Generations Ministries (GenMin) reports the successful completion of three of its summer camps. For information about GenMin camps coming later this year, click here.
Heart O’ Texas
As is the case for most of GenMin’s camps this year, the theme for Heart O’ Texas Camp conducted recently in the Dallas area was “Super Heroes.” A highlight of the weekend camp was a day at Hawaiian Falls water park (pictured at right) enjoyed by the 16 campers and 17 staff members. The group ate lunch and shared a chapel service at the water park. Other camp activities included “In It to Win It” games that enabled campers to practice teamwork and trust and to develop courage.
Each camper was given a mask and cape to help them feel even more super hero-like. Many wore their capes for the game activities. Both nights included gathering around an indoor “campfire” for chapel and a fireside chat. Aaron Wiley and camp director Scott Herridge led the services, helping campers focus on the attributes of the true Super Hero, Jesus Christ.
On Sunday, camp participants led the worship service at GCI’s Dallas North church where the camp was held. A group of campers provided the worship music (see them rehearsing at right), shared camp stories, lessons and favorite moments.
Camp wrapped up after the service with a meal shared by camp participants and the host congregation.
Mountaintop
This GenMin camp in Georgia also utilized the Super Hero theme. The theme was enthusiastically embraced, and some of the congregations represented are now using it in church services back home (if you would like a copy of the Super Hero curriculum, click here). Several of the 74 campers noted that the theme gave them a better understanding of Jesus.
Some of this year’s 54 staff members commented on encouraging trends. One noted that, “We are seeing the kids grow from year to year, and that makes the work we do even more fulfilling. We are blessed to be a partner in this ministry. Camp this year was God-inspired and fantastic.” Another noted the encouraging progress seen in an increasing number of campers becoming staff members, fulfilling one of GenMin’s primary goals—the multiplication of young ministers within GCI.
SEP Florida
GenMin’s camp in Florida, known as SEP Florida, took place at beautiful Camp Shalom in Orange Springs, Florida in June. This year there were 20 staff volunteers, 24 elementary school age campers and 20 senior campers. Activities included swimming, canoeing, arts & crafts, dancing, basketball, volleyball, kickball, drama, campfire, boating and chapel services (Michelle Davey is pictured at right, giving a chapel presentation).
Camp participants included several first-time campers, making up about 20% of the group. Several of the campers from Miami and Jacksonville, Florida were either unchurched or new to church, giving great opportunity for evangelism. One camper shared his intention to be baptized after camp back home.
