Last Friday, we wrapped up our final camp of the summer season! So much of my year is spent preparing for these camps, and it’s always a bit surreal when they come to a close. This summer, our Youth Ministry had four distinct camps which brought together over 170 students and leaders to grow in faith, community, and purpose. During each one, we witnessed God’s hand at work and experienced His Spirit moving in powerful and personal ways. My prayer is that the seeds planted in the hearts of both the students and the leaders will take root deeply and bear lasting fruit in their lives. I’m deeply grateful for all God did in and through these camps and for all of your prayers!
EDGE Conference
We’ve been attending the EDGE Conference for many years, and it continues to be a meaningful part of our summer. This year, nineteen middle school students and six leaders spent a week at Covenant College where they were equipped through Gospel-centered teaching, worship, and community. The theme focused on the relationship between faith and works - how salvation comes by grace alone through faith, but our works serve as evidence of a life transformed by the Spirit. We had a wonderful week!
Beach Retreat
Our first-ever High School Beach Retreat took place in Isle of Palms, South Carolina. We took 25 high school students and five leaders with us. This marks the beginning of a new four-year Discipleship rhythm: international mission trip, beach retreat, stateside mission trip, and beach retreat. Our theme “Stoked for Heaven” helped us explore eternity, our present weaknesses, and the joy of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. With four elective classes, engaging worship, and solid teaching, it was a Spirit-filled week full of fun, reflection, and meaningful relationships. We had incredible weather and, of course, had to do some surfing!
Forge
Now in its third year, Forge welcomed 38 boys in 3rd–8th grade and approximately 25 leaders! The theme "Courage, Kindness, and Faithfulness" came to life as campers rotated through outdoor survival, car skills, and woodworking. Each day ended in small groups which helped the boys connect their hands-on learning with real-life discipleship.
Shine
Celebrating its seventh year, Shine hosted 58 girls in 3rd–8th grade with the help of 45 incredible volunteers. The theme "God’s Masterpiece" focused on what it means to be made in God’s image and how He uses our gifts and life experiences to glorify Him. Campers enjoyed sewing, cooking, art, papercrafts, and crocheting as they learned about identity and purpose.
A highlight of both Forge and Shine is seeing our high school students rise as leaders as they invest deeply in the lives of the younger campers. This intergenerational discipleship (which is actually experienced in all of our summer camps) continues to be one of the most powerful pictures of Faith in action. Thank you, CPC, for your support and prayers for our young people during these June and July events!
Heather Morrison, Assistant Youth Director
