Written by Carol Sedlacek
Dear friends in Christ,
I just arrived home after two phenomenal weeks at Suttle Lake Camp. The first week I was with 3-5 graders and the second week was with 1-3 graders. Our theme was Creation Speaks, and we explored the natural world, experiencing God’s light, being refreshed by water, celebrating our kinship with animals, and growing in our role as stewards of creation.
I’m always delighted to see campers grow in their faith as well as their confidence over a week of camp. Our community grows from a timid herd of youngsters to a vibrant, thriving group of leaders trying new things and helping their fellow campers. We learned a variety of ways to pray and sing grace before each meal. We expanded our skills in kayaking and archery. Campers created beautiful crafts that reminded us of God’s amazing love for all of Creation. Throughout our time together we grew closer to each other and closer to God.
Since our Bible stories each day were from the first chapter of Genesis, we reflected on what God created each day of creation. We learned a song with sign language that added a verse each day. It was simple and prayerful. (And it is a song I learned at camp many years ago!) Here are the verses we sang & signed…
Be Glorified
In my life, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In my life, Lord, be glorified today.
IN YOUR LIGHT, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In your light, Lord, be glorified today.
IN FRESH WATER…
IN LAND and SEA…
IN the SEASONS…
IN ALL YOUR CREATURES…
IN CREATION…
IN OUR LIVES…
By the end of the week campers knew they are beloved children of God, created in God’s image and called to care for Creation. As we stargazed on the last night of camp we saw a few shooting stars, a “first” for some of the campers! What a joy to share one of God’s holy moments with children!
As you enjoy the last few weeks of summer, I hope you will pause and marvel at the beauty of God’s Creation. There is so much to be noticed and experienced in nature. Reflect on the goodness of Creation and the very goodness of each one of us being created in God’s image. Thanks be to God!
Peace,
Carol+
The Rev. Canon Carol W. Sedlacek
Interim Missioner for Special Projects
