Camp “Up, In, Out”

The heart of Camp Up, In & Out

We reach up in our relationship with God.
We reach in to discern where God is calling us.
We reach out to serve God by serving others.

It only lasted five days, but the impact will go on and on.

Every day for a week 20 youth and four adults gathered to begin this camp with lunch, devotions and group building activities. Upon this solid foundation we ventured fourth into our community to learn and serve with God’s people.

Monday afternoon found us at Tabitha, meeting with small groups of residents to visit and craft together.  It was glorious to witness the sparkle in the eyes appear as the wall of uncertainty and timidity melted away and beautiful crosses were created.

On Tuesday afternoon we had the chance to learn about the Barnabas community. While we were at Barnabas we helped clean up the building inside and out. Our students cleaned up the parking lot, washed windows, and cleaned out the kitchen in our time there. It was a great experience!

Wednesday afternoon found us at Bridges to Hope learning what after prison ministry looks like.  We got the privilege of meeting a partner in this ministry first hand and learning her story.

Thursday afternoon we went to Clinic with a Heart.  The most powerful comments the youth shared with us were that they were amazed at the amount of volunteers who made this ministry possible, and there was an increased awareness for the need for this ministry.  This group also served ice cream after the VBS sing along.

Friday afternoon we stayed “home.”  We intentionally stayed at Sheridan, gifting our community with willing hearts and hands to clean up, straighten up, mop up after an awesome Vacation Bible School.  And then we celebrated a job well done by going to “Defy Gravity,” and jumping on trampolines to our hearts content.

It was an honor and privilege to serve our God with these incredible youth.  If you know someone who participated please share a word of gratitude.  If you didn’t get a chance to participate this year, we will offer it again next year!