The weather was perfect, 72 degrees with a soft breeze, on Sunday, September 27, as 33 kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards glided across Sunset Lake for the final Paddles & Prayers event of the year.
The Reverend Sean Kidd of Westwood United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo wanted to create a ministry that would reach out to the community, help people connect with one another, enjoy nature, and experience God outside the walls of the church. His passion for kayaking eventually led to the creation of Paddles & Prayers, an outreach ministry that brings people together on the water.
With help from the Michigan UMC Seed to Harvest Cohort, Kidd secured financial support for a logo and marketing. The leadership team also received water safety training to ensure participants would receive appropriate instruction for paddling on rivers and lakes, and that trained volunteers would be available to assist in an emergency.
The ministry launched its first event in June 2025. During its first year, the team purchased kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and trailers so participants would not have to rent equipment. The events are open to the public, and everyone is welcome, whether they are experienced kayakers or have never been on the water. All equipment and activities are provided free of charge, eliminating financial barriers for those who want to participate.
After time on the water, everyone gathers for a provided meal. Many participants share their insights, reflect on how they may have experienced God, and join in a time of prayer and reflection.
“It has been a chaotic time for many, and being on the water brings peace and serenity. We believe that by connecting individuals on the water, we can transcend our differences, cultivate understanding, and build a community rooted in compassion and collaboration,” Kidd said. “Our greatest impact is outside of the four walls of a church if we are to be the hands and feet of Christ.”
Josh Ford, a United Methodist Church member and Paddles & Prayers volunteer, said he loves helping with the events because they have helped him grow personally.
“It’s not just paddling with others; it is a community, a family, and everyone looks out for each other. We make sure new people are comfortable and supported. I tend to always be in a rush, but when I’m on the water, I leave my phone in the car. My brain slows down, my thoughts, soul, and spirit relax, and I feel calm. I watch for turtles, look at nature, and focus on the moment. It has helped me grow by making me more patient and a more well-rounded person—the kind of person I want to be.”
Participants range in age from children to adults in their eighties, and their experience on the water varies just as widely.
Art Klute, 83, decided to join the group, get back on the water, and eventually become a volunteer. “This is a unique ministry because it attracts everyone, young and old, novice and experienced paddlers. Another benefit is meeting new people, enjoying the meal afterward, and having time to share with one another,” Klute said.
Jesse Keim, 20, was invited to participate by a coworker and thought it would be a good way to get to know him better.
“I tend to be more of an introvert and have had social anxiety, but getting to know this crowd has been great. I get to mingle with other generations, have meaningful conversations over our meals together, learn about their life experiences, and grow in my own faith. It is such a different contrast from my regular life of work, school, and being busy. This helps me relax, practice a day of rest, or Sabbath, and mingle with people I wouldn’t normally be around.”
Linda Koch learned about Paddles & Prayers through Dave Strong, whom she met when he purchased her canoe. Now, they canoe together.
“I’m a Presbyterian, and I keep coming back for the friends, dinner, shared prayers, the outdoors, and wonderful people,” Koch said.
Paddles & Prayers offers more than an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. It provides a welcoming community where people of different ages, backgrounds, and faith experiences can build friendships, find peace, and grow spiritually. Through fellowship, prayer, and time on the water, participants experience a ministry that reaches beyond church walls and brings people closer to one another and to God.
The first Paddles & Prayers event of next year is scheduled for the first Sunday in June. For more information, contact Sean Kidd at paddlesandprayers@gmail.com, call 616-401-8576 or on Facebook @Paddle&Prayers.
