Camp Wildrose had a wonderful comeback summer session! Thank you for the prayers for good weather—it was warm and sunny all five days of camp! Camp Wildrose is located on a country property near a large lake in the area of Darwell, Alberta. Joining us this year were 26 campers, ages 5 to 15, and 24 volunteers, including four teen counselors who worked wonderfully with the youth, and participated in many activities. Attendees traveled from all over Alberta, from as far west as British Columbia and as far east as Ontario.

Our theme this year was “Appreciating Our Differences—Showing Love and Service to One Another.” Christian living lessons focused on building our spiritual bonds, showing godly love and learning to work together harmoniously, while appreciating our God-given differences that make us special and important in God’s plan. Our first morning session taught a lesson in perseverance and trusting in our Creator to supply everything we need. The second session took a look into our spiritual suitcase to see if we packed everything we needed for an enriching camp experience, full of godly character traits.

Campers especially enjoyed a number of water sports this year. They went tubing and canoeing and had splashy fun on a giant slip n’ slide. The other favorite activities were archery, making lanterns during craft time, volleyball, group tag games, teamwork challenges, outdoor education, technology class and soccer. The youngest campers had fun doing a treasure hunt, building boats and bubble wands and playing parachute games. Everyone enjoyed fireside time each night with special treats and activities. Adults and children worked in groups to create human machines in the machine charades game. One evening was dedicated to a dance party in which everyone joined in the hilarious fun of musical chairs, various line dances, the hokey pokey and the limbo.

The Sabbath day was a special time of extra fellowship and rest. Pastor Erickson gave a morning message reminding us to look to the creation to learn about God, and how in His creation of us, He had a definite purpose. The church services were run by many of our older youth and they did a fabulous job! The skills the teens learned in technology class helped them assist in the setup and cybercast. Thank you to all who served and made our worship special.

On our final day, we participated in laughter-filled picnic games! These included pie and watermelon eating contests and races with volunteers and youth competing against each other! It was a day of great unity before our goodbyes. We are already making plans and looking forward to Camp Wildrose, 2023! We hope you can join us!