave, they are given a good lunch made by Pearl Schulz, Janice Hurlbert and whoever else may be there to volunteer, and then they go on their way. Sometimes the leaders live so far away, they need to spend the night before going back. This year in November, 3500 treat bags were filled with granola bars, some hard candy and a Gospel tract. During community Christmas parties some fruit, a bag, and other small gift items are distributed at each Native church, serving as an evangelistic outreach during the Christmas season. Pearl Schulz, along with her husband, Frank-now with the Lord-founded the original ministry in Glendale, known as Indian Missionary Services. Bill and Janice Hurlbert also serve in Glendale as property maintenance and caretakers.

Pictures beginning at top left to right, Avery Tsosie, Alfred and Shirley Hyden, Jimmy and Alice McCabe, Pearl Schulz and Janice Hurlbert.