The Call Was Answered

August 28, 2024

In 1822, William Ashley called upon enterprising and skilled young men to venture into the uncharted wilderness in search of furs. Similarly, in the summer of 2024, a call went out to the young men of the Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship (FCF) to embrace “The Call” of adventure in Christ. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Camp Eagle Rock, the 2024 FCF National Rendezvous embodied this spirit of adventure.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in a variety of challenging frontier-related activities, earning colorful beads as they completed each task. Those who collected enough beads had the opportunity to receive a special beaver paw brand, signifying their accomplishment in meeting all the challenges. From black powder shooting to a demanding archery trail and from igniting a spark with flint and steel to participating in Rendezvous games, there was something unique for everyone.

A highlight of the Rendezvous was the series of powerful messages delivered in the Eagle Heart Tabernacle by a lineup of inspiring speakers. Rev. Luis “Three Arrows” Velazquez encouraged the young men, declaring, “Young Bucks, you are blessed, you are valued, and you are courageous! Old Timers, it is time to renew the passion!” Rev. Jason “Golden Bear” Bone urged them to seek a double portion of anointing as Elisha did. Rev. John “Highland Spirit” Robinson called on leaders to stay the course and be of good courage, while John “Many Waters” Hembree spoke about the unique calling on each person's life and God's purpose for them. Rev. Rick DuBose, assistant superintendent of the Assemblies of God, emphasized that authority comes with anointing, and in these times, we need authority more than ever. He reminded the Fellowship that God's anointing empowers us to speak into the lives of the boys we mentor with wisdom and love. The week renewed the Fellowship's commitment to mentoring and ministering to boys, challenging everyone to double their efforts.

The Rendezvous was also marked by a strong sense of fun, friendship, and fellowship as old friendships were rekindled and new ones formed. FCF members from across the country came together for this special event. In the competitive events, a few individuals stood out. Nathan “Soul Hunter” Phillips of the Jedediah Strong Smith chapter earned the Strong Heart Award for the young bucks, while Ronnie “Time Keeper” Ewert of the Indian Nation chapter earned the top award for the old timers. The Voyagers Territory emerged as the best-performing territory with the Jedediah Strong Smith chapter achieving the highest score.

For nearly a year, Camp Eagle Rock has been constructing a large outdoor pavilion, thanks to the dedication and contributions of many groups and individuals. The money FCF raised at the 2018 National Rendezvous missions auction for a permanent stage in the Grove was instead put to better use in the development of the tabernacle. On Thursday night of Rendezvous, this pavilion was dedicated and renamed the Eagle Heart Tabernacle in honor of Jim “Eagle Heart” Barger. Many of Jim's family members attended the dedication, and Ben Barger delivered a heartfelt address to the group, saying, “You were all his favorites.”

As we part ways and until we can gather around the campfire again, may peace be with you.