Summer Camp Wrap Up
And just like that the Summer of 2025 is in the books! As director Rikk (Gardom Lake Bible Camp) put it, “It amazes me how fast a summer passes when we are engaged in loving God and His people.”
We want to extend praise and thankfulness for God’s faithfulness as seeds have been planted, and how both campers and staff have deepened their relationship with God. I personally want to use this opportunity to thank our directors, permanent and summer staff, and volunteers who have worked together to help each camper experience what I always hope is the best week of their summer!
Many campers deeply engaged during chapel and cabin devotion times and learned more about who they are through God’s eyes. Here are some direct quotes:
- “I learned how powerful faith is and experienced how much joy it brings to those who follow it.”
- “I gained knowledge of Jesus and started to think about becoming a Christian.”
- “I can’t control everything, I need to trust.”
- “I got a Bible; I am going to read the whole thing and see what He is about.”
- “I decided to follow Jesus more and learned about His love for us.”
- “You don’t have to be perfect, He will love you no matter what, one step at a time.”
- “I learned that He loves me even when I screw up.”
- “The stars sing God’s praises.”
Some other highlights campers shared was their enthusiasm for anything related to activities by and in the water, whether it be a lake, pool, creek, or even just being sprayed by a fire hose! Hot summers and water just go together. Also, wide games, karaoke night, ice cream, archery and rock-wall climbing were right up there.
A camper also mentioned, “My cabin leader listened and gave me time.” I know that over the years a camper may not remember what breakfast was served or who the speaker was, but they will always remember their cabin leader.
Here’s a quote from an atheist camper. “This Christian community is remarkable; there is something different here. I’m trying to understand it.” This really resounds with me. Being surrounded by nature and away from electronic devices is good for any soul, then adding the life-changing Gospel news makes all the hard work of running Christian camps totally worth it!
Please pray for staff and campers as they head to school, work and other opportunities. We are praying that they continue to look to God for strength, wisdom and guidance. Also pray for guidance for the directors, their camp boards, and the BCMB Bible Camp Society as we move into autumn and continue in the ministry of growing leaders and campers.
Bob “Ranger” Kroeker
Executive Director
