June 22 2025

I wanted to blog yesterday. Last year, I did not miss a day, and that fact was a point of pride. The Lord has a way of removing such idols. In this case, our maintenance crew needed some assistance, and I worked with them throughout the day. By the time I got back to the office, I had completely forgotten about the blog. Sorry!

I really did want to reach out to you because Main Campers are special and this year is going to be particularly memorable. This is not hyperbole; it is what I genuinely expect from the next five weeks. It is what WE ALL expect. There are many reasons why we feel this way, but here are a few big ones.

• The Numbers… We have more campers than we have ever had. We have more counselors than we ever had. Camper numbers are a consequence of the Early Bird program, which allows campers to attend any session they choose. We did not accept a new camper into June or Main Camp again this year (haven’t in many years). Each camper is a valued member of our camp family, having been called to our community. We are generous with our scholarships (we have never reduced scholarships to make the camp smaller). We do not raise rates to reduce enrollments (an obvious policy solution to reduce enrollments). We have not changed our enrollment policy. Instead, we turn it over to Jesus, just like our Theme verse advises: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and He shall direct your path. The Holy Spirit has always shown us how to accommodate this community, and we do for His glory. June Camp (also having the highest number of campers and counselors ever) was a slam dunk success. Best June Camp Ever. Imagine how good Main Camp will be!
• The Counselors… June Camp was a challenging session, but the counselors made it look EASY. They were spectacular. They ARE spectacular! Funny, cheerful, loving, kind, engaged, excited, and talented. Their talent show was jaw-dropping. Every program area was amazing. I was in awe of their performance, and on closing day, not surprised to see tears in their eyes as the campers left. Amazing counselors make an amazing camp. Can’t wait to see what they do now!
• Main Campers… You are “camp fanatics.” You “get” camp, entering into every moment with every fiber of your being. This makes every event, every class, every EP, every song in the dining hall, every dance party in the cabin, and EVERY MOMENT better. Your impact is amazing, and we can’t wait to ride the tsunami of FUN that you bring!

We can’t wait to welcome you back to your summer home. Opening Day is just around the corner, so rest up and get ready. This is going to be fun!