Week One: Bonfire, First Meeting, and Adams Falls Hike

LCI group poses at Adams Falls

     With some students having been at the ranch for a couple weeks, a number just arrived, and a few yet to come, the Calvin LCI program kicked off with a bonfire on Saturday night, June 4. Chaplain Steve Peterson welcomed students and offered an opening prayer for our summer. Student leader David Witwer added to the welcome and made a few announcements, concluding by breaking out the smores and sending students to search for roasting sticks.

Students roast marshmellows for smores

Students enjoyed the bonfire and each other's company for a while before Mentor Greg Veltman gathered everyone back together and announced the night's activity, which was to build a totem as small groups representing a shared goal for the summer. Small group teams went out to build totems and brought their products back to the group for a time of sharing before heading back to the dorm for the night.

Students enjoying smores together

     The LCI program officially began the following Monday, June 6, with worship led by Chaplain's Assistent and Calvin student J.J. Steigenga. Student leaders Kelly Johnson and David Witwer then made a few announcments followed by introductions from the program mentors Greg Veltman and Andrea Hensen.

(from left): Mentors Greg and Andrea and Director Chris atop Nine Mile

The talk on Monday was given by LCI Director Chris Klein on humility and leadership. His talk was followed by breakout sessions in small groups.

     On Wednesday, June 8, students traveled 45 minutes to the town of Grand Lake and hiked a short trail to Adams Falls. At the falls, students took time to explore the surrounding area and take pictures.

Students at Adams Falls

Students then continued hiking to a valley overlooking the Continental Divide, where everyone turned back and headed into Grand Lake for some ice cream at the excellent Grand Lake Chocolates. After enjoying ice cream together, everyone headed home for a good night's rest and work in the morning.

LCI group posing in front of Continental Divide overlook