Summer Camp

Hey NUMC family,

I'm beyond excited to share that next week, our Revive Youth Group is heading out to the best summer camp ever! We're getting our bags packed, our sleeping bags rolled up, and our hearts ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Now, I know some of you might be wondering, "Why all the fuss about summer camp?" Well, let me tell you, summer camp isn't just about campfires and s'mores (though, let's be honest, those are pretty great too). There are so many benefits to heading out to camp that go way beyond the surface.

Building Lifelong Friendships

One of the biggest perks of camp is the opportunity to make new friends. And I'm not just talking about the kind you exchange socials with. These are the kind of friendships that last a lifetime. According to the American Camp Association (ACA), 96% of campers say that camp helped them make new friends. That's a whole lot of future friendships!

Growing Closer to God

Camp is also an intentional time for our youth to grow closer to God. Being out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, gives us the chance to connect with God in a deeper and more meaningful way. There's something truly special about worshipping under the stars and feeling the presence of God in the great outdoors.

Learning Life Skills

Summer camp isn't just about fun and games (though there's plenty of that too). It's also a place where our youth can learn important life skills. From teamwork to leadership, these are skills that will benefit them long after camp is over. The ACA also reports that 74% of campers say they did things they were afraid to do at first but felt really proud of afterward. Its a major confidence boost.

Unplugging and Recharging

In our digital age, it's more important than ever to take a break from screens and enjoy the world around us. Camp provides a perfect opportunity to unplug and recharge. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, kids aged 8-18 spend an average of 7.5 hours a day on entertainment media. Camp gives them a much-needed break from all that screen time and a chance to reconnect with nature and each other.

As we get ready for this incredible adventure, let's keep our campers in our prayers. Pray for their safety, for their hearts to be open to God's word, and for them to have the time of their lives.

Parents, thank you for entrusting us with your wonderful kids. We're committed to providing a safe, fun, and spiritually enriching experience for them.

And to our amazing youth – get ready for a week filled with laughter, learning, and lots of God's love. I can't wait to see all the incredible things God has in store for us at camp!

See you soon, and don't forget to pack your sunscreen!

Blessings,

Director of Youths, Chris Gersic