Longer days, warmer weather…Summer is just around the corner. For many of us that means time in our gardens, time relaxing with family, or time at the cabin. It also means time for camp!
ECMN is blessed to have multiple phenomenal camp opportunities. Episcopal Youth Quest Camp is building on a fantastic inaugural year in 2015, this camp will again focus on leadership development and outdoor adventure. Through fun, friendship, and formative outdoor experiences, the 6-8th grade track will focus on empowering students to discover their identity as God’s Beloved, develop leadership and confidence, and grow in their sense of ministry and giftedness. The 9-12th grade students will stay in separate cabins though they will often help lead activities for the 6-8th grade track.
Episcopal Youth Music Camp gathers July 31-Aug. 6 up at Camp OneHeartland. EYMC is an opportunity to learn and perform some of the wonderful music of the church in a beautiful setting. Summer in the City 2016 will take place June 27-June 29 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral. This is a summer city experience for youth who have completed 6th-8th grade. Participants will celebrate being Christ’s hands and feet in our city. Each night will be a fun activity like a city scavenger hunt or Mid-Town Global Market followed by a youth led worship back at St Mark’s. Episcopal Creative Arts Day Camp is July 25-29 at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Minneapolis. Here, we’ll sing, dance, make art, tinker, tell stories, and play indoors and out and experience God along the way, finding the Holy in everyday moments.
As you know my involvement in camp at all levels has, and continues, to be foundational not only in my own formation but also my leadership development. I have responded on more than a few occasions when asked what prepared me to be a bishop, “I was a camp director.” Laughter ensues and then I say, ” Actually, I am serious. There is much in the rhythm and dynamics of being a bishop that is consistent with being a camp director.”
I unequivocally believe camp is one of the best opportunities for transformation. My hope is you will not only encourage the young people in your life to participate but will also consider financially supporting this incredible ministry for the youth to have such a life changing experience.
Yay camp! Yay God!