Written by Erich Schmitt, Program Coordinator, Camp Cedar Glen
Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. – 1 Timothy 4:12
Camp is, and always will be, a place where you can find your best self supported in a safe place and comforted by a loving community. A place where you can escape the busyness of life, take in conscious breaths, and exhale knowing that your voice matters. The youth say that camp is a place where you can “leave all the baggage down the hill,” uncertainty after high school, not being comfortable with their own self, knowing if they are of value among peers and adults to name a few. It’s time to start unpacking.
During the first weekend in February, Camp Cedar Glen will be having its Be The Voice: Winter Retreat 2019. This weekend will empower Junior and Senior High campers by exploring commonalities with many young people in the bible, listening to adults who found their niche, and comfortably discerning their secular and sacred worth. The goal of the weekend is to encourage youth to find their voice and to have that voice be exemplified in daily life.
What We Know: 2018 seems to be the year of overwhelming activism from youth and young adults. The energy displayed gives a sense of hope and unity. Most youth and young adults spend their time sustaining secular responsibilities such as school/ college and work life, it doesn’t leave much time for exploring the sacred.
What We Wish: We want to see our youth be encouraged to act on their passion and voice and for churches to empower youth by supporting them in all ways unconditionally. And, we believe that through Winter Camp youth will be able to have faith in themselves and walk boldly.
What We Need: To get there, our churches with youth ranging from 6th through 12th grade will need to encourage them to come to Winter Camp. Some youth in need may need financial support. Our youth will also need a diverse range of volunteers who are willing to give their energy to the youth and comfortable sharing their story. Contact me at eschmitt@calpacumc.org for any questions about registration, on giving, or any comments. Flyers are available upon request!
The time is now to join in God’s current of Transforming Lives through Winter Camp!
