Record Numbers Advance to Southwestern Union PBE

BURLESON, TEX. – With 51 Pathfinder teams who advanced to union-level testing, the 2025 Southwestern Union Pathfinder Bible Experience (PBE), held March 22, was the largest ever. 

Every year, teams of six Pathfinders study a selected book (or books) of the Bible and test at various competition levels, beginning with area or conference testing and concluding with division testing. Those who participated in the Southwestern Union PBE had received first place at the conference levels.

“Throughout our five states, people have really embraced the Pathfinder Bible Experience,” said Helvis Moody, young adult and youth ministries director for the Southwestern Union.

Not only did more teams progress to the union level, but some conferences witnessed larger numbers of participation as well. Teams who scored first place at conference-level testing are qualified to participate in the union event. Of the 51 teams that advanced to the union-level event, 35 advanced to division-level competitions, held April 25-26 in Battle Creek, Mich.

To prepare for each level of testing, PBE participants studied the books of Romans and 1 Corinthians. Teams that progress through the different levels of testing are what the North American Division PBE website calls “extreme students of the Bible.” In most cases, members of winning teams have memorized entire chapters of the Bible. In some cases, participants memorize an entire book.

“I believe the only thing that will last is the Word of God,” said Moody. “In the midst of everything going on, kids are learning the Word and getting a foundation. They’re being rooted and grounded so that when tough times come, the Word is in their heart, and to me, that’s the most rewarding thing.”

‍

By Lori Futcher

Managing Editor and Associate Communication Director

‍