As the last parent pulled in to camp to pick up his daughter from our Jr./Sr. High Camp earlier this month, our program staff breathed a collective sigh of relief, gratitude, and sadness as our 2010 summer camps drew to a close. 

It has been a summer with many last minute decisions needing to be made regarding the camps.  However, third-time Summer Camp Program Director, Brandon Benziger, his Assistant (and wife), Stephanie, along with staff and summer volunteers made the necessary adjustments so that all went smoothly. 

A big THANK YOU goes to all the camp directors, counselors, and speakers, especially those who stepped in to serve last minute.  Redwood Glen is so blessed to have a committed group of volunteers who are partners with us in ministry.

"What Happens at Camp Doesn't Stay at Camp!" was this year's theme.  Each camp incorporated the theme into their programming by encouraging the campers to share their faith.   Under the direction of Jeannette Calixto, Children's Music And Drama camp (CMAD) shared their love for the Lord through the musical production, "Praise Rocks."  In spite a smaller group this year, campers had a great time and pulled off a quality show by week's end that was, in Stephanie's perspective, "superb."

Not to be outdone, Youth Music And Drama camp (YMAD) witnessed to their faith at our annual Open House with their production of "Where Jesus is." According to camp director, Jeff Tessier, "We had an amazing group of talented kids come to camp, who quickly formed to be a great choir and camp family. The 'bar' was certainly raised this year with an amazing performance at the end of camp."

In addition to the campers performance, YMAD also witnessed three youth making first time commitments to Christ.  The example of the counselors was especially significant in providing a testimony to the power of God at work.  According to one YMADer, his counselor became his hero and inspiration during the week. 

At Jr. Adventure Camp, veteran counselor (and Redwood Glen Board President), Brad Bettencourt also provided an example for his campers.  He invited students from his school to come to camp this year.  The four who attended had a great time, and according to Jr. Adventure camp director, Carolyn Neitzke, "Brad has his camp pictures running on his work computer and the kids ask, and he is able to share about camp even in a public school environment."

Matt Mitchell was given the opportunity to share his faith and his love for camp when he stepped up to serve as director of our Jr. High and Sr. High Camps.  Recruited last minute, Matt put together a week full of fun and excitement in spite limited time to prepare.  Under God's providence, five counselors were recruited two days before camp started.  Log jousting, the Gak Zone, water balloon launching, and Japanese-style seating during meals were established as new traditions.  Rev. Larry Rice stepped up a week before camp as speaker, and shared many stories and teachings which urged campers to pursue godly lives as witnesses for Christ. 

It was a summer of fun and fellowship as young people were challenged in their faith.  With campers having a good time, what happens at camp will surely not stay at camp as campers return home, share their experiences, and continue to live in the love of God and live out the lessons they learned this summer while at Redwood Glen.

To view more pictures from our 2010 summer camps, click here.