Tomahawk May-June 2013 by Gary Wagner

Tomahawk Potomac District Royal Rangers  News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders  May - June 2013

POTOMAC THE LION

SAFARI, OF JUDAH

Preview Highlights Events Planned for Potomac District Pow Wow 2013 Page 10

Pathfinders Return to Ecuador Village Page 4

Triple Gold Medal Ceremony is Outpost’s First Page 6

Construction Starts on East Africa Training Center Page 9

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POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS www.potomacrangers.org

Dog For Sale

guy is driving around the back woods of Montana and he sees a sign in front of a broken down shanty-style house: “Talking Dog For Sale.” He rings the bell and the owner appears and tells him the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes into the backyard and sees a nice looking Labrador retriever sitting there. “You talk?” he asks. “Yep,” the Lab replies. After the guy recovers from the shock of hearing a dog talk, he says “So, what’s your story?” The Lab looks up and says, “Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the government, so... I told the CIA. In no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping. “I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running. But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn’t getting any younger so I decided to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security, wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. “I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I’m just retired.” The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog. “Ten dollars,” the guy says. “Ten dollars? This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?” “Because he’s such a liar. He’s never been out of the yard.” So, might there be a real life lesson contained within this hyperbole? I think there is, and I think it’s fairly simple. If you were to view this as a parable of sorts, then the meaning of the story could be explained like this: talent doesn’t account for nearly as much as character. Through life’s journey, it’s common for us to take on a task or tackle a problem from the perspective of what abilities we might have. We are driven to strive for success, but if we’re not careful we can be capable of compromising our integrity, and our Christian witness. As Jesus put it, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness … it is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men” (Matt. 5:13). BACK COVER PHOTO: “Early Spring Shenandoah” by Ed Cooper, oil on linen, Susan Calloway Fine Arts, 1643 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, www.callowayart.com.

Royal Rangers is a principal ministry of the Assemblies of God focused on discipling boys for Jesus Christ. We provide Christ-like character formation and servant leadership development for boys and young men in a highly relational and fun environment. Our mission is to evangelize, equip and empower the next generation of Christ-like men and lifelong servant leaders. The Potomac District administrative region of the General Council of the Assemblies of God takes in Washington, D.C., Maryland, most of Virginia and northern West Virginia. Over 100 churches throughout this region currently provide Royal Ranger ministry to more than 2,500 boys and young men. We use many tools to achieve that goal whether it be camping, merits or interactive skills, all designed to help develop a boy into a man while having fun and getting to know God. We want to develop both men and boys in mentoring relationships and leadership skills, and guide them to Jesus Christ. We reach boys, so they may reach another in their world.

tomahawk Potomac District Commander Rev. Bobby Basham Publications/Outreach Coordinator Newsletter Editor Gary Wagner The Tomahawk newsletter is published bimonthly as a means of communicating news and information to Royal Ranger leaders throughout the Potomac District. Sectional staffs and outposts are invited to submit articles and photographs that feature activities of Royal Ranger ministries on a local level, or to share ideas and successes. Email material to garywagner54@aol.com. Please submit photos as separate jpg image files. The Tomahawk is distributed via email as an electronic publication. Email address corrections, or requests to be added to the distribution list, should be forwarded to Potomac District executive secretary Denise Raduano at potomacmm@msn.com. Royal Rangers Emblem © 1962 by the national Royal Rangers Office, The General Council of the Assemblies of God; Springfield, Mo. 65802. The Royal Rangers Emblem may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronically, mechanically, photocopies, recording, or otherwise—without prior written permission from the national Royal Rangers Office.

Potomac District Royal Rangers on Facebook www.facebook.com/PotomacRangers

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Supporting Churches, Businesses & Individuals Special thanks to our Supporting Churches, Sections, Businesses and Individuals. Your generosity enables further enhancements to this ministry. Anyone wishing to join our group of supporters may request an application from the Potomac District Royal Ranger office, email potomacmm@msn.com. SILVER MEMBERS Rev. Bobby Basham

Cross Junction, Va.

GOLD MEMBERS Projects Unlimited - Gary Groves Walt Eger Service Center

Eldersburg, Md. Severn, Md.

