Junior Camp - July 10-15
The week started rainy and late, as the buses left Kansas City late. The kids arrived to an excited staff and had lunch while rainy weather threatened. After cabin assignments, the boys went swimming while the girls became acquainted. By the time the girls were supposed to swim, lightning and rain had arrived so they got to do crafts instead. One boy accidentally punctured his eardrum while cleaning his ear and had to go to the doctor. He will not be able to swim all week, which will be difficult. We were told it could be six weeks before his hearing returns.
We woke on Tuesday to sunshine and heat. All activities were a go. One cabin of boys had their counselor wondering how to bring any unity at all. After several helpful suggestions, they began to work together.
On Wednesday the girls went to the beach. The chapel lessons on Joseph (coordinated with an on-going basketball team skit) captured the kids’ attention. That night, one girl prayed to receive Christ and one girl confirmed her earlier decision after testimonies in their cabin devotional.
Thursday, prayer was answered when we learned that the boy with the punctured eardrum's hearing was already starting to return. The boys were supposed to go to the beach, but the bus's alternator failed so they spent the morning at the Camp's lake. Tempers and attitudes seemed to be showing all day. Several girls and boys had to be disciplined and lost pool time. That night, a cool front came through after lights out and it rained all night, resulting in much cooler temperatures.
Friday was an emotional day as usual, as the kids realize Camp is about over. That night there was a carnival. One more girl prayed to receive Christ after devotionals. Character Awards were handed out and lights didn't go out until late.
Saturday morning brought a rush to get packed, and an onslaught of tears at having going home. The buses loaded and the kids returned home safely.
