On December 4th – 6th, we held our annual, and much awaited, youth camp. The camp began by splitting the youth up into different colored teams. The teams then competed in a number of games and activities over the course of three days to earn points. The youth love the games and the crazier the better! With dozens of games planned over the course of three days, they stayed pretty busy and had a great time!

We even had some special games, such as a jalapeño pupusa eating contest!

 How about a cat food eating contest?

 Of course, some of the most popular activities are the team songs…

And the team dramas (this one was Moses and the Israelites crossing the Red Sea)…

One of the amazing things about camp is the friendship, fellowship, and freedom that our youth experience. With 3,954 homicides last year, El Salvador remains one of the most violent countries in the world. With most of that violence being youth on youth, peace and safety aren’t something that our youth regularly experience. The camp facility is large and spacious and has several armed guards. The latter would make many people nervous, but when our youth come to camp they can actually let their guard down and enjoy life, fellowship with one another, and experience the fullness of God without the normal burdens of violence and poverty that they would normally bear. They are free to laugh, smile, run, and be loved on by our wonderful group of leaders and volunteers.

Each morning and evening we had special invited bands and speakers that came in and ministered to the youth through worship, prayer, and teaching.

This year’s theme was “Desiring God” and we felt that we really were able to see the Lord increase the youths’ desire for Him.

Finally, on the last day of camp, we tallied up the points the teams earned and awarded medals to the top three teams.

 After a final service, we then had the privilege of baptizing three youth.

Finally, to close out the camp, we took communion together as a family.

We would like to thank everyone who generously gave, prayed, and supported this year’s camp. You have made an eternal investment, laid up treasures in heaven, and made an eternal impact in the lives of those we serve. Thank you!

Photo Credits: Kurt Kleinhans