God Moving Through Camps

Shelley Pearson • January 14, 2022

Tens of thousands of campers have attended thousands of camps since the beginning of The Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Decades later, former campers point to FCA camps as major milestones in their lives.

But why are they such a big deal?

They’re fun, yes. Kids look forward to them every year, absolutely. But it’s the transformation that comes through camp that makes the biggest impact and keeps campers coming back year after year.

The Story of Two Campers

Some campers meet Jesus for the first time. Others, like brothers Jack and Luke, grow in their faith and learn how to live so others see Christ in them. They also acquire valuable interpersonal and leadership skills. The FCA Sports Camp at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Afton has served 160 campers over the past three summers.

Luke, a fifth grader who has attended all three years, said, “My favorite parts are when we play kickball and the snacks. And I like praying for all Jesus has done for us. The whole camp is great.”

Jack, his sixth-grade older brother, agreed: “I liked the activities and small groups where we hear stories and talk about Jesus.”

Did you notice what they both said? Their favorite parts of camp include learning how to pursue Jesus!

Growing leaders

The huddle leaders—high school and college students—play an integral role in these local sports camps. Luke was struck with how nice they all are and can’t wait to be one when he’s too old to be a camper. Brent Voight—FCA staff and camp director—noticed how Luke and Jack were developing into leaders over the years at camp. He said, “This past summer, I was so impressed with how each of them was so focused during our small group time. They were good teammates and participants in the camp games and both offered to pray out loud in their groups.”

When asked what they thought about what Brent said, they were both a little surprised at the compliment but very pleased. Luke said, “It makes us feel honored, happy, and confident.” Jack remembered how much things have changed since that first year of camp. He was nervous and shy but has become more comfortable each year and assumed the leadership skills Brent has seen in him because of how much he loves FCA camp.

Influencing Peers

They are also surprised that other kids see them as leaders. Jack said, “I just want to make kids feel happy. I want to teach them about God’s Word and have fun with them and make sure they’re having fun at the camp.” Luke remembered the first year of camp for him and wants to make sure everyone feels included. He said, “Some kids will feel lonely, and I just feel like if there’s someone left out someone should go and talk to them. I want our group to go talk with them.”

Looking Forward

Jack and Luke’s dad, Chris, beamed when talking about his sons and camp. “I’m very proud of them. Jack and Luke looked forward to going to camp every morning. It helped teach them how athletics and Christian values intersect. They are looking forward to it again next summer!” Brent is too. He said, “It was a blessing to pour into Jack and Luke and immediately see fruit come from that investment. It makes all the hours put into planning camp worth it when you realize the impact of those four days on the hearts and minds of young people who are hungry to learn and grow.”

So, why camps?

Because through camps God is molding hearts and drawing young people like Luke and Jack to Himself. Because campers like these two brothers are learning their value and what it means to be Christ-centered leaders. Because God is raising them up to influence their peers, even as elementary students.