From Jon O’Toole, Family Life Intern

Winter Camp was a success for our Middle and High School students. We had 70 students and 14 leaders attend camp this year, and it was the first year for both age groups to attend a retreat together! It was such a great weekend for both the kids and leaders combined. Over the weekend, the students dove into the parable of the Prodigal Son and how no matter what, God, our Father, will never stop loving us.

The students also had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions of their choosing on topics such as: “What do I do with my questions?”, “What is my next move after High School?”, and “How is Jesus a part of my mental health?” As a leader, it was exciting to witness how the discussions in small groups grew in depth over the course of the weekend as the students connected more with God’s love.

It was clear that the Spirit was working with and filling the students over the weekend. One example of how our students lifted each other was during the Open Mic night! One of our Fuel students stepped out of her comfort zone and sang a song in front of the whole camp of 300 + people. She was nervous but her peers rushed to the stage to cheer her on and support her.

There was also time to rest in the Lord and for the kids to enjoy hanging out with each other, strengthening their understanding of the importance of fellowship and community. Our Students and Leaders had a blast participating in paintball, a giant swing, gaga ball, and a broomball tournament where our Ignite students won the tournament for the second straight year! Go Apple Slices!