A Week that changes everything

I’ll never forget the summer I went to camp as a sixth grader. The days were full of loud games, sticky popsicles, pool and lake swims, bunk bed laughs, and late-night flashlight whispers. But tucked between all the fun was something far more powerful—chapel. In that modest, echoey room with rows of red chairs and the scent of sweat mixed with pine wafting through swinging doors, I encountered Jesus, like, truly encountered Him, for the very first time. That’s where I gave my life to Him. That moment at camp changed everything for me. That is my salvation story. 

And that’s why I believe in camp with my whole heart.

At the end of this month, ten of our kids are heading to camp. For three days, they’ll swim, snack, play, and sleep in cabins—but more importantly, they’ll sit in chapels for nearly 6–8 hours, where they’ll hear about the love of Jesus in ways that are personal, powerful, and unforgettable. They’ll be tired, stretched, and wide open. And in that sacred in-between—between exhaustion and wonder—God shows up.

This is a chance for eternal seeds to be planted. A chance for lives to be marked forever.

And church, you can be part of it. Here’s how:

Pray. Every day they’re gone, lift them up. Pray for soft hearts, safe travels, deep friendships, and divine encounters.
Write a note or letter. I’ll take these with me to hand out. Imagine how it feels for a child to open a letter from someone in their church, cheering them on from home.
Donate to our camp scholarship fund. Every dollar helps us say yes to a child who otherwise might not be able to go.
Send a small comfort item—like a stuffed animal or encouragement token—that reminds them they are deeply loved by their church family.

Let’s be a church that surrounds our kids with more than just resources—we surround them with hope, prayer, and presence. Who knows? That week might just be their moment—their chapel, their encounter, their salvation story.

With a full heart,
Pastor Karen