The Proceedings of the Eighth International Conference on Creationism (2018)

Albert, J.L. 2018. Amodel for outdoor creation education. In Proceedings of the Eighth International Conference on Creationism , ed. J.H. Whitmore, pp. 248–254. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Creation Science Fellowship. AMODEL FOR OUTDOOR CREATION EDUCATION Jonathan Albert , Executive Director, Canyon Ministries, 12921 E. Pine Rock Ln., Suite 50571, Parks, AZ 86018 USA, jon@canyonministries.org ABSTRACT Outdoor creation education is critical for encouraging and equipping the saints. Awell-organized wilderness classroom opens the eyes of the learner in a unique and inspiring way. The learner gains the heart to love God and others more deeply. The learner also develops the skills necessary to impact others with humble confidence. There are many opportunities right outside our doors to help others engage the wonder of God’s creation. With the proper structure, outdoor creation education empowers the teacher and the learner in profound ways, oftentimes unachievable within the traditional classroom. KEY WORDS creation, education, relational, outdoor, stewardship, connection Copyright 2018 Creation Science Fellowship, Inc., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA www.creationicc.org 248 INTRODUCTION The purpose of this paper is to provide a model for outdoor creation education. I will present a brief history of Canyon Ministries including how it began and how God has grown our efforts and Kingdom impact. I will also share how we structure our work including objectives, organizational model, core values, and program initiatives. Finally, I will provide instruction and encouragement regarding how others can serve through well organized, quality, outdoor education programming vital to the advancement of the Kingdom. In presenting this model, I hope to encourage others to follow our example so many can be influenced for Christ. Outdoor creation education utilizes the wilderness setting to minimize life distractions and immerse the student into the glory of God. Isaiah recognized the glory of God revealed in nature as he proclaimed, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” (Isaiah 6:3 NKJV). Pictures may say a thousand words, but being there in person opens your heart to the transformative power of God. When established as a discipline within the local church, it sets our feet on solid ground and prepares us to be ready to give a reason for the hope we have. A compromised view of Genesis sets the earthly sojourner upon a path away from the core truths of Scripture. Genesis establishes the context for our need of a Savior, the definition of family, and the hope of our future. Many godly organizations have set their efforts upon rightly understanding the Genesis text. The determination of their dedicated, professional research has produced strong teaching tools for the believer and seeker alike. Numerous styles and contexts have been employed to present this needed information to small groups and to the masses. The most prolific sources available come in written form as books and articles as well as internet videos and DVDs. However, many have looked to more personal and impressionable environments to connect the individual to the information. God has given us meaningful direction to assist us in discovering the environment that deeply connects with and influences the heart of man. God instructs us through His servant, Paul, in Romans 1:19-20 when he says, “because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse” (NKJV). There is no better place to study the work of God than in the midst of the majesty of His work. Luke 5:16 says, “So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed” (NKJV). Jesus found strength and sweet communion with God while situated in wild places. THE STRUCTURE OF OUTDOOR CREATION EDUCATION What is Outdoor Creation Education? Outdoor creation education is the pursuit of a deepened relationship with God and others through the engagement, study, and understanding of the world around us. In this pursuit the wilderness becomes our classroom. This experiential method of learning takes place in the outdoors. It often involves practices in which students participate in a variety of adventure-based challenges. Students develop personal growth while participating in multi-day activities such as backpack journeys, mountaineering, water sports (kayak, canoe, sailing, etc.), and nearly unlimited other outdoor explorations. However, much has also been gained through simple adventures that last only a day or less such as hikes, team-building challenge courses, horse rides, and countless others. Outdoor education is said to be “in” the outdoors, “about” the outdoors, and “for” the outdoors. Outdoor creation education can happen in any outdoor setting. This can range from a backyard to a remote wilderness location. It can also vary in length. Great impact can happen in a short afternoon foray to a month-long venture around the world and everything in between. The topic of outdoor creation education is to seek the person of God through scientific investigation of the physical world around us (Romans 1:20). As such, it is about the outdoors and how it delivers us into the presence of God.