So, this past week (July 27-Aug.2) we went up to Hume for our summer camp.  Out of the dozen or so trips/camps/retreats that I’ve been able to help lead, I truly believe that this one stands out as the best.

Students’ attitudes were amazing, group unity was tight, maturity on behalf of the students and leaders was shown, and I could go on and on…

But the thing that struck me most was how serious our students were about growing in their understanding of who God is and how we can know him more intimately.  Discussion and devotional times were exciting to be a part of because of the questions asked, the thoughts shared, and the hunger in the hearts of our students to grow closer to God.

I was so encouraged to see our group bond at Hume.  Whether it was during Friday’s “church time”, the scavenger hunt/group games on Wednesday, or just throughout each day, I was so thankful for what I saw:  8th graders hanging out with 6th and 7th graders; older students setting great examples for younger students (and leaders); uplifting words being spoken; students flat out enjoying being around each other.

Some of my highlights from camp:

• After one of our students had a book she was reading wrecked, a group of our girls secretly pooled their money together to buy a new copy of the book for her.
• Going on the high adventure course with a bunch of our students
• Seeing many students give their lives to Christ for the first time and others giving him more control over certain areas
• Friday’s church time – hearing from our students, “yarn encouragement”, and hugging it out
• Going to Victory Circle on Friday night and hearing a student say, “This week God taught me that it’s ok if I don’t fit in with other people because I know that I will fit in just fine in heaven.”

To everyone who went: Thanks for making it such an amazing week!
To those who didn’t: I look forward to being able to have experiences like this with many of you during this next year.

We’ll be going to Rancho Sordo Mudo in Mexico next month, so make sure you get signed up so you can be a part of a trip like this with our group!

Tori’s sad cuz camp’s over!