SUPPORTING CHURCHES Outpost 2 Outpost 6 Outpost 9 Outpost 18 Outpost 27 Outpost 46 Outpost 47 Outpost 49 Outpost 60 Outpost 64 Outpost 81 Outpost 89 Outpost 100 Outpost 124 Outpost 186 Outpost 215 Outpost 240 Outpost 277

Trinity Assembly of God Pasadena Assembly of God Calvary Assembly of God Eastern Assembly of God Glad Tidings Church Bethel Assembly of God Trinity Assembly of God Centerpointe Church at Fair Oaks Chapel Springs Church First Assembly of God Trinity Assembly of God Bethel Assembly of God Hancock Assembly of God Julilee Christian Center Hazel River Assembly of God River of Life Assembly of God Living Word Community Church Ocean City Worship Center

Lanham, Md. Pasadena, Md. Frederick, Md. Baltimore, Md. Norfolk, Va. Savage,Md. Lutherville,Md. Fairfax, Va. Bristow, Va. Elkton, Md. Fairmont, W.Va. Martinsburg, W.Va. Hancock, Md. Fairfax, Va. Rixeyville, Va. Spotsylvania, Va. Mechanicsville, Md. Berlin, Md.

INDIVIDUAL DONORS Homer Kitchen Gary & Faye Groves

Gerrardstown, W.Va. Eldersburg, Md.

DIRECTOR’S MEMO

Get Ready to Safari with the ‘King of the Jungle’ By Rev. Bobby Basham District Commander

magine you are in the jungle on a great safari, the forest is quiet and every twig that snaps making you jump. This jungle is full of deadly animals that are ready to attack. Snakes slither overhead, the screams of monkeys are heard in the distance. But you are with a guide that knows the terrain and who is mighty and keen about the dangers that lurk around every corner. You trust your guide, he is very experienced and fearless. The sounds around you seem a little less frightening when your guide is close by. You know he can be trusted! This year at our annual Pow Wow gathering, we are going on a safari, and our guide—the Lion of the Tribe of Judah—is our companion and He is the king of the jungle! He will defend us! We hope everyone will come to this year’s Pow Wow excited about our events, ready to see old friends from other outposts and hopefully ready for some new adventures. I am excited about some of the changes we are making this year, adding some new events and competitions for our young men. Our Speaker, Gavin Brown, will be enjoyable and comes to us with a background in Royal Rangers and God is using him to reach young people with the news that the King of all Ages, Jesus Christ, has given his life and through his resurrection, remains our protector in the jungle of life. Come expecting great things from God and come expecting to have a great adventure. The Pow Wow team under Pow Wow Coordinator Harry Hawthorne’s leadership, has worked tirelessly and I know they have some great things for all of us. I look forward to seeing you at Pow Wow, where we will begin the Great Safari!

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Pathfinders Return to Ecuador Village By Bill “Red Paddle” Chestnut

ey, you guys look so official in your green shirts. What have you been do-

ing?” That was the question heard numerous time by the team as they moved through the airport on their way home from the latest, Blue Ridge Chapter sponsored, Pathfinder’s trip. This trip held special meaning for both the team and the village where they would be working. Twelve years ago, the Blue Ridge Chapter sent a team to the village of Kutsuka, Ecuador on the western edge of the Amazon rain forest to build a school building. This time they were there to build a library. While this team consisted of eight Royal Ranger leaders and boys, for three of the leaders, this would be a return trip; they had been on the original team from 2001. Just the process of reaching Kutsuka proves to be an adventure all by itself. The team would fly from Dulles International Airport to San Salvador, El Salvador and then on to Quito, Ecuador. After spending the night in Quito, they would ride for seven hours, 350 miles on a bus, then three at a time climb into a circa-1950 Cessna airplane and fly the remaining 16 miles which brought them to their final destination. 4 4

Under construction and project completion photos of the library built by the recent Pathfinders team visit to Ecuador.

Months before the arrival of the team, the work had begun. Woodcutters had been contacted to begin to cut the lumber that would be needed for the library. Not only would the lumber be cut in the jungle, the locals also needed to carry the wood three miles, three boards at a time, to the village. Then just a few weeks before the work was scheduled to begin, the sheet metal roofing was carried into the village along narrow jungle trails. Finally the day came, and the team arrived to begin the work. The people of the village had prepared the building by removing the existing roof. For the next several days the team members worked on installing the floor boards and siding, while a local crew of workers framed the roof

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and installed the meal roof panels. It is really amazing the accuracy with which the local wood cutters are able to cut the boards to the required thickness. However, before the lumber could be used, each board still needed to be cut on each edge to straighten it so it could be installed with little or no gaps between the adjacent boards. So with that in mind, the team divided into two groups, set up their work stations and began the arduous task of installing the boards and fitting them together, one at a time. In what seemed like no time at all, the floor was installed; and it was time to start on the walls. Seven window openings were framed, and then the process of installing and fitting the siding boards was begun. SEE ECUADOR ON PAGE 5

