Pathfinder Club Featured in New Americans Magazine

Story by Anthony Chornes II

The Panthers Pathfinder Club from the Ephesus church in Columbus, Ohio, was featured in the December 2025 New Americans magazine issue, earning recognition for their commitment to service, inclusivity and community engagement across the Columbus area.

The article highlights the club’s work with the Mid-Ohio FoodBank, pop-up food pantries, conservation cleanups and outdoor education programs that demonstrate faith in action. Under the leadership of Pathfinder Director Darwyn Allen, the club has become a model of youth empowerment and Christ-centered leadership.

“The Pathfinder program beautifully reflects the mission and values of the Ephesus church by nurturing young people in Christ-centered service, character and community engagement,” Allen shares.

The article features testimonials from former Pathfinders, including Denise Stewart, who reflected on her experience: “We served our community in meaningful ways and learned true resilience. It was a place where fellowship, faith and adventure came together to shape who I am today. We were taught to be true leaders.”

Another former Pathfinder emphasized the program’s focus on fostering inclusivity, accountability and faith-driven opportunities.

Jamal Franklin, Allegheny West Conference (AWC) Youth and Young Adult Ministries director, commended the club’s impact: “Awesome job to all our Columbus Ephesus Panther Pathfinders, staff and parents! Your dedication to service, community and inclusivity shines through and is truly worthy of sharing.”

Michaela Rogers, another AWC leader, adds, “The Pathfinders demonstrated an excellent way of learning to serve God, their community and caring for one another through guidance and mentoring from their team leaders.”

The full article can be read at shorturl.at/IRIAZ.