Training Camp Counselors

Many of us grew up in summer camps enjoying warm weather, new and old friends, swimming, sports and those precious leaders, counselors, who helped us grow deeper in our walk with the Lord.  I always thought being a camp counselor was something you just did, as a Christian you instinctively "knew" how to work with your campers.  In my years as a missionary here in Mexico I´ve often been on the other side, as a counselor and as a  director.   Thank God that He uses us even when we do lack experience and training, but how wonderful it is to receive the training and learn better how to plan, lead and implement a Christian camp.
This past weekend we were blessed with the visit of Cliff, Joy, Caley and Jack McCalister.  Cliff is an expert on Christian camping and is receiving a doctorate in this area.  The directors of Camp Kikomar (and my housemates) Mirna and Diana invited the McCalisters to give a weekend training at Kikomar.  We enjoyed the beautiful weather, activities to get in touch with nature,  getting ot know one another, and learning to challenge campers to grow in their walk with the Lord.  We also had to change deeply ingrained ideas that it´s not about "competiton" but "cooperation"!  I include an insert from Diana´s update.

"Last weekend was a milestone for Camp Kikomar, as we held an introductory training for camp counselors, with five churches from Tuxpan represented. It was great to see pastors and leaders, together with some of their youth, playing games, and helping each other discover new concepts. They also expressed the great benefit of fellowshipping together from different churches in a neutral environment.  It was great!

And yet, a harrowing event in one of the churches, reminded us how fragile our lives on this earth are. Part of the pastoral family from the Last Trumpet church, (five people) joined us on Friday afternoon at KIKOMAR, and while doing a trust walk in the evening through the trees, they received a phone call that their 35 year old daughter/sister/cousin had literally dropped dead, while leading the prayer meeting at their church a few minutes before. Those of us who were able, attended the funeral service on Sunday morning. They need our prayers."

Thank God for His control, plan and sovereignty in our lives, over the joys and the heartaches.  Another in-depth training is being planed around Easter next year.  Come and join us if you can! Continue to pray for God´s work through the camp activities and in our lives.  Also remember to uphold this family who lost their loved one and seek God´s grace that we might glorify Him in all we do.