IN MEMORY

James Preston

otomac District Royal Rangers fondly remembers James Preston, who passed into eternity on Jan. 18. Jim had served in Royal Rangers ministry faithfully for over 40 years, in Potomac District as senior commander for Outpost 64 at First Assembly of God in Elkton, Md. for 35 years. Jim was an instructor for the first Leadership Training Camp in Potomac District, and through the years did stints as Eastern Section’s training coordinator and sectional commander.

Royal Rangers and Leaders who made the recent Pathfinder trip to Ecuador pause for a group photo at Dulles International Airport.

ECUADOR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

The work was hard but was only a part of the experience of the jungle. Every evening the team went to a church service in the village, where it was evident that the Holy Spirit was in residence. Some of the most memorable experiences of the entire trip were centered on what happened at the church. On Tuesday evening the pastor, deacons and other leaders took time to conduct a “foot washing service” where they washed the feet of the team members and then prayed over each person. On Wednesday, there was a baptism service, which was held in the same, knee-deep spot where the team bathed every day. Pastor Diego and the missionary, Tim Anderson, baptized 14 people, five of whom had only been saved for a few days. Of the newly converted, there was a “witch doctor” who had giv-

en his heart to the Lord just the day before. Later that evening, the team was invited to be special guests at the service where Pastor Diego and his wife Annabella renewed their wedding vows, celebrating 10 years of marriage. It was a service performed in traditional Shuar costume and lasted long into the night. The returning members had found that life goes on even in a small jungle village. The village had changed. People that they had known before had moved on. But the one thing that never changes is the bond that comes from being brothers and sisters in Christ. Just like before, the team found a warm welcome and left with a new set of memories just as precious as the ones from before. Of the members of the team for whom this was the first time, they experienced many new and wondrous things, not the least of which are the new friends who made them feel like they were a part of the church family there in Kutsuka.

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GOLD MEDAL SPOTLIGHT

Outpost 294 Celebrates First Three Gold Medal of Achievement Recipients

utpost 294 at Calvary Assembly of God in Fort Ashby, W.Va., celebrated a milestone event on April 21 when they conducted a Gold Medal of Achievement ceremony to recognize—not only their first, but their first three Rangers to earn the GMA. Potomac District Commander Rev. Bobby Basham officiated for the ceremony at the North Central Section church, to present the Gold Medal of Achievement to Eli Barr (GMA#504), Trae Miller (GMA#505) and Daniel Coleman (GMA#506). Eli Barr, son of North Central Section Commander Greg Barr, has been involved in Royal Rangers for eight years. Among all his Ranger experiences, Eli cites friendships and lessons on leadership as having the most impact on his life. “I have built strong friendships and made memories I will never forget,” says Eli. “I am part of a group of six at my church that have come up through the ranks since we were Discovery Rangers. We have pushed each other to succeed and reach our goals. We are very competitive with each other, but we have a strong bond. If one of us goes to the altar, we follow him and pray. We all have struggles as teens, but we can share them with each other. In strange ways we relate to each other, and have each other’s backs. This friendship was formed through

Rangers. “As a Ranger, there is a lot of emphasis on being a leader. At JLTC we were put into groups with Rangers from other outposts we didn’t know and had to complete tasks throughout the camp. Each day someone different had to be the patrol guide, so you learned how to lead others and follow them too. To be a good leader you must learn to follow. This is a valuable lesson that I will carry with me for life. I will be put in many situations throughout life, and the knowledge I have gained will be put to good use. “I have discovered what it means to be a servant. There have been many times over the years our pastor has called on us as Rangers to serve. We get a lot of the jobs nobody wants to do, like directing parking in the rain, snow and hot sun. If our pastor needs it

Eli Barr

Trae Miller

Daniel Coleman

GMA #504

GMA #505

GMA #506

done, we do it. Over the years we have become his go-to crew. Whatever the event, we are there to work. One of the events is our ‘Big Giveaway,’ where the whole church participates. We give out free backpacks, shoe vouchers, lunch, and a free yard sale. It is our hardest event of the year, but we know it’s worth it to give back to the community. When you see some of the kids that you know wouldn’t have new shoes or a backpack for school, it makes you feel good. It helps you understand a little more about God’s love for us. “Royal Rangers has taught me what a great responsibility we have as Christian men. The lessons I have learned in Rangers have helped me to prepare for those responsibilities. “

