9 MONTHS FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE
Deepen Your Faith.
Disconnect from Distraction.
Discover Your Purpose.
Joshua Wilderness Institute is a 9-month Christian gap year program rooted in the heart of the Sequoia National Forest at Hume Lake Christian Camps.
Designed for young adults ages 18–24, Joshua offers something rare in today’s world: a sacred space to slow down, go deep, and pursue Jesus wholeheartedly.
Through Biblical training, intentional community, and real-life ministry, students are invited to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with their purpose in Christ.
Joshua isn’t a detour. It’s a launchpad.
What Makes This Year So Transformational?
Students who attend Joshua walk away changed, not because of one big moment, but because of 9 months filled with purpose.
Here’s what makes Joshua such a powerful experience:
Joshua Wilderness Institute is deeply connected to the mission and ministry of Hume Christian Camps. For many students, it’s the next step after experiencing the power of summer camp—only this time, it’s for nine months instead of one week.
Located right on the grounds of Hume Lake, Joshua offers a familiar setting with a deeper level of spiritual formation and purpose-driven living.
Through Joshua, students who grew up coming to Hume can:
For parents and students who already love Hume, Joshua becomes a deeper dive into what makes the Hume experience so transformational.
We believe a gap year should move you forward—not just academically, but spiritually and personally.
Students leave Joshua with:
As Colossians 3:10 (NIV) says,
“…and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”
At Joshua, knowledge leads to transformation, and students emerge from their time with us with a stronger identity in Christ.
We believe deeply in hiding God’s Word in our hearts. Philippians is rich in themes of joy, humility, and perseverance—essential truths for a disciple of Christ. Memorizing the whole book is a core spiritual discipline of the year. Plus, it is short enough to do in 9-months!
Joshua is part of Hume Lake Christian Camps and holds to a biblically conservative, gospel-centered theology. While we’re not tied to one denomination, we emphasize the authority of Scripture, the lordship of Christ, and the call to live missionally.
We review every application carefully and seek students who are teachable, hungry for growth, and ready for challenge. While space is limited, we don’t base admission solely on academics or resume—we’re looking at the heart.
The Joshua program is designed for Christian young adults who want to grow deeper in their faith, engage with Scripture, and live out Biblical truth. Rooted in sound theology and centered on Jesus Christ, every aspect of the Joshua Wilderness Institute points students toward a life grounded in God’s Word.
No. After graduating from Joshua, alumni step confidently into college, careers, and calling. You’ll find them serving in their churches, leading mission trips, and continuing to grow in their faith wherever God leads. No matter the path, they carry the foundation built at Joshua into every area of life.
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