Summer youth camp is an exciting time for both teens and parents. But along with the excitement there may be some anxiety and fear as well. It is much easier for parents to send a teen off to youth camp that has had the camp experience before. But it may create a lot of fear and anxiety for a younger teen that has never been away from home and has never been apart from his or her parents for so many days. Of course there will also be other teens who can’t wait for the chance to get away from home for a few days. And most parents can appreciate a little break away from the teens for a few days. Even so, a little concern and anxiety on the part of parents is also to be expected. Parents must keep in mind that a well-planned youth camp has great staff and leaders to take care of your youth during their stay.

First Draft

Form a youth camp planning committee

• Who needs to be involved in the planning for the youth camp? (i.e. parents, youth workers, youth, pastoral staff, others?)
• What are the roles in the planning and preparation for the youth camp and who will be responsible for each role?

Announcing…

We hope you’ve had a great start to your summer vacation, I know we have! We’ve been working hard to see how we can support you during this season. We know you’ll probably have your hands full with upcoming camps and planning how you can fill the hearts and minds of your youth with activities that will engage them physically and spiritually to truly enable them to worship God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength!

WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?

Jesus first asked the disciples, “Who do others say that I am?” It was easy for them to answer because it required no conviction, no commitment, and no risk. But then he follows that question with another, “Who do YOU say that I am?”

The Chorus of the song “The Great Adventure” by Steven Curtis Chapman goes like this:

Saddle up your horses we’ve got a trail to blaze
Through the wild blue yonder of God’s amazing grace
Let’s follow our leader into the glorious unknown
This is a life like no other – this is The Great Adventure

I. God says “effect”, Jonah says “defect.” (1:1-3)
Looking at Jonah.

Try this idea, the next time you have a youth camp or overnight retreat

1. Before breakfast, require each youth to find a quiet place where they can be alone outside with their Bible.
2. For the “Sealed Orders”, type up personal devotions for each morning and give youth a one page sealed personal devotion.