We had so much fun last summer; I don't know where to begin. I enjoyed the carnival as much as the campers did. As program director last year, I arranged for a blow-up slide. We added water to it, and I'm sure you can imagine the fun. The slide was the highlight of the carnival.

We concluded week one with an Agape Feast where we were reminded of the kind of love God has for each of us. Many campers shared their testimony of how good Jesus has been.

During week two, we took the boat to the lake. Some rode the Wasp, pulled behind the boat. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

Campers were treated like superstars at the annual banquet. Each walked the red carpet, and we were later entertained with talents that blossomed at camp.

We were blessed with our own go-karts last summer. I believe everyone enjoyed them. Some drivers found out that they were a bit "vehicularly" challenged.

Week two ended with an interactive fireside vespers by Phyllis Washington. Paper dolls were torn in pieces to show how life's trials break us apart. Using tape to repair the doll, she told how when we allow Jesus in our lives, He will be the tape that holds us together and mends the bruises to make us whole again.

At Camp Council, campers were introduced to Jesus. Each lesson encouraged campers to take a stand for Jesus, be proud to be a Christian, and never to be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a result of these Spirit-filled meetings, six campers were baptized.

I pray last year's experience was one many cherished, and that all will come to Camp Wagner's summer camp year after year. Until next time—Camp Wagner, it's just all that.

LaShawne Suggs was summer camp program director at Camp Wagner in 2006.

I was at Camp Wagner during the last week of February. The grounds were covered with about two feet of snow, and trees looked as if they were dead or dying. The winter winds blew fiercely across the camp, and it was cold to the bone.

Visiting again the last week of March, I found the snow gone. Everywhere were signs of change and new life. I sensed the great change that took place in nature as we progressed from winter to spring.

Change has also taken place at the camp's grounds and with its directorship. Last year Anthony Kelly was the camp's director. I was asked to serve as the new camp director, and the summer cannot come soon enough.

Summer ministries at Camp Wagner is a place where youth come every summer for fun, faith, fellowship, and friendship. Life-long friendships have been forged throughout the years at Camp Wagner. Satan tried to destroy the ministry at Camp Wagner last summer; however, no weapon formed against us shall prosper. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure that Camp Wagner remains a safe and Christ-centered haven for our children and youth at all times.

We plan for camp to be more exciting than ever before. There will be something GOOD for everyone, with opportunities to experience God as we take nature walks through the forest. Campers will also experience God at Camp Council as biblical principles are learned through drama, songs, prayer, and praise.

Camp Wagner will be a safe place for youth and children to come for adventure, fun, excitement, and spiritual awakening. Great activities are planned such as horseback riding, skating, bowling, basketball, and volleyball, along with a Christ-focused and caring staff. There's good food, and much more!

Campers will enhance their spiritual and personal development, and prepare for "life" on planet Earth as well as in the "earth made new." Our goal is to equip each person physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially to conquer the challenges of life. Positive Peer Teen Retreat helps high school students learn techniques to become A+ students in preparation for college. The registration fee for this camp is $150.

You just cannot afford to miss out on the experience at Camp Wagner this summer! A special $10 discount will be credited upon registration for each new camper that campers bring to camp! HURRY! Early bird registration is $185 per camper and ends June 30. After June 30, the cost is $205 per camper. Call Josie at 773-846-2661, Ext. 206, for registration information, or write Lake Region Conference, 8517 S. State Street, Chicago, IL 60619.

Leon L. George is the Lake Region Conference youth ministries director and Camp Wagner director.

Camp Wagner Dates

Junior Camp: July 8–14 (Ages 8–11)

Junior Camp: July 15–21 (Ages 8–15)

Junior Camp: July 22–28 (Ages 12–15)

Basketball Clinic and Drum Corps: July 29–August 4 (Ages 10–17)

Positive Peer Teen Retreat: August 3–5 (Ages 16–18)