In reflecting on his Royal Ranger experience, Trae Miller takes great delight in all the learning experiences provided through the ministry. “While becoming a Royal Ranger I discovered how to do many things I could never do before, like treading water for five minutes, sewing a button on a shirt, and speaking in front of large groups. Other enjoyable acSEE GMA SPOTLIGHT ON PAGE 7

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GMA SPOTLIGHT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

tivities I participated in were how to lash a rope bridge together, shoot a rifle, and even go down an icy hill on a snowboard.“ But Trae is quick to emphasize that Royal Rangers has most impacted his life through teaching him how to be a leader. “Royal Rangers has shown me how to be a spiritual leader by understanding the importance of reading the Bible, taking time for worship, and incorporating prayer every day. Because of this, I lead my Cross Country team at school in prayer before every race. “The Royal Ranger ministry takes an ordinary boy and through the years forms them into a man of God. This is what happened to me, and I value the commanders that poured into my life because they gave me love and attention. “The way Royal Rangers brings people together to share God’s word is very exiting. Boys are engulfed in the ministry by the worship, games, and big events. God touched me through the Royal Rangers ministry as a young boy, and over the years I changed into a young man of God. Without the guidance of Royal Rangers, I would not be the Christian that I am today. “I value Royal Rangers not just for the social activities, physical challenges, mental questions, or even the spiritual foundation, but all those things together. After being a Ranger for over 10 years, I understand that without any of these four things, I would not be the same. “Royal Rangers has been the greatest experience I have ever participated in, and I would like to serve as a commander in the future; to help other boys that are in

need of change. I would be honored to share my gifts and talents with the next generation as I continue my journey.

Daniel Coleman was just three years old and in the Rainbows class when he accepted Jesus as his savior and began his Royal Ranger adventure. “My commanders worked hard instilling the Word of God into our young and tender hearts, while at the same time giving plenty of opportunities to have lots of fun making Bible crafts, singing and playing games. I learned discipline and social skills as well as memorized many Bible verses. “When I turned five years old, I became a Straight Arrow—an official Royal Ranger! I was so exited! Every boy was given an awards vest to wear each week. Whenever I put my vest on, I wore it with pride because I was a Royal Ranger—not just in class, but all the time! “My next step in Rangers was Buckaroos. I thought it was so cool now, not only to have a Royal Ranger vest, but to have the Buckaroo neckerchief and bolo tie to wear as part of my uniform. I earned all the badges that I possibly could, including the Gold Falcon Badge.” By the time he had moved up to Expedition Rangers, Daniel had earned his Silver Medal of Achievement. In Expedition Rangers, he was able to complete a lot of merits that were unfinished from the previous class. “As the years went by, so did my level of maturity—as a young man and a Christian,” says Daniel. “I credit Royal Rangers for this growth. Royal Rangers helped me to realize who I am in Christ. I began to see myself as God sees me. I started to understand that He has

equipped me with unique gifts and talents and that He wants to use me. I learned to be a servant leader and to lead by example. “Through the years, I have had the opportunity to experience many great events—camping trips, fishing, biking, hiking, Frostbite Field Days, getting to go to the 50th Anniversary Camporama, boating, tubing, Canoe Camp, Pinewood Derby Races and many more. “I was also fortunate to be able to attend all the JLTA camps focused on teaching leadership skills and learning to take initiative. I learned the importance of being obedient to God’s Word and doing everything wholeheartedly as unto the Lord, being thorough, diligent and faithful in all things. I learned the value of teamwork and being a team player, getting along with others, reaching out to newcomers, making them feel accepted, welcomed and loved. “Royal Rangers are always available to help serve the people of Calvary Assembly of God and the community in any way that we can. Some of the ways that I have been privileged to serve are that I helped cut and deliver firewood to widows and the needy, did yard work for the disabled, and helped with “The Big Giveaway” every year. All of these activities were instruments used by God to teach me life skills, to build character and integrity in my life, to teach me leadership tactics, and to disciple me as a follower of Christ.“

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Royal Ranger Alumni Report

he Royal Ranger Alumni (RRA) in Potomac District has been growing! Congratulations and welcome to the following individuals who’ve recently joined RRA:     

