Campers spoke with peers in Kenya via Zoom, enjoyed games and crafts, and took home Bible-themed keepsakes — all as part of a lesson in how God’s work isn’t just meant for adults.
Amy Mateer and Rev. Erin Burleson oversaw the three-day camp at the Children’s Complex near Shackford Hall. A team of student assistants pitched in.
Rev. Josh Britton called it “a way for me to be fully present in the work of the Conference while allowing my children to likewise thrive and engage in ministry. Everybody wins.”
“To be sure, our family was thankful for the financial relief of paying a nominal amount,” said Josh, pictured below with his wife, Erin, and their trio of youngsters, ages 9, 7, and 2. “But the real gratitude was seeing the investment in my children.”
The experience was especially meaningful for children of clergy: “They bonded over the unique challenges of being in a pastor’s family,” Josh said.
Empowering young people
The camp spotlighted the work of Zoe Empowers, a nonprofit serving orphaned children and youth-led families in challenged parts of the world. The organization shares lessons and resources to promote the empowerment model.
Children left with items signifying themes from each day — Bible verses, prayer prompts and discussion cards designed to encourage at-home conversations.
Bagged lunches were provided as a way to ease the burden on families (“A huge logistical help for us parents!” Josh said).
The Neighbor Way framework is made possible by Collective Renewal Resource and adapted for children in consultation with Missional Collective. It integrates five key elements (looking, listening, discerning, learning, and bridging) as part of the disciple-making journey.
Perhaps the most memorable highlight was a Zoom call with youth in Kenya (pictured below). It was an opportunity to pose questions about life in another country – from favorite foods to the popularity of soccer.
“We couldn’t be happier to have had the Foundation’s support,” said Erin, founder of Collective Renewal Resource. “We thought camp was fantastic.”
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Thank you for allowing the Foundation to stand with you. We find our purpose in helping you to be instruments of grace in the world -- knowing that God will do the rest.
