Camp Director, Marcus Andrusko, earned a Masters degree in Communication for the purpose of learning more about wilderness ministry. Marcus’ Masters thesis research provided much insight into why and how this genre of ministry is uniquely effective.
Some major active elements include: Creation, interaction of the Holy Spirit, trust development, true communal cohesion, and personal introspection/solitude. With these elements in place, trusting and open discussions about intimate topics (such as how to follow God in the ways of Jesus) occur naturally, and without negative consequence. The natural communal encouragement, as well as introspection, helps solidify the discussions and experiences in the participants’ minds and lives.