RRA Applications As a reminder for those interested in joining RRA, all applications should be sent directly to Potomac District’s RRA president (with a photo please). Do not send RRA applications to the Royal Rangers National Office. The RRA application is available on the Potomac District Royal Ranger website: www.potomacrangers.org. If you have any questions or would like additional information regarding RRA, please call Gary Groves at (410) 4285317. RRA Background The Royal Ranger Alumni (RRA) program was recently inaugurated to provide a method by which Ranger leaders (age 55 plus) may continue to 8

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Funds Needed for Church Construction in Havana, Cuba

“Linseed” Arnold Cmdr. Gerald Griest Cmdr. Sara Frey Thomas Kroon Kenneth Robinson

Spring Trace Support At this year’s Frontiersman Camping Fellowship (FCF) Spring Trace, 16 RRA members attended to support the event. RRA president Gary “Blazin’ Bear’ Groves characterized the trace as “the best one ever,” and expressed his appreciation for all the members’ contributions to the event.

MISSIONS TEAM READY TO GO

serve as a vital part of the Royal Rangers Ministry. RRA provides an opportunity for leaders to share their knowledge, expertise and experiences with boys and local commanders. The RRA provides the opportunity for you to continue to be involved in Rangers as your time permits. Royal Rangers leaders upon reaching retirement age or when medical problems or other reasons prohibit them from serving as a commander, may feel they no longer have a part in Royal Rangers ministry. This is certainly not the case, as many of these leaders have a wealth of knowledge and experiences and are willing and able to serve on a limited basis. RRA will provide the structure by which these Royal Rangers leaders may continue to be a vital part of Royal Rangers and assist their districts on their time schedule. The objective of the RRA is to provide opportunities for service and ministry for former/ retired Royal Rangers leaders. Those interested in joining the ranks of the Royal Ranger Alumni can contact their sectional commander or sectional RRA coordinator for assistance. May - June 2013

avana, Cuba is the site for the next Men’s Ministries missions trip. In this communist country, the walls have been coming down! Revival has hit the island from ocean to ocean, and the church is exploding in growth. Houses have been turned into churches and streets into open air meetings. All of this in a country whose government refuses to believe in God! God will not be confined to any political agenda. As the church has experienced unprecedented growth, I hope you will join me to help provide a facility where believers can gather to worship God. In a community where people have done without for so long, they can come to a place to meet with God and find hope beyond their circumstance. We will be one of several teams that will be working on a church that will seat 700 people. What a miracle for the government to issue the permits for such a facility. This is God’s time for Cuba! We have a team of 12 men ready to go. What I need help with is the construction costs. We need to raise $12,000 to pay for the supplies needed for this team to build. The men are willing, many of them sacrificing personally to go, but we need the support of others to help us with construction costs. Just a few short years ago, who would have thought, we could build a church in Cuba? Will you help us with a one-time gift to build a church in Cuba? We can provide you with a short video about Cuba and God’s work, if you would like to show your church or Missions Board. Funds are needed by June 1, 2013. Make checks payable to 'Men's Ministries' and write “Cuba” in the memo line. Mail to Potomac Men's Ministries, P.O. Box 690, Gainesville, Va. 20156.

ROYAL RANGERS IN MISSIONS

Construction Starts on East Africa Training Center

otomac District’s Andy Whitman, an Assemblies of God missionary and staff member for Royal Rangers International, reports that sufficient funds have been collected to permit the start of construction on the ministry’s East Africa Training Center in Kenya. The building will serve the entire region for leadership training and international Royal Ranger events, in addition to also serving from time to time as a home for our Royal Bridging Centre ministry for ado-

lescent boys and girls, and as classrooms for the Kenya Kids home for street children. The first phase will be a basic “tabernacle” building which is the roof and structural supports for the main hall. The walls and interiors will be finished in later phases as funds become available. This is an official Assembly of God project (project # 15038) and if you or your church would like to be involved, please contact Andy at www.whitmansinkenya.com.

