Camp Bonfires
Bonfires on Friday evenings have always been a tradition at Bible camps. Evergreen Bible Camp was no exception this summer, but these bonfires were an extra special blessing. Our teen camp bonfire was rained out, so as we have done before, we made a large circle with the pews in the chapel. Kay Sandin, program director, is always prepared for these “twists” that often come at camp. A large pan of sand was placed in the middle with a number of large candles in it. Around the pan were four large bowls, each with many floating tea candles in them. Campers and staff alike were given the opportunity to light one of the floating candles with a tall one from the large pan in the center as they shared how they came to know Jesus as their Savior and the Light of the world. Many shared, and we all were blessed as we heard how God had worked in lives. Doing something physical like lighting the candles brought a good response.
Our second bonfire was at the end of our junior/youth camp. Even though it had again rained, we had dry wood ready, thanks to our head maintenance man, Rusty Palmer. Pastor Bruce shared how in the 1970s Rev. Moritz had a pile of small sticks, and when you gave your testimony, you would toss one into the fire. It worked then, and it worked now – the response was wonderful. There were happy stories shared and sad stories, as well. Many shared the blessings of growing up in a Christian home, while others shared painful experiences, such as being in foster homes due to having parents who didn’t know Jesus. One young boy stood up and shared how his father is in prison and the father’s parental rights have been terminated. Our hearts ached for this boy, who has gone through so much in his short life, yet his experience at camp gave him the hope and assurance that Jesus will help him through anything he faces. He was able to truly experience the Christian family atmosphere at Camp Evergreen. Bonfires are more than an old tradition, and God blessed us in a special way, because He is alive and active in the lives of the campers and staff.
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