Monday, August 7, 2017

It All Started in Yellowstone -- as a Bar Ministry


August 6, 2017
A Christian Ministry in the National Parks

“The human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hands of (humanity).” – Unknown (taken from the worship book of ACMNP)

 Alter in the Chapel of the Transfiguration - July 2017

It’s Sunday morning and interdenominational services are being held throughout national parks across the country.  Here at Gros Ventre Campground, three young people that work at Jackson Lake Lodge are volunteering their time, driving 45 minutes to come to the amphitheater to lead a worship service for all wishing to attend. 

Will is from Connecticut (graduated this spring / Ministry), Rachael from Pennsylvania (graduated this spring / Psychology), and Brittany is from Indiana (Senior this fall / Spanish Education).  All are dedicated to leading Sunday services, but also reaching out to people they meet in the park and also their fellow co-workers.  It was a joy getting to know them a little bit, and learning about each of their plans for the future.  Thank you all for your time and commitment.

Founding of ACMNP – A Bar Ministry!
(Excerpt taken from their website)

A Christian Ministry in the National Parks originated in 1951 when founder Warren Ost, a Princeton Seminary student, worked in Yellowstone for the summer and noticed the various faith-based needs of park visitors, residents, and his own co-workers. One Sunday, he led an interdenominational service of worship in the bar area of the Old Faithful Inn, and thus ACMNP was born. We like to say we were doing bar ministry long before it was in style!

Little Popo Agie River near Lander, WY 

It’s a Quiet Sunday at Ye Ole Campground
A nice day to kick back, do a little reading, visit with camp neighbors, and enjoy the day.  Until next time, be safe.


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