Respect and Participation Policy

Patmos Panthers Pathfinder Club – Respect and Participation Policy

Our Philosophy

At the Patmos Panthers Pathfinder Club, every child participates by choice, not by force.
We believe learning, discipline, and growth happen best through love, example, and guidance, never through pressure or fear.

Our model is Christ Himself — “Follow Me,” He said, not “You must.”
Pathfinders is about inspiring young people to choose to follow Jesus, develop strong character, and discover joy in service.

1. Voluntary Participation

• Pathfinders join and stay by free choice, with parent support.

• We do not force attendance, class completion, or participation in specific activities.

• Instead, we teach responsibility and follow-through as a part of Christian maturity.
  
  

2. Expectations, Not Coercion

We maintain clear, respectful expectations that promote order and teamwork:

• Attend meetings and activities on time.

• Wear the proper uniform when required.

• Complete classwork and honors to the best of one’s ability.

• Show respect to staff, peers, and property.
  
  

These are expectations — not threats. When expectations are missed, we use conversation, mentoring, and accountability, not punishment.

3. Our Approach to Discipline

• Discipline = discipleship.

• We correct with kindness, reason, and prayer, helping each child understand the why behind our rules.

• When behavior disrupts the group, a Pathfinder may be temporarily removed from an activity or asked to reflect — but always welcomed back with grace.

• Staff model humility and patience, remembering that our mission is to lead youth to Jesus, not to control them.
  
  

4. Our Goal

Everything we do — marching, honors, service, worship, and discipline — aims to:

• Build strong Christian character

• Foster teamwork and self-respect

• Teach responsibility and leadership

• Reflect Christ’s love in action
  
  

We believe no child should ever feel shamed, forced, or unwanted in God’s work.
Here, we grow by choice, not by command.