What To Expect When Working at a Christian Summer Camp

If you have been a Christian camp counselor before, you know what craziness can ensue during the summer. Granted, it's almost always a great time, but there are lessons to be learned and responsibilities to be had when partaking in such a role. If you've never been a camp counselor, your first experience can seem daunting. Not only are you responsible for yourself, but you are responsible for many campers younger than you. This can sometimes seem overwhelming, especially when the kids are only occasionally cooperative. However, this can be a time of great learning and maturing into a more well-rounded young adult. What should you expect when spending your first summer at a Christian camp as a counselor?

First and foremost, you should be aware that what most leaders will expect of you is that your faith is on the same page as their values. More than likely, you got hired because you already expressed that you had the same belief system. If this is not the case, let them know beforehand so you can adequately determine whether or not you would be a good fit. Unlike other summer camps, a Christian summer camp is specifically geared towards people of faith, so this aspect is of the highest importance when selecting counselors. If this all lines up, then you should be good to go in accepting the job.

Another thing that you'll want to be aware of when being a Christian camp counselor is that there are typically more rules and boundaries than at an average summer camp. Again, this is because of the belief systems set in place to adhere to biblical values. Some of these rules might be you are not allowed to date amongst other camp counselors. They will try to keep everything pure and above board so fraternization might be looked down upon. You may also have to be slightly stricter with campers. Just as they don't want fraternization amongst counselors, this will be even more so the case with young campers. You will rarely find any co-ed Christian camps.

Another difference from an average summer camp is that a Christian camp is structured slightly differently. Instead of all-day recreational activities, Chapel services and breakout sessions will be thrown into the mix. Again, this is because a Christian camp is centered around teaching kids about the Bible; therefore, they will incorporate as much of that as they can into their camp curriculum. It's a good idea to be mentally prepared to pay attention to what is being spoken in Chapel so you can better converse with your campers in the breakout sessions.

Finally, you need to be prepared to have fun. While Christian camps may seem slightly more strict or dull, this is far from the case. You will still have plenty of time to enjoy all of the outdoor activities that come with being at a summer camp. This includes horseback riding, tubing, high ropes course, arts and crafts, late-night bonfires, and more. As much responsibility as you will have, the leadership will want you to have just as much fun. After all, that is what summer camp is all about.