Reach Trip: Alaska 

Alaska brings to mind cold weather, deep snow, towering mountains, and long winter nights. The cold dark winters are contributing factors to higher rates of suicide and drug/alcohol abuse among the people of Alaska, with suicide being the leading cause of death amongst Alaska teens. That combined with a population of less than 25% Evangelical Christians leads to a culture searching and longing for hope. But for a few months each year, the snow melts (mostly) away, the sun shines longer, and the people of Alaska enjoy the warmth and hope that light brings. 

The team of 16 from Taylors had the privilege of working with the Bodolosky Family and Fireweed Ministry to share the hope we have in Christ with more than 40 children and teens at 2 different parks in Anchorage and Sutton, Alaska. Each day, through games, crafts, and Bible study, we were able to show how God’s plan unfolds from Genesis to Revelation; a story of hope, peace and harmony with God the creator through Jesus Christ.  

In John, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” The highlights of our week were not the beautiful landscapes, porcupines, bears, moose, or snow, although these were in abundance. We were privileged to see two young men move from death to life, from despair to hope, and from darkness to light as they surrendered their lives to Christ. Just as the sun penetrates the dark winter months bringing hope and light to Alaska, these two now have the peace of the God of hope through the Light of the World. 

David Evette, Team Leader