Rangers Provides ‘Alternative Rite of Passage’ for Kenya Adolescents

he Royal Bridging Centre (RBC) is a part of the Royal Ranger ministry in Kenya and was started by Rev. Patrick Kawe as an “alternative rite of passage” for adolescent boys and girls. In Kenya, tradition dictates that a boy is circumcised around age thirteen. This pagan ceremony involves a one to two week period of recovery in which boys are encouraged to prove they have become “men” by experimenting with drugs and alcohol and to “cleanse” themselves by seeking out a sexual relationship. Many Kenyan Christians allow their boys to participate because of cultural and social pressures, much as a parent in the United States might feel pressured to al-

low their child to celebrate Halloween or for their teen to go on a questionable spring break trip. As a result of the ritual, many boys do themselves great spiritual harm. Furthermore, there was a big church dropout rate for the ones that had been previously attending a church. Rev. Kawe describes it, in a classic African way, as leading a child by the hand until we reach a river, and because there is no crossing, we ask a crocodile to ferry the child to the other side. Of course the child never arrives because the crocodile eats him on the way. Instead, we should be building a bridge across the river to safely guide the child on the way to adulthood. RBC was created as a

one-week alternative event where boys are circumcised by a Christian doctor and then surrounded with a godly environment during the recovery period. Pastors, special guests, and Christian counselors teach the boys what God’s word says about manhood and help them prepare to be a godly husband and father one day. As a result, 100 percent of the boys who have gone through the program so far have stayed in the church and also have grown spiritually. Some non-churched boys have even found Christ through the Bridging Centre. The program has now been expanded for adolescent girls to spend a week learning how to become a godly woman and keep themselves pure until marriage.

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Potomac Safari, The Lion of Judah 2013 DISTRICT POW WOW PREVIEW

afari. This one word immediately prompts vivid imaginations of a trek taken into the wild expressly for the purpose of experiencing adventure. Whether your point of reference is a recollection from an old Tarzan movie, or remembering the riveting dinosaur hunt scene from the second “Jurassic Park” film, it’s all the same. Derived from the Arabic safariyah, safari means journey. Adventure? Journey? Sounds a lot like Pow Wow to me! And this year’s Potomac District Pow Wow will be one that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for our Rangers and leaders. It’s not too early to start making plans for your outpost’s participation at Pow Wow. Scheduled for Aug. 15-18, it will be here before you know it. All the information you need to start preparing for this event is contained in our Pow Wow information book, available on line at www.potomacrangers.org. Here are some highlights of what’s in store for you and your outpost at Pow Wow in August ... Guest Speaker Gavin Brown is the Student Ministries Pastor at Trinity Assembly of God in the greater Baltimore area. He has also traveled extensively in the Baltimore/D.C. Metro area for the last eight years as a motivational speaker in high

schools and middle schools with the 7-project organization. He graduated from Valley Forge Christian College with a bachelor’s degree in youth ministry and is currently pursuing his Master’s of Divinity degree from Liberty Theological Seminary. Gavin has a passion to impact this generation abroad with a message of hope.

Praise and Worship The Troy Carver Band returns to Pow Wow to lead us in worship. Troy has been playing, writing, and producing music for the body of Christ since 1988. With a passion to usher in God’s presence, Troy is able to bring both energy in celebration and sensitivity in contemplation at the right moment for the right engagement of God’s Word. His worship team is professional yet personable, prayerful and enjoyable.

SPECIAL EVENTS A wide variety of special events on tap for this year’s Pow Wow will provide your Rangers with plenty of excitement and opportunity for fun.  The Grinder Obstacle Course a fun inflatable that will challenge your speed and stamina.  A Safari Canoe Race on Lake Strauss will decide who has the best paddling team.  A Zip Line will excite you as you float across the “tundra.”  A Safari Pellet Fun Shoot is for only the bravest of hunters.  Safari Paint Ball will be a “splattering” good time.  Safari Archery Fun Shoot will “aim” to please you. Additional activities for your Rangers to explore include a Wrecking Ball and Dunking Booth, as well as “pick up” volleyball and flag football games. Competition For those who “thrill in the hunt” and have a more competitive spirit, the Pow Wow schedule will offer the following opportunities.  Archery and Pellet Gun Shoot: Boys will shoot at one target that will be provided at the event. This competition is on Friday only. Saturday is a fun shoot only. SEE POW WOW ON PAGE 11

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 Fishing Competition: Compete for first and longest fish caught.  Bench Press: Expedition Rangers, Leaders under 40, Leaders 40 and older and Leaders 50 and older, may compete against other contestants in their age group. Winner’s calculation will be based on the lifted amount in percentage to his body weight. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place will be awarded in each age group.  Sectional Basketball Tournament: Each Section may enter a team consisting of 1 Coach and up to 9 Boys (Adventure and Expedition Rangers only). Substitutes must play and may enter the game as needed as long as a minimum of 2 Adventure Rangers are on the court at all times.

