1. Genuine community is experienced.
Camp contrasts with the familiar. Those who go to camp leave behind labels, expectations of others, mindless daily routines, and influences of parents, teachers, peers, colleagues, the media, and friends in favor of a special temporary community with focused purpose: presenting Christ and nurturing those in the faith toward maturity and Christian leadership.
2. Ministry to the whole person takes place.
In Luke 2:52, we learn that Jesus grew in wisdom (mentally), stature (physically), and favor with God (spiritually) and men (socially). Camp, in the midst of God’s glorious creation, is an ideal environment for whole person ministry. Camp powerfully communicates spiritual truths and spurs spiritual growth among campers as they spend time in the midst of God’s creation, participate in Bible studies, experience teachable moments, worship, relax, and take time to reflect.
3. Relationships are built with God and others.
The activities of daily camp life teach valuable social skills. Camp is foremost a highly relational experience. Further, a relationship with Jesus Christ is held as the most significant relationship to cultivate, and the one that brings meaning and healing to all other relationships.
4. Memories and major life commitments are made.
Temporariness makes camp a unique experience and a memory making opportunity. Because camp is a contrast to everyday life, and because this contrast heightens campers’ senses, time takes on new meaning. Campers live more in the psychological present. Events at camp become more engaging, alive, and vivid.
5. Tomorrow’s leaders are developed today.
Emerging leaders need to discover three proofs—proof of self, proof of learning, and proof of God. Camp can provide an ideal crucible to test one’s capabilities and expose weaknesses, and to sort out and prove what they’ve learned is consistent with reality and actually works. It’s a chance to discover God in a deeper way, and to see His faithfulness to His promises in tough situations.
Adapted from CCCA by Dr. George Williams
My camp experience, whether as a student or a pastor, has always caused me to walk more intimately with Jesus. I want that for your student and I know you do as well. For more information or to reserve a spot for your student please check out
AblazeSummer.com
.
The deadline to sign up for Middle School & High School Camp is THIS SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2019!!!
Praying for you and your family!
-Chris
