Due to Covid-19, the Christian Conference Center staff anticipated lower registration numbers for summer camp this season. The camp was also behind on projects due to lower volunteer numbers throughout the pandemic. In early spring, the CCC staff began dreaming of ways to accomplish work that was left undone, as well as not let cabins sit idle all summer. They decided to offer youth mission trip sessions in conjunction with summer camp. So far youth groups have come from Wichita Falls and Fort Worth Texas, Mexico, Missouri and Des Moines, Iowa. CCC adult volunteers from Oskaloosa, Keokuk and Cedar Falls will be on site to guide the mission teams in their work.
Each group has been doing repair projects in Chi Rho Country, replacing siding on the Main Lodge, as well as beginning construction on the BSD Treehouse. They have learned new skills including the safe use of power tools and how to set beams. They have also learned about the Derecho and the ongoing recovery efforts throughout the state. Our campers have enjoyed getting to know youth from across our denomination. We are so thankful that our mission partners were willing to come get their hands dirty on Holy Ground.
In addition to mission work, the groups have enjoyed the Valle Drive-in in Newton, Adventureland, and the camp's many amenities. Our Texas groups have gotten an immersion into Midwestern life, including hay rack rides, shucking sweet corn, as well as eating pork tenderloin sandwiches. The CCC hopes to continue this ministry in the future and plans to offer 4 sessions of Mission Camp next summer. Your youth group is invited to join us!
Submitted by Rev. Tiff Williams
Associate Regional Minister
Christian Church in the Upper Midwest
