Indian Falls Creek (IFC) is a gathering of family that comes together for encouragement, fellowship, Gospel sharing, and calling. Churches and families come from across North America, representing more than 50 culturally unique tribal nations, with many campers attending since childhood, some first attending as babies.
Most Native Baptist churches are small, so coming to IFC provides a time for fellowship and networking between churches and their leaders. Friends look forward to time together, as this gathering may the only time many see each other throughout the year. Most Native pastors and leaders are multi-vocational, so IFC provides the opportunity to enjoy being with and ministering to their church families and to also be encouraged.
This summer, IFC will take place July 27-31. Oklahoma Baptists’ executive director-treasurer Todd Fisher will serve as Camp Pastor. Last year, on his way to IFC, Fisher was involved in a serious car accident. Pastors were called upon to preach in his stead. The IFC family has prayed for his on-going recovery and look forward to seeing him walk on stage to bring the message each evening.
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8 ESV.
Fisher will inaugurate the three-year theme, “Come Before the Lord” focusing on Do Justice, with Love Kindness and Walk Humbly to come. His example of deep Bible study is an encouragement to value and love God’s Word.
During each IFC evening worship service, two or three Nations sing a hymn in their Tribal language, many wearing traditional clothing. On Tuesday evening, Veterans are recognized so campers are encouraged to wear traditional dress in their honor.
IFC cultivates family through worship, learning and fellowship. A day at IFC begins with morning classes for preschool, children, youth, young adults and adults. Then, everyone gathers for a late morning worship service directed toward our youth and young adults. Following lunch, afternoon sports and activities provide time for fellowship and fun. After dinner, evening service brings everyone together for more worship and then post-service opportunities for fun and fellowship.
In addition to regular programming, special activities include an Annual Health Fair, Blood & Bone Marrow Drive, Children’s Olympics, receptions for pastors and pastor’s wives, morning Prayer Walk, 5K run and more. Core highlights of the Underground Activities are the well-contested Golden Frybread and Meat Pie Contests.
The Baptism service on Thursday afternoon is a high point in the week as it brings church families together to celebrate new brothers and sisters in Christ.
The importance of IFC cannot be understated. With less than 10 percent of North American Indigenous peoples being Christian, there is an immense need to support and encourage Native Baptist churches and share the Gospel to the more than 90 percent of Native people who need Christ. All of IFC leadership and support staff serve voluntarily in its planning and implementation.
Indian Falls Creek is a time for family. If you cannot attend the full week, come enjoy a day or evening service. Please come enjoy the fullness of IFC and learn how you can support this on-going ministry through volunteer service or scholarship donations. Scan the QR code below for more information or to contact the IFC board.
