Outward Bound

Outward Bound 18x36

I painted this one for the 50th anniversary of the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School.

“I would like in conclusion to tell you of a conversation I had in the ‘thirties’ not far from here, which had a profound influence on my work. I had sought out (Archbishop) William Temple at Bishopthorpe. I had designed a pledge for the Gordonstoun Watchers, the Coastguards (the first Outward Bound School.) It ran like this: ‘I promise to serve Hopeman Village and this district, through them my kind and country, and Christ through all.’ I asked Bishop Temple’s advice on this wording. He gave me an astonishing answer. ‘Can’t you leave Christ out?’ He added in effect. ‘You see, I am not interested in the mission to the Christians but also in the mission to the non-believers.’ And then he added, ‘Samaritan service is a source of the Revelation.’ I am certain today that the Archbishop was right. ‘The Unloving do not know God.’ He who drills and labors, accepts hardship, boredom and dangers, all for the sake of helping others in peril and distress, discovers God’s purpose in his life.

“I believe that the challenge of Samaritan Service if properly presented, rarely fails to capture young people, body and soul…. They ask a question which makes us blush: ‘Are you in earnest about the ideals you profess?’ Who shall give an answer? Young men and women who render hard and willing service to their neighbors in need.

“Outward Bound can ignite – and that is all – it is for others to keep the flame alive.”

From the address by Dr. Kurt Hahn, the Founder of Outward Bound at the Conference at Harrogate

9 May 1965