The knowledge that he needed to become a Christian took place at an early stage of Duane’s life. “I credit some of this to being blessed to have grown up in a rural pastors’ family where church was a regular part of my life,” said Duane. At eight years old Duane had a full understanding of his need for salvation. “I went forward in a revival service and asked Jesus into my heart and have followed him to this day.”
Duane’s decision to go into full-time ministry was a choice that, at first, he was somewhat reluctant to do. But, the call on his life to serve and share his life with others so that they may know Christ was something he could not shake. He distinctly remembers a sermon that referred to “your Christian service” as a sporting event. Duane came to realize, not only was he not in the first, second, third or fourth quarter of the game, but he was still on the bench not even actively playing. “That bothered me. I felt God‘s guidance and reassurance that if I committed myself to this that he would lead and bless this ministry,” Duane recalls.
Duane became aware of Cross Trail Outfitters through seeing their booth set up at a local farm and feed supply store event. For two years he talked with a gentleman who is a CTO chapter leader. “His encouragement and passion for the ministry was what helped me make the decision to accept the call to full-time ministry with Cross Trail Outfitters,” testified Duane. “My wife, being a school teacher, would often share with me stories of students, specifically boys, who are making poor decisions or lacking parental guidance, especially from a father figure in their lives. Having grown up with a passion for the outdoors and working in the outdoor industry as a fly fishing guide for 32 years and a very active hunter and fisherman, I very well knew the importance of what outdoor life and having a mentor can do for a boy growing into a man.”
“When you incorporate the knowledge that the main thing in their life is having a relationship with Jesus Christ, then they are prepared to live a good life and truly develop maturity and masculinity taught and demonstrated to them by mentors in the outdoors.” This has proven to be a very exciting and rewarding ministry for Duane. It is a natural fit for him as he has been a passionate outdoorsman all of his life. Duane’s vision is to see Cross Trail Outfitters expand throughout Arkansas. “There are communities and boys throughout this great state that need the same opportunities that were afforded to so many in this area of the Ozarks.”
As CTO grows, God continues to place individuals in our path to come alongside us in this ministry. They have proven to be key people in helping us reach our goals and gain the vision of Cross Trail Outfitters. Each year we reach new boys, especially through our summer camp programs, where God has specifically allowed Duane to use his lifelong experience in flyfishing to create a great, high-quality experience to not only learn an exciting life skill and sport, but also find their place in life as God has designed for them.
“Your support, prayer and giving of time and financial aid is what keeps this blessed ministry growing. Thank you!” exclaims Duane.
