Monday, October 12, 2015

Incorporating Faith into Outdoor Adventures

When we think of Christian camps, we might not think of nature and going outside. However, the crux of many faith-based camps is the world outside. Here, we’ll go over how many Christian camps use the outside, in order to better understand their faith, and build connections. 

Appreciation for the World God’s Given Us 

God gave us this vast, beautiful world.  that of course, includes nature. 

Connection with nature can help you see just how wondrous and powerful the things God has provided to us are. 


For instance, going on a trip to see a waterfall can be great, as it instills Christian values of the world that god, who loves us very much, has given us.  It’s a good way to understand faith too, as many times, it can help with improving one’s understanding of God, rather than just what you hear in church. 

Kindness and Service 

Taking care of the planet is what God would want. He gave this to us, and many times, going out and doing community acts to better our world is what will help with better understanding the impact that God’s love has given us. 

Through outdoor activities, such as camping, cleaning up the forest, or even learning to recycle, you can understand your faith better.  It seems strange, but over time, it can help with adventures, and building one’s own personal development. 



Connection with God Without Physical Distractions 

Our world is so distracting. Think about all of the technology you have around. 

Even kids have this, with tablets and smartphones being available at younger and younger ages 

When a child goes to a Christian camp, they’re not going to be tied to an iPad, or even have cell phone service. Instead, it’s just them and nature. 

These distractions pull you off the path to better connection with god. 

What that says is, when you’re out there, in the woods, spending time in nature, you’re closer to God.  Sometimes, it also helps with prayers and communication with God itself.  You’ll be able to better understand your faith and build better wellness. 

Our world loves to do everything but keep us grounded and focused on our faith. With a summer camp, you prevent the problem, and make it easier for you to build a deeper, more understanding, connection. 

Being Kind To nature 

Remember, God gave us this planet.  

We don’t really look at the impact of our actions on nature, and it can be a struggle for a lot of parolees to realize. 

However, when you’re out there, alone with nature, you appreciate the true beauty. What that also means, is better understanding of each of these factors, and also the actions at hand. 

So when you’re outside, supporting nature and being one with it, you’re fostering a closeness that’s normally not there. 

So yes, you do need a connection with nature, and these outdoor activities do this. 

Appreciation of Faith Through Others 

Finally, with Christian camps, you’re doing activities outside with others. 



Whether it’s rock climbing, archery, or even swimming together, you’re working together with others.  You sit by the campfire, and as the fire crackles and the sky is dark, the crickets chirp. 

You’re appreciating nature with not just yourself, but with others. These people here with you, your camaraderie, and that of course, can create a really exciting result out of this. 

So yes, nature is important. Nature helps with building a better understanding of yourself. And finally, nature helps you connect with God on a personal level, that you don’t get when you go to church, which is really magical.


Sunday, October 4, 2015

Choosing the Right Christian Camp for Your Child

Choosing the right Christian camp for your kids can be a struggle. Many times, parents see the options, but don’t know where to begin.  That can be a challenge, as there are many different types of camps. Summer camps are good for children during the day, and even for a weekend, to build faith and encouragement, along with love and hope. If you’re looking to get into a camp for your child, then look no further. As we offer a lot of factors to consider. 

Think about the Different types of Camps 

Many camps differ. Some of them are more religion-focused, where building faith is the main game. However, some children aren’t ready for that, as they don’t want to just hear about the word of God all the time, but instead, want to better understand themselves, and others. Plus, many mat just want to have fun. 

You can go to different camps based on faith. There are faith-based camps that’ll talk about it, but it’s not the main focus. Others may have a more profound focus on this, which may be better for those kids looking to foster an education. You should also study the camp and the host church beforehand. If it’s not your own, look at their beliefs. This is what they’re going to be presented with.  If you need more peace of mind, talk to the ministry leaders, and other parents with kids that attended these camps. Talk about the activities, and whether this is something that’s good for their growth.



Finally, make sure that you get their intention, as it may be good for older children.  This can spark deeper conversations, and sometimes, may help with solidifying their faith. 


Close to home or Away for the Weekend 

Trips for the weekend or even for the week is exciting for kids, but as a parent, you’ve got to decide if that’s right for you. 

Are you okay with a child leaving for the weekend, being a day away? not every parent is, and you must decide what’s best for your needs. 



Older kids may benefit from drives further from home. 

Age Matters 

Speaking of age, you also have to look at the age of your kid. 

You may be find with a teenager going away for the weekend. But younger children, not so much. Day camps are better for that. 

Focus on interests 

Does your child like to go swimming? Then maybe a camp that’s by the pool or lake is good?  Do they hate archery? Then maybe move away from a camp that doesn’t focus on archery as an option. 

If your child doesn’t like to explore new places, then maybe sending them to a camp in the woods is also not a good idea. Make sure that you choose a camp that fits your benefits. 

Get the Kid’s Okay 

Finally, you don’t want to do anything without the child’s consent. 

Sending them away willy-nilly can betray their trust. They may see it as you’re trying to get rid of them. That’s not the case, as your intent is fostering better understanding of one another. 



That’s why, before you sign them up, talk to Thema about it. explain why you want them to come to this camp, and the importance of it.  kids will learn, and it will better their understand, which in turn, can foster and create some monumental sorts of reactions from them over time. 

You’ll be amazed, as these camps can change a child’s life, especially for the better of them down the line.


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