Games will consist of two 3minute halves with a one-minute rest period. Each team may call one time-out. Teams should dress in the same color jerseys or shirts. Each team’s coach must supply one referee at the start of the competition, a roster listing players on their team (each player must have chartered with their outpost for the current year) and their age. Main Event: The Safari Challenge,

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at 1:00 p.m. Saturday on the main assembly field. Each Section must provide a team of 6 to participate in this challenge event. The team will consist of 2 Discovery Rangers, 2 Adventure Rangers and 2 Expedition Rangers. (Discovery or Adventure Rangers may

be substituted if Expedition Rangers are not available.  Swimming: All fast swimmers may compete for the fastest swimmer in the District. Contestants must be at the pool ready to compete at 4 p.m. on Saturday. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place will be awarded in each age group (Discovery, Adventure and Expedition Rangers).  Trap Shoot: The boys will test their skills at shooting clay birds. Each boy will get 10 shots, the greatest number of birds shot will be the winner. (This is an Expedition event only). The cost of the event is $7; this includes the shells and the clay birds. Rangers will not be permitted to participate in this event without presenting the Trap Shoot Permission Form and Waiver signed by the Ranger and an adult parent or guardian.

Registrations must be postmarked by July 17th to guarantee Pow Wow T-shirts & Hats DOWNLOAD THE POW WOW BOOK AT WWW.POTOMACRANGERS.ORG

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Just Stuff

Recollections from Royal Ranger leaders involved with juvenile detention ministry in Potomac District. By Glenn Sorrentino

was standing with a group of boys, and they were talking about some of their exploits. The subject of weapons came up, and how they never seemed to have one when they needed one. One of the boys pulled his shirt to reveal a tattoo of a hand gun on his chest. “I’ve always got my piece with me!” he proudly proclaimed. The other boys were admiring it, some were saying they’d like to get a similar tattoo, but the boy standing next to me was shaking his head and saying “No, that’s the old me. No more. When I get out, I’m staying straight.” I congratulated him on his decision. One of the boys I prayed with was Tyquan, a large boy who could probably play linebacker for any football team. He told me the person who had hurt him the most was his mother. He shared a few details, and very quickly I was finding it hard to hold it together. I was standing in proxy for this woman, and I genuinely felt really sorry for the wrongs done to him. He has scars all over his body; his face, neck, arms. I could feel them on his back as I was hugging him. He says they are from a house fire. I asked if he has received Christ as his Savior, he said no. I asked if he realized e was a sinner. He said "Oh, Yeah!" I asked if he thought he could save himself. He said "No." I asked if he believed Jesus died on the cross for his sins and rose again. He agreed. I then asked if he was willing to confess Christ as Savior and Lord. He said,"I'm not ready." I thanked him for his honesty, and prayed for him for the Lord to reveal Himself to

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him. I'm looking forward to seeing him next week. (The following week…..) I got to pray with Tyquan, the large boy I spoke to last week who said he wasn't ready. He said he had made considerable progress in forgiving his mother, and that now he was ready to receive Jesus. "I couldn't hardly wait for ya'll to show up today!" he told me. "I'm ready!” I had a hard time holding it together as I led him in the Sinner's Prayer, but we got through it, and Tyquan hugged me as I congratulated him and welcomed him into the family. I had already given him a Bible last week, he said it's the first one that belonged to him. "And this one I can read!" After a game of Stick Race, we had them seated and Chuck started sharing from Luke 15, The Prodigal Son, also called The Extravagant Father, from the Youth Encounter. Chuck stressed that they each have a Father who loves them, no matter what their earthly father has done. Both Chuck and Tim Rush shared from their experience what wound fatherlessness leaves on a young man. After sharing a couple of videos, Chuck invited the boys to come to the back of the room to receive a father's blessing. Quite a few of them responded. I had the opportunity to bless three of them. Roger had the privilege of leading one of the boys to Christ. As we were leaving, Asst. Superintendent Leo Washer told us about one of the boys who was at the Youth Encounter last week, who was released

May May- June - June2013 2013

earlier this week. Leo talked to him, as he usually does, telling him he does not need to come back to the Detention Center. The boy, who mentioned the Father's Blessing he had received at the meeting last Saturday, told Leo, "I've made up my mind. I'm not going to hurt my mom again like that!" Frank Timmins has been a faithful part of this ministry since we started. He comments: Tonight I felt truly blessed by God to have had the honor and privilege to lead Nathan into Gods Kingdom with the sinner’s prayer. It's hard to believe he's only 11 yrs old. I could see the childlike innocence in his eyes and wanted to hug him but you know the rules, the hand shake had to do. I told God on the way in that I was empty and to give me something, and look what He did! Awesome! I came out full again. Others don't know what they're missing. This ministry is a blessing to the boys and to the men who are in it as well.

POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS STAFF SECTIONAL COMMANDERS

EXECUTIVE STAFF Rev. Bobby Basham - District Commander 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655 bbasham@potomacag.org (540) 869-8432

Linda Cocolin - Health Officer 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108 lkcocolin@msn.com (410) 315-8433

Mark Brannon - Capital Virginia Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736 capseccmdr@verizon.net (410) 257-9446

Homer Kitchen - Deputy District Commander 8614 Apple Harvest Dr. Gerrardstown, WV 25420 Kitchenhl@msn.com (304) 229-5793

Seth Van de Ven - Special Aide de Camp 3202 Amberley Lane Fairfax, VA 22031 seth.vandeven@gmail.com (703) 560-5886

Mark Brannon - Capital Maryland Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736 capseccmdr@verizon.net (410) 257-9446

Bill Chestnut - FCF Chapter President 346 Reservoir Rd. Perryville, MD 21903 redpaddle@yahoo.com (410) 378-3735

Tyler Mazer - GMA Coordinator 99 Shenandoah View Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 camarocougar@comcast.net (304) 876-1875

Ken O’Maley - Central Section 11042 Settletown Place Rixeyville, VA 22737 kenomaley@aol.com (540) 937-6139

Harry Hawthorne - Pow Wow Coordinator 3005 Lochary Rd. Bel Air, MD 21015 harry@sitesupportservices.com (410) 420-2215

Isaac Brannon - Special Aide de Camp P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736 ltbrannon@verizon.net (410) 257-9446

Marvin Boswell - Southern Section P. O. Box 35 Rockville, VA 23146 mwboswell@gmail.com (804) 749-8397

Phil Georg - Training Coordinator 111 East H St. Brunswick, MD 21716 philgeorg@hotmail.com (301) 834-9871

Dale Eger - Special Aide de Camp 8213 WB & A Rd. Severn, MD 21144 Dale.eger77@gmail.com (410) 551-3454

Phil Vieth - Tidewater North Section 200 Treis Trail Yorktown, VA 23693 philvieth@verizon.net (757) 766-8351

Bob Blessing - Junior Training Coordinator 302 Stiemly Ave. Glen Burnie, MD 21060 jrblessing@gmail.com (410) 760-9330

Cliff Jewell - Staff Advisor 9150 James Madison Hwy. Warrenton, VA 20186 jewellsrthe1@aol.com (540) 216-3365

Roger Riendeau - Tidewater South Section 7719 Doris Dr. Norfolk, VA 23505 roger.riendeau@cox.net (757) 440-8432

Chris Basham - Media/Productions 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655 (540) 869-8432

Sam Linn - Staff Advisor 1687 McCoys Ford Rd. Front Royal, VA 22630 shlinn@comcast.net (540) 635-7497

Ken Black - Eastern Section P. O. Box 58 Manchester, MD 21102 Talloak218@aol.com (410) 239-2645

Gary Wagner - Publications/Outreach Coordinator 3905 Swanson Ct. Fredericksburg, VA 22408 garywagner54@aol.com (540) 898-7415

Tracy Groves - Staff Advisor 2340 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784 tgghunter@verizon.net (410) 781-4906

Robert “Buzz” Gregory - Eastern Shore Section 9260 Hickory Mill Rd. Salisbury, MD 21801 Buzzgregory@comcast.net (410) 742-0415

Mike Cocolin - Missions Coordinator 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108 mjcocolin@msn.com (410) 315-8433

Dick Aldridge - Staff Advisor 46 Tadcaster Circle Waldorf, MD 20602 raaldridge@paville.org (301) 645-9091

Jerry Sinden - Northeast Section 1805 Milstream Dr. Frederick, MD 21702 Sindenfred@aol.com (301) 620-0034

Gary Groves - RR Alumni President 2326 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784 blaznbear@verizon.net (410) 781-0236

Northwest Section Jerry Sinden (Acting) Greg Barr - North Central Section Box 384, Fort Ashby, WV 26719 ncscribe@yahoo.com (301) 786-4244 Western Section Greg Barr (Acting)

Potomac District Royal Rangers on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/PotomacRangers

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May - June 2013