Inspire, Fall 2001

that will allow them to lead their campers into a deeper relationship with God.I believe it is the influence ofa godly counselor that makes camp effective." "Summer camp ministries are done in an environment that fosters learning and growth," said Bill."Campers are challenged with activities, new experiences,and interactive learning experiences that bring God's Word to life." That,he said, is how summer camp encourages young people to grow in their walk or leads some to a point of decision. Lynn added,"The approach at Christian camp,where they have godly counselors leading them in devotions twice a day and a camp pastor preaching the Word twice each day,and where they are exposed to many other Christian young people,is a wonderful environment in which to make life-changing decisions." All ofthis is done in an atmosphere offun and recreation with a program that reaches youth at their level. That,combined with worship times of singing and testimonies, makes for a good environment for campers and staffers alike. That may be why many Cedarville students spend their summers working at Christian camps.And that,of course,is a blessing to the camp directors. Gary boasted,"Ninety percent of our counselors in the past 25 years have come from Cedarville University. These young people love Christ and have a great burden to make Christ known to others. They are genuine,and youth today are looking for genuine role models who follow Christ." Some of these summer camp counselors have gone on to make working at Christian camp their vocation. Bill explained that his camping experiences are what contributed to his becoming a camp director."The most significant decisions and spiritual growth in my life as a teen were made as a result of my four weeks ofcamp at Skyview growing up," he closed. "I had a love for God's creation, and the idea of using the testimony of creation as an outreach tool in a camping ministry was appealing to me." For more information on the Christian camps mentioned here: Camp Cherith — http:11www.campcherith.ws Camp Patmos — http:11www.camppatmos.com New Life Island — http:11www.newlifeisland.org Scioto Hills — http:11www.sciotohills.com Skyview Ranch — http:11www.skyviewranch.org Inspire 15