Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - May/92

Contributor - Rodney Schutte

Title - Christian Camping

Topic - Ministries

The blessings and benefits of Christian camping ministry are in its ability to minister to the whole person and the whole Body of Christ (the Church). People involved in camp programs are introduced to opportunities to develop and express a faith that encompasses their whole self - physical, spiritual, and mental.

Today's model of Christian camping ministry can be traced to biblical times. In fact, the best and most amazing comparison can be seen in Jesus' life and ministry with, and among His disciples. Now that was Christian camping ministry at its best!

The model of Jesus' ministry is identical with today's Christian camping ministry. The following are five distinctive areas that link them together:

1. 24 Hour Living Experience:

As Jesus lived with His disciples day and night, counsellors spend nearly every moment with campers. It becomes evident that the normal routine of life is the soil for the development of Christian living. Questions by and interactions with campers arise naturally in each day's experience, just as they did with Jesus and His disciples.

2. Group Living.

As Jesus and His disciples, campers live and learn with each other and an adult counsellor. Interrelationships develop with each other and an adult counsellor. Inter-relationships develop with peer groups and community life takes shape.

3. Qualified Adult Leadership:

Jesus' life and ministry can never be duplicated, however, the concept of mature men and women leading and counselling campers in a variety of areas and ways can. They lead by word and by action; they are living examples everyday for the campers to see.

4. Outdoor Environment:

Nature and its' illustrations were ways Jesus taught and explained truths to His followers. Similarly, leaders use nature programs and what is familiar to the campers to teach them about the Creator and His creation.

5. Follow Up:

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to "teach you all things and... remind you of everything... said to you" (John 14:26). The camp and the local church have the responsibility to work together with the Holy Spirit to disciple the campers after their camping experience is over.

If camp is also a conference/retreat centre, it can be a centre for training church leaders, building community among members of the local church, and a place that provides an environment for unique and creative worship and praise experiences. Christian camping provides a wholistic ministry to young and old alike. Many educational methods that can be used at a camp can not be used in the school or church setting, and that's a real benefit. Camp is a totally unique place for teaching, training and modeling a lifestyle that is in tune with God, His Word and His world.

Finally, Christian camping ministries provide many opportunities for service. The "normal" Christian camp has many needs that can't be met with an existing budget. Therefore, dependence on volunteer workers and financial supporters is constant. All people are able to use their gifts to serve God at the Christian camp.

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