Intern Introductions

​Danika Young, from Winchester, CA, studied Christian Ministries at Azusa Pacific University. She was pursuing international missions when she was redirected to Christian Encounter. As Danika enters her second year of intern­ship, she reflects, “Internship is not a job. It’s a place to be. Internship is purposely putting yourself in a community, and allowing the experience of living in a community to shape and refine you.” 

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​Cassie Peters came to us in January from Elk River, MN. She graduated last May from Moody Bible Institute with a bachelor’s degree in Human Services and Pre-Counseling. “I’m learning what being a leader looks like and that leadership doesn’t look the same for every person.” Cassie is recognizing the value of the different giftings of her fellow interns and the opportunity to not only serve, but live alongside her teammates. “I’ve never really been a part of a team like the intern team.” 

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​David Choban first stepped foot on the Ranch at Family Camp last summer. From Sacramento, he and his parents along with his brother came with some church friends who had been attending for many years. That weekend, David connected with some of the students and observed the special bond that the interns shared with the students. He saw that there was a more intensive model of discipleship happening... in this relationship - one that was strengthened and fostered through do­ing life together in a community setting. David joined the team in January. 

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​Angel Sanchez, from Merced, CA, was introduced to the Ranch through the Agony Ride. He was pursuing a differ­ent path in life when God redirected him, and he was encouraged by a mentor to take the “narrow road.” Angel arrived in January and in a few months time shared, “This place is starting to feel like extend­ed family.” As he continues to put down roots in this community, Angel recog­nizes the staying power of these relation­ships. “I didn’t expect to be as close as I am to people here.”