session Horses
“For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future . . . However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:4, 7, NLT)
Ranch horses who have completed specific and carefully supervised training are released to safely support children in our session program. These are known as our “Session Horses.” Within this group, each equine has a unique life story and personality that reflect the redemption of Jesus’ love offered to anyone who seeks it. For the children who come to the Ranch, the session horses literally carry the primary riding load. Many young hearts who experience sessions with these horses discover through their time together—the loving God who created and cares for them both. In many ways, our session horses are the frontline warriors in sharing the Gospel at Crystal Peaks.
A mutual friend placed the ranch equine staff in contact with a woman from Washington. Over the miles that separated us, we communicated through text and email. Slowly, the information rolled in like abstract puzzle pieces. As we placed each detail in the correct order, a dramatic picture of heart-wrenching redemption rose into sharp focus. … Continue reading “Spindrift”
In the summer of 2020, Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch experienced a monumental event in its equine history. The treasured matriarch of our herd—the horse who started it all, Kim’s beloved C.L.C.’s Freedom, also known as “Ele”— passed away at 29 years of age. Through her rescue in 1995, a foundation was laid for the horses … Continue reading “Freedom”
A tall, elegant black Hanovarian, Ojava has a deep legacy here at Crystal Peaks. Born on the ranch property, her mother served as one of the original four foundation horses of what has become our current session program. As a filly, Ojava’s fine breeding provided the ranch a unique opportunity of support – she was … Continue reading “Ojava”
Silas came to Crystal Peaks in the fall of 2015. His acquisition was unique because he was not a battered or neglected horse. His owner was experiencing personal crisis and needed financial assistance toward providing a safe home for her infant son. This beautiful golden gelding was purchased to help a human in need and … Continue reading “Silas”
The first time we met this little filly, something very unusual was in effect. As an equine rescue facility, we are often called to walk amidst great suffering. But this young mare was not suffering in any way. In fact, her care was exemplary. Instead, what Kim and her team witnessed was that her elderly … Continue reading “Shamis”
“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you . . .” (Isaiah 66:13, NIV) The Ranch phone rang, relaying information about a filly in need. The voice on the line was upbeat, “The mare you rescued named Bethlehem, would you be interested in her daughter?” We were so thrilled we could hardly … Continue reading “Nakia”
“I knew that if he could survive traveling 1000 miles packed into my trailer with 100 other PMU babies who were three times his size, he was meant to be yours.” It was late in the fall and Virginia had just returned from Canada with a new load of yearlings. In a voice heavy with … Continue reading “Little Bear”
“For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”(Matthew 12:40, KJV) A small chocolate-colored horse entered the world as a riddle, a dichotomy, perhaps some would even taunt as a joke. His mingled … Continue reading “Jonas”
Sitting down at my desk, I turned my full attention toward reviewing a new horse donation application. My assistant, Deirdre, had already alerted me to the high potential of this prospect. The horse seemed to be an exceptional fit in every way. The gelding was a 16 year-old Pony of Americas (POA)/Quarter Horse. His bright … Continue reading “Hosanna”
From the first moment Troy saw him, he knew that “Buckshot” had to be his name. Kim met Buckshot after a friend had purchased him at a local auction as a six-month-old. It was at that time she offered to buy him, but he was not for sale. Several years later the same friend called … Continue reading “Buckshot”