Some Camper Feedback

I have to admit, I'm having a hard time deciding what to write abat out tonight. There are just so many things going on and I'm not sure what kind of information might be helpful for you to read about. If you're checking out the blog, I'm assuming you're taking a look at the pictures. I've been checking a couple times a day myself just see if more have appeared and what everyone's up to. I'm seeing lots of smiles, staff interacting with kids, and just lots and lots of active activities. It's exactly what you might expect to see at camp.

I'm hoping to see some pictures of worship. That seems to be one of the things the kids will talk about the most when asked what they like the most. Of course, they love the other activities, but don't you find it interesting that when asked, many of them will mention the band and worship time as one of their favorite things to do? Makes me wonder... What can we do when the kids get home to keep them interested in "worship" and getting something out of it. I know our church isn't the most vibrant when it comes to worship experiences for kids and young people. We're trying to work on it, but it's not easy. I don't think we're alone in that. Why should the kids have vibrant experiences that speak to them only once a year?

I've seen their worship space and it's a pretty decent space. It has nice benches for the kids to sit on, the band itself sounds pretty good, and guys in the band seem very genuine in their love of God. Sometimes just seeing the authentic love and enjoyment of worship can affect how those we're leading to be more open to the message.

I love the way we do worship at camp. Each day has a theme. The themes build on each other and the messages do the same. The big night at camp now happens a couple nights before the last night now instead of waiting. The reason for this is to give kids the opportunity to make decisions or just let the teachings sink in. It gives them something to think about. And then on the very last night after worship they have a dance party just to celebrate! They celebrate lessons learned, decisions made, or just the idea of processing the things they've heard. They celebrate friendships made and the hope of friendships continued. It's a great release of energy one last time before they go home. It's a way to end camp on a fantastic "high note" instead of pure, raw emotion. I tend to appreciate that. It's how memories are made.

As the campers get ready for their most meaningful time of worship at camp, please consider writing to them about a meaningful worship experience you've had. I know I've said it before, but it's because I think it's just so important. Kids pick up on so much more than we ever give them credit for. It's so important for them to see us as their parents, caregivers, friends, and family as people of faith. That our faith journey and experiences are important to us as well. That we may worship differently, find meaningful experiences in different ways, but the journey is the same. The journey is to see and experience God in the people and places around us. That we can see His love and share His love together. Help these kids see and understand it's together that all this and more can be accomplished. Be a part of their continued journey when they come home.