Summer 2013 Lessons Learned: We set out to teach and ended up learning!
Carol Joy Holling Camp, Conference & Retreat Center October, 2013 e set out this summer W with ambitious goals: give kids
same. Beyond all of that joy, we were reminded of the pain and struggle in the world outside of experiences that help their By Kelsey Ellis, camp. Some campers came to faith grow; show them what camp broken, dealing with a NLOM Director/Programs it looks like to live a Christian variety of struggles and sometimes life, have a ton of fun, and even the loss of parents. They keep everyone safe. With 66 came with fears, sometimes crippling. They came Summer Ministry Team members hired and trained, with more baggage than any child should have to we were confident and ready to give everything we endure. Over their time at camp we started to see had of ourselves. great things — the long lost smile appearing on a boy’s face who has an incredibly tough home We accomplished it all and, as coaches often say, life; the fear of high ropes being overcome with “left it all on the field.” But, we did more than that the help of a girl’s peers; the connection being we learned so much more than we expected. made between a youth group and their pastor; the pride on a little girl’s face as she talks about the Here are just a few of the things that happened. quilt she made for someone in need; the words of • We screamed going down the zip line unconditional love and acceptance being spoken • We played games in the pool to a teenager who considers herself an outcast, • We sang throughout the trails and a young man who finally found someone • We made countless campfires and smelled like it who will listen. all summer long • We made and gave friendos For many of those children, camp was a time to • We enjoyed nature take a deep breath and enjoy the freedom from • We made 382 quilts for those in need their daily burdens. For all campers and staff, • We played camp is about making connections and feeling • We made friends safe. Between campers, staff and pastors, the • We danced in the rain relationships built sustain us as we leave our • We learned to love like Jesus! safe haven of camp. God is truly at work in the places of NLOM. I hope you expected that list. And, I hope it made Continued on next page. you smile remembering times you’ve done the