Midwest Youth Camp

June 4-7, 2009

Around sixty campers and staff gathered at Camp Wyman in Missouri on Thursday, June 4, for the much-anticipated Midwest youth camp. The theme was “Being Prepared for the Rapture,” and excitement was in the air as the campers assembled in the chapel for a short rally where the theme verse, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, and theme song were introduced. The campers were then assigned to their cabins and after getting settled, the counselors led their cabins in a short devotional on the Rapture. After a time for various sports activities and crafts, a delicious lunch, prepared by the hard-working kitchen staff, was enjoyed by all. In the afternoon, there was an opportunity to go swimming or participate in other activities.

During the evening chapel service, campers and counselors joined together in singing a variety of songs. Cheers then echoed in the chapel during a karaoke-style trivia game, in which a brave volunteer was challenged to sing the missing phrase of a song without missing a beat. After more group singing, Donald Fittin, from Van Buren, Arkansas, gave a beautiful message on salvation, which was followed by a wonderful prayer service.

Activities on Friday included a softball game, more crafts, and fishing in a well-stocked lake. For some of the campers, this was their first fishing experience and it was exciting to see them succeed at reeling in a few fish. A favorite of both the campers and staff was the concessionstand, and not many missed the opportunity every afternoon to indulge in a variety of cold drinks, snacks, and, of course, lots of candy.

Friday evening’s chapel service included a hilarious skit performed by Reverend Ritchie Ho, from St. Louis, to illustrate the topic of his sermon. He encouraged each one to evaluate his or her spiritual standing, and to be watching and waiting for Jesus to return. Following another inspiring prayer service, there was a bonfire complete with s’mores and a late-night hike in the woods, with only lanterns for light.

The weather had been close to perfect during the previous days of youth camp, and Saturday was no exception. For the afternoon’s activities, the campers were split into two groups, with the younger campers being led on a hike as the older group was challenged with a rock-wall climb and crate stack. The young people encouraged each other as they scaled the rock wall, and there was excitement at the realization that one of our Midwest pastors (you will have to guess which one) had stealthily climbed the forty feet to the top. Most had never experienced the crate stack, but the challenge was to build up milk crates as high as possible, while a teammate balanced on top. One group came close to breaking the camp record, proving that teamwork pays off!

In the chapel service on Saturday evening, a movie about the coming of the Lord inspired another fantastic prayer service! On Sunday morning, the campers and staff were met by many of the St. Louis church members who came to join in the final service of youth camp. Each cabin did a great job presenting skits depicting being ready for the Rapture. During the testimonies, those who had received something from the Lord during youth camp were asked to stand—around twenty young people claimed salvation, and several received their sanctification. For the closing message, Jeff Downey, from St. Louis, focused on Philippians 3:13-14, encouraging each one to continue in God’s service without looking back.

After a time of prayer, the skies began to darken as everyone gathered for a delicious barbeque. The lakeside pavilion, beautifully lit with strings of white lights, proved to be a great protection from the heavy rain and thunderstorm as everyone enjoyed the food and fellowship. As scrumptious brownie sundaes were enjoyed for dessert, the storm moved out. Although all good things must come to an end, it seemed the time to say goodbye arrived too soon, and the vans were loaded up to head home. Those who attended the Midwest youth camp, both campers and staff, are thankful for the many blessings received and the wonderful memories that were made!

See more photos here.