IMAGINE a church filled with bright-eyed children, their voices rising in unison as they pledge “because Jesus loves me I will always do my best” with scarves neatly tied, pins gleaming on their uniforms. The atmosphere is electric, punctuated by cheers and applause as names are called, each step forward met with pride and joy. This is no ordinary Sabbath—it is the annual Pathfinder and Adventurer Investiture Service of the Central Jamaica Conference (CJC) of Seventh-day Adventists (SDAs). The service was not just a ceremony, but a celebration of faith, perseverance, and spiritual growth. The youth arm of the CJC is on a mission to mobilize an army for Christ.
“The Pathfinder and Adventurer clubs are organized programs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, designed to empower and equip young people for life on earth and the eternal life to come,” explained Pastor Dwayne Scott, Youth, Adolescents, and Children’s Ministries Director for CJC.
Through year-long study, community outreach, and spiritual activities, these clubs shape adventist youth aged 4 to 15 holistically—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Each class level introduces new challenges, from earning honors to participating in Bible study and camping adventures.
“The investiture service is a rewarding moment for these young people,” Scott shared. “It is a testament to their dedication and hardwork.”
One of the most powerful principles of the Pathfinder and Adventurer programs is service above self, demonstrated throughout the year’s activities. These youth put their faith into action by reaching out to their communities. A prime example of this is “Porridge in the Park,” an outreach initiative initiated by the Dorado Pathfinder Club at Northern Caribbean University Church under the leadership of Masterguide, Una Morris. Every Sunday morning, the club members gather in Mandeville Park to serve hot porridge to the homeless, offering not just food, but also compassion and hope.
Pastor Scott sees these outreach efforts as an essential part of the clubs’ mission. “The programs teach our youth about life. It makes them more rounded, and teaches them to serve in spaces other than the church, such as school.”
The impact of these initiatives has been profound. In 2024, 960 young people were invested across the Central Jamaica Conference, the highest number in recent years. In Manchester, 268 Pathfinders and Adventurers were invested on Sabbath, November 30 at the Mandeville SDA Church, a clear sign of growing engagement among Adventist youth. The increase in participation reflects not only a rise in interest but also a deeper commitment to living out their faith in tangible ways.
“This large number shows that more Adventist youth are engaged in the mission. They are interested in learning about the church and God. We see more going out to impact their communities”, says Scott.
The Pathfinder and Adventurer programs don’t just prepare young people for spiritual growth—they equip them to be leaders. As they progress through the program, they take on more responsibility, whether through organizing events, leading worship, or even preaching.
“The older they get in the program, the more equipped they are with leadership skills”, Scott shared.
Through various events like youth rallies, sports days, and camps, the parish-based Adventist Youth Federations provide platforms for these youth to grow. Additionally, programs like Operation Save a Youth, which focuses on outreach and community service, give them the tools to make a real difference in the lives of others.
Despite challenges this year, particularly the impact of Hurricane Beryl, Pastor Scott remains hopeful. His goal for the future is to continue building on the momentum and see over 1,000 youth invested annually. “This is just the beginning”, he said.
As youth month comes to an end, Pathfinders and Adventurers are encouraged to press onward as Christian soldiers, marching as to war with the cross of Jesus going on before. Their commitment is encapsulated in the pledge, “I will be a servant of God and friend to man”.
Scott’s admonition to the youth of CJC is simple - “Soldiers of Christ, arise! Champion change. Be faithful. Be bold”.