40 Years in Pathfindering

Glenda Augustine

The congregation was called to attention and silence reigned for a minute before the resounding beat of drums heralded the entrance of the colour party, followed by the adventurers and pathfinders. The last to enter behind the uniformed bodies was Joseph Spencer and his wife Edris. Representatives of Pathfinder and Adventurer clubs from around the West Midlands and SEC gathered at West Bromwich church to join Joseph Spencer in celebrating 40 years in Pathfindering.

Joseph’s love for Pathfinders began in 1970 when he became an active member of the New Carmel club in Montserrat. By 1975 he had completed the Master Guide course and was club director. Twenty-two years later, in 1997, with a history of running two clubs and being area co-ordinator, divine intervention in the form of the volcano lead to Joseph’s move to the UK. West Bromwich church benefited greatly from his experience as he supported the Pathfinder club on his arrival and by 1998 became director. The club moved from having indoor experiences and nature walks to embracing the rigours of camping, winning the gold award at their first camporee!

The afternoon program took the shape of many of his former Pathfinders who are now directors recounting their experiences under his leadership. They recalled taking part in for fund raising ventures, which afforded them the opportunity to visit different countries including Antigua and St Kitts and Guadeloupe. It was a fantastic opportunity to listen to the many stories accompanied by a picture slideshow, which made it very apparent that Pathfindering was a fun and memorable lifetime experience.

Throughout his time in Pathfinders, Joseph has assisted a number of local, national and international clubs in various activities through the development of camping skills and activities such as archery. He has spent time with Pathfinder clubs in Canada, St Thomas in the Virgin Islands and the USA. This service celebrated the impact of Pathfinders on the life of Joseph Spencer, who is currently a Pathfinder Area Co-ordinator but has plans to return to club directorship. One of the main motivations for the organisation of this event was to raise funds for the New Carmel Pathfinder club in Montserrat to provide tents as well as donating finance to other clubs on the island.