Christian Journal Article

Tree of Life Experiences Renewed Growth

 

Tree of Life Christian Wilderness Expeditions, based out of Klamath Falls, Oregon, is growing.  The young ministry underwent some serious changes involving staff, areas of operation, and publicity recently. Founded by Jim Yahne in 1996, Tree of Life delivers the eternal hope of Christ to anyone strugging through life.

Tree of Life is a discipleship program that offers conventional therapy mixed with outdoor adventure blanketed by the core teachings of Christianity. The program is directed at adolescents ages 13 - 17, but also welcomes anyone who needs help being lead out of bondage. Likened to the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, a typical trek entails a 21-day hike through high desert forest. Participants are exposed to God’s promises and healing powers of reconciliation.  “Thank you for being a part of my life and helping me understand who I can be. I’m going to miss you guys…” says one participant. Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest.” Tree of Life hopes to be a pathway there.

There is a fresh generation of young faces working at Tree of Life to bring their God-given talents to the Tree of Life family. Guide Brett Hansen says, “We’re excited to see this thing grow! It seems as if God is setting us up for huge success.” 

One of the challenges Tree of Life faces is gaining land use permits in this modern age of ever-shrinking wilderness. Tree of Life has worked closely with the Forest Service and BLM to line out permit areas in the surrounding Klamath Falls area. With new land use areas Tree of Life is faced with the task of scouting and creating new routes, yet it gives them the opportunity of calling a place their own.

This fall Tree of Life has branched out by updating its public image. It began with a simple Facebook profile. Then came Twitter, a blog, and remodeling the website to gain more attention. There is also a nation-wide radio advertisement offering therapy services.

All of these changes are proof that Tree of Life is continuing to put its roots down and solidify a sturdy base. Guide David Key summarizes by saying, “In this economy it’s important to put faith in something. The Lord certainly delivers and the choice to support this ministry was obvious. We have grown and will continue to grow.”

For further information call Jim Yahne at 541-281-2956 or visit tlcwe.org.

 

 

From the October 2012 Love & Respect edition: www.thechristianjournal.org