In 2021 A 25th anniversary is always a special occasion, and it was another memorable time to be at Camp Pinecrest for our 25th summer in southeast Missouri. While many campers and staff dealt with the effects of testing positive for COVID-19 after camp, this summer’s camp experience provided many new campers and staff volunteers the opportunity to build new relationships and nurture established ones, dive deep into the word of God, and have lots of fun.  

Driving back onto the Pinecrest campus brought back memories of summers past at the well-maintained camp we have come to love. Pinecrest’s staff greeted us warmly and we looked forward to another wonderful week of diving into God’s word and strengthening relationships. Staff members arrived a day early to enjoy the Sabbath together on July 10, with most campers arriving on Sunday, July 11 to officially begin our camp week. A total of 96 teens took part in Camp Pinecrest this year, along with 63 amazing staff members who served our teens. From support staff to activity teams to senior staff, each staff member fully immersed him or herself in “The Zone” and offered extra help wherever needed. 

Each morning the whole camp came together to begin our day in God’s Word. We explored this year’s theme “Be Anchored To God,” which was divided into the subthemes of “Find Your Anchor,” “Set Your Anchor,” “Weather the Storm,” “Set Sail,” and “Finish the Voyage.” These subthemes beautifully set the tone for each day’s activities. 

While many of the traditional activities remained, a new photojournalism class was added this year. Campers were instructed in photography techniques and then enjoyed photographing some camp activities themselves. While all campers participated in activities ranging from Bible class, dance and team building at low ropes to photojournalism, speedaway and stand-up paddleboarding, a significant number of campers took it to the next level by earning proficiency awards in archery, riflery, rock climbing, softball, swimming and/or volleyball. 

Over the many summers that have been enjoyed at Camp Pinecrest, storied traditions have been established and become fond memories that have made Camp Pinecrest a well-loved destination. We look forward to another week at Pinecrest next summer from July 3-10, 2022.