“That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:10

I’m thankful that we were allowed to have camps and retreats once again. This summer we were able to have two camps for our youth. It was such a huge blessing to see the youth and counselors at camp! Camps and retreats have often served as major spiritual milestones for people on their journey with God.

Over the course of the past two years, by not having camps, we saw how it impacted friendships within the youth group as well as how students viewed their spirituality. It was clear that camps and retreats were much needed, not only for the youth but for the counselors as well.

The ministry year itself was grueling and exhausting with lots of ups and downs. There wasn’t a whole lot to celebrate. We put on brave faces, as if what we experienced didn’t impact us. Indeed, it was difficult to ignore the feelings that we were experiencing deep inside us. Camps and retreats usually help to reset the table and bring some much-needed positive energy back into the youth group after a tiresome year.

It’s interesting how the journey of the youth group has followed very similarly to our own spiritual journey with God during the pandemic. As we look toward next year, we look forward to seeing how God may continue to put spiritual milestones in our lives. Especially during some of our darkest times where we struggle, that is where we find our need for God the most. These will also be the moments we look back upon to see our greatest spiritual growth.