While recruiting staff at Andrews University in January, I visited with a former counselor about the possibility of returning to camp. As we talked, she shared how camp changed her life.
She did not realize the change until the end of camp when her parents told her she was different. They noticed her confidence level was much higher than it had been at the beginning of the summer, and even more importantly, could see her spiritual growth.
If you met this young adult, you would see a committed, growing Christian who brings life, laughter, and the joy of God’s love with her everywhere she goes. Yes, she had that spark before camp, but that ember has grown into a fire for a young adult who wants to go where God leads, and do what He wants her to do.
Camp transforms the camp staff who are called to minister to our young people, and it transforms the campers whose lives they touch.
It was the first game at junior camp. The campers' energy was intense. The playing field was full of laughing, yelling, and, yes, running campers. At that moment, I looked for those who might be in distress on their first day away from home.
As Billy* walked up to me, my senses told me he might not be doing so well. I was wrong. He told me how much fun the Capture the Flag game was, and how he was looking forward to a great week of camp. Before he ran off to join the game again, he said, “Pastor Charlie, thanks for coming to my school and inviting me to camp.” I began to feel a warm glow as I watched Billy join the other campers.
Throughout the week, Billy looked me up to tell me how his week was going. “Guess what, Pastor Charlie? I rode a horse for the first time in my life today!" “That high dive down at the waterfront is sure fun!” “I can’t believe I went off the high tower on the water swing!” I looked forward to my visits with Billy, who was filled with so much wonder and excitement about camp.
The highlight of the week for Billy, and of course, for me, was Friday night—Billy gave his life to Jesus. At his first opportunity Sabbath morning, he had to tell me about it. “Guess what, Pastor Charlie? I gave my heart to Jesus last night!” To see the joy on his face brought tears to my eyes.
This last fall I visited Billy’s school. The minute I walked into the room he motioned me over to his desk. “Guess what, Pastor Charlie? I’m getting baptized this Sabbath!” Oh, the joy of a young person who gives his heart to Jesus!
Billy’s story is not unique. This summer, at Adventist summer camps all around our union, young people will have a great time, but more importantly, hundreds will make decisions for eternity.
Charles Thompson is the Indiana Conference youth director.
*Billy is not his real name.
Timber Ridge Camp Dates
Single Mom's Retreat: June 23–26
Blind Camp: June 26–July 3
Cub Camp: July 3–10 (Ages 7-10)
Junior Camp I: July 10–17 (Ages 10-13)
Junior Camp II: July 17–24 (Ages 10-13)
Teen Camp: July 24–31 (Ages 13-16)
Family Camp: July 31–August 7
