At Camp Sunrise in Gibson, B.C., kids find love and acceptance. Two former campers explain what inspired them to become counsellors
Summer camp is unlike anything else in this world! It is a place where you can't wait to arrive and a place you hate to leave. It is a place where you can be yourself and grow in relationship with God and others. Those who have been to camp know that it isn't the archery, canoeing or crafts that make camp captivating. It is God's Spirit and faithful presence that draws people back each summer.
For as long as I can remember I have attended Camp Sunrise in Gibson, B.C. My most treasured memories are of camp. My favourite counsellor, Krista, reflected Christ's love through her actions and words. I looked up to the camp staff and when I was later hired at age 16 to work at camp, I was ecstatic. I wanted to be 'Krista' to young girls.
Last summer I met a camper named Kiara who was extremely shy and afraid to smile. One night as we worshipped, Kiara was crying. She wanted to know Jesus but was afraid because her dad hated Christians. My heart broke for her and I prayed that God would show himself to Kiara as her loving Father. That night she made a commitment to God at the campfire. I'll never forget how we danced to the dining hall to get cookies and celebrate. I was proud that she chose to believe even though she would return home to a difficult situation. After that night, Kiara radiated God's love. She couldn't stop smiling. It's wondrous how a young life can change in just one week.
In four summers working on staff, I have gained more than I could ever give. I am amazed by kids who have an incredible willingness to learn and a contagious enthusiasm. They remind me to be passionate in my relationship with God and to trust him with a childlike faith. My friends on staff have taught me the importance of authentic relationships. Through camp, we've have the privilege to reach out to those who are hurting and show them Christ's love.
by Sarah Ivany, Cascade Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Summer is here and I can't imagine being anywhere other than at The Salvation Army's Camp Sunrise. When I was a child, I went to Sunrise every year. I don't know how my mother as a single parent was able to pay for me and my brother to spend an unforgettable week at music camp.
I remember the wonderful food. I ate until I was full and had dessert every lunch and dinner. I could participate in fun activities without worrying about schoolyard bullies. It was one week of the year that I felt completely safe. Camp was where people encouraged and befriended me.
To the counsellors who loved me even though I didn't have nice clothes or say all the right things'thank you! Although I always wore hand-me-down clothes, the counsellors always made me feel special. They could see through the outer garments into the heart of a child.
To the volunteers who spent their valuable holiday time at camp'thank you! I remember driving a band leader crazy by constantly interrupting, until one day he handed me the baton and said: 'If you think you could do a better job go ahead.' I was shocked and terrified, but I did it'he let me lead the band. The experience taught me humility and respect.
To the counsellors who put up with late nights'thank you! I didn't have to worry about someone peeking into my bedroom at night or how I would escape if my stepfather found me alone. I was never alone at camp. There was always a counsellor I could talk to. Staff reminded me that my heavenly Father is always walking beside me.
Salvation Army camps give needy children a chance for fun one week a year. As an adult who was once a welfare child, I am thankful for this experience. Now I work as counsellor myself. My sons know the love of God because the Army is caring for a new generation. I pray that my children's children will be able to freely participate at Christian camps. It's a gift I have never taken for granted.
by Heather Douglas, Cariboo Hill Temple, Burnaby, B.C.
Heather has just completed her first children's book Voyage to the Stars: David's First Adventure. Visit her at www.hidouglas.com