The beauty of summer camp at Leoni Meadows—and the challenge for the dedicated camp counselors—is the diversity of personality and background of the campers who attend.

Campers invariably fall into two categories: some arrive bubbling over with enthusiasm, while others, who may be away from home for the first time, cling to their parents. Suddenly they are part of a cabin doing things together—fun things, exciting adventures, new experiences and challenges. Friendships develop, some of which may last a lifetime.

Every day is filled with activities—archery, horseback rides, water skiing, go-carts, swimming, basketball, Indian leather craft, hiking, overnighter outpost camps, shelter building, campfires, Indian powwows, the cowboy rodeo, and, of course, crafts of various kinds.

Camp is not just about fun and games, though. Under the watchful eye of the counselors and camp staff, there are many opportunities that provide the all-important “teachable moments.” Just as Jesus used examples from activities that his listeners were familiar with to expose eternal truths, the counselors and staff have many opportunities to share their faith and love for Christ with the campers. The friendships and memories developed at camp often have a powerful influence on important decisions made now as well as later in life. Last summer, 128 campers expressed their desire to be baptized.

Many who have had the opportunity to be a camper at a Christian camp probably have memories of experiences at camp. “I remember being carried piggy-back by my counselor for the rest of a hike after getting my toe smashed by a tumbling rock,” recalls one former camper. “That was 56 years ago, but I still remember the counselor’s name: Tinker Fowler. Sometimes little things like that make a big difference in the lives of young people.”

For more information about summer camp, where kids develop relationships with each other and with Jesus, log onto www.leonimeadows.com and download a camper application. Summer camp runs from June 15 through Aug. 8.