Local Trail Life USA troop established
Local Trail Life USA Troop IA-1199 spent the day hiking at Effigy Mounds near Marquette. Front from left are Keith Amunson, Pastor Diego Chuyma, Joshua Chuyma, Marc Moore, Lon Lindenberg, Joe Kierpaul, and Nathan Kierpaul; back row, John Chuyma, Nicolas Kierpaul, Isaak Moore, and David Chuyma. (Photo submitted)
By Caroline Rosacker
Trail Life USA is a Christian alternative to the Boy Scout program, and is sponsored by Living Water Bible Fellowship Church in Guttenberg.
"There are currently 40,000 Trail Life boys in 900 troops in all 50 states. With its faith focused orientation, Trail Life excels in highly scrutinized leaders, with thorough background checks and strong character traits lending itself to faith based, Christ centered, individual focused mentoring, and discipleship journey that speaks to the heart of a boy," explained Lon Lindenberg, spokesman for the group.
Troop IA-1199 at Living Water Bible Fellowship Church has been established for one year and has been a great success in building up strong character traits in boys ages five to 17. "During the past year our troop went on two overnight camping trips, with the first one testing our resolve in heavy rain through the night and into the morning. We also went on a canoe trip down the Turkey River, camping at Motor Mill, that was planned by one of the older boys," said Lindenberg.
The group also planned, prepared, and enjoyed an outdoor evening meal, hiked Effigy Mounds near Marquette, and are in the process of making longbows out of poplar wood for each member, among other projects. This past summer two parents and their sons went to Colorado to participate in rafting, hiking, and mountain climbing. The troop also participated in several community service projects around the area.
"The whole program is centered towards the father and son relationship," noted Lindenberg. "There are times when that is not possible so other guardians, such as grandfathers, uncles, older brothers or an age-appropriate trusted family friend can also accompany the young man. A member does not have to be affiliated with any religious institution. All are welcome and included in the troop."
Along with the great outdoor adventures, a short devotional is shared at each activity and meeting. "One of our leaders is a retired pastor so he prepares a short devotional to share," Lindenberg commented.
If you are interested in this adventure for you and your son/sons, go to traillifeusa.com for additional information or call local leader Marc Moore at 319-939-5446.
