Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - July/81

Contributor - Rev. Murray Moerman,

Title - Summer Camping Experiences in Classis Cascade

Topic - Ministries

Classis Cascade is divided by the Rocky Mountains into sections east and west, and therefore, the Classis plans and operates two separate programs of retreats and camping experiences for her young people.

Camp Evergreen provides the setting for the Classis youth program for the eastern half of Classis Cascade this summer. Bible studies, arts and crafts, swimming, hay rides, canoeing and campfires will be a part of the challenge and excitement this summer from Sunday, August 23rd (6:00 p.m.) through Friday, August 28th (noon). Camp Evergreen is located near Sundre, Alta. and is being directed by Pastor Ron Van Auken of Edmonton (see Ron's article).

On the west side of the Rocky Mountains, Christian camping experiences are planned for Camp Moran. Camp Moran is a government-owned environmental learning centre on Orcas Island, one of the San Juan Islands west of Washington State's Pacific coast. Campers arrive by ferry to enjoy meeting old and new friends, hiking, fireside meetings, swimming, competition games and challenging speakers.

Glen Powell of "Youth Dynamics" is the speaker to be featured at this camp designed for young people in grades seven through nine. Glen will be speaking on the theme "Walking the New Route". Pastor Arvin Wester of Oak Harbor, Washington is directing this camp experience during the week of Monday, August 10th (noon) through Friday, August 14th (noon).

The following week, young people in grades ten through twelve enjoy the same facilities under the direction of Pastor Dick Vriesman of Lynden, Washington. Pastor Vriesman Plans to have a missionary couple participating as keynote speakers.

The cost for either of these camping experiences is $37.50 (U.S.)

During the week of August 14 - 16, which lies between the junior high and senior high school camps, there will be an opportunity to enjoy an inter-generational camping experience as entire families. Pastor Keith Eckerle of Kent, Washington will be directing this year's Classis family camp.

Registration or further inquires regarding any of the west side camps should be directed to the registrar:

Pastor Don DeGlopper

Woodway Community Ref. Church 10220 - 238th S. W.

Edmonds, Washington 98020

(206) 542-8883

Each year young people of our churches and their unchurched friends stand around a campfire and make decisions for Christ which will re-direct their lives permanently. Some question the long term results of a decision made at the climax of an emotion-laden week of challenge. I have been privileged to witness growth and deepening commitment of some of our young people over five summers of camping. The intense experience of God enjoyed during these times of retreat is manifestly deepened year after year. There was a time -in the history of the evangelical church when families would camp for weeks on end to be challenged by the Word of God night after night. There was an intensity there not often experienced during the all too brief hour of Sunday worship.

Would that we would be given the grace to recapture that experience of deep conviction, repentance and turning, and a fresh out pouring of God's Holy Spirit!

Our young people are privileged to have an experience which is intense. It is an experience of the depth which requires time we do not always have available on Sundays. It is an experience of fellowship, unity and worship which often reflects a maturity beyond their physical years.

May we join in praying for the leaders, speakers and young people who will be gathering this summer for week-long experiences of seeking the Lord in the beauty of His firmament. May their experiences be rich. May the renewal they experience be contagious. May there be no fear of the exuberant joy they manifest. May our Lord be glorified!

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