Presbytery of Coastal Carolina – Summer Program at Camp Monroe

End of Staff Training Period

Well it’s a new week and counselor training is over. Now is the test to see if everything that we’ve learned is useful when the rubber meets the road. Last week was a time to learn songs, games and continue to build teamwork among a great group of young adults. One day the staff participated in the Red Cross first aid and CPR training program – all passed. Another day they learned all about the low ropes course and then on Wednesday morning all of us – me included – took on the challenge of the high ropes course. For some, this was old hat but for others this was a real challenge – overcoming fears and tears. All made it through the course – I was weak kneed and poring sweat but it was truly worth the time and effort. (Picture – Louie shows the group how it is done on the Burma Bridge.) The training schedule called for me to do a short introduction about what it means to be Presbyterian – a number of the counselors are from other denominations and really didn’t know a lot about what we believe. Robert introduced the group to the flora and fauna of the camp by taking them on a nature walk. The group also had a time for spiritual reflection when they walked the labyrinth in Boyd Hall. On Friday afternoon the cabins were cleared and the camp was prepared for the local Hospice’s annual visit to the camp. This group brings the children of families who have suffered the loss of a terminally ill member. In Scotland County the fine work that Hospice does not only meets the needs of the family during a period of loss but is concerned about its long term health of those who remain. Camp Monroe and the Presbytery are honored to participate in this meaningful program.

Thursday night was a very special time for the staff and the ODM Committee. For the first time in many years, the group came together to have supper, worship and participate in a staff commissioning service. Joining us was Mrs. Mary Hafer, a current resident of Scotia Village and a member of a family which has been a significant benefactor to the Presbytery’s camping program. It is worth noting that Mrs. Hafer celebrates her 100th birthday this year. (Picture – Counselors signing the Lord’s Prayer during the worship service.)

The Presbytery’s camping season officially began on Sunday with registration for over 80 happy and excited youth. All went well and now the fun begins. First Church Lumberton sent 51 community youth to the camp for this year’s Operation Fun program. This is a program that has been operating for several decades – giving disadvantaged 5^th grade youth the opportunity to attend camp and grow physically, emotionally and spiritually. (Picture – Many will recognize this as the Camp’s Arts and Crafts Cabin.)

This year’s camping program now has over 330 registrations but there is still room for more in the last two sessions. Check out the program for these two sessions and think about coming to a wonderful place to share in God’s grace – hey that rhymes doesn’t it!! Maybe I should think about being a poet – NOT!! Till next week.