As summer comes to a close, we are hearing inspiring stories of what God has been doing in and through our team members in the national parks. We wanted to share some of these encouraging quotes with you, too!

“I honestly don’t even know where to start with this one. Moving out to Custer was a total leap into the unknown. I was terrified, excited, and had zero idea what I was actually getting myself into. Looking back, God completely blew every expectation I had out of the water. I’m so beyond grateful to ACMNP for this opportunity. Getting to serve and share God’s word right in the middle of all this beauty is something I’ll never take for granted. Trying to condense this summer into 20 photos feels impossible. No recap can actually capture the laughs, late nights, and people that made it what it was. I’ve grown more in my faith over these past few months than ever before. To my team and everyone out here: I love you guys so much. Leaving South Dakota with people I can call real family all across the country is such a gift. Saying goodbye is heavy, but that’s just real proof of how special this was. We built something truly real. And to everyone back home, thank you for the constant love, prayers, and support. Having that foundation meant everything while I was away. I left behind everything I knew, and I’m coming back with everything I needed. God is so good!” – Owen, Custer State Park, 2026

“Ministry in the parks is important and it’s just as much missions work as going to another country. This ministry touches a lot of people who need the love of Jesus.” – Julianne, Rocky Mountain National Park, 2026

“Some of the most impactful moments have been conversations with coworkers who have experienced religious trauma. Several have shared stories of feeling rejected or hurt by churches in the past. Instead of debating theology, I was able to simply listen, share parts of my own faith journey, and show them the love and grace of Christ. Those conversations reminded me that people often need compassion before they are willing to trust Christians again. This summer taught me that I don’t have all the answers, and that’s okay. God has been teaching me to build convictions that are personally rooted in Scripture instead of simply relying on what I’ve always been told. Living in a diverse environment has challenged me to listen well, ask questions, and thoughtfully evaluate different perspectives while remaining grounded in Christ. I have also learned that leadership isn’t about having all the right words, it’s about serving others, listening well, and leading with humility. Relationships are built through authenticity, and people are much more receptive when they know they are genuinely loved.” – Sela, Olympic National Park, 2026

“My teenage son and I visited Yellowstone and Grand Teton in June and attended an ACMNP servcie. I want to thank the team. My son has Autism, and told me his favorite thing at the parks was attending the service. We are both Christians and wanted to specifically thank those people and your organization for the work done in Jesus name. We pray for those young men and women regularly now in our prayer time, as well as your organization. I just wanted those young people to know that they had a profound impact on us and we praise God for their work and your ministry as well. I pray that my son can one day participate in yours or another similar ministry.” – 2026 Worship Attendee

“My name is Phil and I spent the summer of 1996 working at Mt. Rushmore.  It was that summer, at the age of 19, that changed my life.  Specifically ACMNP at Mt. Rushmore, lead by Chad and Rachel.  Just typing their names brings a tear to my eye.  It was my first experience with Jesus.  I attended every single Sunday worship service and my life is now devoted fully to my Lord and Savior.  I live within driving distance of Custer(although a long drive) and make it a point to visit the Black Hills at least once per year.” – Phil, Mt. Rushmore, 1996