They hung on for dear life...but at least we have a lot more room for fudge in the vans!!!
Loud booming thunder was our alarm clock Wednesday morning, but the storms did not dampen our spirits. When the weather broke mid-morning we were well into another great day of vacation bible camp with the Zeba youngsters. In crafts they made God's eyes and rainbows with fruit loops, and in games we wore them out with kick ball and some snatch the bacon. The afternoon trek to Copper Harbor was filled with God reminders in the way the youth connected to each other and the constant beauty that surrounded us at every turn. We bought fresh fish on our way up to the state park and had a grand grilled fish feast that would make any New Englander jealous. The smells, sights, and sounds were an explosion of joy that once again reminded me of how blessed we are as a church to have this youth program and these opportunities. With a stop at the top of Brock-way Mountain (where the funny finger picture was taken), we headed back full, happy, and sleepy from another full and fulfilling day!
We wrapped things up on Thursday at the VBC campgrounds with some sad campers, but their heads were filled with fun and long lasting memories. All of them go home with a self decorated picture frame holding a picture of them and their Ann Arbor buddy.
The way the youth are responding to the lessons and the expectations we are sharing with them is really amazing....and this gathering of individuals has forged themselves into a galvanized group. It is really cool to witness and be a part of.
This afternoon was another highlight as we went to Canyon River falls on the Sturgeon river....yes, the famous "jumping off the rock" place. It was picture perfect weather and the youth had a blast!!
But the pinnacle so far came during our sharing time at the final campfire. Many of the youth shared stories of their faith struggles and plateaus, and also their deeply personal stories of the pain, confusion, and hardships that many of them face. It became a safe and comforting space, which is always one of the highest goals of youth ministry. It was cathartic.
I was amazed at the level of honesty and trust during this time, but even more blown away by the support and maturity displayed by these 7th and 8th graders.
With our work being done, we are off tomorrow morning for a day of fun (and tourism) at Mackinac Island!
Blessings,
Drew
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