Introduction to Wilderness and Adventure Ministry
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim
the work of his hands." Psalm 19:1
Course Description
You don't need to have lived in Colorado for very long before you understand the truth of this verse. The mountains, the wilderness, the backcountry—God's Creation—shout forth the glory of God. Perhaps you have spent many hours and even days experiencing this firsthand. But have you ever contemplated the immense potential of utilizing Creation as the context and the laboratory for significant life-changing ministry? Do you realize the benefits of pushing people to the limits of their comfort and physical conditioning? If not, you are missing out and so are the people to whom you minister.
Here is your chance. Dr. Brad Widstrom, Chair of the Department of Youth and Family Ministries and Director of the Outdoor Leadership Concentration, will for the tenth summer be teaching the Introduction to Wilderness and Adventure Ministry course. This course introduces students to the theology, philosophy, and methodology of using adventure activities in Christian ministry. Since this is an experiential course only one day will be spent on campus. The rest of the week will find us at Camp Idrahaje, on the rocks, and in the backcountry of the Lost Creek Wilderness Area. Activities experienced together will include high ropes, low elements, zip lines, rappelling, rock climbing, backpacking, and even a backcountry solo. Trained professional wilderness guides assist with the leadership and instruction.
The course is limited to 12 students and fills up fast. A $100 non-refundable deposit reserves your spot. Past participants have come from most majors within the Seminary.
Check out the picture book linked to this page to see pictures from past courses. They're sure to get your heart pumping and your adrenaline rushing. As well, visit Narrow Way Expeditions to get a feel for our course partner. Contact Dr. Brad Widstrom () to express your interest or if you have further questions.
View the photo archive of past course sessions
Details
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Course Title: |
OL 500 Introduction to Wilderness and Adventure Ministry |
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When: |
Monday August 1 - Saturday August 6 |
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Where: |
Monday on campus; Tuesday - Saturday in the field at Camp Idrahaje in Bailey, CO and in the backcountry of the Lost Creek Wilderness Area |
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Instructors: |
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Credits: |
Course may be taken for 2 or 3 graduate level credits. It is not available for audit unless slots remain unfilled by credit seeking students. |
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Cost: |
Per credit hour Seminary tuition plus an additional $350 participation fee |
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Assignments: |
Course reading must be completed before the first meeting on August 1. Written projects will be assigned the week of the course and will be due Friday, August 19. |
How to Register
- Contact Dr. Widstrom to express interest and to ensure the course is not full
- Submit a $200 non-refundable deposit to reserve a spot; check should be made out to Denver Seminary and mailed or given to Denver Seminary's Business Office. Once this deposit is paid you will be authorized to register for the course.
- Register for the course online or through the Denver Seminary Registrar's office
- Once registration is confirmed, send an email to Dr. Widstrom including all pertinent contact information including email address, mailing address, and telephone numbers.
Contact Information
Dr. Brad Widstrom
Denver Seminary
6399 S. Santa Fe Drive
Littleton, CO 80120
