Will This Be YOUR Camper?

As your camper's week has ended or will be ending soon, it might be helpful to know some of the possible experiences they may have had. The following are just some notes about campers of previous weeks. I find it helpful as a parent, as a person who works in youth ministry, and just as someone who works with kids on different levels. It's helpful as a tool in conversation with your child. Maybe your child will have had a similar experience and it will give you something to help relate to as they are talking.

Many of the campers feel that worship is one of their favorite times. They like the freedom to worship in a way that feels good to them. They can dance, they can chant, they can yell out as the counselors lead and not feel out of place. It's "their" worship, not ours. It gives them a new view of God or maybe just different. It helps them have a chance to express themselves, think about things, and maybe make decisions that can affect the rest of their lives.

Last week Pastor Andy had 4-5 kids approach him and want to talk with him about what it means to have Jesus in their lives and hearts. Wow. One week of experiencing God in new and different ways. Some kids feel so safe and affected by the environment at camp they are brought to tears when its time to go home. Enough to tug at the hearts of the staff.

Maybe your child was the camper who started to think more. They were the camper who started to ask their counselor what they needed to be thinking about each day. Looking for those "God Moments" as they went about their day.

Or perhaps, your child will come home just a little different. Maybe a bit changed. A little bit more thoughtful. Maybe more interested in what the Pastor has to say on Sunday mornings. Hopefully the change will include being more open with you as their parent. Wanting to know more about your faith journey and experiences.

Camp is an amazing place for a kid. Anything is possible. Are you ready to see God in a different way yourself? Just take a moment to really listen to what your camper is saying on the way home. They experienced God all week even during the fun "camp" stuff. Just listen. You might find yourself changed a little too.