In the Wilderness

This summer, many campers and leaders arrived at the familiar white sign filled with excitement to begin the journey. Leaders meet the evening before campers arrive to train on child protection measures and policies, enjoy a meal and finalize plans for the week based on this year’s theme “In the Wilderness”.  

The week-long adventure at Camp JoOta in Clarence, Missouri is a continued partnership between our own Missouri Union Presbytery and the Mid America Disciples, allowing children finishing PreK – 12^th grade to experience summer camp in a safe and beautiful environment while learning more about God. Camp is full of intentionally planned, age-appropriate activities that will make each participant feel loved, accepted, grow closer to God, and find joy. 

Staff at the elementary/junior camp were greeted by 44 campers ready to experience what we had to offer. Some were full of excitement while others were a bit more unsure. Each day began with a morning watch meeting, energizing dances and breakfast. The daily Bible story and cabin clean up would happen just before pool and lake time. As you can imagine, this block of time was a favorite. Both locations, lake & pool, offered a chance to enjoy nature and just have fun. Time at the lake offers paddleboats, canoes and of course fishing. 

Lunch and music finished off the first half of the day before the much-loved B.O.B. time. This block of time allows campers and counselors much needed down time. Some take the opportunity to read while others work on art projects and a few even find a little time to nap. The afternoon was filled with a rotation of small group time, craft and group games. At the conclusion of rotations everyone enjoyed dinner and Bible story review with discussions. Each evening was filled with a special group activity, snacks and a participant led worship service including communion. SMORES, a perennial favorite, were also roasted on the open campfire. 

This picture shows the trail taken on Friday morning during elementary/junior camp. The group ventured to hear the daily Bible story. Little did the campers know that they would be greeted by a reenactment of the Good Samaritan story along the way. This morning’s story found a special place in the hearts of both campers and leaders. Often just reading verses in the Bible can be confusing, but this immersive activity seemed to make an impact. In fact, having to just walk by “injured” people proved difficult for many. These emotions gave the perfect opportunity to talk about the story and how special it was that the Samaritan man stopped to help. 

Seeing children in this environment and the meaningful interactions that take place with both other campers and leaders helps strengthen my own faith. This year’s theme “In the Wilderness” reminded all of us that even though our lives are full of different types of wildernesses, God is there for us. 

Blessings,

Audra West

Director of Christian Education

First Presbyterian Church, Columbia

Member of MUP Youth Committee